SNOWY RIVER - BYADBO WILDERNESS EXPEDITION
Wilderness paddling for the adventurous nature lover.
5 days, 4 nights cost: $12,000 per group (maximum 6 per group) or $2,400 per person (selected dates only)
6 days, 5 nights cost: $14,000 per group (maximum 6 per group)
Brief description of journey:
- The trip starts with paddling through sections of steep, rocky gorge country. Throughout the journey this opens up into open, scenic valleys, which emphasise the extent and remoteness of the Byadbo wilderness.
- The river includes a variety of paddling, from contemplative pools mixed in with grade 1 to 3 rapids.
- Day one will involve paddle skills training which will be built throughout the trip and will endure through a lifetime.
- The trip offers ample, comfortable and sheltered camping, with plenty of opportunities for exploring or just sitting by the river at the end of each day. Although being in close proximity to the high country, the river elevation is much lower (between 400-300 metres above sea level).
highlights
- Aboriginal guides available for interpretation of country and indigenous perspectives. Breathtaking wilderness.
- Snowy River Falls.
- Native Animals: Platypus, kangaroos, emus, sea eagles and the elusive quoll to name a few.
- 100’s of rapids from class 1 to 3.
- Multiple river gorges.
- Remote beach camping.
- No matter where you point your camera you capture amazing images.
- Be among the first to experience this incredible wilderness journey.
challenges
- This trip involves one long portage (on day 2) to negotiate (and view) the rarely seen but renown Snowy Falls
- This trip involves completing 70km of wilderness paddling.
Season: Year round (our guaranteed good water levels are between August and November).
Availability: Please contact us with your group's preferred dates and we will endeavour to organise a trip.
Location: Byadbo Wilderness, NSW
Suitable for: Ages 12+ with average level of fitness, an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for remote wilderness travel. Paddling experience is not essential.
Tour Inclusions: All meals, accommodation transfers, experienced guides, river and camping equipment.
Meeting Point: Alpine River Adventures, 2531 Countegany Road Numeralla NSW 2631. The drive to Numeralla in the Snowy Mountains is five hours from Sydney and two hours from Canberra. You can fly from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains Airport, near Cooma, and contact us to arrange pick-up from Cooma.
Availability: Please contact us with your group's preferred dates and we will endeavour to organise a trip.
Location: Byadbo Wilderness, NSW
Suitable for: Ages 12+ with average level of fitness, an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for remote wilderness travel. Paddling experience is not essential.
Tour Inclusions: All meals, accommodation transfers, experienced guides, river and camping equipment.
Meeting Point: Alpine River Adventures, 2531 Countegany Road Numeralla NSW 2631. The drive to Numeralla in the Snowy Mountains is five hours from Sydney and two hours from Canberra. You can fly from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains Airport, near Cooma, and contact us to arrange pick-up from Cooma.
Duration:
* 5 days: We paddle to a new camp spot each day.
* 6 days: Gives the option of a more relaxed paddle each day or have a rest day, more time for walks and relaxation.
What to Bring – A detailed itinerary will be forwarded upon booking confirmation with all details. To see our multi-day packing list go to our what to bring web page.
* 5 days: We paddle to a new camp spot each day.
* 6 days: Gives the option of a more relaxed paddle each day or have a rest day, more time for walks and relaxation.
What to Bring – A detailed itinerary will be forwarded upon booking confirmation with all details. To see our multi-day packing list go to our what to bring web page.
JOURNEY DESCRIPTION
The Snowy is an exceptional river. Despite being one of the most iconic rivers in Australia, many sections have rarely been seen since European occupation, which makes the area one of the few places in Australia with undisturbed Aboriginal occupation sites.
The steep granite gorges mean the only way to explore the river is by canoe/kayak, and for 40 years this river was made even more remote through the low river levels created by the Jindabyne dam. The Snowy Hydro environmental restoration flows over the last few years have finally opened up one of the most breathtaking remote wilderness rivers in Australia.
You will start your journey learning river safety and valuable paddling skills that will help you negotiate whitewater in the days to come. The river corridor boasts an array of wildlife. Admire the abundant platypus, and keep an eye out for the kangaroos, emus, wombats, water dragons and bird life including sea eagles that are often encountered.
The majestic, rarely witnessed Snowy Falls acts as a gatekeeper to the Byadbo Wilderness. While previous paddling experience is not required, a love of the wilderness, along with a sound level of fitness is essential.
Once you have traversed Snowy Falls, the remainder of the trip allows for a relaxed paddling experience through an environment that is akin to stepping back in time. Your Aboriginal guide will provide cultural interpretation and local knowledge of the area. Let the river guide you through amazing granite formations surrounded by one of the last strong-holds of Cypress Pine in Australia. The Byadbo Wilderness is located within a rain shadow, enabling comfortable, open and dry camping. Spend your afternoons swimming, bushwalking the ridges, or relaxing with a book on your own private beach.
