Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 0m
Min elevation: 0m
Total Ascent: 0m
Hike overview
Summits walking track connects two of the park's summits, Mount Canobolas (also known as Old Man Canobolas) and Young Man Canobolas, traversing a saddle between to two mountains and joining up with some of the other walking tracks along the way.
Before you head off on the walk, take some time to admire the scenic view from the summit of Old Man Canobolas; you'll be able to see the town of Orange and surrounding countryside.
When you're on your way, you'll first hike along a downhill track that passes through snowgum grassy woodland. Keep an eye out for grey currawongs during summer and look for white throated tree creepers. From there, you'll wind uphill to the summit of Young Man Canobolas.
If you'd like to turn this short walk into a longer day walk, you can join up with the Spring Glade, Snowgum or Nature tracks; look out for signage along the way.
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.
Practical information
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.
Spring Glade, Snowgum and Nature walking tracks connect with Summits walking track - look for signage along the way
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch
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.
Walk map and GPX file
Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.
Click to add your file >>
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area.
On entering Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, follow Mount Canobolas Road all the way to the summit of Mount Canobolas. Road quality Roads may close when it snows (generally once or twice each winter).
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Blayney, Bloomfield, Borenore, Cadia, Manildra, Millthorpe, Molong, Nashdale, Orange, Spring Hill
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Gallery
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
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.





