Mount Canobolas, Orange
Mount Canobolas sits just south of Orange and is shaped by its volcanic past – the cool air, the rich soil, the mix of snow gums, birds and basalt you notice as soon as you arrive. It’s an easy drive from town, with a cluster of short walking tracks, simple picnic areas and a small campground near Federal Falls if you ever want to stay overnight.
Even if you don’t walk, it’s the kind of place that gives you a change of pace without needing a full day. You can drive between lookouts, stop for views across the Central Tablelands, or just settle in at one of the picnic spots. The tracks are there if you want them, but Mount Canobolas works just as well as a quiet, close‑to‑home escape.
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Notes for the walkers…
Some local walks often make the most sense when you hear about them from someone who’s actually been there. Mount Canobolas is one of those places – close to Orange, easy to reach, and often recommended by women who head up for the views and the change of air.
In my 50’s I’ve grown to appreciate enjoying nature. Driving up from Orange to Mount Canobolas you can feel a change in the air change and temperature – cleaner and cooler! Parking near the Spring Glade or Federal Falls picnic areas, we like to set up a bit of a picnic with locally bought goods (check out the local farmers markets) and coffee straight from our vehicle. Sitting beneath the canopy of gums you can smell the eucalyptus and listen to the birds.
Afterward, the walking tracks offer just the right balance walking and views without feeling like an expedition. The Federal Falls is a lovely, peaceful loop where you can hear the water over the rocks. If you’re feeling energetic, heading up toward the Summit gives you sweeping panorama views across the Central Tablelands. Standing up there, you look out over vineyards and orchards stretching back toward Orange. It’s a lovely escape close to home!
