Mullion Range State Conservation Area

Rising gently from the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range, Mullion Range State Conservation Area is a serene pocket of bushland that rewards those who venture off the main tourist trail. This protected area near Orange in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales offers a genuine taste of the Australian bush, with walking trails that weave through dry sclerophyll forests, rocky outcrops, and seasonal wildflower displays. It's a place for quiet contemplation, birdwatching, and connecting with the region's natural and gold-mining history.

Highlights & What to See

• Mullion Range Walking Track – A moderate 8 km return hike that climbs through granite boulders and scribbly gum woodlands to a lookout with sweeping views over the Bell River Valley and the distant Blue Mountains.
• Historic Gold Mining Relics – Scattered along the walking track you'll find old mine shafts, mullock heaps, and the remains of a stamper battery, a tangible link to the area's 19th-century gold rush.
• Wildflowers in Spring – From August to October, the conservation area bursts into colour with flannel flowers, boronias, and native orchids carpeting the forest floor.
• Birdwatching – Keep an eye out for superb lyrebirds, wedge-tailed eagles, and the glossy black-cockatoo, which feeds on the she-oaks that grow in the park.
• Peaceful Picnic Spots – There are no formal facilities, but the shade of ironbark trees near the trailhead makes for a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day here, allowing 3–4 hours to complete the walking track and explore the historic sites. If you're keen on birdwatching or photography, consider arriving early morning and lingering until midday. The conservation area is also a rewarding stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Central Tablelands, particularly when combined with a visit to Orange's wineries or the nearby Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Orange – A vibrant regional city known for its cool-climate wines, farm-to-table dining, and the annual Orange F.O.O.D Week.
• Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area – A volcanic peak offering panoramic views, shorter walks, and a chance to see the rare Mount Canobolas wattle.
• Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve – Explore limestone caves and karst landscapes just a 30-minute drive away.
• Lake Canobolas Reserve – A popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking, with a lakeside café and walking trails.
• Molong – A historic town on the Mitchell Highway with heritage architecture, antique shops, and the Molong Museum.

Please check official sources for current details.