Charlotte Pass

Summer at Charlotte Pass

Summer, autumn and spring are lovely times to explore the idyllic alpine scenery around Charlotte Pass in Kosciuszko National Park, from wildflowers and snow gums to glacial lakes. In the warmer months, Charlotte Pass is the starting point for the Mount Kosciusko Summit walk where you can climb Australia’s highest mountain. There is plenty of bushwalking and mountain biking, and you can take in the beautiful scenery at the Charlotte Pass lookout. 

Kosciuszko National Park, Kosciuszko - Credit: Tourism Snowy Mountains

Hiking and mountain biking

Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk starts in Charlotte Pass. The track is 18.6 kilometres return and takes around six to eight hours. For mountain bikers, leave your bicycles at Rawson Pass bike stands and walk the final 1.4 kilometres to the top of Australia’s highest peak. 

The scenery along the length of the track is beautiful. You’ll weave past summer alpine wildflowers and snow gums, across the Snowy River and then past the 1929-built Seaman’s Hut to Rawson Pass, where it’s a gradual walk to the mountaintop. Australia’s highest mountain stands 2,228 metres. 

Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk, Kosciuszko National Park - Credit: Thredbo Resort

The challenging Main Range walk begins in Charlotte Pass. A 22-kilometre loop for experienced hikers, Main Range includes the Mount Kosciuszko Summit and glacial lakes Hedley Tam and Blue Lake. The striking landscapes along the walking track are part of a UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserve. 

Before you explore the fabulous walking tracks in the Snowy Mountains, read these bushwalking safety tips and follow the advice. 

Main Range Track, Kosciuszko National Park - Credit: Tourism Snowy Mountains

Winter at Charlotte Pass

Experience the secluded wonderland of Charlotte Pass. The resort offers the ultimate winter experience at a quieter, more intimate pace, with no long lift lines, no cars and no stress. 

Snowy views across Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains - Credit: Alexandra Adoncello

Skiing and snowboarding

As the highest resort in Australia, Charlotte Pass receives some of the most consistent snowfalls, ensuring plenty of powder for the slopes. The snow resort has something for every skill level for both skiers and riders, with five lifts covering 19 pristine runs. Many are devoted to beginner and intermediate skiers, meaning it’s perfect for young families with kids just starting out on their ski journey. 

Experienced skiers will want to head to Guthrie’s Chutes for that thrilling adrenaline rush, while the challenging Freestyle Terrain Park is a beacon for those wanting some terrain park action. There’s also a Charlotte’s Play Park with mini-jumps for the kids. Lessons are available from professional instructors and there’s an all-day kids program for three to 12-year-olds. 

Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains

On-mountain fun

After a big morning on the slopes, enjoy an afternoon rest and book in for a sunset Groomer Tour. Learn how these impressive snow sculptors groom the runs into a carpet of corduroy in preparation for each day. Night owls will also love the thrill of skiing under the stars with night skiing and boarding from the Basin Poma on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

One for the early birds, the Mount Stilwell Snow Experience is an unforgettable way to start the day. Ride the snowcat up the mountain to see the breathtaking sunrise, then enjoy blissful first tracks on freshly-groomed slopes before the lifts even open. Other popular events are the weekly flare run, races for kids and adults, snowshoe tours and Onesie Wednesday – pack your best onesie and join in the fun.  

Charlotte Pass, Snowy Mountains

Dining and accommodation

After a big day on the slopes, head to Adams Cocktail Lounge for après ski, with High Tea and live jazz adding to the ambience. The Cellar is another great spot for a drink and live music from Wednesday to Saturday. Relax on the deck at the Stillwell Hotel and enjoy sweeping mountain views over a meal and a drink. 

Charlotte Pass has a range of accommodation, from alpine lodges to the magnificent Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel – the heart of the resort. Built in 1930, the hotel is known as the ‘Grand Old Lady of the Mountains’. Cosy up by the fire with a hot chocolate, head to Kosi Bar & Bistro for lunch and drinks or book a table for dinner at the wonderful Chalet Restaurant. 

Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel, Charlotte Pass

Getting there

In summer, you can drive into Charlotte Pass. It's just 10 minutes past Perisher and around 35 minutes from Jindabyne. That makes Charlotte Pass a six-hour drive from Sydney, eight hours from Melbourne and 3.5 hours from Canberra. In winter, the resort is completely snowbound. You'll need to travel to Perisher by car, bus or SkiTube, then hop on one of the Charlotte Pass Oversnow Transport vehicles, which will take you right to the door of your hotel.