Last updated July 17, 2023
Ride Profile
Update 17 July 2023: Route re-opened with short (100m) gravel detour around the land slip (about 20km’s in).
A beautiful ride… some of the most stunning scenery around Orange. The route heads out through the radiata pine forests that sweep the southern slopes of Mt Canobolas, before a lovely descent to Panuara. A short punchy climb brings you back towards Cadia Mine and offers 360 degree views of the district. You’ll sweep past the Mine’s tailings dam before joining the last section of the Newcrest Challenge to take on Piggery Hill.
This route is possibly better in reverse with some good climbing out from Panuara and up through the pines.
Food & Water
There is possibly drinkable tank water at Panuara tennis court (untested though). Forest Reefs Tavern is on the way home at the 56km mark
Watch out for
Road Condition: Quite good. As always watch for potholes. The few kms up Piggery Hill and beyond isn’t great.
Traffic: Generally quiet but be careful of the Cadia Mine shift change in the morning and evening when Cadia Road gets uncomfortably busy.
Wildlife: watch for kangaroos on the descent through the pines on Four Mile Creek Rd (from 17km’s).
Variations / Extensions
Back of Mine plus Millthorpe. Turn right at Tallwood Rd (53km) and head to Millthorpe for coffee or lunch (Providore is recommended). Extends the route to 95km (View on Ride with GPS). Watch the traffic on Millthorpe Road, single file recommended.
Back of Mine plus Blayney & Millthorpe. Turn right on Tallwood Rd (53km) and again on Carcoar Rd to ride to Blayney. Returns through Guyong and Millthorpe. Extends to 128km. View on Ride with GPS.
