Getting Here & Around
Getting to the Warrumbungle Region is straightforward, with NSW Regional bus services connecting the area to major cities or flights available to nearby regional hubs like Dubbo and Tamworth.
However, to truly experience the best of the region, prior planning is essential. Public transport within the region is limited, and the townships and major attractions, such as Warrumbungle National Park and Siding Spring Observatory, are spread out and require travel. Hiring a car from a regional hub not only provides the freedom to explore at your own pace but also ensures you can visit every hidden gem, scenic lookout, and cultural highlight with ease. For those seeking a seamless journey, having your own transport transforms your trip into an adventure without limits. Plan ahead and get ready to uncover the full beauty of the Warrumbungle Region.
Warrumbungle Regional and Town Map Pad(PDF, 12MB)
Self - Drive
With Coonabarabran as the reference point
From Major Cities
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Sydney: 450 km – Approximately 5–6 hours
Travel via the M1 and Mudgee or through the Blue Mountains, depending on your starting point.
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Brisbane: 700 km – Approximately 9 hours
Take the New England Highway south and connect to the Warrumbungle region via Tamworth and Gunnedah.
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Melbourne: 985 km – Approximately 11 hours
Drive north through Shepparton and Wagga Wagga before heading through Dubbo to reach the region.
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Newcastle: 345 km – Approximately 4 hours
A straightforward journey west through Singleton and Muswellbrook.
From Regional Hubs
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Dubbo: 160 km – Approximately 1.8 hours
Drive north on the Newell Highway for a scenic and direct route.
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Tamworth: 180 km – Approximately 2.1 hours
Follow the Oxley Highway west and connect to Coonabarabran via Gunnedah.
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Mudgee: 190 km – Approximately 2.1 hours
Take the Golden Highway west through Gulgong and Dunedoo.
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Narrabri: 118 km – Approximately 1.1 hours
A short drive south along the Newell Highway.
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Parkes: 280 km – Approximately 3.5 hours
Travel north via the Newell Highway, passing through Dubbo.
Driving Notes
Coonabarabran, the heart of the Warrumbungle Region, serves as a perfect base to explore the surrounding attractions, including Warrumbungle National Park and Siding Spring Observatory. With excellent road connections from major cities and regional hubs, the area is accessible for both short and extended stays.
Ensure to plan ahead for fuel and amenities, as distances between townships can be significant in this rural region.
Need further inspiration for the journey into the Warrumbungle Region?
Coach
NSW Trainlink has services from Sydney to the region stopping at Dunedoo, Coolah, Mendooran, Binnaway, Coonabarabran and Baradine. Trains depart Central Station in Sydney every day to Lithgow and then by coach to your destination. On Saturday the coach only travels as far as Dunedoo. For timetables and prices for Trainlink please visit NSW TrainLink or call 13 22 32. NSW Trainlink also has a bus service between Dubbo and Tamworth which runs through Coonabarabran. This service runs on Mondays and Fridays only.
Sid Foggs operates regular services between Newcastle and Dubbo which stops in Dunedoo. For bookings and timetable please contact 1800 045 952.
Taxi
Satellite Taxis (24-hour service with prior booking) 0429 421 113. There is no public transport within the towns of the region. There are regular services running between towns but no services for around the towns.
Bus/Charter Hire
Air
There are three airports in the surrounding region that have regular flights from Sydney.
Car Hire
Visitors relying on public transport to reach the Warrumbungle Region should plan ahead, as local public transportation options are limited. Major attractions and townships are spread out, making car hire from regional hubs like Dubbo or Tamworth advisable. Alternatively, arranging transport with local contacts or family members can ensure a smoother experience.