The area's most striking natural attraction is Mt Canobolas, an ancient, extinct volcano located just minutes from Orange CBD, which offers spectacular views of the region.
The surrounding terrain, which is often snocovered in winter, includes walking tracks, waterfalls, lookouts, horse riding trails and picnic spots. Past volcanic activity and the height of the mountain will ensure visitiors discover unique flora and an abundance of wildlifeincluding birds, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and wombats.
At the base of the mountain lies Lake Canobolas Reserve, which is a major attraction for visitors and residents alike. The lake is ideal for swimming and canoeing, and has a playground, barbeque facilities, cafe, picnic areas, walking tracks and historic pump house.
The Lake is regularly the venue for sporting events such as the Central West Dragon Boat Regatta.
The lake is regularly stocked with trout species making it a fisherman's delight.
Dogs are not permitted within the Lake Canobolas Reserve environment.
Just a short meandering walk or ride along Forest Road from the heart of the city via a sealed shared cycle/pedestrian path lies Gosling Creek Reserve, an environmentally based recreational facility. Features within the reserve include a picnic area, barbeques, public amenities, pathways suitable for walking/cycling/rollerblading, and children's play equipment catering for climbing, spinning and balancing activities. The reserve also features a variety of native vegetation, a bird hide with two viewing platforms, one overlooking the open water of the reservoir and the other overlooks a wetland.
The reservoir, regularly stocked with Golden Perch and various trout species, is a haven for those interested in fishing.
The park covers an area of approximately 21 hectares offering established parkland setting with both native and exotic trees. The park features a sealed shared pedestrian/cycle path linking Huntley Road through to Gosling Creek Reserve. There are two existing playing fields which can be used for social games of cricket or football and other activities such as kite flying. Bloomfield Park ovals are also designated leash free areas for dogs.
Pinnacle Reserve
Set amongst the tall shady gum trees on the southern side of Pinnacle Road, the reserve features picnic shelters, toilets and barbeques constructed from bluestone. The northern side of the road has a walking trail that climbs to Towac Pinnacle with spectacular views of Towac Valley.
