Hill End

Hill End was a thriving town during the New South Wales gold rush era. That era has long past and Hill End is now largely deserted, but many of the historical diggings and buildings remain. The site is under the management of the National Park Service, and most of the sites now well documented and signposted.

Hill End is a popular destination for New South Wales primary school groups, combining a school camp with learning about Australian history.

Access to Hill End is from Bathurst via Sofala (85 km south of Hill End) (66 km), Mudgee or Hargraves (72 km). Both directions use Hill End Road, which is now fully paved, making it an easy detour when driving north of Bathurst.

- Hill End remains as an excellent 4WD destination. The most exciting of these is the Bridle Track which runs from Duramana (North of Bathurst) directly to the town centre of Hill End. Generally the track can be classified as an easy track, however extreme care must be taken as the road surface has been known to change during the different seasons and after heavy rain.

The Bridle Track begins as a narrow tar covered road, however it later changes to dirt. Much of the last 20km is single lane, and will not allow any overtaking which will make things awkward should you come across on-coming traffic. It is also strongly suggested that you do not attempt to travel along the track after nightfall or after heavy rain, as the track does skirt around some very large drops. Ideally your vehicle should be fitted with Low Range to complete this track.

Most of the sites in Hill End are easy and interesting to walk between, and many old mines and the river sites are only accessible by walking. Cycling around the town is an interesting way to see the sites also.

• Hill End Museum, 3548 Bathurst Rd, ☏ +61 2 6337 8222. Open daily 10AM-3:30PM, extended hours during holiday periods, - a private museum - has a range of interesting items including functional gold-mining models, working and static stamper batteries, steam engines, winches, pumps, interactive displays, a video and a walk-in underground gold mine by request. 

• Take a self-guided tour of the town starting at the visitor centre and museum. Bald Hill Tourist Mine is a popular attraction and tours of historic Craigmoor House are available on the Australia Day and Easter long weekends.
• Visit History Hill which has assembled a fascinating collection of Gold Rush relics.
• Buy or hire a gold pan, and try your luck panning for specs of alluvial gold in the river.

• Hill End Estate, 3664 Hill End Rd, ☏ +61 428 980 803. Small peaceful cafe, particularly known for being LGTBQ friendly. (updated Oct 2021)