A Family Day-Out to Yarrangobilly Caves in Kosciuszko | Snowy Valleys x Wagga Wagga x Tom's Outdoors

Out for Adventure | Small dose adventures for busy lives in our Wagga Wagga + Surrounds region

Out for Adventure is a micro-adventure series brought to you in collaboration with City of Wagga Wagga, the adventure specialist at Tom’s Outdoors and the following regional shires – Greater Hume Council, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council, Snowy Valleys Council, Coolamon Shire Council and Lockhart Shire Council.

The Russell family embarks on a spectacular adventure to the Yarrangobilly Caves in Kosciuszko National Park, just over an hour's drive from Tumut. This must-visit destination in the Snowy Valleys is a favourite among families, hikers, fly fishers, campers and explorers alike. Chris, Gemma, Phoebe, and Amelia soak up the experience with a refreshing dip in the spring-fed thermal pool, a peaceful riverside walk, a visit to the breathtaking Glory Arch and an unforgettable guided tour of the Jersey Cave.

Featuring the Russell Family. Filmed by Dean Johnson and Pat Ryan. Edited by Pat Ryan.

Yarrangobilly Caves boasts some of Australia’s most stunning limestone caves, featuring awe-inspiring formations of stalagmites, stalactites, shawls and cave corals. The striking karst landscape and the serene Yarrangobilly River provide the perfect backdrop for scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching. The outdoor thermal pool, naturally fed by a mineral-rich spring, maintains a comfortable 27 degrees year-round, making it a highlight of this remarkable destination.

Jersey cave.

Yarrangobilly Caves Visitors Centre

The Yarrangobilly Caves Visitors Centre is the first and most-important place to visit while in the area. The welcoming staff are able to provide information on activities in the area, including cave tours, walking trails and accommodation options. They can also share helpful advice on hiking, scenic driving routes, picnic spots, and secret fishing locations.

Visitors Centre.

In addition to selling cave tour tickets, the visitor centre serves as the starting point for guided cave tours led by experts. Discover stunning cave formations, ancient geological features, Aboriginal heritage and the unique wildlife that rely on the caves for their habitat.

Available at the visitors centre are maps, guides to nearby attractions and a selection of souvenirs and books for all ages. Grab some tasty snacks from the visitor centre and make use of the nearby picnic tables and gas barbecues for a delightful day outdoors.

Caves

There are six spectacular limestone caves to explore in the Yarrangobilly area, either on your own or on a guided tour. The largest cave, South Glory Cave, offers a self-guided tour where you can explore at your leisure. 

Glory Arch.

Jersey and Jillabenan Caves provide guided tours 3 or 4 times a day, with Jillabenan offering wheelchair access. A cave tour is a great option, especially when it’s too cold or hot outside, though it’s recommended to bring a jacket as temperatures inside are around 13°C.

Jersey Cave.

Hiking and Thermal Pool

Above ground, Yarrangobilly offers plenty of activities, including the enchanting thermal pool and several scenic short walks. The Yarrangobilly River walk, a popular 3km loop that connects to the thermal pool, can be enjoyed in either direction. Start at the Thermal Pool carpark and descend into the valley towards the pool where you can relax with a swim in the spring-fed natural waters. When ready, follow the trail upstream along the picturesque Yarrangobilly River. For those seeking a longer adventure, this walk can be extended by combining it with the Glory Farm walk or Castle Cave walk.

Thermal Pool.

Yarrangobilly River Walk.

The Glory Farm Walk is a 2.8km return track following the Yarrangobilly River to the historic site of Henry Harris's Glory Hole Farm. The Castle Cave walk, a 3.2km trail, leads above the Yarrangobilly River, passing Glory Arch and South Glory Cave on the way to Castle Cave. Along this route, you’ll encounter hand-cut limestone dry stone walls and continue beneath impressive limestone cliffs before the path turns left toward Mill Creek Gorge and Castle Cave. For a guided tour of Castle Cave, check with the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre before starting your walk. The Bluff Lookout Walk is also a must-do for spectacular panoramic views over Yarrangobilly Caves House, nestled amongst the valley and limestone cliffs. 

Plan your visit to Yarrangobilly Caves here.

Bluff Lookout.