Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover Australia's captivating gold mining history on the Historic Water Race walking track, located in the Mullion Range State Conservation Area, New South Wales, just a short trip from Ophir. This 2.6km grade 4 circuit offers a challenging trek, starting and ending at the Ostini Firetrail, with remarkable hand-cut rocks, scenic views of Summer Hill Creek, and a refreshing waterhole at The Falls Water Falls. Don't forget to savour a relaxing picnic at the Fourth Crossing picnic area before or after your journey.

Length:

2.6km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Ostini Firetrail

End: Ostini Firetrail

Mullion Range State Conservation Area

New South Wales

Nearby town: Ophir

From state capital: 268km

Latitude: -33.16355333

Longitude: 149.1835867

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Hike overview

Historic Water Race walking track is a living legacy of Australia's early and intriguing gold mining history. Intrepid gold miners made the track by hand in the 1860s, and today you can still see how water was captured and directed from Summer Hill Creek down to the mining areas. See the precision of construction; the miners painstakingly hand-cut rocks in order to create accurate contour levels.
When you're not experiencing this gold mining heritage, cool off with a swim, or go fishing in the waterhole at the bottom of nearby The Falls Water Falls. Summer Hill Creek also offers some spectacular scenic views. Because you'll be starting this track at Fourth Crossing picnic area, you can enjoy a picnic before or after your journey of discovery.

Tips

It's a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat and drinking water
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
There is limited/no mobile reception in this park

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Historic Water Race Walking Track (2.6km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mullion Range State Conservation Area.

Historic Water Race walking track is in the Fourth Crossing precinct of Mullion Range State Conservation Area. To get there, travel north-east from Orange along Ophir Road for 19km to Fourth Crossing picnic area. Parking Parking is available nearby at Fourth Crossing picnic area.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Albion Park, Dapto, Jamberoo, Mullion, Tullimbar

About the region

Mullion Range State Conservation Area in the Country NSW region
Mullion Range State Conservation Area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mullion Range State Conservation Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Historic Water Race Walking Track (2.6km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Historic water race walking track (2. 6km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Historic Water Race Walking Track (2.6km)