The aim of this overnight bushwalk is to camp just below the rocky summit of Mt Townsend (2209m) and weather permitting enjoy an awesome sunset and sunrise from atop Australia’s second highest mountain (only 20m lower in elevation than nearby Mt Kosciuszko). The views across the Snowy Mountains and beyond are truly breathtaking, especially down to the Geehi Valley, which (at 1800m below) is the biggest single ascent/descent in mainland Australia. To achieve this we’ll set out from Charlotte Pass (~1830m), cross the Snowy River at Foremans Crossing (~1710m), head west past Foremans Chimney and ascend over the grassy summits of Mt Clarke (~2100m) and Mt Northcote (2131m). From there it is down to Muellers Pass and around the side of Muellers Peak to ascend on to the summit of Mt Townsend and our intended campsite. There is no finer higher flat grassy ground in Australia upon which to pitch a tent. The entire route is about 7.5km (with about 700m vertical), mostly off track across grass and with some knee high alpine heath, with sections of well-maintained walking track and unmaintained footpads. It is entirely above the tree line and hence exposed to any adverse weather that might come our way. This close to ANZAC Day snow is even possible. Once we have established camp, we will explore as much of Abbotts Range towards Alice Rawson Peak as time permits, clambering around granite tors and taking in further awesome views. The following day we will return to the Main Range Track and follow it over Mt Caruthers, passed Blue Lake and back to Charlotte Pass, a distance of about 12km (and 200m vertical).
The planned route is as per the trip description. If the weather conditions are adverse, we will camp lower down in the relative shelter of Wilkinsons Creek valley (1940m).