Having done this alpine walking trail in the summer, we gave it a go in winter. Normally this would not be recommended without snow shoes. At this time of the year, it should be snow-shoe or cross-country skiing territory only but 2023 was not a good year for snow. Ground cover was very light and there were areas where the rocky ground was exposed, forcing cross-country skiers to throw their skis over their shoulder and cross on foot.
It still wasn’t easy. The trail was often difficult to find. Mostly it’s marked by the line of snow poles but of course the path was mostly covered and wasn’t always clear. Often we found ourselves off track. We only managed because we’d done it before so we recognised some landmarks and were familiar with the general direction we needed to go in.
The alpine scenery was spectacular. Snow gums, distant mountains, and striking granite tor formations made it a very scenic walk.
The view from Porcupine Hill is the highlight. We climbed to the very highest point and looked down over Perisher Valley and the Thredbo River Valley.
The trail starts at the Kosciuszko centre, where there is a clear sign saying ‘East Perisher’ and ‘Porcupine Road’.
NOTE:
To get to the start of the walk, you’ll need to enter Kościuszko National Park and, unless you have a National Parks pass, car fees will apply.