Scammell Pass is a climb of 15.3 kilometers (hors catégorie). Scammell Pass tops out at 1,033 m above sea level. It is located in Snowy Valleys Council, New South Wales, Australia. The average gradient is 6.4% with a maximum of 15.3%. The climb has 979 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This HC climb covers 15.3 km with a demanding average gradient of 6.4%. The profile is tactical, with two downhill sections (KM 5-7 and KM 9-10) that break up the rhythm, followed by a very hard finish with gradients of 8% and 9% over the last two kilometres.
How to manage your effort:
1. Hold a steady pace early on: Resist the urge to go too hard despite the 8% ramps in the first kilometres. Save something in the tank for the end.
2. Use the descents to recover: The slightly downhill sections (KM 5-7 and KM 9-10) are crucial. Ease off, recover actively without pushing hard on the pedals, and get ready for what's next.
3. Prepare for the tough finale: From KM 13, the gradient ramps up sharply (8% then 9%). Manage your energy accordingly in the preceding kilometres so you can hold your effort through this final section.
For cyclists who've bagged the climb up to Scammells Ridge Lookout, the effort pays off big time. The access is described as super easy, with a sealed road and a car park just a few metres off the main road. The lookout platform itself, a few steps from the cars, makes an ideal spot to flop down for a well-earned break.
What sticks with cyclists most is the jaw-dropping, one-of-a-kind view over the western side of the main Snowy Mountains range. Riders describe an almost emotional experience looking out over the snow-capped peaks, Abbott Peak and Mount Townsend included, with a sense of total serenity. On a clear day it's simply unforgettable, especially at sunrise or when the mist fills the gorges.
The spot is well set up for riders, with a long-drop toilet and a picnic table, making it a perfect place to refuel. That said, some riders warn there can be plenty of flies and mozzies, and it's wise to bring your own toilet paper.
Cyclists sharing their experience warn about the traffic on the Alpine Way. The road is described as twisty, with the occasional car or caravan that can make things tricky. Caution is advised, especially for anyone not used to this kind of mountain road.
Despite all that, the overall verdict in the reports comes down to a simple exclamation: "Worth the stop!". Whether it's a quick breather or a long soak in the scenery, Scammells Ridge Lookout remains a must-visit that sums up the wild beauty of the region on its own.
15.3 km • 979 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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