4 Reasons Why You Need To Visit The Snowy Mountains This Autumn
Ok yes, it’s officially Autumn which means it’s not summer and that’s very sad for everyone who loves a bit of the great outdoors. Except that it just happens to be the perfect time for a Snowy Mountains adventure.
Yep, head to Kosciuszko — the largest national park in New South Wales — right as the air turns crisp but the mountains aren’t yet covered in snow for your adrenaline fix with epic views (and then stay somewhere lovely to relax in afterwards, obviously.
Here’s four ideas to get you started.
#1 On Ya Bike
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Get out those gams and hit the famous Thredbo Valley track, which winds through the alpines and, in places, along the Snowy River. There’s even a suspension bridge to cross, to get that heart racing a little more.
With the recently opened 18.4 kilometres stretch of the track, you now have a total 35 kilometres of world-class mountain biking to explore. There’s part of the track for all abilities, even the most baby of beginners.
#2 Hike Away
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If the bikes are a bit much (same) and you prefer to trust your feet (absolutely), there’s a heap of trails for you to explore.
If you’re looking for an all day journey — the type that makes a cold beer in the pub afterwards taste like happiness — then give Main Range walk a go. The 22km loop will take you past glacial lakes and to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko in about six to seven hours.
The 13km Rennix walking track is a good one for half day hikers, taking you four to five hours through subalpine meadows, rocky outcrops and bringing you panoramic views over Lake Jindabyne.
For hikers who prefer a bit more chill, try the five kilometre (aka two to three hour) Illawong walk, or the easy but beautiful two kilometre Mount Stillwell walk — just be sure to time it for sunset.
#3 Take The (Ice) Plunge
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You know those videos of people jumping into freezing water? Well it’s called the Wim Hof method, a a specialised technique for breathing and mindset that’s supposed to be fab for your mental health.
If it sounds like your thing, you need to book a retreat with Wild Things Anatomy. An accredited guide will lead your for three days through Kosciuszko National Park, ending with a plunge into the icy Thredbo River.
#4 Stay In Luxury
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With all your day trekking, you’ll obviously need somewhere cosy and comfortable to spend the night. May as well lean into the alpine chalet-style accomodation.
Try Creel Lodge, overlooking Lake Jindabyne with room up to eight people. Or the smaller Creel Bay Cottages, with two seperate, smaller houses sleeping six each. Both have the perfect amount of deck space for all your meal eating and star gazing.
(Lead image: Provided / NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service)
