
Why is it called Charlotte Pass?
Australia, oceania
39.7 km
1,840 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright adventurers, buckle up for Charlotte Pass! Nestled high in the New South Wales Snowy Mountains, this beauty tops out at 1,840m (6,037ft), making it one of Australia's highest drivable points. Fun fact: it's named after Charlotte Adams, a pioneering lady who was the first European woman to conquer Mount Kosciuszko back in 1881.
The journey starts in Jindabyne, and from there it's smooth sailing (pavement all the way!) for 39.7 km (24.66 miles) along Kosciuszko Road.
What awaits you at the end? A parking lot, yes, but also the starting point for the epic Mount Kosciuszko Summit walk. Plus, the views from Charlotte Pass lookout are incredible! Gaze south and you'll see the Charlotte Pass Snow Resort beckoning you for some winter fun.
This whole area is smack-dab in Kosciuszko National Park, offering access to the most breathtaking alpine scenery Australia has to offer. Keep in mind, though, this is the Snowy Mountains – the weather can be a bit wild, so be prepared for anything! But trust me, the stunning vistas of Australia's tallest peaks are SO worth it.
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 39.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,840 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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