Explore dinosaur trails less travelled

Looking for dinosaur trails in Australia that go beyond the usual tourist circuit? This Dinosaur Trails Australia road trip begins at Lightning Ridge in northern NSW, home to rare opalised dinosaur fossils from the Cretaceous period. From Lightning Ridge to Queensland’s dinosaur country, this is a prehistoric journey for curious travellers, grey nomads and lovers of regional Australia.

HAVE you ever wanted to take a journey in the footsteps of giants? One that is less travelled by man, and full of prehistoric wonder.

Well, now’s your chance because Australia’s dinosaur trails have opened up in this amazing world.

But if you’re already a dedicated traveller, there may be none of the well-known trails left in your repertoire.

So why not invent one of your own? May I suggest a slightly different trail?

If you’re a grey nomad or any other southern self-contained gadabout and you’re heading north to sunny Queensland, start your trail at Lightning Ridge in far northern NSW.

If you’re already in North Queensland, simply start at the other end.

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Lightning Ridge: Australia’s Opalised Dinosaur Fossils

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Opalised dinosaur fossils at Lightning Ridge NSW Australia. Cretaceous Australia illustration.

Cretaceous Australia. Photo: Creative Commons

Lightning Ridge is the source of some of Australia’s most spectacular dinosaur fossils; spectacular because they are opalised.

The district is a productive sight for Australian opals, and that can add another dimension to your visit.

Most dinosaur discoveries at Lightning Ridge are from the Early to Mid Cretaceous periods, between 145 mya and 110 mya.

At this time central Australia was covered by a vast, relatively shallow, inland sea. Lightning Ridge would have been on the south-eastern shore of this sea.

These opal fields are the source of several important dinosaur fossil finds. Most recently, the small ornithopod dinosaur, Weewarrasaurus pobeni, was announced in 2019.

This dinosaur was small, approximately dog-sized and likely travelled in family groups or herds for protection. We know it from two fragments of a jawbone and some teeth.

Savour the Outback at Home

Before setting out on Dinosaur Trails Australia — or after you’ve returned from Lightning Ridge — savour a true taste of Australia. Kakadu plum grows wild in Australia’s remote regions and has long been valued for its natural properties. It’s a small but meaningful way to stay connected to the landscapes that shape our prehistoric story.

DISCOVER KAKADU PLUM

Dinosaur fossils found in an opal mine

Prior to that, fossils of what appears to be a herd of larger ornithopod dinosaurs were found deep underground in an opal mine.

This dinosaur, Fostoria dhimbangunmal, is related to the well-known Muttaburrasaurus from North-western Queensland.

Over 60 bones have been discovered for this species representing four individuals.

The species name is a local Aboriginal word meaning ‘sheepyard’ from the locality where the fossils were found.

Numerous other fragments and bones of extinct dinosaurs remain to be identified in the district. Perhaps the most tantalising of these is ‘Lightning Claw’.

This dinosaur is known from very little evidence and none sufficient to flesh it out or officially give it a name.

It is assumed to be a large theropod, a Megaraptor, perhaps the largest of a type of dinosaur rarely found in the Australian fossil record.

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Opalised dinosaur fossils at Lightning Ridge NSW Australia. Lightning claw.

Lightning Claw. Photo: Creative Commons

Things to Do in Lightning Ridge (Opals, Fossils & Outback Experiences)

Lightning Ridge has several caravan parks. Check out the fossicking heaps at the Tourist Information Centre.

The John Murray Gallery is a must, and a good meal can be had at the Lightning Ridge Bowls Club.

Try the Car Door Tours; an economical, quaint way to see the sights.

When you get to Lightning Ridge, ask about the new Australian Opal Centre.

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Opalised dinosaur fossils at Lightning Ridge NSW Australia. Car Door Tours.

The Car Door Tours at Lighting Ridge are a must-see attraction. Photo: Jocelyn Watts

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Opalised dinosaur fossils at Lightning Ridge NSW Australia. John Murray Gallery Mural.

John Murray Gallery mural at Lightning Ridge. Photo: Jocelyn Watts

Travel Gear That Travels Well

If you’re upgrading luggage or packing tools for your next rail or road journey, choose lightweight pieces designed for regional travel.

BROWSE TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Planning a Dinosaur Trail Road Trip in Australia

So you’re looking for a destination that’s off the beaten path, why not explore some of Australia’s lesser-known dinosaur trails?

These areas are home to prehistoric creatures that once roamed the earth, and offer an unforgettable experience for travellers of all ages.

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Opalised dinosaur fossils at Lightning Ridge NSW Australia. Sunset at Lightning Ridge.

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Sunset at Lightning Ridge

Travel Insurance for Regional Australia

For rail journeys and extended road trips, comprehensive cover provides peace of mind — especially for mature travellers.

COMPARE TRAVEL INSURANCE OPTIONS

If you go: Dinosaur Trails Australia – Lightning Ridge

Location: Lightning Ridge, northern New South Wales
Distance from Brisbane: Approx. 720 km (8–9 hours by car)
Distance from Sydney: Approx. 770 km (around 9 hours by car)

Best time to visit: Autumn and winter (April–September) offer cooler, more comfortable conditions. Summers can be intensely hot.

Road access: Sealed highways lead into town. Suitable for caravans, motorhomes and self-contained travellers. Always check local road conditions after heavy rain.

