The Drip Gorge Goulburn River
Discover the serene beauty of The Drip Gorge, a hidden gem in Goulburn River National Park, featuring unique dripping rock formations and the pictures...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
The Drip Gorge Goulburn River
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of The Drip Gorge, a hidden gem in Goulburn River National Park, featuring unique dripping rock formations and the picturesque Goulburn River.
"A must-do hike showcasing the natural beauty of the Mudgee region with a magical, dripping atmosphere."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky, so good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Drip Formation
End of the walking track
Witness fresh spring water seeping from sandstone cliffs, creating a magical, dripping spectacle into the river.
Goulburn River Walk
The Drip Walking Track
An easy 2.8km return trail winding alongside the Goulburn River, offering beautiful views and access points.
Sandstone Cliffs
Along the walking track
Marvel at the towering, ancient sandstone formations that frame the gorge and river, showcasing natural artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to The Drip Gorge
What to Pack for The Drip Gorge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky, so good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended.
📸 Capture the Magic
The Drip Gorge offers stunning photo opportunities, so bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Take Your Time
Enjoy the scenery and peaceful spots; it's a perfect place to relax.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky, so good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended.
📸 Capture the Magic
The Drip Gorge offers stunning photo opportunities, so bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Take Your Time
Enjoy the scenery and peaceful spots; it's a perfect place to relax.
🚗 Access Can Be Tricky
Getting to the trailhead from the road can be a bit dicey, so drive carefully.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Drip Gorge as a peaceful and beautiful natural escape. The easy walk along the Goulburn River to the unique 'drip' formation is a highlight, offering stunning sandstone scenery and a tranquil atmosphere. While the access road can be a bit tricky, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and serenity.
"A relatively easy 2.8 km return walk, we did it in about 1 and half hours including time spent enjoying.
The Goulburn river was very calm and clear, perfect for kids to play around. There are many access point to the river along the way, each with unique but amazing views.
Lots of information about the geology and the formation of the sandstones. The drip gorge it self was beautiful too, and you can continue your walk following the shallow river after the walking track ends.
A few picnic tables available next to the car park."
Lerong Lin
"🌿 My Experience at The Drip Gorge Hike – A Hidden Gem Near Mudgee
If you’re looking for a scenic and peaceful walk that showcases the natural beauty of the Mudgee region, The Drip Gorge Walk is an absolute must-do!
The trail follows the Goulburn River and takes you through a cool, shaded gorge surrounded by sandstone cliffs, lush ferns, and native gum trees. The star attraction, “The Drip,” is a stunning rock formation where fresh spring water seeps and drips constantly into the river — creating a calming, magical atmosphere that feels a world away from city life.
The walk is about 2.5km return and generally takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the views (which you’ll definitely want to!). The track is easy to moderate, with a few uneven spots, but nothing too difficult.
A few helpful tips for anyone planning to visit:
✅ Wear good walking shoes – the path can be a bit rocky in places.
✅ Bring water and a hat – it can get warm even in the shaded areas.
✅ Take your time – there are so many photo opportunities and peaceful spots to stop.
✅ Facilities – there’s a car park, picnic area, and toilets at the start of the trail.
What makes The Drip Gorge really special is how quiet and natural it feels. You can hear birds, the flowing water, and the sound of the dripping rock – it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature.
If you’re visiting Mudgee, this hike is only a short drive away and well worth the trip. Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just looking for a relaxing walk, The Drip Gorge will not disappoint.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend this spot for nature lovers, couples, and families alike"
sinharib shlimon
"We loved this place,only bad thing about it is getting to it from the road is abit Dicey. quite a easy walk and certainly isn't a grade 4 walk. I think more grade ,3 at the most cause of the amount of steps but still quite easy. Best thing no rubbish laying around and we only came across about 5 people while in our walk. Quite a beautiful place and would be a good place for a Wade in summer"
Joanne Ryan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Drip Gorge is located in Goulburn River National Park, a short drive from Mudgee. The drive itself can be a bit 'dicey' according to some visitors, so proceed with caution. The walking track starts from a designated car park.
Information on road surface varies, but some suggest the access can be tricky. It's advisable to check local conditions before you go, especially after rain.
The trailhead is accessible by car and has a car park. Follow signs for The Drip Walking Track within Goulburn River National Park.
Public transport options to The Drip Gorge are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider carpooling if you're visiting with others.
The Drip Gorge is approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Sydney, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on a longer road trip through NSW.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Drip Gorge and Goulburn River National Park is generally free. There are no admission fees required for the walking track.
Goulburn River National Park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. The Drip Gorge walking track is accessible during these hours.
No, there is no entry fee for Goulburn River National Park. Access to the park and its attractions, including The Drip Gorge, is free.
Yes, The Drip Gorge can be visited year-round. Each season offers a different perspective, though spring and autumn are often favored for pleasant walking conditions.
No specific permits are required for day visitors to The Drip Gorge walking track. It's a public access area within the national park.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Drip Walking Track is a 2.8 km return walk, which typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
The walk is considered easy to moderate. While some parts can be rocky, it's generally not a strenuous hike, with some describing it as a Grade 3 at most.
Yes, there are toilets available at the start of the trail, near the car park and picnic area.
Absolutely! The walk is relatively easy and scenic, making it suitable for families with children. The Goulburn River is also calm and clear, perfect for kids to play around.
The track has some uneven and rocky sections, which might pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues. It's not fully wheelchair accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the sandstone cliffs and river.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge and cliffs. A macro lens can be useful for the unique dripping water formations.
The 'Drip' formation itself is a must-capture. Also, look for scenic spots along the Goulburn River and the towering sandstone cliffs.
Drone usage in national parks is subject to regulations. It's essential to check with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for current rules and restrictions before flying.
The combination of the unique dripping rock formations, the clear Goulburn River, lush vegetation, and dramatic sandstone cliffs creates a visually stunning landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and hats, as even shaded areas can get warm. The easy-to-moderate trail means parents can relax and enjoy the natural beauty without worrying too much about strenuous hiking. The picnic area at the start of the trail is also a great spot for a family lunch.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation and any food or drinks you bring. Packing a picnic lunch and water from home will further minimize costs, allowing you to fully appreciate this beautiful Mudgee region gem without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the gorge and a macro lens for the intricate details of the dripping water. The natural beauty and unique geological features make it a standout spot for landscape and nature photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Wonders of The Drip Gorge
+1This area holds significant cultural importance for the Wiradjuri people, who have utilized it as a trading route for thousands of years. The natural springs and the river provided essential resources, and the gorge itself likely served as a place of shelter and connection to the land. Understanding this deep history adds another layer of appreciation to the visit, reminding us of the enduring relationship between people and this special place.
Visitors often remark on the tranquility and the sensory experience of the gorge. The sound of the dripping water, the flow of the river, and the calls of native birds create a peaceful soundtrack. The air can be filled with the scent of wildflowers and eucalyptus, especially after rain. It's a place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the natural world.
Exploring The Drip Walking Track
The walk is generally considered easy to moderate, with some reviewers suggesting it's more of a Grade 3 difficulty rather than a Grade 4, due to the manageable steps and terrain. This makes it an ideal choice for families, couples, and individuals looking for a scenic but not overly strenuous outdoor activity. The shaded sections of the track provide respite from the sun, but it's still advisable to carry water and wear sun protection.
Along the way, you'll encounter information about the local geology and the formation of the sandstone. The journey culminates at the spectacular Drip Gorge itself. For those who wish to continue exploring after the official track ends, the shallow river offers a path to follow further into the gorge, allowing for a more immersive experience. Picnic tables are available near the car park, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch after your walk.
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