Two new beautiful bushwalks have opened in New South Wales, making a strong case to get off Instagram and lap up this glorious springtime weather. Opening in the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area near Lithgow, the tracks sweep across stunning views of pagoda landscapes, dramatic sandstone cliffs, trickling creeks and technicolour native flowers.
The 6-km Broad Swamp loop walk lets you explore the largest swamp in the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area while you hike past fragrant eucalypts and vibrant wattles. Taking approximately one to two hours, it’s a great family-friendly option if you’re looking for fun things to do these school holidays or on the weekend – just be sure to wear a hat and pack plenty of snacks and water.
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Keen to get the heart beating faster? The Broad Swamp to Birds Rock walking track is a 17.5-km one-way adventure that’ll lead you past stunning scenery, including remote creeks, lush gorges and sweeping clifftop views. Starting from Broad Swamp and finishing at Birds Rock carpark, the hike runs around seven to eight hours, depending on your fitness levels – so this one is best for experienced hikers. Time Out tip: Before you begin, leave a 4WD car at Birds Rock carpark and drive back to Broad Swamp carpark to start, which takes about 30 minutes. Note: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service says the road is only accessible by 4WD.
Trish Doyle, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment, says, “The tracks are fantastic news for families, hikers and nature lovers, and will be a drawcard for visitors, driving economic and tourism growth and creating new bushwalking routes of international significance in our backyard.”
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National Parks and Wildlife Service director David Crust adds: “It has been a privilege to play a leading role in the Gardens of Stone transformation, leaving a legacy for visitors by creating new outdoor experiences.
“These new walking tracks help protect biodiversity by converting an eroded informal trail into a world-class hiking adventure so more people can enjoy the park.”
It’s roughly a three-hour drive from Sydney to the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area, so we suggest you book accommodation nearby and make a weekend of it.
The two new tracks are part of the $49.5 million Gardens of Stone SCA visitor infrastructure program and the first stage of a new multi-day walk in NSW. We can’t wait.
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