Allow: 2–3 days to explore fossil displays, opal fields and outback attractions at a relaxed pace.

Highlights:

Fossil displays at the Visitor Information Centre
Opal fossicking areas
The John Murray Gallery
Car Door Tours
Progress on the Australian Opal Centre

Map: View Lightning Ridge on Google Maps:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lightning+Ridge+NSW

From here, your journey along Dinosaur Trails Australia continues north into Queensland’s prehistoric heartland. In Part Two, explore Winton, Hughenden and Muttaburra along the Queensland Dinosaur Trail — where some of Australia’s most significant fossil discoveries await.

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About the author

Peter Woodland is a contributor to Jocelyn Magazine. A former teacher and school librarian, his interests include computing, geography, palaeontology and good food.

*This piece was first published in Jocelyn Magazine in 2022. It has been lightly edited to update travel information.

Explore NSW’s best-kept secrets

WHEN was the last time you really connected with New South Wales (NSW)?

Sure, you may have taken a trip to inner Sydney or one of the other popular tourist destinations, but did you get out of the inner city and explore what else the beautiful state has to offer?

This year, take some time to refresh your connection to NSW by exploring some of its incredible history and culture.

From Surry Hills to Wagga Wagga, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure!

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1. Dine like a local in Surry Hills

From a captivating underworld history to on-trend tipples in chic spaces, the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills in NSW is full of bold contrasts.

One way to connect to this precinct’s pulse is to share food and stories at a progressive dinner with Sydney local, Maree Sheehan.

Her Sydney Connection walking tour for six takes you to excellent eateries that surprise you with sensational dishes that will make you feel right at home.

Soak up the thriving Surry Hills scene, strolling from place to place along the tree-lined streets, listening to Maree’s enthralling tales of gangsters, wine and food.

On any given night, you might sip a Rye Me A River cocktail at Tilly May’s, taste fluffy souffle at LoLuk Bistro or savour Korean charcoal chicken at Soul Dining.

2. Learn about Indigenous botanicals

Step back in time to a memorable Indigenous experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery in NSW.

The Aboriginal Bush Tucker and Wine Making Experience takes you on a cultural and botanical journey, guided by a local Darkinjung Elder and Firescreek’s winemaker.

Encircled by peaceful gardens, feel every sense come alive as you listen to the didgeridoo being played.

Gather around to sample NSW’s native botanicals from an authentic Coolamon bowl and learn how seasonal ingredients are transformed into Firescreek’s award-winning wines.

Taste rare vintages of Australian botanical-infused wines you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

NSW - Australian Aboriginal men playing Aboriginal music on didgeridoo

Australian Aboriginal men play Aboriginal music on didgeridoo and wooden instruments.

3. Cycle along Sapphire’s secret trails

Feel at one with the landscape as you pedal along sandy coastal trails through sun-dappled forests on a cycling tour of the Sapphire Coast.

The Sapphire Coast Guiding Co. E-Bike tour winds through Mimosa Rocks National Park and finishes at Tathra Beach.

Spot kangaroos in the dunes, stop at lofty lookouts to admire vast ocean panoramas and rest overlooking the mouth of the Bega River while enjoying morning tea.

Along the two-kilometre journey, your local guide will share stories about the ancient landscape, wildlife, and history of this pristine paradise.

4. Have a spiritual awakening on the South Coast

Connect to knowledge passed down from generation to generation on an immersive Indigenous tour of Yuin country on the NSW South Coast.

The Yuin Retreat by Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness is an unforgettable two-night adventure, which you can share with other travellers or book as a private group for 6-8 people.

Your lead guide is Dwayne ‘Naja’ Bannon-Harrison, who has gleaned deep insights from nine generations before him.

The retreat involves journeys across Yuin country following Songlines.

Learning from the profound knowledge of Bannon-Harrison, you will feel enriched, with a deeper knowledge of the place, a fresh perspective on Indigenous history and a stronger awareness of your individual self and your spiritual connection to the land.

Each night, relax and reflect in a glamping tent or private cabin in either Narooma, Mystery Bay, Tilba or Bermagui – you’ll receive exact accommodation locations when you book.

5. Fly high with our NSW outback heroes

Feel your heart swell with pride as you hear the stories of our incredible NSW outback heroes from the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Dubbo.

A high-tech new visitor experience there immerses you in the moment as doctors, nurses and pilots deliver urgent medical care across the vast 7.69 million square kilometre area of the NSW outback.

Don’t miss the short film depicting real patients telling how the service saved their lives.

Children will also love the retired aircraft to explore and trying to communicate through the pedal-powered radio.

6. Walk in the footsteps of the Wiradjuri people of NSW

Tune into the spirit of the land as you embark on an Aboriginal Walkabout Tour in Wagga Wagga, NSW, with Wiradjuri man, Mark Saddler.

Run by Bundyi Cultural Knowledge Tours, learn about one of the oldest living cultures in the world as you follow in the footsteps of Saddler along the ancient Marrambidya Bila (Murrumbidgee River) and practice some Wiradjuri words.

Journey to several Wiradjuri places of cultural significance, spot wildlife and hear Saddler’s teachings about bush food, scar trees, tool making and artefacts along the way.

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Tag Archive for: New South Wales

Dinosaur Trails Australia: Lightning Ridge