Walk: COOLAH TOPS Sunday 16 September 2018

Walk: COOLAH TOPS Sunday 16 September 2018

 

Junior members sizing up the GIANT Grass Trees

Description/Location: Nearest town; Coolah.  Coolah Tops is a national park located in NSW. 43klm from Coolah, 157klm from Mudgee.  The park features waterfalls that plunge from the plateau, Giant grass trees and open forest with stands of snow gums shelter gliders, wallabies, eagles and owls.  With over 10,000 hectares to explore.

Leader(s): Joby & Elly   Report by: Joby

Images: Glen Hill and Alex Carynny

Map ref: Omaleah 8934-3-N

Measuring a BIG tree our way.

Joby & Elly yet again said an early start (after a perfect sunny day to strong winds throughout the night leading to a cold change for this walk- weather forecast was again correct). A dozen keen members visited the park after having a shared morning tea in Coolah.  After entering the park and meeting at the ‘Barracks campground” Joby quickly hustled members up for a walk to the well known and respected ” Giant grass trees”. Interesting interpretive signage along the track. A chill in the air and to keep warm Joby sent the members off to Bundeena lookout whilst a selfless act Joby & Elly & Renae were forced to drive the vehicles while the others took the approx 3.8klm to the lookout, again hustled members to view the Liverpool Plains by walking to the Pinnacle Lookout then for a picnic lunch at  Bundeena lookout (in the sunshine). A quick drive to Norfolk Falls through the picturesque park members took 209 steps down (thanks Jasmine for counting these) and members were able to cross where the water should have been running.  Glen & Alex then ventured down and around to the base of the Falls and yes there was water. The designated camping areas were well maintained and rest facilities too. We did not venture out to the far end of the Park as previous walk but hope to visit again next year.

(below) Norfolk Falls
(below) Norfolk Falls

Distance walked: Maximum distance walked goes out to the Hill family approx 8.5klm.