Trail Fast Facts
The Drip walking track is a 2.8km, grade 3 hike in Goulburn River National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 1.45 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Drip Gorge is a significant place for the local Wiradjuri People. The best time to experience it is after a few days of rain, when you'll see the sandstone walls dripping clear spring water. During a hot summer you'll love its natural air-conditioning. It can be 10 to 15° cooler than the surrounding region on a hot day. It usually has a light fall of rain from water percolating through the rock.
This return track starts and ends at the carpark. Pack a picnic then take off on a bushwalk. If you're not feeling energetic, rest in the shade on a seat along the track or dip your feet in the quiet rockpools.
The abundant plant life along the track adds to the beauty of The Drip. See if you can spot native apple gums, tree violets (named for their scent) and rocky outcrops with orchids and moss. After your walk, splash around in the Goulburn River or stop off at Hands on the Rock, an important Aboriginal rock art site at Ulan. It's only 2km north of the Drip and well worth a visit.
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.
Tips
There are some steps, handrails, uneven rocks and creek crossings along this track. It's a good idea to wear long pants and enclosed shoes.
You can visit The Drip during the day. If you're camping, try Spring Gully or Big River campgrounds which are a 1 hour drive from The Drip, towards Wollar.
No fires or camping are permitted at The Drip.
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.
Trailhead
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Getting there
The Drip is in Goulburn River State Conservation Area, on the extreme western boundary of Goulburn River National Park. To get there from Mudgee: Drive around 50km north from Mudgee on Ulan-Cassilis Road.Pass by the Ulan and Moolarben coal mines and drive for another 10km.Look for the turn-off sign for The Drip, just north of the Ulan mine precinct towards the Golden Highway. Weather restrictions All weather Parking Parking is off Ulan-Cassilis Road. Limited parking is available. Spaces for caravans and small buses are available. Not suitable for large coaches.
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.
About the region
Goulburn River National Park in the Country NSW region
Goulburn River National Park is always open, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Goulburn River National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.