Australia’s Ten Highest Peaks |
Multi-Day Backcountry Adventure

Mount Kosciuszko, as Australia’s highest mainland peak, stands at 2228 metres in the Snowy Mountains of NSW. However within a circuit of just 55 kilometres are the 10 highest peaks on the whole continent. While walking them has become popular in the summer months, completing the adventure in winter is the ideal challenge for those seeking a higher level of adventure in the winter alpine environment.

In order of descending height the peaks are:

Mount Kosciuszko 2228 metres

Mount Townsend 2209 metres

Mount Twynam 2195 metres

Rams Head 2190 metres

Unnamed peak on Etheridge Ridge 2180 metres

Rams Head North Peak 2177 metres

Alice Rawson Peak 2160 metres

Unnamed peak south west of Abbot Peak 2159 metres

Abbot Peak 2145

Carruthers Peak 2145 metres

This winter alpine expedition takes place over 4 days and we will camp in the snow for 3 nights. There will not be any technical climbing so you do not need to be an experienced climber but you do need a reasonable degree of fitness.

The adventure starts from Thredbo, NSW. We will take the chair lift up to the Eagles Nest and trek into the mountains from there.

We snow shoe or cross country ski in a large circuit over the four days, branching out at various locations to ascend each peak. Our direction of travel and the order in which we climb the peaks will be dictated by the prevailing weather, snow conditions and the ability of the team. Our campsites will be chosen en route according to our progress and the weather conditions.

Australia’s mountains are not affected by high altitude issues however this adventure provides a challenging outing during the winter months. While not technical, it is not to be underestimated. Blue skies can quickly give way to whiteout and blizzard conditions. There is no visible marked path in winter as the summer trail is buried beneath snow, ice and sastrugi. Our guides carry all necessary navigation and communication equipment to ensure your safe return.

Guiding fees are $1600 (GST inclusive) per person. This includes your Snowshoes, Ski Poles and lift ticket on the first day.

Occasionally, Snowy Mountains weather can be severe, and it may be appropriate to postpone or cancel the trip. If the trip is cancelled by Andrew Lock Adventures, all deposits will be fully refunded.

On most courses, we camp above the snow line for two nights. You will need a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove. Download the recommended clothing and equipment list at the bottom of this page for further information, including where to rent these if you do not already own them. It is recommended that tents and stoves be shared to lessen your load. We can assist with putting tent partners together if desired.

You will need to arrange your accommodation the night before the course starts and on the night of the last day of the course.

K7 can provide advice on appropriate camping food to bring.

This is a physically demanding adventure. While you do not need to be an elite athlete to take part, you should have good fitness and be able to carry a 20 kg pack for 3 to 4 hours. There is no age restriction but Andrew Lock Adventures reserves the right to decline participation to anyone who we feel may be at undue risk due to health or fitness issues. If you have any concerns about your ability to undertake the course please contact K7 Adventures and/or your doctor.

included

Highly experienced mountain guide

Full Liability Insurance

NPWS guide fees & charges (this doesn’t include the National Park’s Visitor/Car entry fee

Kosciuszko express chairlift return ticket ($50 vlaue)

Communications, first aid kit, water purification tablets, navigation equipment

Snowshoes, adjustable ski poles and snow shovels

Disposable biodegradable toilet waste bags

Not included

Travel to and from Thredbo

Accommodation and meals

Hire costs of required clothing and/or equipment.

Kosciuszko Express chairlift ticket (if needed)

Any other costs not listed under Inclusions.

28 June - 1 July 2024

15-18 August 2024

Or suggest your own dates - 4 days duration.