Drives & Touring - Upper Darling

There is so much for the visitor to do in the upper Darling region of Outback NSW. Two side-trips for any visitors list should be Gundabooka National Park, a short drive from Bourke and/or Louth, and the town known as the home of the Black Opal (and a bit or refreshing MADNESS!)

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Gundabooka NP <> Louth or Bourke:

Mt Gundabooka (500m) lies within the magnificent rust coloured cliffs and gorges of theGundabooka Range, a region with great significance to the Ngiyampaa people for ceremonial gatherings and significant rock art.GundabookaNational Parkis idea for hiking and bird watching and a small camping area is accessible by car. A new day-use area with barbecues,  toilets and picnic area has opened at Bennetts Gorge.  The township of Bourke is approx 50km from Gundabooka NP, with attractions, cafes, a fascinating history and a variety of venue to stay in.

Bourke <> Gundabooka National Park:

• Distance = 66km - about 45 mins (one way)
• Route: Kidman Way (Sealed) to park entrance.

Gundabooka National Park < > Louth:

• Distance = 52km - about 1 hr 15 mins
• Route: Kidman Way (Sealed) - Louth-Bourke Rd (Dry weather road).

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Lightning Ridge Loop:

This side-trip from the Darling River Run will take you to the iconic and eccentric Australian opal mining town ofLightningRidge. You might want to try your hand at finding the elusive black opal. If luck isn’t going your way, there’s art galleries to explore, or simply take in the experiences of a mining town where much of the non-mining activity happens underground. It’s an easy drive to and from Walgett, or as an alternative meander via Cumborah to Brewarrina.

Walgett <> Lighning Ridge

• Distance = 78.0 km - about 54 mins (one way)
• Route: Castlereagh Hwy <> Bill Obrien Way (Sealed Highway)

Brewarrina <> Lightning Ridge (Via Cumborah)

• Distance = 180km - about 3 hrs
• Route: Castlereagh Hwy <> Cumborah-Lightning Ridge Rd <> Walgett Goodooga Rd <> Narran Lake Rd <>Kamilaroi Hwy