Travel Updates for Visitors After the Great Western Highway Closure.
Is Mudgee Open?Can You Still Drive to Mudgee NSW with Victoria Pass Closed?
While the closure of the **Great Western Highway at **Victoria Pass has created some changes for travellers heading west, the important message for visitors is simple.
The Central West NSW region is open and welcoming visitors.
At Kirsten Accommodation, we want to reassure guests planning a getaway to Mudgee, Parkes, and the surrounding Central West that the region remains accessible with several alternative travel routes available.
Road closures can sound dramatic, but in reality travellers simply take a different path through the countryside.
Is Mudgee Still Open to Visitors?
Yes – Mudgee is absolutely open and accessible by Road.
Wineries, restaurants, accommodation providers, tours and local businesses are all operating as normal. Visitors can still enjoy everything the region is known for including:
- Award-winning cellar doors
- Local food experiences
- Weekend markets and regional events
- Scenic countryside drives
Once you arrive, the Mudgee experience remains exactly the same.
Can you still drive to Parkes?
Yes — Parkes remains open and accessible by road.
Visitors travelling to Parkes can continue to reach the region through several major highways and inland routes across regional New South Wales.
The temporary closure of one section of the **Great Western Highway does not close access to the Central West.
Visitors travelling to Parkes will quickly discover that the region is full of relaxed country experiences, fascinating attractions and welcoming hospitality. Top spots include:
Visit the famous Dish
Country Pubs are open for drinks, meals and conversations
Museums and shopping
How to Get to Mudgee and Parkes with the Great Western Highway Closed.
Although the **Great Western Highway is currently closed at Victoria Pass, there are still multiple ways to reach the Central West.
Alternative routes remain open via regional centres including:
- Bathurst
- Lithgow
- Mudgee
- Parkes
Many travellers are simply taking slightly different scenic routes through regional NSW.
For some visitors, these alternative drives reveal beautiful countryside and small towns they may never have discovered otherwise.
Alternative Routes to Mudgee and the Central West NSW
Check the Latest Road Conditions Before Travelling to the Central West. Current;y the Great Western Hwy is closed at Victoria Pass to all traffic in both directions for at least the next 3 months. This brings us to about July 2026 re-opening of the Highway – with some luck.
As with any regional road trip, checking conditions before you leave is always recommended.
Visitors can stay up to date with road closures and detours by checking:
NSW Live Traffic
https://www.livetraffic.com
This official resource provides real-time updates on road conditions across New South Wales.
Plan Your Central West NSW Getaway
The journey to the Central West might look slightly different right now, but the destination remains exactly the same.
Beautiful countryside.
Award-winning wineries.
Relaxed regional hospitality.
At Kirsten Accommodation, we look forward to welcoming guests visiting Mudgee, Parkes, and beyond.
To speak to our Local Kirsten Accommodation team call 1300 768 674.
Stay Awesome.