Drifting Wild: The Heart of the Snowy River
Where: Snowy River
Entry: Mckillops Bridge
Exit: Buchan (Balley Hooley Campground)
Distance: 70+km
Time: 2.5 Days
River Level 0.65m (Stay At Home)
March 2025
There’s always a bit of apprehension before setting off on a remote trip. It’s not fear exactly - more a practical awareness of the risks and the effort ahead. The Snowy River had been on my radar for a while and while I knew the logistics would be challenging, I also knew it was finally time to tick it off the list. The forecast wasn’t ideal, the water level was low and the route was long but with dates locked in and gear ready, we were committed. This trip had all the makings of a proper adventure- remote terrain, long days and the chance to explore a stretch of river few people get to paddle.
McKillop’s Bridge
The start of an epic adventure
Day 1: 23km, 7 Hours
After plenty of pre-trip discussion about gear, we quickly realised the water was surprisingly warm - no dry suit or wetsuit needed. The day was overcast with a light breeze and the landscape was nothing short of impressive. Towering ranges surrounded us as we pushed off, accompanied by the call of whip birds and the occasional eagle overhead.
The river started off gently, with fun little wave trains to get us moving. We hit our first portage not because of difficulty but because the water was simply too shallow. A headwind picked up mid-morning, slowing us down slightly, but didn’t take away from the scenery. By mid-afternoon, we found a sandy bank beside some rapids that made a decent spot to pull in for the night. A swim, an easy dinner by the fire and an early night wrapped up the first day—steady progress and a solid start.
Night 1 Campsite
Day 2: 30km, 9.5 Hours
We started the day in thick mist, giving the river an eerie, atmospheric feel. It lifted as the sun broke through, just in time for our arrival at Tulloch Ard Gorge. This section was short but required focus - several consecutive grade 3 rapids and a grade 4 meant scouting was essential and we ended up portaging a few large rapids due to shallow or technical sections. It slowed us down alot and was hard work but the gorge itself was worth the effort.
Enjoying the Solitude
We took our time drifting down the gorges so we could soak it all in
Once through, the river opened back up and we pushed on, covering more ground than planned simply because we couldn’t find a campsite we were happy with. There were a few that would’ve done the job but we held out for something better and it paid off. After 30km of paddling, we reached a sandy bank known as “New Guinea,” framed by cliffs and thick ferns. It was one of those spots that made the long hours feel worthwhile.
Day 3: 20km, 5.5 Hours
Our final day was shorter and after the previous two, our arms were feeling it. Rain was forecast so we got moving early. The landscape shifted, less remote, with farmland lining much of the river. Long flat pools stretched between smaller rapids and we had to hop out and drag the rafts across shallow sections more than once.
With about 5km to go, I heard the unmistakable hiss of a leak in my pack raft. A quick patch job on the bank and we were back on track. Not long after, we reached the junction with the Buchan River, a clear marker that the trip was winding up. After three days and over 70km on the water, it was a very welcome sight.
This journey was everything I had hoped for and more. From the nervous excitement of starting the trip to the rewarding, tranquil moments spent paddling through remote gorges and sandy banks, the Snowy River proved itself to be a true adventure. It tested our endurance, patience and problem-solving skills while also offered moments of breathtaking beauty that made every challenge worth it.
Reflecting on the trip, I’m reminded of the power of the wilderness to push us beyond our comfort zones, making the challenge worth it. Whether it was navigating rapids, dealing with low water levels or enduring the long hours on the water, each experience added to the sense of accomplishment that came with completing this journey. The Snowy River has etched itself into my memory as one of the most rewarding adventures I’ve had the privilege to undertake.
This trip was a reminder that the wild places are out there, waiting for those willing to explore. While the nerves before the adventure are always there, the reward that comes from pushing through them is more than worth it.
Disclaimer:
This trip report is shared for inspiration and storytelling purposes only. The Snowy River is a remote and challenging environment that requires a high level of experience in whitewater, wilderness camping and self-sufficiency. Conditions can change rapidly and rescue access is limited. If you are considering a similar trip, ensure you have appropriate gear, updated maps and communication devices like a PLB and/or satellite messenger. Always check river levels, weather forecasts and park alerts before heading out. This journey is best suited for those with advanced outdoor skills and a strong understanding of risk management in remote settings.
