Sawpit Creek Loop via Waterfall Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a easy loop trail in Kosciuszko National Park. The trail goes along each side of the valley above Sawpit Creek. Sawpit Creek takes its name from the saw pit that was located in the area in the mid to late 1800s, where alpine ash logs were sawn into planks. The planks were used to build houses in Jindabyne and Cooma.

You will walk through tall eucalypt forest that is typical at this low elevation of about 1200-1350m above sea level. In 2003, a large bushfire burnt down the area. Eucalypt trees quickly regenerated, but many of the alpine ash trees were killed off, as they can only regenerate from seeds. Eucalypt trees thrive in this area because, while snow falls in winter, the elevation is low and it melts quickly, therefore creating a very wet environment.

The walk leads to a small cascade (waterfall) that can be viewed from a steel grid platform. You will also come across a few impressive granite outposts along the way.

The trail is suitable in all weather conditions, although the tunnel may be flooded in heavy rain. If that's the case, cross over Kosciuszko Road. The trail is well shaded.

Getting Started

About 1km after the national park entry gates on Kosciuszko Road, turn left into the Sawpit Creek Picnic Area. Park your car there, then walk through the tunnel under Kosciuszko Road (next to Sawpit Creek) to access the trail.

Taking Children

This is an easy walk that is suitable for young children.