Trail Fast Facts
Glory Farm walk is a 2.6km, grade 3 hike in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
This extension to the Thermal Pool walk (1.4km return), takes you to the historic Glory Hole Farm site. It's also easily combined with the longer Yarrangobilly River walk for a 4.2km loop.
Before you set out, stop for a dip in the natural spring waters of the thermal pool or enjoy a picnic. From here, it's a 1.2km return walk to the farm, along the eastern banks of Yarrangobilly River.
Henry Harris grew all the meat and vegetables for the Kiandra miners at his farm here in the late 1800s. There's not much left of the farm these days - though you'll see remnants of an old colonial oven, building foundations, and a small cemetery.
The non-native plantings of the old farm are contrast with the native bushland, particularly during autumn when their leaves change colours. In spring and early summer, wattles bloom gold while bitter peas burst into yellow and red. If you're keen to learn more about the Yarrangobilly Valley's rich history be sure to drop into the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre.
Tips
Remember to bring your swimming gear if you plan to enjoy a dip in the thermal pool.
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.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
To Thermal Pool carpark. Glory Farm walk is in the Yarrangobilly area of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:From the Monaro Highway:At Cooma, take the Snowy Mountains Highway and continue for approximately 110kmTurn left into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly CavesContinue past the visitor centre and turn into the first road on the right and follow to the endFrom the Hume Highway:At Gundagai, take the Tumut exit and follow Gocup Road to TumutContinue on Snowy Mountains Highway south for approximately 75kmTurn right into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly CavesContinue past the visitor centre and turn into the first road on the right and follow to the thermal pool carpark Park entry points Thermal Pool carpark See on map Road quality Yarrangobilly Caves entrance and exit roads are graded gravel. They're suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles up to 12.5m in length, however the Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) advise that the roads are unsuitable for caravans. RMS recommends snow chains are carried by all vehicles driving in the park in winter, including 4WD and AWD, in case of extreme weather. Visit the Life Traffic website for road conditions. Parking Parking is available at Thermal Pool carpark. Please note park entry fees apply for vehicles without a Kosciuszko National Park day pass or NPWS All Parks annual pass. Bus parking is available - contact the visitor centre on (02) 6454 9597 for access.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
About the region
Kosciuszko National Park spoils you with snow sports, walks and mountain biking in the Snowy Mountains. Go camping, explore caves, climb Australia's highest mountain, or stay in heritage accommodation. There are 7 areas in this park:
1. Thredbo-Perisher area is your gateway to Mount Kosciuszko. Find NSW's favourite ski resorts, top alpine hikes, mountain bike trails, and endless adventures in the Snowy Mountains.
2. The Lower Snowy River area embraces the wild south of Kosciuszko National Park. Camp by the Snowy River and explore the scenic trails on a walk, bike or horse ride.
3. Khancoban area is the western gateway to Kosciuszko National Park. Discover Geehi and Tom Groggin's camp spots, fishing, and riding. Marvel at the Western Fall views or explore huts and hikes in the Jagungal Wilderness.
4. The Selwyn area is your perfect base to explore the walks, rides, and top fishing spots of central Kosciuszko National Park. Selwyn Snow Resort and historic Kiandra are closed due to severe fire damage.
5. The Yarrangobilly area is a highlight of northern Kosciuszko National Park. Explore jaw-dropping caves on a guided tour and swim in the thermal pool. Stay at historic Caves House and enjoy the walks and wildlife.
6. The Tumut area is your launch pad into northern Kosciuszko National Park. Discover water sports and wildlife at Blowering Reservoir. Camp and explore hidden walks and waterfalls in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains.
7. The High Plains area spoils you with summer walks, horse rides and bike trails to mountain huts, caves, and gorges. Camp, stay in Currango's heritage cottages, and discover Kosciuszko's wild north-east corner.
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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.