AROUND-OZ MOTORHOMES

There are so so roadside rest areas and then there's Burning Mountain Nature Reserve and Rest Area. In our view this is as good as it gets. It is rather excellent as it has a small dam, a 2 hour walk if you want exercise, lots of BBQ's and tables, very clean flushing toilets, tons of shade, a windmill, water and best of all it's totally free!

An information hut has some very nice photos of how they feel the mountain actually came to be "burning" and another shows how the valley is changing with time. Lots of space here and very easy turning around on a bitumen road and quite good for even big rigs. There is not a lot of level ground though and this could be a problem in busy times. It is a Nature Reserve, but as there are no signs to the contrary we assume dogs are allowed, but it might be an idea to check with the local information centre.

Along the track you will find excellent interpretative signs explaining the effect of the burning coal seam on the landscape, the significance of the area to the local Aboriginal people and the fascinating history of the phenomenon that is "burning mountain". The walk takes approximately one and a half to two hours return and in our case depending on the number of piccy stops. A cold drink, hat and suitable footwear will ensure you enjoy the walk particular in the summer months. We visited in November and the walking was very pleasant. Interestingly we came across zero vandalism.

You can get a comprehensive brochure on the Burning Mountain Nature Reserve simply by calling at the National Parks area office on the corner of Maitland Road and Francis Street, Muswellbrook or ring 02 6542 2422. The postal address is NPWS, PO Box 351 Muswellbrook 2333. Access to the reserve is all weather bitumen.

Brian Flannery of the NPWS has put together a beautiful little site on Burning Mountain - obviously a totally dedicated employee. Have a look at www.horsecapital.com.au/uhrw/burning.htm. As Brian says at bottom of his page - "Please visit Burning Mountain at your earliest opportunity. You will not be disappointed".

Burning Mountain Nature Reserve is only 19 kilometres north of Scone, NSW. Watch for the Scone Shire Council car park and rest area on the right hand side of the New England Highway just north of Wingen. Access is very easy and it is a bit back from the New England Highway reducing noise just a little.
Absolutely recommended.