Illawong walk in Kosciuszko National Park, near Thredbo and Perisher, is a 6.5km return bushwalk where you can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking by the river, wildlife photography, or swimming in Snowy River.
Illawong walk is a gorgeous 5km return walk through Kosciuszko National Park. It begins in the charming Guthega Village and follows along Snowy River Valley through alpine heath and towering, majestic snow gums, all the way up to Illawong Hut, one of the oldest buildings still standing in the park.
Walk or swim in the cooling waters of Snowy River when the weather is hot, or picnic among the wildflowers of alpine mint, billy buttons, and native yam daisies, just to name a few.
If you're a keen birdwatcher be sure to pack your bincoculars. As well as the native birds you're likely to spot here, including crimson rosellas and gang gang cockatoos, you're also likely to see interesting native wildlife, including mountain and Kosciuszko thermocolour grasshoppers, wombats, and echidnas.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 6454 m
Max elevation: 1643 m
Min elevation: 1586 m
Total climbing: 249 m
Total descent: -249 m
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To Guthega Village carpark. Illawong walk is in the subalpine and alpine precinct of Kosciuszko National Park.
To get there: Drive from Jindabyne along Kosciuszko Road towards Perisher. Turn off onto Guthega Road, which is sealed until you reach Guthega power station. From Guthega power station, continue straight ahead along an unsealed road for approximately 6.5kms to Guthega Village.
All 2WD vehicles need to carry snow chains in winter, between June and October long weekends, on: Kosciuszko Road (to Perisher), Guthega Road, Alpine Way between Thredbo and Tom Groggin. Snow chains are recommended for all vehicles driving in the park, including 4WD and AWD, in the event of extreme weather. Read our snow driving in Kosciuszko tips. Parking is available on Main Road, a short walk from the trackhead. It can be a busy place during holiday periods, so parking might be limited.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Kosciuszko National Park spoils you with snow sports, walks and mountain biking in the Snowy Mountains. Go camping, explore caves, climb Australia's highest mountain, or stay in heritage accommodation. There are 7 areas in this park:
1. Thredbo-Perisher area is your gateway to Mount Kosciuszko. Find NSW's favourite ski resorts, top alpine hikes, mountain bike trails, and endless adventures in the Snowy Mountains.
2. The Lower Snowy River area embraces the wild south of Kosciuszko National Park. Camp by the Snowy River and explore the scenic trails on a walk, bike or horse ride.
3. Khancoban area is the western gateway to Kosciuszko National Park. Discover Geehi and Tom Groggin's camp spots, fishing, and riding. Marvel at the Western Fall views or explore huts and hikes in the Jagungal Wilderness.
4. The Selwyn area is your perfect base to explore the walks, rides, and top fishing spots of central Kosciuszko National Park. Selwyn Snow Resort and historic Kiandra are closed due to severe fire damage.
5. The Yarrangobilly area is a highlight of northern Kosciuszko National Park. Explore jaw-dropping caves on a guided tour and swim in the thermal pool. Stay at historic Caves House and enjoy the walks and wildlife.
6. The Tumut area is your launch pad into northern Kosciuszko National Park. Discover water sports and wildlife at Blowering Reservoir. Camp and explore hidden walks and waterfalls in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains.
7. The High Plains area spoils you with summer walks, horse rides and bike trails to mountain huts, caves, and gorges. Camp, stay in Currango's heritage cottages, and discover Kosciuszko's wild north-east corner.
Looking for things to do in Kosciuszko National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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