Armidale to Walcha via Gostwyck

This route provides an alternative to Thunderbolts Way which is rather too narrow for the traffic it takes. In contrast, this route is entirely on quiet roads although about 37 km is unsealed. We have ridden the route in both directions have decided it is easier in the northerly direction. On the occasion we rode south we had left rather later than intended, with luggage for a long distance trip and were tired and hungry by the time we reached the hills heading into Walcha.

From Armidale, take Dangarsleigh Rd turning onto Mihi Rd/Gostwyck Rd at approx. 15 km out. About 7-8 km of this is unsealed. At Gostwyck turn onto Hillview Rd. There is a steep hill in this direction coming out of Mihi creek at about 47 km. The turn onto Blue Mountain Rd is an acute angle on a downhill, which we nearly missed on one occasion. The latter is the highest point of the ride with extensive views. Both Hillview Rd and Blue Mountain Rd are unsealed but generally quite well maintained. For much of the way they are also accompanied by a TSR which has lovely mature bush with lots of birds. If travelling south the seal is reached at Winderborne Rd aboiut 71 km. However, there are two solid climbs before reaching Walcha as mentioned previously. These climbs are less steep when travelling north. On the other hand, in this direction you have a big climb out of Salisbury waters about 20 km before your destination. Don't believe the elevation data on this mapping tool, actual climbing closer to 900 m.