Federal Falls walk Trail Hiking Australia

Length: 4km
Duration: 1.5hrs
Grade: 3
Style: Circuit
Start: Towac Way, Canobolas
End: Towac Way, Canobolas

Location: Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area
Closest Town:
Distance from CBD: 274 km
State: NSW
Latitude: -33.35052941
Longitude: 148.9705008

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Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area...

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Federal Falls walk is a 4km, grade 3 circuit hike, located in the Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 1.5hrs to complete.

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.