Coonabarabran

Welcome to Coonabarabran, the 'Astronomy Capital of Australia' and your gateway to the stunning Warrumbungle National Park. Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, this small country town offers big skies, ancient volcanic landscapes, and a genuine outback welcome. Whether you're gazing at the Milky Way through a powerful telescope or hiking through dramatic rock formations, Coonabarabran delivers an unforgettable slice of rural NSW.

Highlights & What to See

• Warrumbungle National Park – Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, with spectacular volcanic peaks, walking trails like the Breadknife and Grand High Tops, and incredible stargazing.
• Siding Spring Observatory – Home to the Anglo-Australian Telescope; visit the visitor centre for interactive displays and guided tours (book ahead).
• Astronomy & Earth Science Centre – Hands-on exhibits about space and geology, plus a planetarium and telescopes for daytime solar viewing.
• Pilliga Forest – Explore this vast dry forest with its unique sandstone sculptures, Aboriginal scar trees, and the historic Pilliga Pottery.
• Coonabarabran Country Markets – Held on the third Saturday of the month, showcasing local crafts, produce, and a friendly community atmosphere.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two full days here: one for the Warrumbungle National Park (choose a half-day walk or a full-day hike) and another for Siding Spring Observatory and the Astronomy Centre. If you're keen on both hiking and stargazing, three days allow a relaxed pace. Summer days can be hot, so start walks early and enjoy the cool evenings under the stars.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dubbo – 150 km south, home to Taronga Western Plains Zoo and excellent heritage museums.
• Tamworth – About 170 km east, known for its country music scene and the Big Golden Guitar.
• Gilgandra – A charming town on the Castlereagh River, with the Coo-ee March memorial and a great rest stop.
• Warrumbungle National Park – The park itself offers camping and extended walks; consider staying overnight for the full dark-sky experience.
• Lightning Ridge – 300 km north-west, famous for opal mining and the unique Car Door Tour.

Please check official sources for current details.