If you're after a weekend adventure that’s a bit remote, a bit challenging, and seriously rewarding, this one’s for you. I recently did a 3-day hike through the Main Range Loop in Kosciuszko National Park, with a side trip to Mount Sentinel, and it was one of the best hikes I’ve done in Australia.
This guide breaks down the route, campsites, tips, and what to expect each day, including how I planned for water, elevation, and that brutal climb to Mount Sentinel.
Itinerary Overview
Trail: Main Range Loop + Mount Sentinel
Distance: 30 km over 3 days
Grade: Hard (steep sections, alpine weather - but manageable when split over a few days)
Start/Finish: Charlotte Pass
Best Season: November to April
Water: Creeks at camp only — filter required
Camping: Must follow Kosciuszko NP rules (more on that below)
Day 1: Charlotte Pass to First Campsite
We started around 5pm from Charlotte Pass, aiming for a short evening hike to our first campsite. It’s about 6.5 km to camp, and the goal was just to get in a bit of distance before sunset. We followed the Main Range track and turned off at the sign toward Mount Twynam. It took us about 2 hours at an easy pace with short breaks.
We set up camp in an open spot with sweeping views of Mount Sentinel in the distance. The sun dipped behind the peaks while we cooked dinner, and the skies that night were insanely clear — if you’re into astrophotography, this is your moment.
Campsite Tip: There’s no water between the first campsite and Wilkinson Creek, so carry everything you need for drinking, cooking, and the next day.
Day 2: Mount Sentinel and Wilkinson Creek
We started early to catch the sunrise, had a slow breakfast, then packed light for the Mount Sentinel side trip — leaving the big packs at camp.
The hike to Mount Sentinel is short but intense. The terrain gets steep and rocky fast. There’s a narrow ridge near the summit that needs hands-on scrambling in sections, and a particularly gnarly rocky climb halfway up that slowed us down. The side trip added around 3.5 km return and took us roughly 2.5 hours including time at the summit.
It’s worth it. The views from the top are next level, especially if you catch good weather. Definitely check the forecast before attempting it — wind and cloud can make it sketchy.
After Sentinel, we returned to camp, packed up, and continued on toward Wilkinson Creek. The distance from the first campsite to Wilkinson Creek is about 8.5 km, making the total for the day around 12 km. It took us about 6 hours total, including breaks and the side trip.
We arrived in the late afternoon, set up near the creek, and had access to plenty of water (filter needed).
Camp Tip: Wilkinson Creek is nestled between Mount Kosciuszko and Mount Townsend — great for shelter from the wind.
Day 3: Summit Kosciuszko and Return
We packed up and hit the trail for Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. This day is much more chilled compared to the previous one, but still a solid walk with beautiful views across the Main Range.
After the summit, we looped back to Charlotte Pass to end the hike and drove back that evening. The final day was about 11 km and took around 4.5 to 5 hours, including a break at the summit.
Planning Notes
Camping Rules
Camping is allowed in most backcountry areas, but there are restrictions. You must:
- Camp at least 30 metres from any water source
- Stay 200 metres away from Charlotte Pass, Mount Kosciuszko summit, and popular alpine lakes like Blue Lake, Lake Albina, and Club Lake
For more info, check the NPWS Backcountry Camping Guidelines.
Weather
Alpine weather is unpredictable. You can get sunshine, wind, sleet, and rain all in one day. Pack for all conditions and check the latest forecast before you leave.
Gear
This is a remote alpine hike, so don’t cut corners:
- 3 to 4L of water capacity
- Tent, sleeping bag, and mat rated for alpine conditions
- Water filter or purification tabs
- Layers for warmth, wind, and rain
- Good hiking shoes or boots
Leave No Trace
Carry everything out, leave nothing behind. No bins, no fires, and no camping near the lakes.
Optional Side Trips
If you're keen to level up, there are other peaks in the area that make great side trips, especially if you’ve got more time or want to challenge yourself:
- Mount Twynam
- Watsons Crags
- Mount Townsend
- Muellers Peak
- Rams Head and Rams Head North
I’m hoping to come back and attempt the 11 Peaks challenge as an overnight trip one day. It’s a solid endurance hike through some of the highest points in the country.
Final Thoughts
This track has it all, ridgelines, remote camping, epic views, and the chance to summit Australia’s highest mountain. It’s a proper alpine adventure and a great way to push yourself without needing weeks off work.
While you can absolutely complete this hike in 2 days, or even 1 day if you're moving fast and packing light, I loved stretching it out over 3. Spending extra time out there gives you space to slow down, enjoy sunrise and sunset, and take in the beauty of the alpine landscape without rushing. Waking up to misty peaks and falling asleep under a full sky of stars just adds something special to the whole experience.
If you’re comfortable carrying a full pack, navigating alpine terrain, and dealing with unpredictable weather, this one’s absolutely worth doing.
