You could easily do this walk in a couple of hours, but what's the rush? There's not a lot more enticing than a picturesque stroll along the Yarrangobilly River and a dip in the Thermal Pool.
Starting from Glory Hole carpark, this walk links up with the Thermal Pool, making it a popular loop that can be walked in either direction. Head up the Caves Exit Road to the Thermal Pool carpark, then descend into the valley to the pool and picnic area. Pack your swimsuit to enjoy a relaxing dip in the spring-fed natural waters, then when you're ready, follow the track as it meanders upstream beside the Yarrangobilly River.
Look out for lyrebirds, superb blue wrens, crimson rosellas and king parrots. If you're lucky, you might even spot a shy platypus in the river. They're most active around dawn and dusk.
The track then climbs up to meet Glory Arch walk. Turn right to return to Glory Hole carpark, or head left to explore the lofty chambers of South Glory Cave on a self-guided tour (you'll need a ticket from the Visitor Centre).
Fancy a longer walk? Yarrangobilly River walk can easily be combined with Glory Farm walk or Castle Cave walk.
Don't forget to bring your swimsuit and towel if you're planning to swim in the Thermal Pool.
You'll need to buy a ticket for the self-guided South Glory Cave from the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre before you enter the cave.
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.
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Getting to the trailhead: Kosciuszko National Park.
To Glory Hole carpark. Yarrangobilly River walk is in the Yarrangobilly area of northern Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:From Cooma:Travel south through Cooma for around 7km Turn right onto Snowy Mountains Highway and continue for approximately 110kmTurn left into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the one-way unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly Caves.From the Hume Highway:At Gundagai, take the Tumut exit and follow Gocup Road to TumutTurn left onto Snowy Mountains Highway and head south for approximately 75kmTurn right into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the one-way unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly Caves.River walk starts from Glory Hole carpark or the Thermal Pool carpark, past Caves House. Park entry points Glory Hole 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 Glory Hole 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.
Closest towns to this walk: Adaminaby, Cabramurra, Cooma, Crackenback, Dalgety, Jindabyne, Khancoban, Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Tumbarumba, Tumut
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Kosciuszko National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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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