Parkes to Forbes, NSW: How long is the drive?

The drive from Parkes to Forbes in New South Wales is just 33km in distance, with a driving time of 24 minutes. Mountain-bikers might be interested in a slight detour via the Back Yamma State Forest.

The drive from Parkes to Forbes connects two of the larger towns in the Central West region of New South Wales. Both towns have a smattering of appealing attractions, and are worth a visit if taking a leisurely road trip down the Newell Highway.

However, they are close enough that you can stay in either Parkes or Forbes and make a day trip to the other.

Parkes to Forbes distance and driving time

The Parkes to Forbes drive is 33km in distance, with an approximate driving time of 24 minutes.

The best accommodation in Parkes

The top places to stay in Parkes are:

For overall quality: Bushman’s Motor Inn.
For central location: Court Street Motel.
For parkside location: Hamilton Henry Parkes Motor Inn.

Stick to the Newell Highway, and you’ll pass through the hamlet of Tichborne.

Next up comes the Daroobalgie Rest Area, and you’re probably not going to need that.

Parkes to Forbes drive via Back Yamma State Forest

Veer east slightly, however, and you’ll hit the Back Yamma State Forest. This is of most interest to mountain bikers, who tend to enjoy hammering along the forest trails.

Otherwise, head straight through to Forbes. The top attractions in Forbes are the various parks around Lake Forbes and the Sculptures Down The Lachlan sculpture trail.

Victoria Park in Forbes, NSW. Photo courtesy of Destination NSW.

You can also learn about legendary bushranger Ben Hall at the Forbes Historical Museum.

The next town of any real size along the Newell Highway is West Wyalong. It also passes through Ardlethan, Narrandera and Jerilderie before reaching the Murray River at Tocumwal.