One step closer to an extended Thredbo Valley Track

Media release: 11 January 2016

An extension to the popular Thredbo Valley Track is now one step closer following approval of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) project that will create a world-class mountain biking and hiking experience through the Snowy Mountains.

NPWS recently appointed Dirt Art Pty Ltd, specialist recreational trail designers to construct the ‘Lower’ Thredbo Valley Track through the secluded section of the valley in Kosciuszko National Park.

Anthony Evans, NPWS Alpine-Queanbeyan Area Manager, said the existing 17km track from Thredbo Village to Lake Crackenback has exceeded visitor number expectations since it officially opened in 2015.

“We are thrilled to be able to extend a unique and very popular asset that will increase visitation to Kosciuszko National Park and cement the wider Snowy Region as an iconic destination for mountain biking,” Mr Evans said.

“The planned extension will start at Bullocks Flat, taking riders and hikers along the Thredbo River and up switch-back climbs where they will enjoy the sub-alpine scenery and vistas down to the river.

“There are currently no roads or trails in this area so once complete the Lower Thredbo Valley Track will take people safely through previously inaccessible and rugged country offering a truly unique experience,” Mr Evans said.

Plans to extend the track have involved the Snowy River Shire Council, Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Resorts and community stakeholders who want to create a world-class continuous track linking Thredbo to Jindabyne and beyond to Tyrolean Village.

A proposed new community trail outside Kosciuszko National Park would complete this idea and link the end of the Lower Thredbo Valley Track to Curiosity Rocks at Jindabyne Dam where there is an existing network of trails.

Dirt Art are expected to begin construction early this year.

The tender also includes planned walking track upgrades on the Main Range around Blue Lake and Mt Carruthers. Improvements to these walking tracks will be undertaken by Jindabyne Landscaping and are expected to start over summer. All walking tracks will remain open during these works, however there will be some short diversions around work sites.

For more information on the Lower Thredbo Valley Track project, visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/parkmanagement/lower-thredbo-valley-track.htm

Contact: Sarah Scroope