A man relaxes in the steaming waters of Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool in Kosciuszko National Park. Photo: Murray Vanderveer/DPIE.
Parts of Kosciuszko National Park’s popular Yarrangobilly Caves, which closed after a bushfire swept through the area on 4 January, 2020, have reopened.
Jillabenan Cave, the oldest and most accessible cave at Yarrangobilly, reopened in November 2020.
The thermal pool, a magical swimming spot fed by a natural spring, and South Glory Cave’s astonishing limestone chambers reopened in August.
Yarrangobilly’s above-ground attractions such as walking tracks, lookouts and barbecue areas are also now open.
Inside Yarrangobilly Caves. Photo: Murray Vanderveer.
Tours of Jillabenan Cave and South Glory Cave are self-guided and bookings are essential.
However, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff hope to commence guided tours of the other caves soon.
A NPWS spokesperson told Region Media that staff have been busy carrying out repairs, maintenance and refurbishing the visitor centre at Yarrangobilly Caves since closing a year ago.
The spokesperson said at this stage, it’s hard to see any evidence that the fires have affected the caves. However, “any change would only become evident during the years to come”, they said.
Jillabenan Cave stalactites. Photo: E Sheargold.
Visitor numbers to Yarrangobilly Caves have been increasing since spring, with Australians eager to get out and explore their backyard during COVID-19 restrictions.
Accommodation at the caves remains closed and camping is not permitted, however camping is available at the Yarrangobilly Village located on the Snowy Mountains Highway. Bookings are essential.
Lyrebird Cottage has reopened for bookings, while will be available for bookings from 4 December, while the 1901 Caves House and 1917 Caves House are expected to reopen to the public in February 2021 and May 2021 respectively.
Book online to see Yarrangobilly Caves here.
South Glory Cave entrance. Photo: Murray Vanderveer/OEH.
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