New South Wales · Attraction
Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area
Volcanic summit above the clouds
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Rising to 1,395 metres, Mount Canobolas is the highest point in the Central Tablelands and an extinct volcano that last erupted 11 million years ago. Just 13 kilometres south-west of Orange, it rewards visitors with sweeping 360-degree views, cool-climate wildflowers, cascading Federal Falls, and a network of walking tracks through snow gum woodland. On clear days the summit is visible from 100 kilometres away.
Six named walking tracks fan out across the 15-square-kilometre conservation area, ranging from the gentle Spring Glade stroll to the challenging Summits circuit. Federal Falls campground sits at the trailhead of the most popular route, making an overnight stay easy for those who want to catch the sunrise from the peak.
Weather changes rapidly at altitude, so warm layers and drinking water are essential even in summer. The park is always open but can close during extreme fire danger or severe storms. There are no entry fees, and the summit lookout has a sealed car park with accessible toilets.
The mountain holds deep significance for the Wiradjuri people, whose language gave it a name meaning two shoulders, referring to the main summit and its subsidiary peak. European explorer Thomas Mitchell made the first recorded ascent in 1835.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area.
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