Bikepacking has taken off worldwide, but in my opinion, the Snowy Mountains does it best. Pedal across high country plains, climb through snow gums, then pull up at a backcountry hut to cook noodles on the veranda, and crawl into a sleeping bag under the stars. That’s bikepacking in Kosciuszko National Park (KNP).
Published December 2025, words and photos Kate Alice
What is Bikepacking?
In short, it’s off-road bike touring. Camping gear is strapped to the bike using frame bags, handlebar rolls, saddle bags, or panniers, before rolling down a dirt track and leaving nothing but dust behind.
What Type of Bike do I Need?
A gravel bike, hardtail, or dual-suspension mountain bike is ideal for the mix of smooth dirt and rougher tracks in KNP. Something with a wide gear range will help climbing with a loaded bike much easier. Tyre width makes a big difference to comfort and control on the jank, so I recommend 2.0” or wider with decent tread.
Iconic Bikepacking Trips in Kosciuszko National Park
Charlotte Pass to Mount Kosciuszko
Distance: 18.6 km return | Elevation Gain: 400 m | Elevation Loss: 400 m
Starting at Charlotte Pass, this route follows the old Kosciuszko Road over the head of the Snowy River and up toward Seamans Hut, Australia’s highest backcountry hut. It’s the highest altitude you can ride in Australia, and the endless views prove it. Most people tackle it as a day trip, but it also makes a great intro to bikepacking if you camp overnight at Seamans Hut. Bikes aren’t allowed from Rawson Pass to the summit, so you’ll need to leave them at the stands and walk the final 1.4km to the peak.
Munyang Power Station to Valentine Hut
Distance: 35.5 km return | Elevation Gain: 970 m | Elevation Loss: 970 m
This one starts with a hefty climb out of Munyang Power Station, then opens into undulating alpine plains as you crest the hill. Along the way, you’ll pass a handful of huts, including Horse Camp, Whites River, and the Schlink Hilton. The bright fire-engine-red Valentine Hut (a local favourite) sits just upstream from Valentines Falls, so it’s worth splitting the trip over two days to give yourself time to explore.
Pilot Wilderness Mountain Bike Ride
Distance: 57 km one way | Elevation Gain: 930 m | Elevation Loss: 2,223 m
Starting from Dead Horse Gap on the Alpine Way, this one’s for riders who like their descents steep and rough. It drops more than two vertical kilometres down to Pinch Campground on the Barry Way, winding through the Cascades and over Bobs Ridge and finally plunging into the Lower Snowy River Valley. Cascade Hut, Ingeegoodbee Hut, and Tin Mine Hut make good stops to refuel or spend the night. It’s remote, punchy, and takes a bit of shuttle logistics.
Tips for Bikepacking in Kosciuszko National Park
Bike Access:
Check bike access rules before you go. Bikes aren’t permitted in most wilderness areas (like Byadbo), with Jagungal Wilderness Area being the exception. Pedal-power is allowed on these five trails: Round Mountain, Dargans, Hellhole Creek, Valentine, and Grey Mare track, if you’re up for something remote. These aren’t maintained, so expect slow-going, grassy tracks.
Road Closures:
From the June to October long weekends, many dirt roads in the park are closed to vehicles but stay open to bikers and hikers. It’s a magic time to ride without car traffic. Long Plain Road in the north and Olsens Road in the south are my personal favourites.
Bike Repair:
Check over your setup before heading out and carry a repair kit with a pump, spare tube, cable ties, multi-tool, and chain link. There’s no rescue team coming to repair a flat tyre.
For more routes and tips on bikepacking in Kosciusko National Park, visit Kate’s blog at pathandpedal.com
