The days are getting cooler and crisper — a sure sign winter’s on the way. But, before it arrives, there’s still some time to soak up the shimmering beauty of autumn. Across NSW, landscapes are dressed in beautiful, warm-toned foliage, best enjoyed on a scenic road trip, a stroll around an autumn garden, or blissfully on your own two feet through a national park. We’ve rounded up a list of national parks that aren’t typically known for autumn colour, but should be. Along with vibrant landscapes, you’ll find tranquil walking trails, waterfalls, beautiful views, and more. These are our favourite national parks to explore this autumn.
1. Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park is packed with year-round adventures, and it’s equally rewarding in autumn, with pockets of the park lighting up with bursts of seasonal colour. As you wander through the park, you’ll spot clusters of deciduous trees in pleasing shades of red, gold, and amber, all set against the park’s dramatic mountain backdrop. For an extra burst of adrenaline, tackle the 19km Grand Cliff Top Walk and enjoy plunging waterfalls and incredible views. For a full day of leaf-peeping, pair your visit with a drive through the nearby towns of Leura, Blackheath and Katoomba and be sure to stop by for pictures and a snack.
Distance: 2 hours from Sydney
2. Cattai National Park
The big and famous national parks you already know — but there’s a gorgeous hidden gem that might’ve slipped under your radar. Just a hop, skip, and jump from Sydney, Cattai National Park sits along the mighty Hawkesbury River and it’s best visited in autumn. Maple and plane trees line the park, bursting into rich reds, golden yellows, and soft oranges at this time of year. Head to the river and campground for the prettiest views — and don’t be surprised if you spot a few friendly kangaroos and wallabies along the way.
Distance: An hour’s drive from Sydney
3. Kosciuszko National Park
The largest national park in NSW — and home to Australia’s highest peak — Kosciuszko, is generally busiest in winter during ski season. But it quietly packs a punch in autumn too. Mountain views and pockets of autumn foliage bring a fresh twist to the alpine landscape. This sprawling park is replete with walking trails, lakes, hidden waterfalls, and camping spots, and if you’re after a change of pace, make your way to the charming villages of Jindabyne or Berridale for more seasonal scenery. Berridale is especially striking, thanks to its famous poplar drive, a long stretch of towering trees glowing in bright yellow.
Distance: 5.5 hours from Sydney
4. Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve
Looking for an escape that’s genuinely off the beaten path this autumn? Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve delivers just that — with vivid foliage, ancient limestone caves, and peaceful bushwalks, best explored before winter hits. The cooler temperatures are ideal for exploring the Wombeyan Caves, a fascinating network of limestone formations. Stay overnight in a cosy cabin and enjoy the changing colours of the trees, stretch your legs on a bushwalk, or take a guided or self-guided cave tour to make the most of your time here.
Distance: 3 hours from Sydney, near Goulburn
5. Barrington Tops National Park
Natural cascading waterfalls, ancient rainforest, deep valleys and wild swimming holes await at the wild and wonderful Barrington Tops National Park. There is plenty of snowy adventure to be had here in winter, but if you’re not a fan of the cold, plan a visit in autumn for mild temps and lovely scenery, perfect for overnight hikes, camping and exploring the winding walking trails. Enjoy spectacular rainforest views on a picture-perfect amble along the Antarctic Beech Forest walking track and the Honeysuckle Forest track, and stay overnight at Polblue campground and picnic area amidst lush subalpine forests.
Distance: 4 hours from Sydney, near Gloucester
6. New England National Park
The New England region of NSW is simply beautiful all year round, but it truly comes alive in autumn. If you’re chasing a colourful experience while autumn lasts, plan a trip to New England National Park and enjoy beautifully coloured leaves and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring the walking trails. Also on offer: rainforest views, local wildlife, ancient volcanic landscapes, and brilliant lookouts. While you’re in the area, Tenterfield, Armidale, and Glen Innes are other places that are perfect to visit this time of the year.
Distance: Around 6 hours from Sydney