Big Walk Highest Point on Map?

The highest point on the Big Walk map is the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, which stands at 2,228 metres (7,310 feet) above sea level. The Big Walk is a multi-day hiking trail in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, Australia, and its route includes the highest point in the country.

Formula

The calculator above works out your average walking pace and speed for any section of the Big Walk. The formula for pace is:

Pace (min/km) = Total time (minutes) ÷ Distance (km)

Where total time is in minutes (hours × 60) and distance is in kilometres. The speed is the inverse: Speed (km/h) = Distance (km) ÷ Time (hours). These are the standard formulas hikers use to plan how long a leg of the trail will take.

Worked Example

Using the default values from the calculator: you walk 20 km in 8 hours. First convert hours to minutes: 8 × 60 = 480 minutes. Then divide by distance: 480 ÷ 20 = 24 minutes per kilometre. That is your average pace. For speed, divide distance by time in hours: 20 ÷ 8 = 2.5 km/h. The calculator shows the same results.

What Is the Big Walk?

The Big Walk is a long-distance walking trail that runs through Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. It is not a single official track with one name, but rather a route that links existing trails, including the Main Range Walk, the Kosciuszko Summit Walk, and sections of the Australian Alps Walking Track. The route passes through alpine and subalpine environments, crossing the highest terrain in Australia.

The trail is typically walked over 3 to 5 days, covering roughly 50 to 60 kilometres depending on the exact variation. The highest point on the map—and the highest point in Australia—is the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at 2,228 metres. The map of the Big Walk shows this summit clearly, often marked with a triangle and elevation label.

How to Read the Big Walk Map

Topographic maps of the Big Walk use contour lines to show elevation. The highest point is where contour lines form a closed circle, often with a spot height. On the Big Walk map, Mount Kosciuszko appears as the highest closed contour, with nearby peaks like Mount Townsend (2,209 m) and Mount Twynam (2,178 m) also marked.

Key features to look for on the map:

• Contour interval – usually 10 or 20 metres on detailed maps.
• Summit markers – triangles or dots with elevation labels.
• Track markers – dashed lines showing the walking route.
• Water sources – creeks and rivers, important for planning.
• Emergency shelters – small squares or huts along the route.

How to Choose the Right Map

For the Big Walk, you need a map that covers the full route. The most reliable options are the 1:25,000 or 1:50,000 topographic maps published by the New South Wales government mapping agency, or the specialised walking track maps sold at visitor centres. A GPS unit or phone app with offline maps is useful, but a paper map is essential as a backup.

When choosing, check that the map shows the entire trail you plan to walk. Some maps only cover the Main Range, while others include the full route to Thredbo or Charlotte Pass. Also check the publication date – tracks can change after storms or maintenance work.

Common Mistakes When Reading the Map

One common mistake is confusing the highest point on the map with the highest point on the trail. The Big Walk does not necessarily go over every summit; it may pass below the highest contour. For example, the route often goes around the summit of Mount Townsend rather than over it.

Another mistake is misreading contour lines – a closed contour with hachure marks (short lines pointing inward) indicates a depression, not a peak. Also, hikers sometimes forget that the map shows true north, not magnetic north. The difference (magnetic declination) in the Snowy Mountains is about 12 degrees east, so you must adjust compass bearings.

Costs and Permits

There is no specific permit for walking the Big Walk itself, but Kosciuszko National Park requires a vehicle entry fee if you drive into the park. The fee is per vehicle per day, payable at self-service stations or online. Camping in the park is allowed in designated areas, and some sites require booking during peak season.

If you stay in huts along the trail, they are free on a first-come basis. However, the park has a strict “leave no trace� policy – you must carry out all rubbish. There are no shops or services on the trail, so you must carry all food and supplies. The nearest towns with supplies are Thredbo, Jindabyne, and Charlotte Pass.

Safety and Preparation

The Big Walk is in alpine terrain, where weather can change rapidly even in summer. Snow is possible at any time of year, and temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Essential safety measures:

• Check the weather forecast before you start and be prepared to turn back.
• Carry warm clothing, waterproof jacket, and a thermal layer – even in January.
• Bring a map, compass, and GPS, and know how to use them.
• Carry at least 2 litres of water per person, and a water filter or purification tablets.
• Register your walk with the park visitor centre or leave a trip plan with someone.
• Be aware of the signs of hypothermia and altitude sickness – the summit is above 2,000 m, and some people feel the effects.

Alternatives to the Big Walk

If you want a shorter walk that still reaches the highest point, the Kosciuszko Summit Walk from Thredbo is a 13 km return walk that takes about 4 to 5 hours. It is a well-formed path that climbs to the summit without needing overnight camping. Another option is the Main Range Walk, a 22 km loop that passes near the summit and offers similar views. For a longer challenge, the Australian Alps Walking Track continues beyond the Big Walk for hundreds of kilometres.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest point on the Big Walk map?
The highest point is the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, at 2,228 metres (7,310 feet). This is the highest point in Australia.

Do I need a permit to walk the Big Walk?
No permit is required for walking, but you must pay a vehicle entry fee if you drive into Kosciuszko National Park. Some campsites require booking.

How long does the Big Walk take?
Most walkers take 3 to 5 days to complete the full route, walking 10 to 15 km per day. The exact time depends on your fitness and the route variation.

Is the Big Walk suitable for beginners?
It is a challenging multi-day walk with steep climbs and unpredictable weather. Beginners should have some hiking experience and be well-prepared. The Kosciuszko Summit Walk is a better option for first-timers.

Can I walk the Big Walk in winter?
Yes, but it is dangerous. Snow and ice cover the trail, and whiteout conditions can occur. Only experienced winter hikers with proper gear should attempt it, and an avalanche risk exists in some areas.

What is the best time of year to walk?
Summer (December to February) is the most popular, with warmer temperatures and less snow. Autumn (March to May) can be beautiful but colder. Spring (October to November) often has snow patches and muddy trails.

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in t | Total walking time | h | 8 | 0
in d | Distance walked | km | 20 | 0
out pace | Average pace | min/km | (t * 60) / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / t | 2