Find the Lesser-Known Federal Falls Between Winery Visits on a Weekend in Orange

Venturing out to the NSW countryside? Between winery visits, take on the 4km Federal Falls walking track in Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, just outside of Orange and earn that next glass of vino.

We Are Explorers acknowledges that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Wiradjuri people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Federal Falls Quick Facts

Distance: 4.1km loop
Duration: 1-2 hours
Elevation gain: 250m

Federal Falls Highlights

• Exploring the NSW countryside
• Fantastic bushwalking
• Visiting a lesser known (and visited) waterfall

About Orange and Its History

Orange is best known for its superb wines, but there’s an epic waterfall just a stone’s throw away. It’s called Federal Falls and is located just outside of town in the Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area.

Did you know that there’s no higher point along a straight line between Sydney and Perth than Mount Canobolas? Its main period of volcanic activity was around 11-13 million years ago.

The Orange Regional Museum is a great source of information when it comes to the rich Indigenous history of the area. Mount Canobolas is a ceremonial site, plus an important place of traditional knowledge and cultural significance for the Wiradjuri people. 

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

How to Get to Federal Falls

There aren’t any public transport options for reaching Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, so you’ll need your own set of wheels. Simply park at the Federal Falls Campground, where the hike starts and finishes. It’s only around 30 minutes from the town centre of Orange. 

Skill Level

Beginner

There are a few steep bits that are tough, but overall it’s a well-marked and straightforward trail. Keep in mind that the base of the waterfall is super slippery so take care.

Essential Gear

• Hiking boots
• Sunscreen
• Sunnies
• Hat
• Day backpack
• Camera
• Waterproof jacket and trousers for the inevitable waterfall spray/soaking
• Fleece jacket (it’s colder than you might expect)
• Snacks
• Water

What It’s Like to Hike to Federal Falls

Check out Federal Falls by completing the 4.1km Federal Falls walking loop. The loop starts off as a fairly flat and easy going bushwalk, but soon turns into an affair more challenging than you’d think as you start to steeply descend towards the waterfall, so prepare for jelly legs. 

Getting to the waterfall involves a small out and back section halfway around the loop. You’ll begin to see the waterfall as you bend around the corner leading to the final descent. 

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes and Waterfalls

Keep in mind that the waterfall can dry up if there’s a drought, so try and time your visit after some rainfall. The waterfall was larger and more impressive than we expected after some decent rain in the preceding month or two.

Read more: 7 Tips for Rainy Day Hiking

After taking in the beauty of Federal Falls, pump yourself up for the steep return hike back up and around the loop to complete the trail.

Federal Falls FAQs

Can you swim at Federal Falls?

Unfortunately not! There’s not much of a pool at the bottom of the falls.

When did Mt Canobolas last erupt?

Don’t worry, Mt Canobolas is a dormant volcano and hasn’t erupted for around 11 million years.

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