
Rawson Pass
The highest point for cyclists and a vital waypoint for summit-bound hikers on Mt Kosciuszko, offering stunning alpine views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clearer skies, less wind

Rawson Pass
Best Time
Clearer skies, less wind
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The highest point for cyclists and a vital waypoint for summit-bound hikers on Mt Kosciuszko, offering stunning alpine views.
"The highest toilets in Australia... Multiple trails to reach. You could see ice/snow in mid summer."

🚶♀️ Walk the Final Stretch
Cycling is allowed to Rawson Pass, but the final 1.67 km to Mt Kosciuszko summit is a walk-only path. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
The highest toilets in Australia are here, but there's no running water. Pack enough for your trek! :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Australia's Highest Toilets
Rawson Pass
A surprisingly welcome sight! These facilities are the highest public toilets in Australia, offering relief on your summit journey.

Panoramic Valley Views
Rawson Pass
Breathtaking vistas unfold as you look down into the surrounding valleys. The fresh mountain air enhances the scenic experience.

The Final Summit Push
From Rawson Pass to Mt Kosciuszko Summit
The last 1.67 km to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko begins here. It's a manageable trek for most, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Know Before You Go: The Summit Approach
Essential Facilities at Rawson Pass
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Final Stretch
Cycling is allowed to Rawson Pass, but the final 1.67 km to Mt Kosciuszko summit is a walk-only path. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
The highest toilets in Australia are here, but there's no running water. Pack enough for your trek! :droplet:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even snow, regardless of the season. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Rawson Pass are stunning. Don't forget your camera for those epic mountain shots! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Final Stretch
Cycling is allowed to Rawson Pass, but the final 1.67 km to Mt Kosciuszko summit is a walk-only path. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
The highest toilets in Australia are here, but there's no running water. Pack enough for your trek! :droplet:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even snow, regardless of the season. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Rawson Pass are stunning. Don't forget your camera for those epic mountain shots! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rawson Pass is primarily recognized as a crucial waypoint on the journey to Mt Kosciuszko's summit, celebrated for its stunning panoramic views and the unique distinction of housing Australia's highest public toilets. While the pass itself is functional rather than a destination, it's essential for hikers and cyclists reaching the peak. Visitors appreciate the accessibility for a rewarding alpine experience, though some note the utilitarian nature of the facilities.
"Rawson Pass the y junction of the road where Charlotte's pass and Thredbo summit walk meet before taking the final 1.67 km trek to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko...
It was only in the later part of 1977 that the summit Rd from Charlotte's pass was closed to public vehicles for environmental concerns before that you could drive to within metres of the Kosciuszko summit!
Rawson pass sits at the elevation of around 2,125 mts above sea level, and here you can find the highest toilet in Australia...
The views from Rawson pass looking down into the valley's is one to be seen with your eyes whilst smell that fresh air blowing over the mountains!"
Matt Isles
"Highest toilets in Australia…. Multiple trails to reach. You could see ice/snow in mid summer. Cycling allowed till this point. Rangers hut in this point. Ranger’s vehicle drives up to this point. Scenic view."
chand priyankara
"Easy enough for beginners with great views! For the pros I recommend Charlotte's pass which you can continue onto after you reach the summit 👌🏽"
Amit Anil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rawson Pass is accessible via the Charlotte Pass road (closed to public vehicles since 1977) or by walking/cycling from Thredbo's Eagles Nest Chairlift. The final ascent to Mt Kosciuszko summit is a 1.67 km walk from Rawson Pass.
No, the summit road from Charlotte Pass has been closed to public vehicles since late 1977 for environmental reasons. You can cycle up to Rawson Pass, but the final summit trek is on foot.
Yes, cycling is permitted up to Rawson Pass. However, the final 1.67 km to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko is a walking track only.
From Thredbo, take the Eagles Nest Chairlift to the top station, and then follow the Kosciuszko Summit walk track to Rawson Pass.
While there isn't direct public transport to Rawson Pass itself, you can access the area via shuttle buses to Charlotte Pass or Thredbo, from where you can begin your walk or cycle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entry fees or tickets required to access Rawson Pass or the walking tracks leading to Mt Kosciuszko. It's part of the national park, so standard park entry fees may apply depending on your entry point.
Rawson Pass and the surrounding walking tracks are generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, access can be restricted during extreme weather events.
Yes, a national park entry fee is typically required for vehicles entering Kosciuszko National Park. Check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for current fees and conditions.
Several tour operators offer guided walks to Mt Kosciuszko, which will include a stop at Rawson Pass. These can be booked through local tour companies in Jindabyne or Thredbo.
Access may be limited during severe weather conditions, especially snow and ice. Always check local conditions and advisories before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Rawson Pass has Australia's highest public toilets, a ranger station, and signage. It serves as a waypoint for the Mt Kosciuszko summit walk and other trails.
The walk from Rawson Pass to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko is considered easy enough for beginners, though it's a significant altitude gain. The views are great for all levels.
Rawson Pass sits at an elevation of approximately 2,125 meters (6,972 feet) above sea level.
Yes, it's possible to see ice and snow patches at Rawson Pass even in mid-summer due to the high altitude.
The views from Rawson Pass looking down into the valleys are spectacular and a must-see. The fresh mountain air adds to the experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities at Rawson Pass. You must bring all your own food and water for the trek.
You can purchase food and supplies in the nearby towns of Jindabyne or Thredbo before heading up to the mountain.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic is highly recommended to enjoy the stunning views from the summit or along the trail.
Barbecues are generally not permitted in this alpine environment to protect the fragile ecosystem. Stick to packed meals.
Pack high-energy, non-perishable snacks like trail mix, energy bars, sandwiches, and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic valley views from Rawson Pass are prime photo spots. The final approach to the summit also offers dramatic landscapes.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering lighting for landscape photography.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can capture more of the expansive scenery.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Drones may be restricted.
Capture the unique alpine flora, the changing textures of the landscape, and the vastness of the Snowy Mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Dress children in layers to adapt to changing mountain weather, and ensure they have sturdy walking shoes. The novelty of Australia's highest toilet might even be a fun talking point for younger ones!
🚴 Cyclists
Important: Remember that bicycles are not permitted on the final 1.67 km track to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko. You'll need to secure your bike at Rawson Pass and continue on foot. The descent back down can be exhilarating, but always ride within your limits and be aware of other users on the track.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to the Summit: From Thredbo or Charlotte Pass
Alternatively, if you're starting from Charlotte Pass, you can cycle or walk along the management road. This route is longer but offers a different perspective of the alpine landscape. Historically, vehicles could drive much closer to the summit, but environmental concerns led to the closure of the summit road to public vehicles in 1977, making Rawson Pass a key point where the road ends and the final pedestrian ascent begins.
Regardless of your starting point, Rawson Pass is not typically a place to linger for extended periods. It's primarily a waypoint, a place to catch your breath, use the facilities, and prepare for the final 1.67 km trek to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko. The ranger's hut and the unique highest toilet in Australia are its main features.
Navigating Rawson Pass: Facilities and Conditions
The pass also houses a ranger's hut and is a point where ranger vehicles can access the area. This means there's a presence of park management, and you might find information or assistance available. The landscape around Rawson Pass is typical of the Australian Alps – often stark, windswept, and beautiful, with hardy alpine vegetation. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions; even in summer, you might encounter strong winds, rain, or even snow and ice.
Cyclists will find that Rawson Pass marks the end of the cycling track. From here, bicycles must be left behind as the final 1.67 km to the summit is a pedestrian-only path. The terrain is generally well-formed, but it's an exposed alpine environment, so appropriate footwear and clothing are essential.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit