Lake Canobolas Reserve

Lake Canobolas Reserve wraps around a small volcanic lake about fifteen minutes northwest of Orange on Lake Canobolas Road, under the slopes of Mount Canobolas. Orange City Council manages the reserve and states plainly that dogs are welcome throughout the grounds and along the walking track, provided they stay on a lead at all times. That makes it one of the more straightforward dog outings in the district: a signed, single rule, and a proper circuit to walk it on.

The headline draw is the three kilometre track that loops the lake, a mix of gravel path and gentle bush sections with the water never far from view. It is an easy grade with a few short rises, comfortable for most dogs, and there are picnic shelters, tables and free barbecue facilities dotted around the foreshore if you want to turn the walk into a longer stop. Kayaking and swimming are popular on the lake itself in the warmer months, and the dam wall and inlet corners give the circuit some variety. The water level shifts with the seasons, and the track hugs the shore closely enough that most of the loop keeps the lake in sight, which helps a keen dog stay oriented.

While you're out there

Keep the lead on the whole way, both because council requires it and because the lake edge is working bird habitat, with waterbirds settling in around the reeds and inlet. Bring your own water for the dog, as the facilities are built for people rather than pets, and carry bags since bins are concentrated near the picnic areas rather than the far side of the circuit. Early morning is the best window: mist over the water, cool air on the track, and the car park still quiet.

Make a day of it

The reserve sits in wine country, so the day extends easily. WORD OF MOUTH cellar door and Brangayne of Orange are both on the mountain roads back towards town, and Towac Valley Cabins offers a base if you are making a weekend of the area. More options are on the NSW dog friendly parks list and the Nashdale destination guide.