2 September 2017

Canberra Day Trips: Scammells Lookout

| Canberra Day Trips
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Scammels Lookout

A stone’s throw away from Canberra in Kosciuszko National Park, Scammells Lookout provides a picture perfect view of the main range and surrounding wilderness. It is a great way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the National Park.

At 1008 metres above sea level and in the heart of Kosciuszko National Park, Scammells Lookout provides an idyllic but easily accessible view of some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.

Scammells Lookout is a great way to experience the wilderness and landscape of the National Park, either on a day trip on its own, or as part of a larger Kosciusko National Park trip such as the drive from Khancoban to Kiandra.

Why you’ll love it

Scammell’s Lookout offers outstanding views over the Western Fall wilderness and Main Range, including Mount Abbott, Mount Townsend, and Carruthers Peak.

The scenery makes it a perfect spot for a picnic and a great opportunity for budding photographers.

Birdwatchers will be spoiled with the abundance of resident cockatoos, rosellas, king parrots and lyrebirds surrounding the lookout. If you’re lucky you might also meet an echidna.

If you have some free time, head to the nearby Geehi Flats Camping area and walk the Old Geehi Hut tour. Only a 15-minute drive from Scammels Lookout, the two-hour, 5.5km round trip explores the historic Geehi Huts and picturesque Swampy Plains River.

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Getting there

Scammells lookout is in the southern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. From Civic, Scammells lookout is a 3 hour and 40 minute drive.

Take the Monaro Highway to Cooma, and then continue on to Kosciuszko Road until Alpine Way. Continue along Alpine Way for 90km before taking left at the turn-off for Scammells Lookout.

At the carpark, there are toilets and picnic tables. The lookout is just a short walk from the carpark.

When to go

The view at Scammell’s Lookout is stunning all year round. In winter you will see snow-capped summits. However, be cautious between the June and October long weekends, as weather conditions can be extreme and change rapidly. In the warmer months, the conditions are typically more pleasant.

If you’re lucky, snow may still be present in spring time.

Try to visit on a clear day for an optimal view of the mountain range and wilderness.

Key details

  • Distance from Canberra: 269km
  • Cost: Scammell’s Lookout is free, but entry into Kosciuszko National Park requires a vehicle fee per day of $29 in the winter season and $17 in the summer season
  • Recommended for: Anyone – the viewpoint is easily accessible and can be appreciated by all
  • Don’t forget: take sunscreen, a hat and your camera!
  • More information: Go to the National Parks NSW website

Where’s your favourite destination to experience Kosciuszko National Park? Let us know in the comments below.

Header photo: Scammell’s Lookout, from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

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Chuckle – I’m not sure I’d agree that Scammells Lookout is a ‘stone’s throw away from Canberra’ – but it is a great view well worth the trip.

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