Murrumbidgee River

Winding through the heart of the Riverina, the Murrumbidgee River is a lifeblood of southern New South Wales, offering serene landscapes, rich Indigenous heritage, and a patchwork of national parks and vineyards. This mighty river, whose name means 'big water' in Wiradjuri, flows from the Snowy Mountains to the Murray, carving out gorges, wetlands, and red gum forests. Whether you’re casting a line for Murray cod, paddling its gentle bends, or exploring historic river towns, the Murrumbidgee rewards slow, immersive travel.

Highlights & What to See

• Narrandera Wetlands – A haven for birdwatchers, with walking trails and boardwalks through lagoons teeming with pelicans, swans, and herons.
• Wagga Wagga’s Wiradjuri Walking Track – Follow the riverbank through the city, passing sculptures and interpretive signs that tell the story of the region’s First Nations people.
• Murrumbidgee River Canoe Trail – Paddle from Gundagai to Wagga Wagga, camping on sandy banks and spotting kangaroos at dusk.
• Coolamon Cheese & Gundagai’s Historic Bridge – Sample artisan cheeses and walk across the iconic wooden Prince Alfred Bridge.
• Kosciuszko National Park (upper reaches) – Where the river begins, amid alpine meadows and trout streams near the Snowy Mountains.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 3–4 days to explore the Murrumbidgee corridor. Base yourself in Wagga Wagga for two nights, using it as a hub for day trips to Narrandera (45 minutes west) and Coolamon (30 minutes north). Add a third day to paddle a section of the canoe trail or fish for yellowbelly. If you’re driving from Sydney to Melbourne, the Murrumbidgee makes a perfect overnight stop in Gundagai or Jugiong.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Jugiong – A tiny historic village with a legendary pub, the Sir George, and a riverside park.
• Coolamon – Charming farming town with a vintage tractor museum and excellent cheesery.
• Gundagai – Famous for the Dog on the Tuckerbox statue and the heritage-listed Prince Alfred Bridge.
• Wagga Wagga – The largest city on the river, with galleries, gardens, and the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
• Narrandera – Gateway to the Fivebough Swamp, an internationally significant bird habitat.
• Kosciuszko National Park – The river’s source, offering hiking, skiing, and wildflower displays in spring.

Please check official sources for current details.