The Great Dividing Range: Australia's 3,500 km Mountain Spine¶

The Great Dividing Range runs 3,500 km along Australia's eastern coast — the fourth-longest mountain range on Earth. While modest in height (Mount Kosciuszko at 2,228m), the range offers remarkable biodiversity, from tropical rainforest to alpine snowfields. This guide covers the major sections, classic walks, and the unique challenges of hiking in the Australian bush.

Introduction¶

Mountains on the Driest Continent¶

Geography¶

Queensland Tropics to Tasmanian Alps¶

The Range's Role in Australian Climate¶

Key Areas¶

Blue Mountains — Sydney's Backyard¶

Snowy Mountains — Kosciuszko and Alpine Country¶

Victorian Alps¶

Tasmania — Cradle Mountain and the Overland Track¶

Mount Kosciuszko¶

Australia's Highest — Summit Walk¶

Seven Summits Debate — Kosciuszko vs. Carstensz Pyramid¶

Classic Walks¶

Overland Track — Tasmania¶

Six Foot Track — Blue Mountains¶

Australian Alps Walking Track¶

Unique Hazards¶

Heat and Dehydration¶

Snakes and Spiders¶

Bushfire Season¶

Practical Planning¶

Best Months — October to April¶

Permit Systems¶

Key Statistics Table¶