Pilliga Forest

Stretching across 300,000 hectares of semi-arid woodlands and sand plains, Pilliga Forest is one of New South Wales’ most underrated wilderness escapes. Just a few hours’ drive from Sydney, this vast forest offers a striking contrast to the coastal scenery of the Central Coast, with ancient cypress pines, red-soil ridges, and a network of walking and mountain-biking trails that feel a world away from any crowds. For international travellers, it’s a chance to experience Australia’s bush on a grand scale, with abundant birdlife, wildflowers in spring, and a palpable sense of isolation.

Highlights & What to See

• Pilliga Scrub Walking Track – This 15 km loop takes you through towering ironbark and cypress pine forests, with interpretive signs about the region’s Aboriginal heritage and logging history. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, echidnas, and over 200 bird species.
• Dandry Gorge – A dramatic sandstone gorge carved by the Barwon River, offering a cool plunge pool at its base. The short walk to the gorge is especially rewarding after rain when the waterfall is flowing.
• Pilliga Forest Discovery Centre – Located in the nearby town of Baradine, this centre provides excellent context on the forest’s ecology, cultural significance to the Gamilaraay people, and the region’s timber industry.
• Stargazing & Night Drives – With minimal light pollution, the forest is a prime spot for stargazing. Join a guided night tour to spot nocturnal wildlife like gliders and owls, or simply lie back and take in the Milky Way.
• Mountain-Biking Trails – The forest has over 100 km of mountain-bike trails, including the 25 km ‘Pilliga Pedal’ loop, suited to intermediate riders and offering a thrilling ride through varied terrain.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day to explore the highlights – arrive early to tackle the Pilliga Scrub Walking Track (3–4 hours), then spend the afternoon at Dandry Gorge and the Discovery Centre. If you’re keen on mountain-biking or stargazing, stay overnight; basic camping is available at several sites within the forest. For a relaxed pace, consider two days, allowing time for a night drive and a leisurely breakfast at the Baradine café before heading home.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Baradine – A friendly small town with a pub, bakery, and the Discovery Centre – perfect for supplies and a meal.
• Warrumbungle National Park – About 90 minutes west, this park offers dramatic volcanic peaks, the Siding Spring Observatory, and excellent hiking.
• Coonabarabran – Australia’s ‘astronomy capital’, home to the Anglo-Australian Telescope and fantastic dark-sky experiences.
• Narrabri – A historic town with a vibrant main street, the Australian Cotton Centre, and access to the Mount Kaputar National Park.
• Gunnedah – Known as the ‘Koala Capital of NSW’, this town offers koala-spotting in its bushland reserves and a rich agricultural heritage.

Please check official sources for current details.