Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool

## Overview The Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool is a naturally heated swimming hole nestled within the Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, Australia. Fed by a natural thermal spring, the pool maintains a remarkably consistent water temperature of approximately 27°C (80°F) year-round — a striking contrast to the often frigid alpine surroundings, especially during winter when snow blankets the landscape. The thermal pool has been a beloved attraction since the early 1900s, when the Yarrangobilly Caves area first began drawing visitors for its spectacular limestone cave formations. The warm spring water rises from deep underground, where it is heated by geothermal processes associated with the region's limestone karst geology. The caves themselves — formed over millions of years through the dissolution of Silurian-age limestone — are among the most significant cave systems in New South Wales, and the thermal pool adds a unique geothermal element to the experience. The pool was developed for public bathing in the early twentieth century and has been maintained as a free, open-access facility by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. It sits at an elevation of roughly 900 metres above sea level, surrounded by eucalyptus forest and the rugged terrain of the Snowy Mountains. The mineral-rich water has historically been enjoyed by visitors for its pleasant warmth and clarity, and the pool is one of only a handful of naturally heated swimming spots in the Australian Alps. ## Directions 1. From Canberra, head south on the Monaro Highway and then take the Snowy Mountains Highway toward Tumut/Kiandra. The total drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. 2. From the north (Tumut), travel south along the Snowy Mountains Highway. 3. Look for the signed turnoff to **Yarrangobilly Caves** along the Snowy Mountains Highway — the access road is well signposted. 4. Follow the Yarrangobilly Caves Road for approximately 6 km to the Yarrangobilly Caves car park and visitor area. 5. From the car park, a walking track leads down to the thermal pool. The walk is approximately **1.2 km each way** and descends steeply (around 200 metres in elevation), so allow roughly 20–30 minutes to walk down and longer for the return uphill climb. 6. The trail is well-maintained but includes steps and can be slippery when wet. Sturdy footwear is recommended. 7. **GPS Coordinates:** -35.7312, 148.4859 ## What to Expect The thermal pool is a constructed concrete-edged pool fed continuously by the natural warm spring. The water temperature sits at around 27°C regardless of the season, making it an especially magical experience in winter when the surrounding air temperature can drop well below freezing. The pool is roughly 20 metres long and deep enough for a comfortable swim. The setting is lush and secluded, surrounded by native bush and the sound of the nearby Yarrangobilly River. There are basic change rooms near the pool. Entry to the thermal pool is free, though there may be a vehicle entry fee for Kosciuszko National Park (check current NSW National Parks fees). The walk back up from the pool is significantly steeper than the descent — take your time and bring water, especially on warm days. The trail passes through beautiful forest and offers views of the river gorge below. Visitors often combine a swim in the thermal pool with a guided or self-guided tour of one of the Yarrangobilly Caves (such as the South Glory Cave, which is open for self-guided tours). The caves area also has picnic facilities and toilets near the main car park. The pool is open year-round, though access may occasionally be affected by snow or road conditions in winter. Check road conditions via the NSW National Parks website or Live Traffic NSW before heading out during the colder months.