After over 20 years experience guiding and paddling countless rivers, we believe this section of the Snowy is the nicest multi-day wilderness paddling experience in Australia. The broad isolated granite gorges, abundant evidence of previous Indigenous occupancy and plentiful wildlife give this place an undeniable spiritual quality. We love the Snowy River, and we know you will too.
The steep granite gorges mean the only way to explore the river is by canoe/kayak, and for 40 years this river was made even more remote through the low river levels created by the Jindabyne dam. The Snowy Hydro environmental restoration flows over the last few years have finally opened up one of the most breathtaking remote wilderness rivers in Australia.
You will start your journey learning river safety and valuable paddling skills that will help you negotiate whitewater in the days to come. The river corridor boasts an array of wildlife. Admire the abundant platypus, and keep an eye out for the kangaroos, emus, wombats, water dragons and bird life including sea eagles that are often encountered.
The majestic, rarely witnessed Snowy Falls acts as a gatekeeper to the Byadbo Wilderness. While previous paddling experience is not required, a love of the wilderness, along with a sound level of fitness is essential.
Once you have traversed Snowy Falls, the remainder of the trip allows for a relaxed paddling experience through an environment that is akin to stepping back in time. Your Aboriginal guide will provide cultural interpretation and local knowledge of the area. Let the river guide you through amazing granite formations surrounded by one of the last strong-holds of Cypress Pine in Australia. The Byadbo Wilderness is located within a rain shadow, enabling comfortable, open and dry camping. Spend your afternoons swimming, bushwalking the ridges, or relaxing with a book on your own private beach.
After over 20 years experience guiding and paddling countless rivers, we believe this section of the Snowy is the nicest multi-day wilderness paddling experience in Australia. The broad isolated granite gorges, abundant evidence of previous Indigenous occupancy and plentiful wildlife give this place an undeniable spiritual quality. We love the Snowy River, and we know you will too.
uPCOMING TRIPS
To book a group tour:
1. Email us at riverguide@outlook.com - we will endeavor to run a trip on a date that suits your group).
2. Fill in our online booking form.
1. Email us at riverguide@outlook.com - we will endeavor to run a trip on a date that suits your group).
2. Fill in our online booking form.
PHOTOS and videos
REviews
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Snowy River 5 Day Paddling Expedition
Last October I spent 5 days padding down the Snowy River with Richard and Matt from Alpine River Adventures and three others. We had a great time, I can't recommend it highly enough. The river was spectacular, especially around Snowy Falls (on day 2). Generally the kayaking wasn't too hard but there were a small number of rapids that were a bit of an adrenalin rush. Richard and Matt were very good at helping us through the more demanding parts of the river. The day spent portaging around Snowy Falls was the most challenging but Richard handled it very well and we always felt we were in safe hands. Highlights for me were seeing many platypus come to the surface of the river near my boat and the beautiful (and comfortable) campsites we had. The food was good, the company was great and the tents we slept in were spacious. The trip was very much one for a lover of the outdoors that was after an adventure. At times it took us a bit outside our comfort zones but it was very rewarding. By the end of the trip I could happily have kept paddling with Richard for another 5 days. Greg |
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We have so enjoyed our wilderness experience with Alpine River Adventures, never seeing another soul for our 5 day paddle on the beautiful Snowy River. And our small group of 7 (incl. 2 guides) enabled easy friendships to be formed, and group cohesion to be maintained.
The food was plentiful and delicious, and cooked over an open fire each night. Richard and Alison went to considerable effort to cater for my gluten intolerance, for which I am very appreciative.
The camp sites were scenic and spacious, enabling adequate privacy, and we were provided with comfy chairs, generous sized tents, and even a toilet enclosure!
At all times on the river, Richard displayed due caution, never risking our safety on the rapids. And his local knowledge of indigenous culture added another level of interest to the trip. His quiet, easy manner and lack of overt time constraints helped us experience a truly relaxing trip.
Chris and Wendy
The food was plentiful and delicious, and cooked over an open fire each night. Richard and Alison went to considerable effort to cater for my gluten intolerance, for which I am very appreciative.
The camp sites were scenic and spacious, enabling adequate privacy, and we were provided with comfy chairs, generous sized tents, and even a toilet enclosure!
At all times on the river, Richard displayed due caution, never risking our safety on the rapids. And his local knowledge of indigenous culture added another level of interest to the trip. His quiet, easy manner and lack of overt time constraints helped us experience a truly relaxing trip.
Chris and Wendy
I went on the August 5 day Byadbo Wilderness Experience and it was unlike anything I had ever done before. Both Richard and Christian were the perfect guides. The knowledge that Richard had of the land and aboriginal culture really added to the experience as well.
