After 13 years, the Bridle track has finally re-opened. Borgy gives us the scoop on what’s new…

The Bridle Track was first established as the road between Bathurst and Hill End in the 1800’s. Yep, that was well and truly in the midst of the horse and cart days, and it earned its name from the narrowest sections where hopeful gold miners and settlers had to lead their horses by the bridle. During the mid-1900s the track was expanded into a scenic tourist route along the Macquarie River, and it soon morphed into a popular four-wheel drive trail. However, a serious rockfall in 2010 effectively split the Bridle Track in half, with the road impassable by vehicle at a tight, steep section known as Monaghans Bluff. While you could still access the track from either end, the ability to drive the entire length of it has been hampered for the last 13 years. Finally, the track has been repaired with the Monaghans Bluff Bypass now fully operational, so I thought I’d take the trusty LandCruiser and my dog, Bazza, for a spin to check it out.

Monaghans Bluff Bypass 

Approaching the Bridle Track from Bathurst, the freshly minted bypass was fast on approach and most definitely not disguised in any way. The bypass takes you quite abruptly up the mountain. There are several hairpin corners to negotiate before you start your descent towards the Macquarie River, taking in some breathtaking scenery as you meander the tracks. A few kilometres later and you’re back on hallowed ground, or the original Bridle track as some may call it.

The Search For Camp 

Along the way, you’ll find 8 clearly marked campsites to choose from, most of which will have you perched on the edge of the Macquarie River. Which one did we stay at? Well, I’m not too sure to be honest. We found a faint set of tyre track that darted in the direction of the river and the temptation to follow our noses was a little too much. While the track started to fade into complete nothingness, a bit of low range gearing and a lust for adventure eventually spat us out at a beautiful little campsite with nothing but the banks of the mighty Macquarie and the sound of bellbirds to contend with. There’s nothing quite like ditching a well beaten road for a faint pair of wheel tracks through low range terrain, especially when it delivers an absolute gob-smacker of a campsite at the end!

Fishing For Fun 

In an area like this, fishing and canoeing are the chosen activities for most. Red fine, Golden Perch, Murray Cod and of course, European Carp are found in these waters. While there are some highly prized fish in that list, for me, I was hoping to nab myself a nice fat European Carp. It’s my little way of helping to rid the river of introduced invasive fish, and a bit of fun at the same time. Fishing isn’t exactly my forte, but I’m going to blame my lack of a catch on the colder weather of June/ July rather than my absence of fishing knowledge.

Hill End 

During the 1850’s, at the height of the Turon and Macquarie rivers gold rush, the Bridle track was dubbed “the short way” to Hill End. As with most short-cuts, it was treacherous. In fact, it’s literally called the Bridle Track because horsemen would have to dismount and walk their horses through dangerous terrain quite regularly. Nevertheless, these days, it’s perfectly suited to a 4×4, so it makes sense to use the track in its entirety and visit the historic town of Hill End while you’re there, eh?

Getting There 

Travel from Bathurst to Hill End via the Bridle Track is now possible. Visitors looking to camp along or traverse the Bridle Track can take either the Bathurst entrance and return via Box Ridge Road or take the Bathurst Freemantle Road entrance and continue through to Hill End via Root Hog Road. If taking the Root Hog road track, a snorkel is required for water crossing. The Bridle Track is not suitable for caravans, or camper trailers, only tent camping is permitted.