Plan: Chairlift-assisted day hike to Mt Kosciuszko (2,228 m) from Thredbo. We’ll take the Kosciuszko Express to Eagles Nest, then follow the snow-covered Kosciuszko walking track past the metal mesh walkway to Rawson Pass and on to the summit. Distance from the top station is ~13 km return with ~300 m vert. Expect early-spring snow/ice, wind and cold; snowshoes or microspikes will likely be needed.
Pace & cut-offs: We’ll use a steady, social pace. Turn-around times:
- 12:45 at Rawson Pass (if not there, we turn back)
- 13:30 at Summit (absolute latest)
Goal is to be back at Eagles Nest by ~15:30 to comfortably catch the last lifts down.
Transport & parking: Carpool from Canberra. Free day parking at Thredbo Friday Flat (P4); short walk to Valley Terminal. 2WD must carry snow chains in winter; we’ll hire from the club and only fit when directed.
Gear (mandatory): Waterproof jacket & over-pants, warm layers (base + mid), beanie, gloves (plus spare), waterproof boots, snowshoes or microspikes (depending on conditions), poles (recommended), sunglasses/goggles, sunscreen, head-torch, 1.5–2 L water, lunch/snacks, personal meds.
Weather/conditions: Subject to alpine weather. If visibility is poor or winds are high, we may switch to a shorter objective (e.g., lookouts from Eagles Nest) or cancel. Final call after the pre-trip and 5 pm forecast.