Owen Stanley Range

The Owen Stanley Range is a rugged mountain chain on the Papuan Peninsula of Papua New Guinea that rises abruptly from the surrounding lowlands and contains very steep, densely forested terrain.

The range includes peaks above 4,000 metres, most notably Mount Victoria (about 4,038 m), and is traversed by the historic Kokoda Track. It is noted for its rainforest ecosystems, deep valleys and challenging hiking routes.

European contact and exploration of the range increased in the 19th and early 20th centuries; during World War II the Kokoda Campaign in 1942 saw heavy fighting along tracks and passes in the range. The area remains sparsely populated and many parts are difficult to access.

Geographically the Owen Stanley Range runs across the Papuan Peninsula in southeastern Papua New Guinea, separating the northern and southern coasts of the peninsula and lying southeast of the national capital, Port Moresby.

• Altitude and remoteness: Peaks in the range exceed 4,000 metres, producing steep rainforest-clad slopes and highly rugged terrain that is largely roadless and remote.

What to See #

• Mount Victoria: Mount Victoria rises to 4,038 metres and is the highest summit of the range, forming a prominent peak within the Owen Stanley massif.
• Kokoda Track: The Kokoda Track crosses the northern slopes and ridges of the range and is the site of the 1942 Kokoda Campaign during World War II, a route of historical and trekking interest.