Perisher to Porcupine Rocks(edit)

Overview

This is an easy walk from Perisher to some granite boulders called Porcupine Rocks at 1900m above sea level, which is the start of the alpine zone.

From the ridge between Mount Duncan and the Porcupine Rocks, the views are some of the best in Kosciuszko National Park, including over Bullocks Flat Skitube Terminal, Lake Crackenback Resort, Alpine Way, surrounding hills and up to Lake Jindabyne. Along the way up, you will get a good view of Mount Perisher (look for the ski lifts) and Mount Duncan (watch out for the trig).

In summer, either return to Perisher via the same route or continue your walk to Charlotte Pass, from where you can return to Perisher via Kosciuszko Road (or via Guthega, which is a very long walk).

In winter, if there is sufficient snow, it is possible to return from the Porcupine Rocks to Perisher via Perisher Gap, as there is a groomed trail leading to Kosciuszko Road (ending opposite the bottom of the Eyre T-Bar). The trail is suitable for hikers on snowshoes as well as cross-country skiers. If using snowshoes, stay well away from the grooves, as damage to them can cause cross-country skiers to fall. The trail is a winter-only trail - don’t attempt to follow it in summer in order to avoid damage to the sensitive alpine area (particularly the wetlands)! Alpine Eyre, the kiosk at the bottom of the Eyre t-bar, serves hot chocolate, hot mulled apple juice and excellent burgers in winter.

There are no toilet facilities along the way. The closest public toilets are located in the Perisher ski tube terminal building, Perisher information centre and at the bottom of the Mount Perisher double chair lift.

Getting Started

In summer: Park your car at the end of Galaxia Place, just before the water-crossing through Rock Creek to the pump station. To get there, turn left into Porcupine Road from Kosciuszko Road opposite the Perisher Ski Tube Station, follow Porcupine Road for about 560m and then turn right into Galaxia Place.

From your parking location, you will see a footbridge crossing Rock Creek. Cross the bridge to access the Porcupine Track.

In winter: Porcupine Road is covered by snow and is not accessible by car. Park your car at the Perisher ski resort car park, then walk to the trail head along Porcupine Road and Galaxia Place. Alternatively, walk up Kosciuszko road a bit further and turn left after the Rock Creek Ski Club (but before the Eiger Chalet). Then follow Rock Creek to the snow poles. The trail follows a slightly different route in winter. To be safe, just follow the snow poles.

Note: A fee is payable to enter Kosciuszko National Park. In winter, snow chains must be carried (unless you have a 4WD) and it is recommended that your car is equipped with winter tyres. Snow chains can be hired in Cooma and Jindabyne. It is also possible to park your car at Bullocks Flat (on Alpine Way) and catch the ski tube up to Perisher. The ski tube only operates during the winter ski season.

Taking Children

The walk is suitable for young children, particularly in summer. But children need to be well supervised on the rocks and along the cliff lines.

In winter, snow shoes may be required, depending on snow conditions. Children should be dressed in warm, waterproof clothing.