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Length: 4km
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Duration: 1.5hrs
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Grade: 3
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Style: Circuit
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Start: Towac Way, Canobolas
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End: Towac Way, Canobolas
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Location: Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area
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Closest Town:
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Distance from CBD: 274 km
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State: NSW
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Latitude: -33.35052941
Longitude: 148.9705008
Keep the Trail Access info current...

Select items to indicate conditions for access to the trail.


2WD Access


4WD Access


Public Transport


Bitumen Road


Gravel Road


Steep Road


Winding Road


Speed Bumps


Vehicle Ford


Entry Fee


Large Car Park


Small Car Park


Accessible Parking


Accessible Toilet


Public Toilets


Drinking Water


Untreated Water


Picnic Shelter


Picnic Table


BBQ Facilities


Campfire Pit


Camping Area
Keep the Trail Features current...

Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area...
Select items to indicate features found along the trail.


Concrete Path


Timber Boardwalk


Gravel Path


Sandy Trail


Rough Trail


Undefined Trail


Prams & Strollers


Manual Wheelchair


Motorised Wheelchair


Bicycle Trail


Mountain Bike Trail


Historic Rail Trail


Dog Friendly


Urban Walk


Coast & Beach


Historic Lighthouse


Waterfalls & Lakes


Rainforest Walk


Goldfields & Mining


Heritage Walk


Aboriginal Art


Alpine Region


Alpine Huts


Exposed Ledges


Rock Scrambling


Steep Terrain


Bush Bashing


River Crossings


Scenic Viewpoints


Well Marked


Drinking Water


Untreated Water


Fishing Spots


Swimming Spots


Overnight Campsites


Trail Running


Horse Riding
Hike Summary
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.
About the region
Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area offers birdwatching, walking, scenic views, pretty picnic areas and a great campground; a top choice for a weekend getaway. 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 eleven 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.
Getting there
On entering Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, follow Mount Canobolas Road before turning right on Towac Road. Federal Falls campground will be on your right. Parking Parking is available at Federal Falls campground
Tips
Because of the altitude, the weather can change quite quickly. You should always check the weather forecast before setting out for a walk. It's advisable to bring a jumper with you, and in winter always bring a raincoat and warm clothing.
The walk starts and finishes at Federal Falls campground
Most of the walk is easy, however the last 336m of the walk is a very steep incline down to the falls and while there is a rail to assist, it should only be attempted by confident walkers.
It's a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat and plenty of drinking water
Roads may close when it snows (generally once or twice each winter)
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.