Tumut, a picturesque town nestled in the breathtaking Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, Australia, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With the surroundings of Kosciuszko National Park and the Snowy Mountains, Tumut offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for adventurers seeking to connect with nature. Be sure to head to the local Visitor Information Centre for help planning your stay in Tumut.
Turn right at the front gate of The Monarch, head down the road and you’ll find Bila Park and the Tumut River. From here, if you walk right you’ll follow the river along the Tumut River Walk, passing Pioneer Park with a duck pond and children’s playground and eventually finding yourself at the race course. Here at the race course, just a few kilometres from The Monarch is the Riverside Cafe serving coffee, juices, smoothies and wonderful home-cooked food.
From Bila Park, the path to the left will lead you along the river towards the Tumut Wetlands. Spanning around 20 hectares, this wetland area consists of a series of lagoons surrounded by native reeds, majestic stands of the giant River Red Gum forests, and the tranquil flow of the Tumut River on its eastern side. These wetlands host a rich variety of habitats, attracting over 70 bird species, making it a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts.
Tumut River Walk & Wetlands
One of our favourite hikes is the Blowering Cliffs Waterfall Walking track which overlooks the infamous Blowering Dam, located just 20 minutes from Tumut.
This 5-kilometre return walk allows you to closely observe these stunning cliffs. Start your walk from the car park at Log Bridge Creek picnic area, and from there, the trail is easy to navigate, leading you to the waterfall. For the best waterfall experience, we recommend undertaking this hike in winter, particularly after heavy rainfall when the ferns thrive, and the water rushes down the cliffs. During the drier months, the waterfall's flow may dwindle to a mere trickle. Nonetheless, the panoramic views of Blowering Dam make it a worthwhile visit even in such periods.
Blowering Cliffs Waterfall
Nestled within the mountains between Tumut and Kiandra, the Landers Falls lookout walk impresses visitors with its awe-inspiring panoramic vistas. The trail treats hikers to breathtaking scenes of the Landers Creek waterfall as it cascades dramatically into the rocky ravine overlooking the magnificent Talbingo Reservoir. Commencing from the Cumberland Trail 2WD car park, located just 300 meters off the highway, it's a pleasant 5-kilometre hike to reach the lookout. Alternatively, if you park at the 4WD car park (closed during winter), the distance is only 800 meters. For those inclined towards mountain biking, you can ride all the way to the 4WD car park and then continue on the Landers Creek Falls walk.
Landers Falls
Spread through Kosciuszko National Park are dozens of historic mountain huts which are an important part of Australia's cultural heritage. Many of the huts were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s for use by cattlemen, miners, the Snowy Mountains Authority and other workers. Today, the huts still have an important historical significance and are visited by hikers, skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of options for hikes to one of the many huts in Kosciuszko, head to the Kosciuszko Huts Association to learn more about the huts and the local visitors centre can help you plan your hike. Tom’s Outdoors also has some great information on the huts.
Kosciuszko Huts
The Hume and Hovell Track is a renowned and iconic hiking trail spanning over 440 kilometres, traversing the captivating landscapes between Yass and Albury. Named after the explorers Hamilton Hume and William Hovell, who embarked on their expedition in 1824, this track offers a unique opportunity to retrace their footsteps and delve into the rich history of the region. You don’t need to undertake the entire track to enjoy this walk. There are many sections in our area that can be undertaken in a day or even just an afternoon. We can recommend the 4 km section along the Goobarragandra River between the Thomas Boyd Trackhead and the Jack Cribb Suspension Bridge. For more Hume and Hovell inspiration and short walks, head to the website below.
The Hume and Hovell Track
Yarrangobilly Caves, situated within the picturesque Kosciuszko National Park, offer a captivating underground (and above-ground!) adventure for visitors of all ages. These limestone caves are a natural wonder, showcasing stunning formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate cave coral. Guided tours take you deep into the caves, where you can marvel at the intricate beauty carved by nature over thousands of years. The Thermal Pool, a highlight of the Yarrangobilly Caves experience, provides a unique opportunity to take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters and rejuvenate amidst the breathtaking surroundings. Stretch your legs on one of the options for a day hike, including the Yarrangobilly River Walk. With its fascinating geology, rich history, and pristine natural setting, Yarrangobilly Caves offers a truly memorable and educational exploration of the underground wonders of Australia.
Yarrangobilly Caves
Blue Waterholes, located in Kosciuszko National Park, is a hidden gem. This stunning area is named after the crystal-clear, turquoise-hued pools that dot the landscape. The area is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring picturesque walking trails. There are two hikes to choose from; the Clarke Gorge Walking Track and the Nichols Gorge Walking Track. Both are unforgettable and unmissable and can be done in a day. Plan your Blue Waterholes trip here.
Blue Waterholes
Situated in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains and Kosciuszko National Park lies the Warogong Sugarloaf, a modest peak that reaches a height of 940 meters. Offering panoramic views of the stunning Tumut Valley, this 10-kilometre round-trip hike is a delightful experience, showcasing an ever-changing landscape and picturesque vistas. The ascent commences with sweeping vistas of Blowering Dam before descending into a valley adorned with majestic eucalyptus trees and verdant ferns. Crossing Log Creek, the trail meanders its way up the mountain, with the final climb accompanied by the distinctive scribbly gum trees and an undergrowth of iconic grass trees.
