Australia — Batemans Bay
The Castle Track is a demanding 34km wilderness traverse through the Australian Alps, ideal for experienced hikers seeking isolation. This 2-3 day route winds across rugged alpine terrain, ascending to dramatic peaks and descending into secluded valleys. Expect a profound sense of accomplishment on this remote, pristine route far from well-trodden paths.
Distance: 34.0 km
Elevation Gain: 1200 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 2-3 days
The Castle Track is a challenging multi-day walk located in the remote wilderness of the Australian Alps, offering a true test of endurance and navigation skills. This 34-kilometre journey traverses rugged alpine terrain, ascending to dramatic peaks and descending into secluded valleys, providing a profound sense of isolation and accomplishment. It is a route for experienced hikers seeking an authentic wilderness experience, far from the well-trodden paths. The track winds through diverse landscapes, from subalpine woodlands to exposed, windswept ridges, showcasing the raw beauty and formidable nature of the Australian high country.
The Castle Track is not for the faint-hearted. It demands a high level of fitness, excellent navigation abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of alpine conditions. The trail is often poorly marked, requiring constant attention to map and compass, and can be subject to rapid weather changes, including snow, high winds, and fog, even outside of winter. The reward for this challenge is unparalleled: breathtaking panoramic views from exposed ridgelines, the solitude of vast alpine landscapes, and the satisfaction of completing a demanding wilderness trek.
The track begins its ascent from the Long Gully Campground, gradually climbing through eucalyptus forests before breaking out into more open subalpine heathlands. As the elevation increases, the vegetation becomes sparser, giving way to rocky outcrops and scree slopes. The route often follows faint animal tracks or cairned routes, demanding careful observation. Key landmarks include prominent rock formations and saddle points that offer brief respites and strategic points for navigation checks.
The highest points of the track offer expansive views across the surrounding mountain ranges, a sea of peaks stretching to the horizon. Descending from these heights, the track leads into sheltered valleys, often featuring alpine streams and hardy alpine flora. The remoteness of the Castle Track means that encounters with other hikers are rare, amplifying the feeling of being truly immersed in nature. This is a journey that tests both physical and mental fortitude, offering a deeply rewarding experience for those who are well-prepared and respect the power of the alpine environment.
The high country of Australia has a long and rich history, deeply intertwined with the Aboriginal peoples who have traversed these lands for millennia. The Ngarigo people, among others, have a profound cultural and spiritual connection to the Snowy Mountains region, utilising its resources seasonally and maintaining ancestral pathways through the ranges. The rugged terrain of the Castle Track area would have been a significant part of their traditional territories, offering sustenance and spiritual significance.
European exploration and settlement in the Snowy Mountains began in the mid-19th century, driven by the pursuit of pastoral leases for sheep grazing. The challenging terrain meant that access was difficult, and the high country remained largely wild and untamed for many years. Early explorers and stockmen, known as "snow-gum drovers" or "roos," would have navigated these areas using rudimentary maps and their intimate knowledge of the land. The development of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme in the mid-20th century brought increased access and infrastructure to parts of the region, but many areas, including the Castle Track, remained relatively remote.
The Castle Track itself, as a defined walking route, likely emerged from these early exploration and pastoralist pathways. It represents a route that has been used and refined over time by those seeking to traverse the high country. Its challenging nature and remoteness mean it has not been subject to the same level of formalisation as some of the more popular national park tracks. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the Australian Alps, offering a glimpse into the rugged past and a challenging adventure for modern-day hikers.
The Castle Track is a true alpine environment, and its character changes dramatically with the seasons. Each period offers unique challenges and rewards, but also necessitates different preparation and expectations.
Autumn (March-May): This is often considered the prime season for the Castle Track. The weather tends to be more stable than in summer, with cooler temperatures and less risk of thunderstorms. The eucalyptus forests begin to display subtle autumn colours, and the air is crisp and clear. However, the nights can be cold, and early snowfalls are possible, especially towards the end of May. The track is generally free of snow, but icy patches can form in shaded areas.
Spring (September-November): Spring brings a resurgence of life to the alpine landscape. Wildflowers begin to bloom, and the snow melts, revealing the track. However, spring weather can be highly unpredictable. Snowmelt can lead to swollen creeks and boggy conditions, and late snowstorms are not uncommon, particularly at higher elevations. Navigation can be challenging if the track is still partially covered in snow. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, with warm days followed by freezing nights.
Summer (December-February): While seemingly ideal, summer in the Australian Alps can bring its own set of challenges. While days can be warm and pleasant, the afternoons are prone to sudden, violent thunderstorms. These storms can bring heavy rain, hail, lightning, and a rapid drop in temperature, creating dangerous conditions. The track itself is usually clear of snow, but the risk of flash flooding in valleys and gullies is present after heavy rainfall. Sandflies can also be a nuisance during warmer months.
