Hikers rescued after days stranded in snow at Kosciuszko National Park

A group of hikers have been rescued after being stranded in the snow for days at Kosciuszko National Park.

Four hikers have been rescued after they spent days isolated and stranded in the snow due to extreme weather conditions.

The two men, aged 33 and 36, and two women, both aged 34, left Thredbo Village on Sunday to explore the back country of Kosciuszko National Park on foot.

The weather was already hazardous, but it became treacherous when blizzard-like conditions rolled in with strong winds and poor visibility.

The hikers were able to shelter at Seaman’s Hut. Picture: NSW Police

The group were able to shelter in Seaman’s Hut, approximately 6km from Charlotte’s Pass. They contacted emergency services at 5pm on Sunday.

The Alpine Operations Unit was called in and officers travelled towards the hut in oversnow vehicles on Monday. Unfortunately, they were unable to continue due to the weather and rescue efforts were suspended.

The group were advised to remain in the hut due to the severe weather warning in place for the Snowy Mountains.

Rescuers redoubled their efforts on Tuesday and successfully reached the group, who were safe and well, at 10am.

The group were hiking and snowshoeing through the national park when the weather worsened. Picture: NSW Police

While the hikers were adequately prepared with suitable clothing, water, and food, police say the rescue serves as a reminder not to underestimate the weather conditions in the mountains.

Police urge anyone venturing past the safety of ski resorts to consider the risks. To that end, hikers are reminded to ensure their personal safety by hiring a personal locator beacon and submitting a trip intention form before setting out into the national park.

Personal locator beacons can be borrowed from the National Parks and Wildlife Service in exchange for a refundable deposit. The devices are invaluable in rescue operations.

Hikers should stick to established tracks to avoid becoming disorientated by white-outs and snow conditions.

The hikers were rescued on Tuesday by the persistent Alpine Operations Unit.

Police urge visitors to the national park to always be prepared for hazardous weather with the right thermal clothing and to plan their journeys ahead of time.

For further information, hikers can contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre or visit: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or www.environment.nsw.gov.au.

For general snow safety tips when visiting alpine regions, as well as useful links, you can access: http://snowsafe.org.au/.

Originally published as Hikers rescued after days stranded in snow at Kosciuszko National Park