HikesAustraliaMain Range Track

Main Range Track

Also known as: Blue Lake circuit

The Main Range - glacial lakes (Blue Lake), Mt Kosciuszko and Mt Townsend, and summer wildflowers

Difficulty 4/5 · HardDayLoopDay alpine hike
Distance
~22 km loop
Max elevation
2,228 m
Elevation gain
~900 m
Duration
8-10 h
iconicalpineglacial lakeshighestloop
A breathtaking landscape of Bishop and Clerk on Maria Island, Tasmania.

The route

The line through Snowy Mountains (Kosciuszko NP), NSW, Australia - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Nov-Apr (snow-free)

Weather risks

Alpine exposure, sudden storms even in summer

Snow-free ~Nov-Apr; a serious snow route in winter. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

Glacial-lake alpine plateau, ridges and Australia’s highest peaks

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

Popular in summer

Variants & turnaround

Shorter out-and-back to Blue Lake; add Mt Townsend

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Charlotte Pass

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Charlotte Pass; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

Kosciuszko NP pass

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Alpine weather, exposure, the long day; winter avalanche/cornices

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Australia

Walk Main Range Track with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
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