While Mudgee may be better known for food and wine than outdoor adventure, several breathtaking day walks make this bustling town in the Central West of NSW attractive to Explorers as well as wine connoisseurs. The short walk to The Drip is one of them.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Wiradjuri Nation, the traditional Country of the Wiradjuri people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Highlights

  • Natural, freshwater swimming spots  
  • Impressive rock formations 
  • Miles and miles of peace and quiet 

A Trip to The Drip

Goulburn River National Park is home to The Drip and Corner Gorge, an easy half-hour drive from the heart of Mudgee. With ample parking, a spacious picnic area, and public toilets, this adventure is suitable for explorers young and old.  

Read more: Federal Falls is a Secret Waterfall Near Orange

 

 

A short, well-established path extends 1.4km from the car park to ‘The Drip’, the name given to a mess of little swimming holes, fallen hunks of sandstone, and gentle rapids nestled under the arc of a huge cliff-face.  

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes

The cliff is studded with river pebbles and fern fronds and, regardless of whether it’s recently rained or not, metres and metres of dripping water. Upon reaching the layers of non-porous clay soil in the cliff’s structure, groundwater seeks an escape route and seeps through porous layers of sandstone, creating a permanent drip.  

The easy, undulating track includes some stairs and a river crossing, the riskiness of which varies depending on rainfall. I recommend wearing sturdy but waterproof shoes so you can enjoy the river water without getting cut or scratched by rocks. A fenced lookout over The Drip will suit those less inclined to get their feet wet. 

Read more: What To Look For In A Great Pair Of Hiking Boots (And Why You Need Them)

 

Around the Bend to Corner Gorge

Intrepid walkers should definitely consider clambering over the huge boulders at The Drip to continue downstream to Corner Gorge, a walled section where the river takes a sharp turn. You’ll need to wade for most of the section between The Drip and Corner Gorge, but the current’s slow and the water’s mostly knee-deep or shallower. 

 

 

Choose one of the dozens of sunny spots by the water for a sit, a picnic or a read. Whatever your style, it’s scenic, serene and well worth a visit.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

 

How To Get There

The car park at The Drip picnic area is off Ulan Rd, a 35-minute drive northeast of Mudgee.

Essential Gear

  • Sturdy shoes, preferably waterproof 
  • Hat 
  • Sunscreen
  • Water
  • Snacks 
  • Optional: swimmers and towel

Skill Level

From the car park to The Drip — beginner (although there are stairs)

From The Drip to Corner Gorge — advanced (rock scrambling and wading required)

Distance / Duration

From the car park to The Drip — 2.8km return / 1 hour  

From The Drip to Corner Gorge — additional 2km return / additional 1 hour