Hiking in Kosciuszko National Park, NSW

Kosciuszko National Park isn’t just home to Australia’s highest peak—it’s a living, breathing alpine ecosystem unlike anywhere else in the country. As you move through the park, the landscapes shift dramatically. Lower elevations are dominated by towering snow gums, their twisted, multicoloured bark standing out against granite boulders and rolling valleys. Higher up, the trees thin into subalpine woodlands where alpine ash, mountain plum pine, and hardy heath shrubs take over, eventually giving way to the windswept alpine meadows that Kosciuszko is famous for.

These meadows—filled with native wildflowers like alpine daisies and billy buttons—burst into colour from late spring through summer, creating some of the most picturesque hiking conditions in the country. The iconic Main Range Track, the Summit Walk, and the Blue Lake Lookout Track all cut through these contrasting environments, making each step feel like a journey through multiple worlds.

Wildlife thrives here too. Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wombats, and echidnas as they forage along the lower trails. Higher up in the alpine zone, you may spot the mountain pygmy possum, one of Australia’s rarest mammals, as well as rock wallabies navigating steep terrain. Birdlife is equally rich—rosellas, gang-gang cockatoos, ravens, and the unmistakable wedge-tailed eagle are common sights soaring above the ridgelines. 

Whether you’re chasing sweeping summit views, glacial lakes, or the quiet beauty of Australia’s only true alpine region, Kosciuszko delivers. And before you head out, our Hiking collection has everything from weatherproof layers to durable trekking poles to help you tackle the terrain with confidence.

The Brumbies of Kosciuszko National Park

No conversation about Kosciuszko National Park is complete without mentioning its most debated residents—the brumbies. These wild horses have roamed the Snowy Mountains for well over a century, becoming an iconic (and sometimes controversial) symbol of Australia’s alpine heritage. They’re descendants of stock horses, cavalry mounts, and early mountain station horses that found freedom in the high country generations ago.

Spotting a mob of brumbies is a memorable experience for hikers and campers. They move quietly through the snow gum forests and alpine meadows, often appearing at dawn or dusk near water sources. Their presence adds a sense of folklore to the landscape—evoking images of early mountain cattlemen, bush poets, and the rugged spirit of Australia’s high country.

Brumbies come in all colours, from bays and chestnuts to greys and striking paints. Their tough build and thick winter coats reflect their adaptation to harsh alpine winters, where temperatures regularly drop below freezing and snow blankets the high plains.

Whether you view them as legends of the high country or simply part of the park’s evolving landscape, encountering brumbies on the trail is an unforgettable reminder that Kosciuszko is a place where nature and history meet in powerful, dramatic ways.From the iconic Main Range Track to the quieter routes around Blue Lake, Kosciuszko National Park is a dream playground for hikers. Long-distance trekkers can push further into the backcountry, while day hikers enjoy panoramic views of Australia’s highest peaks. Before you set off, explore our Hiking collection for footwear, packs, hydration, and everything needed to take on alpine trails with confidence.

Mountaineering Must-Haves

If you’re stepping into technical terrain, proper mountaineering equipment becomes non-negotiable. Ice axes, crampons, robust boots, and avalanche-ready layers can turn a challenging climb into a safe, successful one. Whether you’re training for overseas peaks or tackling Australia’s alpine winter routes, our Mountaineering collection has been curated to support serious climbers.

 

 

Camping Gear for Every Season

Kosciuszko and other alpine regions can surprise even the most prepared adventurer—crisp summer mornings, sudden storms, and freezing winter nights are all part of the experience. A reliable sleep system, durable shelter, and versatile cookware can make all the difference. Our Camping collection features season-ready tents, cold-weather sleeping bags, ultralight stoves, and campsite essentials that keep you comfortable year-round.

Our Store Manager Kris, Enjoying a recent camp in her Sea to Summit Spark Sleeping Bag, with tent and sleeping mat featured in our Camping Collection.

Cycling and Bikepacking for the Adventurous

For those who crave adventure on two wheels, bikepacking through Kosciuszko National Park offers a unique way to explore the alpine wilderness. Unlike day rides, bikepacking combines cycling with self-supported camping, letting you cover more ground while immersing yourself in the park’s diverse landscapes—from rolling foothills and snow gum forests to alpine meadows and rugged ridgelines.

The park features a mix of sealed roads, gravel tracks, and fire trails, making it suitable for a range of skill levels. Popular routes include the journey from Thredbo to Guthega, which winds past glacial lakes and panoramic peaks, and the Munyang Valley loop, offering remote alpine views with minimal traffic. Riders often encounter hidden waterfalls, wildflowers in bloom, and the occasional brumby grazing in meadows, creating a truly immersive experience.

Our MSR Bikepacking Tents are a must-have for keen bikepackers heading into Kosciuszko National Park.

Bikepacking here requires smart preparation. Weather can change rapidly, so layered clothing and waterproof gear are essential. Durable tires, robust panniers, and lightweight camping equipment make multi-day trips more manageable. Planning your route with access to water sources and campsites is also crucial, as the high country can be remote and rugged.

Our Cycling and Bikepacking collection offer gear designed for these exact conditions. From high-performance mountain bikes and gravel-ready frames to waterproof saddle bags, hydration packs, and compact stoves, we provide everything to make your ride safe, efficient, and enjoyable.

Whether you’re tackling a weekend loop or a week-long alpine adventure, bikepacking through Kosciuszko National Park combines the thrill of cycling with the serenity of Australia’s alpine wilderness—a rewarding challenge for any adventurous spirit.

Essential Safety & Emergency Gear

The wilderness rewards preparation. From PLBs to first-aid kits, our Safety & Emergency collection helps ensure you’re ready for unexpected weather, injuries, or navigation challenges. It’s one of the most important investments you can make before heading outdoors. Here's a video on the importance of safety gear and the differences between the various Personal Locator Beacons and Safety Devices:


For further reading check out Dave's Communications Planning Part 1 Article that outlines the important of comms planning, and part 2 delves deeper into the various communications systems and devices you will need when heading into the great outdoors in Australia. 

Why trust us at PAST Outdoors?

At PAST Outdoors, we believe that every adventure—whether it’s a challenging summit, a multi-day hike, a camping trip, or a bikepacking journey—is better when you’re equipped with the right gear. From the snow gum forests and alpine meadows of Kosciuszko National Park to the rugged peaks and trails across Australia, preparation is key. 

That’s why our carefully curated collections—Hiking, Camping, Mountaineering, Cycling, Bikepacking, and Safety & Emergency—are designed to give you confidence in every step, pedal, and climb. Thousands of adventurers have trusted PAST Outdoors to kit them out for their wildest journeys, and our commitment to quality, durability, and expert advice ensures you’ll have what you need when it matters most.
 

Dave Parker, CEO PAST outdoors on a recent mountaineering expedition in May 2025.

Whether you’re spotting brumbies at dawn, navigating remote alpine tracks on your bike, or setting up camp under a starlit sky, our gear supports your adventure every step of the way. So gear up, embrace the challenge, and let Australia’s incredible outdoors become your playground. Explore our collections today and join the growing community of hikers, climbers, campers, and bikepackers who rely on PAST Outdoors to conquer the trails, peaks, and wilderness with confidence. Adventure is calling—answer it fully prepared, and make every journey unforgettable.