5 minute read.
Pack your thermals, beannie and gloves. The mercury is set to drop below zero this week, with snow fall predicted in areas around Bathurst with an elevation above 900 metres.
The Bathurst CBD only sits at around 650 metres elevation, rarely seeing snow settle on the ground. The last time this happened was in 2015 when residents awoke to our most iconic attractions with a thick dusting of the cold stuff.
Pictured here in 2015.
But the outer lying reaches of the region definitely see regular white peaks, and lush pine forests blanketed in winter magic.
This makes Bathurst the perfect place to base yourself when visiting for your snow experience, with plenty of cozy accommodation options to help you defrost, and a host of restaurants and hotels to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal by the log fire.
Here are our top 3 spots that are easily accessible from Bathurst where you can frolick amongst the flurries.
1. Mayfield Garden, Oberon
Mayfield Garden is situated a comfortable 40 minute drive from Bathurst. Open 363 days a year, the garden boasts stunning features like bridges, ponds, and a Copper Tree Fountain making this the prettiest place you will find to get the perfect picture in the snow.
The Mayfield Cafe is open when you are ready to warm up inside by the fire with a locally roasted coffee.
Get directions.
2. Wambool Nature Reserve, Yetholme
Yetholme is the highest point in the Bathurst region, at an elevation of 1,180 metres. The area regularly sees snowfalls during the Winter months, and is often the first place locals go to play in the powder, because it’s only a 20 minute drive east of Bathurst.
The Wambool Nature Reserve is a beautiful, safe National Park with a walking trail that is off the Great Western Highway where you can experience the wonder among the scribbly gums.
The access road to the walking trail is unsealed, so always take care and drive to the conditions.
Get directions.
3. Vulcan State Forest, Black Springs
A 1 hour drive south of Bathurst via Oberon, the Vulcan State Forest is a large pine plantation established in the early 1900s with towering tress that make you feel like you’re somewhere deep in a European winter wonderland.
As seen in the video, conditions are slippery, and 4WD vehicles are recommended. Get directions.
When visiting the Bathurst region to see the snow, it’s important to drive carefully to the conditions. Please respect the property of others, and don’t cross fences or prohibited boundaries.
For more assistance planning you Central West snow advenutre, contact Bathurst Visitor Information Centre.
