Scabby Range Nature Reserve is a rugged wilderness area located in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia. Its distinct sub-alpine character is defined by elevations often exceeding 1,600 meters, including peaks like Mount Kelly and Mount Scabby, and features ancient granite formations, montane forests, and open heathlands. This diverse landscape provides varied terrain for outdoor pursuits, including several sports like touring cycling and hiking.
Outdoor enthusiasts exploring Scabby Range Nature…
8
Routes
5
(3)
Average rating
91
People visited

5.0
(3)
14
riders
28.7km
02:54
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

15
riders
36.6km
03:41
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
riders
21.7km
02:11
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

26
hikers
9.55km
02:35
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

10
hikers
2.73km
00:44
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

9
hikers
3.36km
01:08
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Scabby Range Nature Reserve offers opportunities for bushwalking, rock climbing, and touring cycling. The area's wilderness quality supports self-reliant recreation, emphasizing solitude and appreciation of its natural values. More than 100 visitors have explored the region using komoot.
The reserve features rugged mountains and valleys, with much of the area above 5,200 feet (1,600 meters) in elevation. Notable peaks include Mount Kelly (5,999 feet / 1,829 meters) and Mount Scabby (5,899 feet / 1,798 meters). It also contains unique sub-alpine landscapes, montane forests, and the nationally significant Scabby Tarn wetland.
Touring cycling is an option within or adjacent to Scabby Range Nature Reserve, with several moderate to hard routes available. These routes can range from approximately 14 miles (23 km) to 24 miles (38 km) and may include unpaved segments. For more information, refer to the Cycling in Scabby Range Nature Reserve guide.
Cycling routes in Scabby Range Nature Reserve are generally considered moderate to hard. Some segments may be unpaved and challenging, potentially requiring walking with the bike. Good fitness is recommended for exploring these routes.
Scabby Range Nature Reserve provides rich opportunities for bushwalking, particularly for experienced and fit off-track walkers. Multi-day pack walks are possible, involving navigation through steep slopes, thick scrub, and rock scrambling. The Hiking in Scabby Range Nature Reserve guide offers additional details.
Scabby Range Nature Reserve is managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. Visitors should check the official NSW National Parks website for current information regarding entry requirements, permits, or any alerts before planning a visit. Access is primarily via a dry-weather 4WD fire trail.
As a Nature Reserve managed by NSW National Parks, domestic animals, including dogs, are generally not permitted. This restriction helps protect the reserve's significant biodiversity and pristine wilderness. Visitors should confirm specific regulations on the official NSW National Parks website.
Scabby Range Nature Reserve is located approximately 15 miles (25 kilometers) northeast of Adaminaby and 37 miles (60 kilometers) southwest of Canberra. Accommodation options can be found in these nearby towns. The reserve itself emphasizes self-reliant recreation, with no visitor facilities.
Komoot offers several guides for the region. These include Cycling in Scabby Range Nature Reserve, Traffic-free bike rides in Scabby Range Nature Reserve, and Hiking in Scabby Range Nature Reserve. These guides provide detailed information for planning outdoor activities.
Scabby Range Nature Reserve is managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. For general inquiries, the NSW National Parks Tumut area office can be reached at 02 6947 7000. A central information line for NSW National Parks is also available at 1300 361 967.
Access to Scabby Range Nature Reserve is primarily via a dry-weather 4WD fire trail. The reserve's wilderness quality means facilities are limited, and visitors should be prepared for self-reliant recreation. Parking information should be sought from NSW National Parks.
Scabby Range Nature Reserve is characterized by its rugged wilderness and is ideal for self-reliant recreation, emphasizing solitude. Activities like multi-day pack walks and challenging cycling routes are geared towards experienced individuals. Specific family-friendly routes or facilities are not highlighted.

