Kidman Way

Kidman Way is a legendary outback route that slices through the heart of New South Wales, linking the pastoral towns of Cobar and Jerilderie. Named after the iconic cattle baron Sir Sidney Kidman, this 700-kilometre drive is a pilgrimage into the soul of the Australian bush—red dirt, endless skies, and the spirit of the drover. It's a journey best taken in a sturdy vehicle, with a sense of adventure and a thirst for wide-open spaces.

Highlights & What to See

• Cobar: Start your journey in this historic mining town. Visit the Great Cobar Heritage Centre to understand the region's copper-mining past, then wander the main street with its classic outback pubs.
• Mount Grenfell Historic Site: Just north of Cobar, this site features some of the best Aboriginal rock art in NSW, with hand stencils and animal motifs etched into sandstone outcrops.
• Hillston: A classic river town on the Lachlan River, perfect for a break. Check out the Hillston Pioneer Museum and the quirky 'Big Fella' statue—a tribute to local shearers.
• Griffith: A surprising oasis in the dry landscape, Griffith is the heart of the Riverina wine region. Sample bold reds and Italian-influenced cuisine at local cellar doors and trattorias.
• Jerilderie: The southern terminus of the Kidman Way, famous for its Ned Kelly connection. Visit the Jerilderie Courthouse where the bushranger held up the town in 1879, and see the original Kelly Gang letters.
• Outback Skies: Don't miss stargazing in the remote stretches between towns. The lack of light pollution makes for breathtaking views of the Milky Way.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least three to four days to drive the full Kidman Way, allowing for stops in Cobar, Hillston, Griffith, and Jerilderie. A rushed two-day itinerary is possible but you'll miss the hidden gems and the chance to soak in the outback atmosphere. Plan to drive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and always carry extra water and fuel.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Broken Hill: Further west, this mining city offers a deeper dive into outback culture, with the Living Desert sculptures and Silverton's ghost-town charm.
• Mungo National Park: A detour from the Kidman Way takes you to the ancient lunette dunes of Lake Mungo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 40,000-year-old human remains.
• Hay: South of Jerilderie, the town of Hay boasts the Hay Gaol Museum and the Shear Outback shearing museum.
• Murrumbidgee River: The river towns of Narrandera and Leeton offer river walks, birdwatching, and a taste of the Riverina's agricultural bounty.
• Wagga Wagga: The largest inland city in NSW, with galleries, gardens, and the National Art Glass Collection, is a comfortable stop for supplies and culture.

Please check official sources for current details.