Winter (June-August): The Castle Track is generally considered impassable and extremely dangerous during winter due to heavy snow cover, ice, and extreme cold. Avalanche risk is high. This season is strictly for experienced mountaineers with appropriate winter gear and skills. For most walkers, winter is a time to admire the alpine landscape from afar.
Day 1: Long Gully Campground to Castle Saddle Shelter
Day 2: Castle Saddle Shelter to Mount Kosciuszko vicinity (or return)
Day 3 (Optional): Extended exploration or return
Important Notes:
The Castle Track is a remote and challenging wilderness walk. Thorough preparation is paramount. Before embarking, ensure you have a high level of physical fitness, as the terrain is steep and often rough. Develop and practice your navigation skills using a map, compass, and GPS device; mobile phone reception is unreliable to non-existent in most areas. Familiarise yourself with the route and potential hazards. Inform a reliable contact of your detailed itinerary, including your expected start and end times, and check in with them upon your safe return. Base town information is limited; the nearest significant town with services is Jindabyne, which is a considerable drive from the Long Gully Campground access point. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for unsealed roads, and consider a 4WD if conditions are expected to be poor. Check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) website for any alerts or closures affecting the area.
Accommodation on the Castle Track is extremely basic and requires a high degree of self-sufficiency. There are no formal huts or campsites in the same vein as more popular national parks. The primary form of shelter is the Castle Saddle Shelter, a rudimentary structure offering basic protection from the elements. Walkers should be prepared to camp, carrying a tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag suitable for alpine conditions. Wild camping is permitted in designated areas, but always follow Leave No Trace principles. Ensure you are equipped to be entirely self-sufficient, as no facilities are provided.
Hut/Shelter Facilities:
What's NOT Provided:
Seasonal Availability: The shelter is available year-round, but access and conditions vary drastically. Winter conditions make the area extremely hazardous and likely impassable for most.
Costs: No booking or fees are typically associated with using the basic shelter or wild camping in this remote area, but always check current NPWS regulations.
The Castle Track is located within a national park, and while specific permits for the track itself are generally not required for independent hikers, you must adhere to the regulations of the relevant national park authority, typically NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). It is crucial to check the NPWS website for the most up-to-date information regarding park access, camping regulations, and any potential fire bans or track closures. While no specific booking system exists for the Castle Track due to its remote nature and basic facilities, it is always advisable to register your trip with NPWS if a formal system is in place for the area.
Key considerations:
Booking Strategy: For this type of remote track, the "booking" is primarily about self-registration and informing authorities of your plans. There is no competitive booking system like for more popular multi-day walks.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the The Castle Track (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the The Castle Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding the Castle Track offers a wealth of activities for those looking to extend their alpine adventure:
Pre-Departure Checks:
Alpine Hazards:
Self-Sufficiency: This track requires complete self-sufficiency. Carry all necessary food, water, shelter, and safety equipment. Do not expect to find any facilities or assistance along the route.
Emergency Contact: In a genuine emergency, call Triple Zero (000). If you have a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite phone, use it to contact emergency services.
Castle Saddle: The saddle itself is a significant landmark, often offering a break in the terrain and a strategic point for navigation. Depending on the exact route taken, it may provide expansive views across the surrounding alpine country.
Prominent Peaks and Ridges: The Castle Track is designed to traverse the high country, meaning it will likely pass near or over several significant peaks and along dramatic ridgelines. These offer opportunities for breathtaking panoramic views, especially on clear days. Identifying these peaks using a map and compass can enhance the experience.
Alpine Streams and Waterfalls: While not as dramatic as those in Fiordland, the alpine streams and occasional waterfalls encountered along the track are vital water sources and add to the rugged beauty of the landscape. Be aware that these can become powerful torrents after heavy rain.
Unique Alpine Flora and Fauna: The Castle Track passes through diverse alpine and subalpine environments, offering chances to observe unique Australian alpine plants, such as hardy grasses, wildflowers, and stunted snow gums. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and various bird species.
Views towards Mount Kosciuszko: Depending on the specific route and your Day 2 objective, you will likely gain views of Mount Kosciuszko and the surrounding Main Range. This provides a sense of scale and context for your journey within the broader Australian Alps.
The Castle Track traverses a fragile alpine environment. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is not just recommended; it is essential for preserving this wilderness for future generations. The Australian Alps are a unique and sensitive ecosystem, and even small impacts can have long-lasting consequences.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By following these principles, you help ensure that the Castle Track remains a wild and beautiful place for everyone to experience.
