This once-a-year night hike in Thredbo takes you to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko.
Each December, the skies above the Snowy Mountains light up in one of nature’s most dazzling displays. The Geminids meteor shower, famous for its bright, frequent shooting stars, transforms Thredbo’s alpine landscape into an otherworldly theatre of light. And for one night only, you can hike to Australia’s highest point to watch it unfold.
Thredbo’s Geminids Meteor Shower Hike is the ultimate bucket-list adventure for stargazers and thrill-seekers alike. As night falls, hikers begin their guided journey to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko. Equipped with headlamps and expert local guides, groups set off into the crisp alpine air, climbing steadily as the last light of day fades from the ridgelines. The 13-kilometre Grade 3 round-trip is challenging but rewarding, and as darkness deepens, the stars appear in astonishing clarity above the trail.
At the summit, participants are treated to one of the clearest night skies in the country. Far from city light pollution, the Milky Way stretches overhead, and the Geminids begin their spectacular show. Dozens of meteors streak across the horizon every minute, burning bright against the southern sky. It’s an almost surreal experience, made even more special by the hush of the mountains and the shared wonder of those watching beside you.
The Geminids meteor shower is caused by debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, which Earth passes through each December. Unlike many meteor showers that appear faint or sporadic, the Geminids are known for their intensity, with colourful, slow-moving meteors that are easy to spot with the naked eye. The show peaks around midnight, when the meteors appear to radiate from the Gemini constellation high above Mt Kosciuszko.
Along the way, guides share stories about the region’s natural and cultural history, as well as insight into the astronomical significance of the Geminids. Warm drinks, snacks and plenty of photo stops make the experience both adventurous and comfortable. And by the time hikers descend in the early hours, the sense of awe lingers long after the stars fade.
When: 14-15 December 2025
Other night hikes
If you can’t make the Geminids event, Thredbo offers a calendar of other night hikes that let visitors experience the alpine region after dark in different ways.
The Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko offers an equally spectacular but softer kind of magic. Under the glow of the moon, the entire landscape shimmers silver, revealing a side of the Snowy Mountains few ever see. You can experience this on 3 January 2026, 2 February or 2 April.
The Super Full Moon Hike takes that glow to the next level, with the moon appearing larger and brighter than usual. Spots are limited, so book the 5 December hike in advance.
The Lunar Eclipse Hike is a highlight too, giving participants the rare chance to watch the moon slowly darken and turn a burnt red hue above Australia’s rooftop on 3 March.
For those who prefer stargazing without the glare, the New Moon Hike is the best option. With no moonlight to compete with, the Milky Way blazes overhead, making it ideal for photographers and astronomy enthusiasts. You’ll catch this hike on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.
For an option that begins at golden hour, the Aries Tor at Sunset hike is perfect for travellers who want the views without staying up too late. The rocky outcrop glows orange as the sun sets, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This hike is available between 1 December and 29 March.
Whether you go for the celestial drama of the Geminids or the calm glow of a full moon, Thredbo’s night hikes are proof that the Snowy Mountains shine brightest after dark.
