Getting there

Access is via the short but steep thermal pool walk, or along Yarrangobilly River walk loop.

Maps

Which maps cover the area?

Route/Trail notes

From the gate at the thermal pool carpark, a short but steep track descends into the Rules Creek Valley, to the thermal pool. Hidden deep in the valley amongst towering eucalypts, near the Yarrangobilly River, an outdoor swim in the natural thermal pool is a magical experience.

The main pool, which is 20m long and 2.5m deep, gently flows like a waterfall into a children's wading pool. Fed by a natural spring around 1km below the surface, these subterranean waters are mildly mineralised and stay a constant 27oC all year. 

There’s a picnic area next to the pool, with change rooms and toilets, so why not bring lunch and make a day of it. As you relax, keep your eyes open for some of the local residents, including the water dragons and platypus that enjoy the peaceful surrounds of the pool and nearby river. 

The return uphill walk to the carpark is steep, so you may prefer to loop back via Yarrangobilly Caves - River walk and South Glory Cave. Or, explore more along Yarrangobilly Caves – Glory Farm walk, which starts near the thermal pool. There are some great fishing spots, where you can catch introduced rainbow trout. 

Permits/Costs

$4 per vehicle per day applies at Yarrangobilly Caves for motor vehicles without a Kosciuszko National Park day pass or NPWS All Parks annual pass.

Other References

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/swimming-spots/yarrangobilly-caves-thermal-pool