I had never kayaked before this trip and while my confidence in my skills was a bit low at the start, Richard made sure I was comfortable throughout the more challenging areas of the river. All the equipment was in great condition and the trip was very well organised. The food was very tasty, with all dietary requirements being catered for.
Because of this trip, I got to experience something I never thought I would have and in a place so untouched. I could not recommend this trip enough. Thank you!
I had never kayaked before this trip and while my confidence in my skills was a bit low at the start, Richard made sure I was comfortable throughout the more challenging areas of the river. All the equipment was in great condition and the trip was very well organised. The food was very tasty, with all dietary requirements being catered for.
Because of this trip, I got to experience something I never thought I would have and in a place so untouched. I could not recommend this trip enough. Thank you!
My trip down the Snowy through the gorge was an experience in a lifetime. I know that lower Snowy region well from my walks researching the Bundian Way through Byadbo. It is one of the most remarkable regions of the Australian continent: scenic, dramatic and full of special wildlife and cultural places. The only way to get to know that area is to travel downriver. Walking is well-nigh impossible due to the many cliffs and high ridges that fall directly to the river. Scenic but not walkable. Our group travelled in inflatable kayaks, which were eminently suited to the wild river and its rocky rapids that came regularly enough to make a contrast with the platypus filled calm reaches.
Although over 70 years of age, I managed the trip really well. This was in every way due to the quiet management skills of Richard Swain, our tour leader. He was quiet, calm and highly skilled, able to readily pass on his knowledge of the river so that members of our party were put at ease. His organisation and gear were of the highest order.
With all its dryness the country round Byadbo and along the lower Snowy stays much warmer in winter than the high country or even the tablelands, and was hence much sought after by the cattlemen for their winter grazing. The landscape is dramatic enough to figure in the national mythology.
Banjo Patterson’s setting for his poem The Man from Snowy River captures the scenery perfectly:
'…And down by Kosciusko, where the pine-clad ridges raise
Their torn and rugged battlements on high,
Where the air is clear as crystal, and the white stars fairly blaze
At midnight in the cold and frosty sky,
And where around the Overflow the reed-beds sweep and sway
To the breezes, and the rolling plains are wide,
The Man from Snowy River is a household word today,
And the stockmen tell the story of his ride.'
John Blay
Although over 70 years of age, I managed the trip really well. This was in every way due to the quiet management skills of Richard Swain, our tour leader. He was quiet, calm and highly skilled, able to readily pass on his knowledge of the river so that members of our party were put at ease. His organisation and gear were of the highest order.
With all its dryness the country round Byadbo and along the lower Snowy stays much warmer in winter than the high country or even the tablelands, and was hence much sought after by the cattlemen for their winter grazing. The landscape is dramatic enough to figure in the national mythology.
Banjo Patterson’s setting for his poem The Man from Snowy River captures the scenery perfectly:
'…And down by Kosciusko, where the pine-clad ridges raise
Their torn and rugged battlements on high,
Where the air is clear as crystal, and the white stars fairly blaze
At midnight in the cold and frosty sky,
And where around the Overflow the reed-beds sweep and sway
To the breezes, and the rolling plains are wide,
The Man from Snowy River is a household word today,
And the stockmen tell the story of his ride.'
John Blay
Check out more of our reviews here to see what travellers have to say about our Snowy River Wilderness Trips
Accomodation
On the banks of the Snowy River in the spectacular NSW Snowy Mountains, Dalgety is a small town where you can enjoy wine and beer tasting at the Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery. The tranquil rural setting is a lovely base too for getting to the snowfields in the skiing and snowboarding season.
Accomodation options suit various budgets, from camping and caravanning to cabins and cottages. You can even stay among the vineyards in a charming cottage at the Snowy Vineyard, which produces a range of acclaimed cool-climate wines and a fine selection of small-batch craft ales.
Accomodation options suit various budgets, from camping and caravanning to cabins and cottages. You can even stay among the vineyards in a charming cottage at the Snowy Vineyard, which produces a range of acclaimed cool-climate wines and a fine selection of small-batch craft ales.
Interested in booking?
Please contact us directly on riverguide@outlook.com or 0428826938 to see if we have availability on your group's preferred dates, then fill in our online BOOKING FORM
OR
Download and fill out our booking form below, and return to riverguide@outlook.com or address to:
Alpine River Adventures
2531 Countegany Road, Numeralla 2630 NSW AUSTRALIA
Please contact us directly on riverguide@outlook.com or 0428826938 to see if we have availability on your group's preferred dates, then fill in our online BOOKING FORM
OR
Download and fill out our booking form below, and return to riverguide@outlook.com or address to:
Alpine River Adventures
2531 Countegany Road, Numeralla 2630 NSW AUSTRALIA
Enquire now, and we will endeavor to run a trip on a date that suits you!
Check out our review page to see what other travellers have to say about the Byadbo Wilderness Challenge.
