A New Adventure in Kosciuszko National Park

Perisher isn’t just a winter wonderland—it’s a hiker’s paradise in the warmer months! With stunning alpine landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking summit views, summer is the perfect time to explore the Snowy Mountains on foot.

The Snowies Alpine Walk is the latest must-do experience in the Snowy Mountains. Spanning 56 kilometres, this multi-day trek showcases some of Kosciuszko National Park’s most spectacular landscapes. Divided into four distinct sections, the trail caters to both seasoned hikers and those looking for a more leisurely adventure.

Whether you’re tackling the full route or exploring a single section, this trail offers an unforgettable alpine experience. Here’s what to expect from each stage of the journey.

Guthega to Charlotte Pass

Main Range Loop

For those seeking a challenge, the Main Range Loop delivers. This 22km section takes you deep into some of the most rugged and iconic landscapes in the park.

The trail passes by Blue Lake, a striking glacial lake, before ascending to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. From the summit, panoramic views stretch across the Snowy Mountains, making the climb truly rewarding. Along the way, hikers will also encounter Seamans Hut, a historic alpine refuge. While this section is demanding, the combination of incredible scenery and the chance to reach the country’s highest point makes it an unmissable experience.

• Distance: 22km loop
• Time: 7 to 9hrs
• Grade: Grade 4

Charlotte Pass to Perisher Valley

This 13km stretch between Charlotte Pass and Perisher Valley provides a balance of challenge and relaxation. Winding through alpine meadows and snowgum forests, the trail offers incredible views of the rugged peaks.

Along the way, hikers will encounter ancient glacial moraines and unique rock formations—perfect for capturing scenic photos. As you descend into Perisher Valley, expansive mountain vistas unfold, showcasing the vast beauty of the Snowy Mountains. This is a fantastic section for those looking to immerse themselves in the alpine environment at a moderate pace.

• Distance: 12.7km one-way
• Time: 4 to 6hrs  
• Grade: Grade 3

Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat

The final leg of the Snowies Alpine Walk, from Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat, offers a gentler experience. This 12km section gradually descends through sub-alpine meadows, providing a relaxed yet scenic conclusion to the trek.

Following the sparkling Thredbo River, this section is a great opportunity to spot local wildlife and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the Snowy Mountains. The gentle descent towards Bullocks Flat makes it an enjoyable and fitting end to the adventure.

• Distance: 12km one-way
• Time: 4 to 5hrs  
• Grade: Grade 3

Where to Stay for the Snowies Alpine Walk

Perisher Valley, a peaceful retreat in the summer months, is the perfect base for your Snowies Alpine Walk adventure. With direct access to two sections of the trail and a short 10–20-minute scenic drive to the remaining two sections, you’ll be ideally located to explore at your own pace.

Staying at The Stables Resort Perisher ensures convenience, comfort, and flexibility. Instead of moving accommodations, you can unpack once and enjoy the luxury of carrying only a day pack while hiking. After a rewarding day on the trails, retreat to your fully self-contained chalet, relax with panoramic mountain views, and unwind in an alpine-inspired space designed for comfort.

Navigating Mountain Weather

Weather in the Snowy Mountains can change in an instant, shifting from bright sunshine to sudden storms or even a dusting of summer snow. Staying at The Stables gives you the flexibility to adjust your hiking plans without the hassle of relocating. Plus, we can arrange seamless transfers to and from the start and finish of each section, ensuring a stress-free hiking experience.

Before setting out, always pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and layered clothing for changing conditions.

Plan Your Adventure at Stables Resort Perisher

The Snowies Alpine Walk is an unforgettable adventure, catering to all levels of hikers. Whether you’re taking on the full 56km journey or exploring just one section, staying at The Stables Resort Perisher ensures a seamless experience.

Situated in the heart of the Snowy Mountains, The Stables offers modern, comfortable accommodation just minutes from the trailheads. After a day of exploration, unwind in your chalet, take in the breathtaking views, and prepare for your next alpine adventure.

Ready to embark on the Snowies Alpine Walk? Book your stay at The Stables Resort Perisher and immerse yourself in the beauty of Kosciuszko National Park!

