Unveiling Aboriginal history and panoramic views, the Tara Cave Walking Track in Warrumbungle National Park offers a pleasant 3.8km return journey for walkers of most abilities. This gentle hike takes roughly 2 hours to complete and is perfect for those interested in cultural immersion alongside scenic beauty.
The trail unfolds from the Old Woolshed picnic area, leading you across Wambelong Creek and through a grassy valley. A gradual climb through eucalypt forest brings you to the impressive Pilliga sandstone slopes. Here, you'll discover Tara Cave, a significant site showcasing Aboriginal connection to the land. Interpretive displays along the way offer insights into their culture, while the cave itself features grinding grooves used in tool creation – a testament to their past way of life.
The reward for your walk is truly breathtaking. Tara Cave boasts spectacular views of Warrumbungle National Park's skyline, leaving you with a lasting impression. After soaking it in, return to the picnic area for a relaxing lunch or explore further options nearby. Enjoy a classic picnic spread at the Old Woolshed or fire up the barbeque at Canyon picnic area. Feeling adventurous? Combine the Tara Cave track with a short walk to the accessible Whitegum lookout for even more scenic panoramas.
Spring paints the track with vibrant wildflowers like yellow everlasting daisies and billy buttons, making it an ideal time to visit. Keep an eye out for feathered friends flitting about – you might spot turquoise parrots or colorful spotted pardalotes adding to the lively atmosphere.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
- This walk includes a creek crossing. Please check water level height at Warrumbungle National Park Visitor Centre before starting this walk. Take special care after heavy rain.
- Visit Warrumbungle National Park Visitor Centre before you set out to pick up a free trail map and get detailed route information and advice.
Total distance: 3785 m
Max elevation: 501 m
Min elevation: 416 m
Total climbing: 99 m
Total descent: -99 m
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Nestled within Warrumbungle National Park, the Tara Cave Walking Track is easily accessible by car year-round. Whether you're coming from Coonabarabran or Gilgandra, well-maintained sealed roads pave the way for a smooth journey.
From Coonabarabran: Follow Newell Highway west onto Dalgarno Street for about 450 meters. Make a right turn onto Namoi Street, then continue onto Eden Street and eventually Timor Road after 400 meters. Keep an eye out for signs guiding you towards Warrumbungle National Park along Timor Road for roughly 23 kilometers. Upon entering the park, the road transforms into John Renshaw Parkway. Stay on this parkway for 14 kilometers, and you'll find the Old Woolshed picnic area conveniently located on your right.
From Gilgandra:Â Take Newell Highway north towards Coonabarabran. After traveling for about 40 kilometers, look out for the brown Tourist Drive 1 sign. Use this as your cue to turn left onto the road leading into Tooraweenah village. Traverse through Tooraweenah, following Tourist Drive 1 north for another 28 kilometers until you reach the old Gummin Gummin homestead. Make a right turn here and follow John Renshaw Parkway for 10 kilometers. Your destination, the Old Woolshed picnic area, awaits you at the end of this journey.
Parking and Facilities:Â Ample parking is available at the Old Woolshed picnic area, providing a convenient starting point for your exploration of the Tara Cave Walking Track.
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Millions of years ago, a mighty shield volcano sculpted the jagged peaks of Warrumbungle National Park. Today, these ancient formations rise majestically from eucalyptus-dotted plains, creating a landscape unlike any other in New South Wales.
As Australia's first Dark Sky Park, Warrumbungle boasts pristine skies untouched by light pollution. Here, the Milky Way stretches across the heavens, revealing a dazzling display of stars, planets, and distant galaxies. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, Warrumbungle offers unforgettable stargazing experiences.
Lace up your boots and explore a network of walking tracks. Hike the iconic Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk for breathtaking close-up views of the park's most recognizable rock formations. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, birdwatching, and capturing stunning photographs of the dramatic scenery.
While wildfires impacted the park in 2013, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has meticulously restored walking tracks, campgrounds, and visitor facilities. Start your adventure at the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, where you can gather park information or purchase a star chart to navigate the night sky.
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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
