Things To Do

With snow capped mountains framing lush green countryside, Khancoban lies at the western edge of Kosciuszko National Park, on the Kosciuszko Alpine Way. It provides an excellent base for enjoying a wide range of nature based activities. It’s also central to some great rides around the snowy region.

Nearby Kosciuszko National Park is internationally recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It covers 1.5 million acres of magnificent alpine terrain. It has plant species found nowhere else on earth, as well as rare animal species such as the Corroboree Frog and Mountain Pigmy Possum. In summer, experience the unique and beautiful landscape by hiking the Park’s extensive network of bushwalking tracks. Other activities popular during the summer months are caving, horse riding, mountain bike riding, camping and fishing.

The Alpine Way between Khancoban and Thredbo is one of Australia’s greatest scenic drives. For a day trip, consider riding or driving to Thredbo, stopping by Scammells and Olsen’s lookouts on the way for dramatic views of the main range. Thredbo is only 77kms from Khancoban. There you can take the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift up the mountain to take in the spectacular alpine landscape. If you are feeling energetic, the return walk up Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest mountain is approximately 13km. In winter, Khancoban makes an affordable accommodation base for skiing at Thredbo.

Also on the Alpine Way, the Geehi Flats camping and picnic area is located beside the sparkling Swampy Plains River. The river is brimming with trout, and inquisitive kangaroos and emus graze the plain. Prior to the establishment of the National Park, stockmen used to drive their cattle here to graze. There are a number of walking tracks and 4WD tracks in the area, and restored huts that are open for viewing.

As you drive or ride into Khancoban, you can’t help but notice the influence of the Snowy Hydro Scheme on the area.To learn more about the Scheme, visit the free visitors centre at the Murray 1 power station.  In 2011, the attraction underwent a significant upgrade, and features interactive, hands-on displays. It is located 10kms out of Khancoban on the Alpine Way. The power station contains 10 turbines, each capable of producing enough electricity to supply over 95,000 houses. There are barbeque and picnic areas by the water that are open to the public. Light refreshments are available in the Cafe.

A great day trip option is to drive or ride from Khancoban to visit Yarrangobilly Caves via Cabramurra and Kiandra (112km each way). The road between Khancoban and Cabramurra takes you across the dam walls of Tumut Pond and Tooma Reservoir (this road is closed in winter).  These limestone caves are some of the most beautiful in Australia, featuring delicate shawls, grand columns, underground pools and awesome chambers. Guided and self guided tours are available daily. Yarrangobilly also has a natural thermal pool, which is a constant 27 degrees Celsius.

For an activity a little closer to town, Khancoban has a reputation amongst anglers as home to some of the best trout fishing waterways on the mainland. The Swampy Plains River is excellent for fly fishing, and Khancoban Lake is well stocked with rainbow and brown trout. The lake features easy access for water sports, with a boat ramp, BBQs and swimming area.

The town’s significant collection of deciduous trees includes poplars, plane, elm, pin-oak and liquidamber. As winter approaches, expect to see a spectacular display of autumn colour, equivalent to that which can be seen in Bright, Tumut or Canberra. In spring, there are brilliant roadside displays of wildflowers. For rose lovers, Khancoban is home to the Lady Hudson Memorial Rose Garden. It was established in 1959 as a tribute to the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

The Khancoban Country Club is one of the most picturesque nine hole golf courses in Australia. Play a round as the resident kangaroos lazily watch on. The bowling green and tennis courts are also available for members and non members. Afterwards, relax with a drink or a meal as you take in the breathtaking view from the clubhouse.

For more information on what to see and do in Khancoban and Kosciuszko National Park, and to obtain a Park Pass, visit the National Parks and Wildlife office in Scott Street, Khancoban. Phone (02) 60769373.