Women Embrace Snowshoeing - Koscuiszko National Park 2023

Join Women Embrace Adventure for a fully guided Snowy Mountain Snowshoeing Adventure. Hit the highest mountains in Australia at Kosciuszko National Park and spy fabulous granite formations, snow-covered alpine meadows and broad views in all directions! 

What is Snowshoeing?

Well, it's just like hiking across beautiful Australian Alpine countryside.  All equipment, snowshoes, boots, poles and all instruction are provided. Our snowshoes provide a larger surface area than boots so there's no sinking into the snow. 

This adventure is a fully guided, all-inclusive, pack-free snowshoeing holiday that allows you to escape and explore our alpine environment in winter with a bunch of fun-loving, like-minded women.

Snowshoeing is an easy way to experience the Snowy Mountains without having to ski or snowboard. If you can hike – you can snowshoe!

ADVENTURE OVERVIEW:

Dates:    Saturday 2nd September - Wednesday 6th September 2023

Start and Finish Location:  Canberra ACT Crown Plaza Hotel

Accommodation:   It's awesome...first night at a 4-star Crown Plaza Hotel Canberra and three nights at the beautiful chalet-style ski lodge at the Snow. Open fireplace, hot spa, sauna, very nice. All accommodation is twin-share with ensuite; a single supplement may be available for an additional cost. 

Meals:  Welcome pizza dinner at a nice Italian Restaurant in Canberra on night one, hotel buffet breakfast on day two, home-cooked meals while at the Chalet, all snacks, morning/afternoon teas, pre-dinner nibbles around the fire to enjoy with a cheeky beverage...think mulled wine...mmmm. Celebration lunch...4 breakfasts, 4 dinners, 4 lunches. 

How far are we snowshoeing?  approx 38km over 4 days

Day 2  6km

Day 3  10km

Day 4  14km

Day 5   8km

How fit do I need to be to Snowshoe? You'll need a moderate to a high level of fitness to really enjoy snowshoeing. Our adventures focus on the journey and not the destination, we stop for photos, take our time to hear about the flora and fauna of the Snowy Alpine Region from our local guide and stop for regular breaks, lunch, morning tea etc. 

Doing some training, just like you would for a multi-day hike, will make the experience all the more enjoyable. 

For some tips on training click here

How many women will be on my adventure? Maximum 10 Women (plus two WEA leaders and a Local Snowshoeing guide) ensure everyone has a great time and is well looked after throughout the adventure.

I'm coming on my own, is that ok? No problem, lots of women come on their own; we welcome solo travellers and guarantee a supportive group of fun-loving women to share your journey. You might just find some new adventure friends by the end of the adventure.

Your Package includes:

• Two Women Embrace Adventure Leaders (Wilderness First Aid qualified) and a Professional Snowshoe Local Guide.
• Full snowshoeing instruction
• Snowshoeing equipment – snowshoes, poles, waterproof boots
• 4 evening meals, including welcome dinner on night one and hearty home-cooked meals 
• 4 Breakfasts, a mix of continental and cooked breakfast 
• 4 Lunches
• Morning/afternoon tee, trail snacks, pre-dinner nibbles
• 4 nights twin-share accommodation. 1-night Hotel in Canberra, 3 nights chalet accommodation in Jindabyne
• Emergency communications and first aid kits carried by your guide and leaders
• Women Embrace Adventure Goody Bag (it wouldn't be a WEAadventure without it) 
• Transport from Canberra to the Snowy Mountains and return to Canberra in a comfortable 12-seater mini-coach.
• Guaranteed fun, laughter and as usual, some Women Embrace Adventure surprises along the way!

Your Package DOES NOT include:

• Flights or transport to Canberra
• Mandatory Travel Insurance
• Alcohol

COST DETAILS

$3450/pp twin share; this amount covers all inclusions outlined in "Your Package Includes." 

*T&C apply to see below

Requirements:

• Moderate/high level of fitness
• Purchase Travel Insurance upon booking and maintain it until completion of the adventure

HOW TO SECURE YOUR SPOT

Book now and pay your non-refundable deposit of $600 to secure your spot, payable by credit card/PayPal. Balance due 4th June 2023.

