Mount Snowy

Saturday 3rd September 2016

Mount Snowy

The last time I attempted this walk the weather became particularly unfriendly with whiteout conditions, driving rain and a gale blowing, not to mention that it was freezing as well. On that occasion I only walked to the saddle between Hartz Peak and Mount Snowy and returned via Emily and Arthur Tarns, abandoning any attempt of going to the summit of Mount Snowy. Today the weather was great and I completed the circuit and was treated to fantastic views.
I set out from the car park quite early...in fact I was the only one there, and walked up to Hartz Peak first. There was some snow at Hartz Pass and it was not easy to cross as it was very firm and slippery, but I made it okay.

Devils Backbone

Hartz Peak

Mount Snowy and Hartz Peak

Mount Snowy

Hartz Pass

Hartz Pass

There were great views of snow capped mountains to the west and south west.

Hartz Peak

Emily Tarn

Hartz Lake

I didn't hang around on Hartz Peak for too long and set off for Mount Snowy. The track basically goes along the western side of the ridge just below the ridge line. There really is no track, just an occasional cairn, so it is just as easy to find your own way while looking for bits of track here and there. The descent off Hartz Peak was a little tricky due to the frosty rocks but I made it without slipping over. It took about 40" to walk along the ridge before descending to the saddle.

Along the ridge

Mount Snowy

Hartz Peak from the saddle

I crossed the saddle and climbed up to the summit of Mount Snowy which did not take too long. The views from up here were great also.

Hartz Peak from Mount Snowy ascent

Esperance and Adamsons Peaks

Towards Bruny Island

Mount Snowy summit

I reclined in the little summit shelter and had an early lunch before descending to the saddle and picking up the track past the tarns. The track was quite wet in places but quite easily followed although it is overgrown in a few patches. As I was passing Emily Tarn I could hear voices coming from Hartz Peak, and sure enough there were some people up there.

Emily Tarn

Hartz Peak from Emily Tarn

Emily Tarn

Arthur Tarn

Arthur Tarn

This is a great walk with excellent views but make certain to choose a fine and clear day to take full advantage of the scenery.
Distance: 10.6 kms.
Time: 5'08"
Ascent: 640 metres
Click here to download GPX file.