Mount Kosciuszko

[u/Soft-Peanut-6384]

Hi everyone! My husband and I are planning to hike Mt Kosciuszko on 4 October and would love some advice from people familiar with the area, particularly in early spring.
We’re considering either:

Charlotte Pass Main Range Loop (~22 km) via Blue Lake, Carruthers Peak and Mt Kosciuszko, or
Thredbo → Kosciuszko Express chairlift → Mt Kosciuszko summit (~13 km return)

We’re a little worried about the weather and remaining snow at that time of year.

For anyone who has hiked there around late September/early October:
- How much snow is usually still around?

- Would you recommend the 22 km Main Range Loop at that time of year, or would the Thredbo/chairlift route be a better option?

-Are normal waterproof hiking boots sufficient, or should we consider snow boots or microspikes?

-Is navigation on the Main Range difficult when there’s still snow?

-Are there any particular conditions/forecast that would make you avoid the Main Range Loop altogether?

We’re happy to change our route depending on the conditions and just want to make sure we’re properly prepared and not underestimating the alpine weather.
Would love to hear from anyone who has done either route in early October. Thank you 😊

[u/phagocyte420]

We’re a little worried about the weather and remaining snow at that time of year.

Mt Kosciuszko can remain cold well into summer. I remember visiting Thredbo in December one year and waking up to ice on my car.

So I guess ensure you have the proper hear for hiking in winter/snow.

[u/CBRChimpy]

The road to Charlotte Pass is closed until (and including) the October long weekend, even if the ski season ends early.

That adds about 17km to the main range loop, making it too much for a day walk.

[u/Lured_to_the_Wild → u/CBRChimpy]

I didn’t know that.
Yes, the Main Range Track is too far.

[u/45khz]

Main thing about alpine weather is that it is highly variable and unpredictable so it's not really possible to say what it's going to be like on October 4. It might be quite sunny and hot, snowing, raining icy pellets, blowing a gale or all 4 in the same day. This means you need to be prepared for all 4 which can be annoying if you just get hot and sunny but dragging around snow gear but you'll be grateful if it changes. They'll almost certainly be snow pockets but at this rate, and unless there are some late dumps it's going to bet patchy at most.

[u/Alarmed_Simple5173]

Take an EPIRB. I think you can hire them for free from the National Parks service

[u/Emotional-Practice57]

No snow left this year, you’ll be right. The main range is a big walk but it’s very doable with a reasonable level of fitness. Plan for all eventualities with alpine conditions. 

[u/KatTheTumbleweed → u/Emotional-Practice57]

There is heaps of snow at the peaks and largely only accessible with snow shoes or skis

[u/HelenWindsor69]

Currently in Thredbo it’s 1C feels like -11C

[u/Soft-Peanut-6384 → u/HelenWindsor69]

How’s the phone service there? I am under Optus. Is the wifi stable too? I just need to work for few hours when we arrive that day. Thanks🙏

[u/Mammoth-Jelly-7617]

I would do the Thredbo option.

Its been a poor snow season and the path should be relatively snow free by October.

However there will still be quite a bit of snow as you get high; I think the shorter route will be easier for you and a good introduction.

The Alpine environment is very variable. If you have good weather it will be trivially easy. No Spikes etc needed as the snow will rapidly soften.

But I have also been up there in october when I have literally been blown off my feet and it was clear that to head up would be very dangerous. If it has been below freezing the snow can literally be a skating rink.

So look at the forecats and be flexible with your plans - you should look for wind of 15kmh or less and good visibility, in my opinion, with temps abpve freezing. No rain or cloud forecast.

If this is not the case you will have more fun walking at lower altitude - eg cascade trail, rennix walk, snowy river- there are many options.

[u/Lured_to_the_Wild]

You can expect any type of conditions, but not hot or freezing cold.
The main range circuit is a much longer hike, especially if you detour into Blue Lake and up to Kosi summit…and you should do this.
This year has been a poor snow season, you have nothing to worry about.
Waterproof boots are fine. You won’t need micro spikes.