We hope you can join us on this fantastic adventure.

Remember this trip is open to a maximum of only 10 lucky ladies!

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Saturday 2nd September

Make your own way to Canberra. You can book in anytime from 2pm and the team will meet in the foyer at 5 pm where we will head out for a drink and team dinner.

Accommodation – (Twin Share 4 Star in Canberra CBD)

Meals - D

Day 2 - Sunday 3rd September

Today we leave early and make our way to Jindabyne via Cooma, where we’ll have morning tea, pick up our Snowshoeing gear, then head straight to our accommodation for a lite lunch, don on our snowshoeing gear and head off for our first afternoon of fun in the snow.  PORCUPINE ROCKS RETURN is an amazing snowshoe afternoon that takes us slowly upwards through ancient Snow Gums to capture sensational views along the Thredbo Valley and towards the Main Range. Picnic at Hanging (: Porcupine Rock before traversing through a high hanging valley and then descending to Eyre Cafe. Then back to our accommodation to settle in front of a warm fire, nibbles and drinks and maybe even a sauna and or spa.

Accommodation – Chalet Style 4 Star

Distance: 6kms

Meals – B,L,D

Day 3 - Monday 4th September

After breakfast, we pack our lunches, snacks and thermos at the chalet and then head out for a full day in the  mountains

RAMSHEADS RAMBLE

This is one of the most beautiful Snowshoe trails in the mountains. Wander past Eagle's Nest cafe and climb through the amazing rock tours to a high plateau. A little more climbing and suddenly the world of beauty opens up: Kosciuszko South Ridge, the Abbotts, and on a bluebird day, the Victorian High Country. The Ramsheads massif is not to be underestimated, you will Summit one of the equal "fourth" highest peaks in the Snowy Mountains - Mt Ramsheads. The route back is enjoyable and scenic with views across the Big Boggy and suddenly, you have another chance at hot choccies, schnapps ….then back to base where the Sauna, Spa and open fire await.

Accommodation – Chalet Style 4 Star

Distance: 10kms

Meals – B,L,D

Day 4 - Wednesday 31st August

Today is the day most people are waiting for. It's time to head to the highest point in Australia – the summit of  MT KOSCIUSZKO

Unmissable in winter! What is not to love about being surrounded by winter white in every direction? Snowshoe the "direct route" from the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift towards the top of Australia. Summit and see the amazing 360 degrees views towards the Victorian High Country and to the north, Mt Jagungal. An amazing, exhilarating "top shelf" experience. Back to base via the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift with the chance to grab some schnapps or hot chocolate at Eagle's Nest before heading back for fireside snacks and a glass of wine. A day you will never ever forget!

Accommodation – Chalet Style 4 Star

Distance: 14kms

Meals – B,L,D

Day 5 - Thursday 1st September

This morning we pack up and leave the chalet after breakfast and head out for our last Snowshoe.

SNOWY RIVER SUSPENSION BRIDGE

From Guthega we head past Illawong Chalet, cross the amazing suspension bridge on the wonderful Snowy River and head high towards the flank of Little Twynam. Here we are really amongst the best of treeline to alpine vegetation, with potential views over the steps of the Main Range with wilderness views that go on forever. Cruise back to Guthega, stop for some schnapps and lunch at Wild Brumby and then mini-coach to Canberra.

Distance: 8kms

Meals – B,L

Please note: due to the unpredictable weather in the Snowy Mountains the above itinerary is subject to change leading up to and during the trip. We cannot guarantee snow cover. Changes will be made if needed, depending on the weather, to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is Snowshoeing?

Put simply snowshoeing is just an extension of hiking except with snow involved. If you have a moderate to a high level of fitness and can hike then you can Snowshoe. The snowshoes are devices that are strapped to your shoes that provide a larger surface area than your shoes or boots and in doing that spread your body weight over a much larger area which means you won't sink into the snow.

What do I wear for Snowshoeing?

