The majestic Mount Canobolas is a dormant volcano that formed millions of years ago when Australia was sitting over a hotspot in the earth's crust. It is part of the Brigooda-Oberon chain that stretches 800km from southeast Queensland to near Oberon in NSW and last erupted 11 million years ago, spewing lava from the main vent and up to 30 vents in the surrounding area. With its rich soil, high altitude and cool climate, it's the perfect environment for a range of plants and animals.
There are great places to picnic and a number of walking tracks, plus the park is only a short drive from Orange so it makes for a great daytrip. If you feel like a weekend getaway, there's also a campground that offers basic facilities in a pretty setting, right near the start of the Federal Falls walking track.
Nature walking track offers a glimpse of the full diversity of animals and plants in the Mount Canobolas area. Kicking off in a clockwise direction from Walls picnic area, you’ll see snow gums tower overhead beside candlebark trees, some of which have been around for centuries.
As the track curves around its short loop, you pass heath-fringed outcroppings at the edge of spectacular scenic views. Make sure you pack your camera and a pair of binoculars if birdwatching is of interest. If you’re in the area during October or November you might be lucky enough to see a special wildflower display which lasts for about two weeks each year.
The rocky outcroppings are home to a rare lichen community that was listed as endangered in 1995. The lichens survive under very tough environmental conditions, but heavy foot traffic can be devastating, so be sure to take care when crossing the platforms. Beyond the lichens is a scenic valley of fishbone ferns, finishing up a pleasant walk as it takes you back to Walls picnic area.
This loop track starts and finishes at Federal Falls campground, passing through snow gum forest and past gigantic rock faces on its way down to Federal Falls. If you’re there after the rain, you’ll be in for a pretty sight.
You can start the track at either the northern or southern end of the campground. If you want an easy return trip to the falls, it’s best to take the northern track there and back, and if you’re planning to hike the loop track, it’s recommended to walk in a clockwise direction; starting at the southern end as you’ll be heading downhill on the steeper sections.
Whichever way you choose to hike, you’ll be accompanied by a range of flora and fauna along the walk. See flag flowers and Australian pea flowers and notice the colourful butterflies as they flutter by. You might also hear the song of the grey currawong as you make your way towards Federal Falls.
Mount Towac walk takes you on a short trek to Towac Peak, where you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area and the surrounding countryside.
Gentle breezes caress the old eucalypts which dwarf you along the path and the rare lichen clinging to the volcanic rock makes this walk a charming one. The absence of facilities along the way will make you feel as though you’re the first person to walk along this delightful track.
This short walk starts from the Gum Ridge fire trail. A little further along Towac Road, you'll find Towac picnic area; a simple and pleasant place to spread out a picnic rug if you have time.
The best way to explore the mysterious Arch Cave is on the Arch loop track. This easy walk starts and finishes at the Borenore picnic area, simply cross the footbridge from the picnic area and it’s just a short walk to the cave.
Take your time along the walk to check out the rock formations, they are quite striking close up and feature black, orange and yellow striped markings. Once you’re inside the caves, go slow to let your eyes adjust, or flick on your torch.
Look to the roof of the cave for the stalactites that cling tightly and to the stalagmites that grow upwards from the ground. Do you know what happens when the stalactites and stalagmites meet? They become a column; see how many you can count.
Spend as long as you like in the cave, from here, it’s just an easy walk back through woodland to the picnic area.
The large grassy space at Borenore picnic area is a perfect place for the kids to run around before a picnic lunch.
Bring a picnic rug to lay out under the shade of one of the trees, or you can set up at one of the picnic tables. If you've driven along the Borenore trail before arriving at the caves, you'll definitely have some tasty things to cook up on the reserve's barbecues.
After you've enjoyed a picnic lunch at Borenore, the walk to Arch Cave is a must. It's an easy walk and it's a good idea to take a torch with you so the kids can get a close up view of the stalactites and stalagmites in the cavern. In summer, the caves offer some respite from the hot day and they're also home to a range of creatures, so keep your eyes peeled.
The scene of Australia's first Gold Rush, Ophir Reserve is a rugged yet peaceful reminder of the colonial past. The first Australian payable gold discovery was made here in 1851, just 30 kilometres north east of Orange. Now a picturesque picnic and camping ground at the junction of the Lewis Ponds and Summer Hill Creeks evidence of old alluvial, reef and deep lead mines is still visible to those exploring the area.
While Ophir has much to offer with camping, fishing, fossicking and exploring the old diggings, it is not a "museum" and remains much as the diggers left it all those years ago. Care should be taken around the old open mine shafts. Hire a gold pan from the Orange Visitor Information Centre and try your luck in Summer Hill Creek just as the early settlers did during the gold rush of the 1850's.
In the top corner of Redmond Oval features a concrete skate and BMX park with a mix of open and tight areas providing plenty of fun for the intermediate rider. The feature is a large bowl with a cradle surrounded by a jersey barrier, flat banks, ledges, blocks and highlights.
Golden Memories Millthorpe Museum is where heritage comes alive.
Located in the historical village of Millthorpe, the museum operates a large complex of eight buildings housing many and varied collections. Walk through the buildings and be immersed in displays, read the history, watch the AV interactives or see how the machinery works.
Spotto and treasure hunt sheets to keep the kiddos entertained and push-button machinery for all ages.
Tour groups can book (any day) with catering available.
School excursion groups are welcome, with special packages available that include hands-on participation.
There are two function spaces that can be hired for various corporate needs or available for private functions with catering or self-catering options.
Take a look at the website and learn about the collection, complex and what they can offer to passing tourists, tour groups, school groups or those wishing to volunteer or contribute.
Golden Memories Millthorpe Museum are proudly an independent, volunteer managed and run museum.
A Craft Cottage operates on the Museum grounds during opening hours. Access to the Craft Cottage is free. Please see the Jacoba Craft Cottage listing for further information.
Mill Green is a community garden project developed by the Millthorpe Village Committee and Blayney Shire Council. Bordered by a mixed ornamental and native garden the centre lawn area and picnic benches. Located just 400 metres from the town centre, Millgreen is a great place to take a break and relax after exploring the village.
Redmond Oval is the sport and recreation hub of Millthorpe with a range of facilities so there is something for everyone and is within walking distance to the centre of the village.
There are numerous facilities available at this location, including a playground, a barbecue and picnic area, tennis courts that can be hired online, a basketball court, cricket nets, a skate park, and a sporting oval.
Ashcrofts on Pym, previously known as The Corner Store in the historic village of Millthorpe is at the heart of the village community.
Ashcrofts on Pym offers a wide range of groceries, liquor, meat, produce, bakery items and a whole lot more - a one stop shop for both locals and visitors to the village! There is also a cafe with barista style coffee and hot food and fresh sandwiches prepared every morning.
