Murrumbidgee River Road

Murrumbidgee River Road is a scenic gravel route that shadows the Murrumbidgee River through the rugged high country of Kosciuszko National Park. This is wild, untamed country where the river carves deep gorges through granite boulders and snow gum forests. It’s a road for adventurers seeking solitude, starlit campsites, and the thrill of a 4WD journey – not a place to rush, but to soak in the ancient silence and the river's timeless flow.

Highlights & What to See

• Yaouk Campground – A peaceful riverside camp with fire pits, perfect for a night under the stars. Listen to the river’s murmur as you toast marshmallows.
• Murrumbidgee River Gorge – Stop at any pull-off to peer into the deep, granite-lined gorge. In spring, wildflowers dot the banks.
• Coolamine Homestead – A restored 19th-century cattle station, offering a glimpse into the lives of early high-country graziers.
• Cooleman Caves – A short detour leads to limestone caves with guided tours (seasonal). The eerie stalactites are worth the dusty walk.
• Swampy Plain River & Geehi Walls – Further south, the road meets the Swampy Plain River; the Geehi Walls form a dramatic cliff backdrop.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day for the 65 km drive from Yaouk to the Geehi Walls turn-off, especially if you stop for walks, photography, or a picnic. Many travellers combine it with a night or two of camping – the road is slow (45–60 minutes for the whole route) but the experience is best savoured. If you’re not camping, a day trip from Cooma or Tumut is feasible, but you’ll wish you stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kosciuszko National Park – The road is inside the park; combine with a hike to Mount Kosciuszko in summer or a ski trip to Thredbo/Perisher in winter.
• Cooma – The main gateway town, with the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and excellent cafés for a pre- or post-trip coffee.
• Yarrangobilly Caves – Limestone caves with a thermal pool – a relaxing soak after the dusty road.
• Tumut – A historic town on the western side of the park, with the Tumut River and Blowering Dam for water sports.
• Selwyn Snow Resort – A smaller, family-friendly ski field accessible from the road (check seasonal conditions).

Please check official sources for current details.