In most cases, the clothing and wet weather gear you already have for hiking will suit your needs for snowshoeing. You need to think about layering as it is important you don't get cold but you also don't want to get hot and sweaty, so layers are the key. Take enough layers, including wet weather gear to keep you warm and dry for a range of conditions. We will be sure to send you a full packing list with plenty of time to get organised. Wet weather boots for your snowshoes are included in your package.

What do I need to bring?

We'll send you a detailed packing list when you book but here's and quick list, layering is the key to comfort!

-Hiking type clothes: 2 pants, two long sleeve tops, two t-shirts (wool & synthetics are best, cotton is not)

-Comfortable Waterproof Hike Boots (if you do not have these - don't worry you will get a hired pair included in your package)

-Wet Weather Jacket/Pants

-Thermal Underwear for a base layer, Fleece or similar for a mid-layer

-Beanie, gloves, scarf

-Wool socks

-Comfortable Loungewear for the Chalet-think track dacks, jumper, uggs

-Travel clothes-that double as a going-out outfit (casual)

-Personal medications, toiletries

-Swimmers (for that spa/hot tub!)

(we have a drying room and full laundry at our chalet so you'll be able to wash/dry as needed)

I know the snow can be bright; what do I wear to protect my eyes?

If you have been to the snow before you would know how bright the sunlight can be on a sunny day as it reflects off the snow. Make sure you have a decent pair of sunglasses. Covering your eyes is also important to keep snow and rain out of your eyes. A leash for your sunnies is a great idea, too.

What specialised equipment do I need for Snowshoeing?

Don't worry, we've got this covered and it is all included in your package. At Cooma, we’ll be fitted for our equipment and pick up everything we need (snowshoes, poles, boots) 

We hope you can join us on this amazing adventure.  Remember, this trip is open to a maximum of only ten lucky ladies!

Email info@womenembraceadventure.com.au or ring Katrina on 0437711683 with any questions.

xSharon and Kat

Now the nitty-gritty and bits and bobs...

Stay Safe Procedures: Women Embrace Adventure is taking important measures to limit the transmission of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) such as:

*Contactless registration

*Zero share equipment, utensils

*Providing hand sanitiser to use at the start and during each adventure

*Ensuring social distancing throughout the adventure

Before attending an adventure please:

*Complete a RAT test 24 hours prior to departure, and complete the online Health Assessment (which will be forwarded to you via email)

*Stay home if you or your family are unwell, or you have been advised to isolate

*Wash your hands and use hand sanitiser often

*Continue to social distance

*Read our full Covid-19 T&C's for full details https://www.womenembraceadventure.com.au/t-c 

*Terms and Conditions apply

By making a booking you agree to and accept our terms and conditions, including these Terms and Conditions, our Covid-19 Policy and the Waiver of Liability.

Your booking is final once your payment is processed and a confirmation email is sent to you.

This is a women's only adventure.

Valid for travel for on 2nd September 2023 departure.

Valid for sale until sold out.

Advertised prices are per person, twin share and do not include return airfares/transport to start in Canberra or required travel insurance.

Prices are correct as of 11th September 2023 and are subject to availability, withdrawal and change at any time without notice due to fluctuations in charges and currency.

A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is required to secure your booking.

Full price $3,450

You will be invoiced for the balance owing which is due on or before 4th June 2023 and is payable via direct deposit PayPal or credit card.

All current government safety and health guidelines at the time of booking and departure must be adhered to including all Covid-19 requirements. Any additional costs related to but not limited to government travel restrictions are the responsibility of the individual traveller and not Women Embrace Adventure. If this trip is undersubscribed or in circumstances where external events affect the viability or safety of this trip to go ahead, Women Embrace Adventure reserves the right to cancel or reschedule and to exclude/remove any participants from this trip. Your booking is non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees Apply:

· Prior to 90 days before the trip departure, we reserve the right to charge any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 90-60 days before trip departure-75% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 59-30 days before trip departure- 85% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Within 30 days of the trip departure - 100% Of the Adventure Cost

· Once the trip has commenced, there will be no refunds granted.

· It is required that you have a purchased comprehensive travel insurance policy at the time of booking and maintained until the end of the adventure.

T&C's for full details https://www.womenembraceadventure.com.au/t-c 

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