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Alpine Walks Demand Alpine Preparation – Any Time of the Year

The recent deaths of two people on Mt Bogong in Victoria, another on Cradle Mountain, plus the recent death on Mt Field in Tasmania are tragic reminders that even short walks in Australia’s alpine regions can become life-threatening when weather conditions change suddenly, at any time of the year, not just winter.

Dr Jeff McDonell, President, Bushwalking Victoria said "Preparation saves lives. Don’t let schedules or timelines put you at risk. Check the weather daily in the lead-up to your walk and cancel if storms are forecast. Carry proper alpine gear, including a fully waterproof jacket, and ensure you have emergency communications such as a Personal Locator Beacon or satellite device. The mountains will wait - safety won’t."

Mt Bogong - Victoria’s highest peak at 1,986 metres - is a strenuous and potentially hazardous climb because of its exposed nature. Even experienced bushwalkers and back-country skiers can become disoriented when visibility drops. It’s easy to miss a turn when snow and ice are blowing in your face. Proper clothing and equipment are essential and hypothermia can develop within minutes in freezing conditions.

Victoria’s 60 bushwalking clubs promote safety, leadership, and good preparation for people who enjoy walking in the outdoors. Club activities are guided by experienced bushwalkers, and there’s no substitute for experience when conditions turn tough.

Dr McDonell said "There’s a growing trend to organise bushwalks through social media groups, but this approach often lacks essential skills in navigation and first aid. Bushwalking Victoria encourages people to join clubs, where they can gain the experience and knowledge needed to enjoy the bush safely and respond effectively to the unexpected."

Here's some actionable steps you can take to stay safe in alpine environments:

Plan Thoroughly

  • Research your route: Study maps, track notes, and official Parks Victoria advice for the area you are visiting. Know the terrain, distances, escape routes, and alternative options.
  • Choose walks to suit your group’s experience and fitness. Alpine terrain is more demanding and mistakes are harder to recover from.
  • Leave trip details with a trusted person, including your intended route and return time.

Learn to Navigate

There are a range of options to improve your navigation skills.

Check the Weather - Again and Again

  • Monitor forecasts daily in the lead-up to your walk. Don’t just check once; conditions can change quickly.
  • On the day, confirm the latest Bureau of Meteorology alpine forecast before starting out.
  • If storms, heavy snow, or severe weather warnings are issued, change your plans. The mountain will still be there tomorrow or next week.

Pack for All Conditions

Alpine preparation means being ready for the worst weather, not just the best. At a minimum, every walker should carry:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and over-pants. This is non-negotiable. A quality waterproof jacket, made from Gore-Tex or a similar material, will keep you dry for hours in heavy rain and protect you from dangerous windchill. Cheaper “fashion” jackets, even if they claim to be waterproof, will often leak or fail under sustained wet conditions. Invest in the best jacket you can afford.
  • Warm clothing layers (fleece or wool, not cotton).
  • Gloves, hat, and thermal underlayers.
  • Map, compass, and the skills to use them.
  • Emergency shelter (even on day walks) to protect you from extreme elements.  This may be a tent, emergency bivvy bag or a survival shelter.
  • Sufficient food and water, with extra in case of delays.
  • First aid kit
  • Reliable communication - ideally a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger.

Tip: Buy gear from reputable outdoor equipment suppliers with experienced staff. They can guide you to equipment that has been tested in real conditions, rather than gear designed mainly for fashion.

Adjust as You Go

  • Watch conditions closely during your walk. If the weather worsens, shorten your trip or turn back.
  • Keep your group together. Alpine terrain makes it easy to become separated in fog, snow, or wind.
  • Allow extra time. Alpine walking is slower and more tiring than lowland tracks.

Learn from Experience

The best way to gain alpine skills is by walking with experienced bushwalkers. Bushwalking Clubs and organised groups provide opportunities to learn navigation, equipment use, and decision-making in a safe, supportive environment.

Final Advice

Bushwalking is safe and enjoyable when you’re prepared. In alpine areas, preparation means planning ahead, packing the right gear, and being willing to turn back when conditions change. Above all, never compromise on your waterproof jacket, your safety depends on it.

Alpine walks demand alpine preparation, every time.

For more detailed guidance, see the Bushwalking Manual