The Mount Arthur Trust is a small group of dedicated volunteers from the local community who manage the Mount Arthur Reserve under the Crown Lands Act 1989. The Trust has little regular income and is largely dependent on volunteer labour and government grants when available. Over the last few years the Trust has obtained several grants for projects within the Reserve and has been active in upgrading signage and picnic facilities, road maintenance and safety upgrades, fencing, weed control and tree planting.
Situated just outside the township of Wellington, the Mount Arthur Reserve is a Crown Reserve set aside for Public Recreation and Environmental Protection. The 2,123ha Reserve lies within the northern most section of the Catombal Range and takes in three main peaks - Mounts Arthur, Wellesley and Duke.
The Reserve is recognised on the Register of the National Estate for its natural values and a large portion of the Reserve has been protected in various forms since 1913.
Over 400 native plant species have been recorded within the Reserve, including plants typical of the drier western plains mixed with tableland and western slopes species. In particular, the Reserve is known for its diversity of terrestrial orchids, with over 36 species recorded. The Reserve also provides important habitat for threatened flora and fauna species.
The Reserve provides for picnicking, bushwalking, horse riding and bike riding, and is also popular with birdwatchers and botany enthusiasts.
Seven marked walking trails, varying in length and difficulty, are available within the Reserve. There are many scenic vantage points with views over Wellington, the valley and the Bell and Macquarie rivers.
Horse riding is permitted on the marked bridle trail and fire trails. Mountain bike riding is also permitted, but only on the designated mountain bike trails and fire trails.
Picnic areas with tables, fireplaces and basic toilet facilities are available but camping within the Reserve is prohibited.