FOR those who have climbed Mt Kosciuszko, standing on the top of Australia offers a sense of achievement and reward for all the sweat and steps you have endured to reach the summit.
In reality, it is more a solid hike rather than a true mountain climb, but a summit awaits any mountain adventurer with two options to conquer Australia’s highest peak, from either the top of Thredbo or Charlotte Pass.

After taking the Thredbo Kosciuszko Express chairlift to Eagles Nest, the 6.5km hike each way is easily identifiable along a dedicated walking path. This gentle incline makes it accessible for most with even minor levels of fitness.

The Charlotte Pass route, approximately 9km each way follows the Summit Road passing Seaman’s Hut to Rawson Pass where Australia’s highest toilet is often welcomed. While longer, it is no more strenuous although the ascent to Seaman’s Hut raises the heart beat somewhat.

At Rawson Pass the Thredbo and Charlotte Pass routes intersect for the last ascent and circumnavigation to the top.

When Mt Kosciusko was first named by the Polish explorer Paweł Edmund Strzelecki in 1840, he along with James Macarthur and indigenous guides Charlie Tarra and Jackey climbed from the western side along Hannels Spur, a strenuous 1800m of vertical through bush. That climb is now accessible for the fit, see story on page 19.

Strzelecki named the mountain in honour of Polish-Lithuanian freedom fighter General Tadeusz Kościuszko, due to its perceived resemblance to the Kościuszko Mound in Kraków, Poland.
The name was previously spelt Mount Kosciusko an Anglicisation, but the spelling "Mount Kosciuszko" was officially adopted in 1997 by the Geographical Names Board of New South Wales.
While the actual climb is moderate, the weather does play a huge part when planning your day, and don’t underestimate its potential. On a calm sunny day, it is paradise, but it can change.

The higher regions of the Australian alpine sit mostly above the tree line and should cloud roll in you will be submersed in a white out. Likewise, when the wind blows you will be advised to have a good wind jacket and extra layers, as the temperatures can plummet.
It is essential you consult the weather maps and forecast and be prepared with food, water, sunscreen and extra clothing.

At 2228 metres above sea level it is small compared to say the Himalayas, but it is our highest mountain and each year hundreds of thousands of people make the effort to stand on the roof of Australia. On the busy long weekends and holiday periods there will be a wait to have your photo taken standing on top of the cairn.

For hikers preferring a guided walk, Thredbo have regular guided trips that also have additional commentary from their knowledgably guides. You can find more details at Thredbo.com.au but book ahead.