Introduction

If you thought Perisher was all about gentle slopes and leisurely glides, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Beyond the majority of intermediate terrain lies a realm of heart-pumping adventures that will leave you with an insatiable appetite for adrenaline. Australia’s grandest resort has a few hidden gems up its sleeve, boasting some of the most challenging runs in the country – including not one, but two double black runs!

Are you ready to conquer the slopes and earn some well-deserved bragging rights during your stay at The Stables Resort? Let us be your guides to the exhilarating side of Perisher. Whether you’re an avid skier or a daring snowboarder, we’ve got just the right dose of thrill to get your heart racing and your spirit soaring. So buckle up, and get ready to embark on a gravity-defying journey like no other!

Olympic – Defy Gravity 

Stepping outside The Stables Resort, you’ll immediately spot the majestic Back Perisher Mountain looming behind Centre Valley. The Olympic T-Bar leads up its windswept ridgeline to the summit. Brace yourself for a heart-pounding descent, as the top 5-10 turns (depending on your courage) from the T-Bar’s peak are among the steepest in the entire resort. Expect to encounter large moguls, adding to the excitement of skiing or riding down Olympic. For our daring guests at The Stables Resort, we recommend continuing the thrill by veering right after the first steep face, onto Dogleg, which features the formidable Sun Valley Rock drop. Few attempt the aerial descent on powder days, and only a rare few nail the landing.

North Perisher -Uncover Hidden Gems

Escape the crowds on your way from Perisher to Blue Cow and venture into the hidden slopes of North Perisher. This area boasts two lifts, the Interceptor Quad Chair, and North Perisher T-Bar, and it’s a haven for steep tree runs. While not immediately obvious on the trail map, we suggest taking on the steep face between the T-Bar and the chairlift. This area offers glades, rock drops, and open steeps, which are especially incredible with fresh snow. Depending on queues, you can lap the T-Bar or chairlift for even more thrills. The added bonus is that the Interceptor Quad Chair is well-protected from prevailing winds, often staying open on stormy days when other lifts are on hold.

Rock Garden/Kamikaze – Overcome the Extreme

Among the runs accessible from the Ridge Quad Chair at Blue Cow, Rock Garden and Kamikaze stand out as the most challenging for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Kamikaze, marked as Double Black on the trail map, is a very steep open bowl where a fall at the top can lead to a rapid slide to the bottom. Nearby, you’ll find Rock Garden, slightly less steep but equally formidable due to its myriad of rock drops, trees, bushes, and obstacles. To access this thrilling area, immediately turn left after dismounting the Ridge Chair and traverse right until you encounter a steep drop-off. To the right lies Kamikaze, and to the left, Rock Garden. Whichever path you choose, your heart will undoubtedly race with excitement.

Double Trouble – Conquer the Uncharted

Speaking of double black runs, we can’t omit the other Perisher gem – Double Trouble. This run is a rare find, challenging to access, and infrequently open, as it requires a deep, cold snowpack due to its sun-drenched northerly aspect. If it’s accessible, you can reach Double Trouble through a lengthy traverse from the top of the Pleasant Valley Quad Chair. Follow the signs until you arrive at a solitary peak with a steep open bowl facing Mt Blue Cow. For the ultimate experience, climb the last 50m to the peak’s top, and there, right below you, lies Double Trouble. Be prepared for blind rollovers, steep descents, and large cliffs. This run is not for the faint of heart, and we strongly recommend riding in a group, as the remoteness can make Ski Patrol assistance challenging. If it’s open, ride if you dare.

Summing Up

In conclusion, Perisher and The Stables Resort are a dream come true for adrenaline enthusiasts seeking the ultimate winter adventure. With challenging runs, steep descents, moguls, tree runs, and double black thrills, this resort offers a playground like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a fearless snowboarder, Perisher’s hidden gems will push your limits, leaving you with exhilarating memories to cherish. So, embrace the rush, conquer the slopes, and savor every heart-pounding moment amidst the breathtaking beauty of the snowy mountains. Your unforgettable winter journey awaits, where the spirit of adventure knows no bounds.