Thunderbolt's Hideout
Country NSW
Tenterfield
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
0.4 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 30 mins
Elevation gain (m):
10 m
Max. elevation (m):
990 m
Difficulty (Grade):
Easy (Grade 3)
Route type:
Out-and-back
Traffic:
Light
Access:
2WD Sufficient
Looking toward the cave
Rock arch near the cave
Typical section of track
Looking toward the cave
Click to see full image.
A short and interesting walk to a beautiful rocky outcrop and historical landmark – a site used Captain Thunderbolt .
This lightly trafficked walk starts from a small, signed car park on the side of Mount Lindesay Road, approximately 12 kms north-east of Tenterfield.
The rock formation is approximately 150 metres from the car park, involving a short and easy stroll along a well-maintained and mostly flat track through natural bushland.
Thunderbolt's Hideout is a small cave formation nestled amongst towering boulders. The site received its name courtesy of Captain Thunderbolt (aka Fred Ward), a notorious roaming bushranger who used the cave for sheltering his horses and as a camp.
From atop the boulders, Captain Thunderbolt could lookout over the area, including the main road to Warwick used during the gold-mining days – making it the perfect place to scout for hold-ups.
This walk is ideal for families with young children or those seeking a short and easy nature outing.
Consider also visiting the nearby World War II tank traps (also on Mount Lindesay Road).
Track: The track involves a relatively well-maintained trail. The walk is well-signed and relatively easy-to follow.
Difficulty: This is an easy walk, suitable for all fitness levels and children.
Direction: This is an out-and back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
This trail starts from a small, signed car park on the side of Mount Lindesay Road, approximately 12 kms north-east of Tenterfield, 3.5 hours drive south-west of Brisbane.
The car park is small, but the walk is typically lightly trafficked.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.