This tough, three day walk descends from Katoomba to the peaceful Megalong Valley. It uses the Six Foot Track to navigate its way down to the Cox's River from where it returns to Katoomba via Dunphy's campsite and Narrowneck. The walk has some stunning panoramas which are complemented by the close-up views over the Cox's River and Katoomba cliffs. These notes are now several years old, and the environment will have changed, This walk is only for people comfortable walking off track, dealing with cliff passes and steep terrain in remote areas.
(open in app)
This walk passes through a remote area and sections have no visible track. At least one person in your group should have training and experience in off track walking and navigation. Even with these notes and a GPS these extra skills and equipment are required.
There are Closed areas in Blue Mountains National Park Today's Fire rating LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Cox's River return via Dunphy's campsite
Cross sectional view of the Cox's River return via Dunphy's campsite bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Cox's River return via Dunphy's campsite bushwalking track
Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length
48km
Time
3 Days
.
Grade 6/6
Route: Unmanaged
AS 2156.1
Gradient
Very steep exposed rock scrambling and climbing (6/6)
Quality of track
Off track (no visible track at times) (6/6)
Signs
No directional signs (5/6)
Experience Required
High level of bushwalking experience recommended (5/6)
Weather
Forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety (5/6)
Infrastructure
Limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing
Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the grading looking at sections of the walk. Gradient
28km of this walk has short steep hills, 9km has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 8km is very steep. Whilst another 1.5km section of this walk is flat with no steps and a 550m is very steep with difficult rock scrambles. The remaining 95m is very steep with exposed rock scrambles and climbing.
Quality of track
21km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 20km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 5km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and a 1.3km section follows a rough unclear track. The remaining 95m follows a known route where there is no visible track.
Signs
27km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 13km is clearly signposted. Whilst another 7km has minimal directional signs and the remaining 1.4km Has no directional signs.
Experience Required
20km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 15km requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience. Whilst another 13km requires some bushwalking experience and the remaining 95m requires a leader with a high level of bushwalking experience.
Weather
29km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation) and another 18km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety. Whilst another 720m is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety and the remaining 95m forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
21km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) and another 14km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced). The remaining (12km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).
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A Personal Locating Beacon (PLB) is a hand-held device that, when triggered, sends a message to the emergency services with your location. The emergency services staff can then look at your trip intention forms and decide how best to help you. In the Blue Mountains, you can borrow these for no charge, just complete this Trip intention form, and a borrowing form. The device can be picked up from:
NPWS Office - Govetts Leap Rd Blackheath - 9am to 4pm 7 days Ph: 02 4787 8877
Katoomba Police Station - 217 Katoomba St Katoomba - Anytime Ph: 02 4782 8199
Springwood Police Station - 4 Jerseywold Avenue Springwood - Anytime Ph: 02 4751 0299 More info
(0 km)
Explorers Tree
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Six Foot Track Info Shelter Walk: Easy - road
Length = 264 m
Time = 5 mins
Climb = 8 m
Descent = -6 m
From the 'Explorers Tree'[1] (at the intersection of Nellies Glen Rd and the Great Western Hwy), this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track - 200m' sign[2] up along the sealed Nellies Glen Rd[3] for just over 200m before turning left at another 'Six Foot Track' sign[4]. Here the walk comes to a dirt car park[5] and shelter[6] with a large 'Six Foot Track' information sign[7].
(0.26 km)
Six Foot Track Info Shelter
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Int of 6 Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 548 m
Time = 12 mins
Climb = 2 m
Descent = -68 m
Continue straight: From the shelter and car park (on Nellies Glen Rd), this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[8] around the lower locked metal gate to follow the management trail gently downhill[9]. The walk continues down this trail, which becomes fairly steep in places, for about 500m. Here the trail flattens out and comes to an intersection marked with a couple of 'Six Foot Track' signs[10] and a 'Nellies Glen Bushland Restoration' sign[11].
Explorers Tree (Katoomba)
Alt = 1051 m
In 1813, the explorers Gregory Blaxland, William Wentworth and William Lawson, on their historic crossing of the Blue Mountains, engraved their names not only into the history books, but also reportedly into this tree on the side of Pulpit Hill. The tree now long dead was caged[12] in 1884 in an attempt to preserve the engravings[13]. The engravings are no longer visible[14] and there is even debate over the last 100+ years as to the authenticity of the engravings[15].
(0.81 km)
Int of Six Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail
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Int at Lower Nellies Glen Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.63 km
Time = 44 mins
Climb = 26 m
Descent = -337 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[16], fairly steeply down the management trail past the 'Nellies Glen' metal plaque[17] and, about 10m later, past the timber 'Nellies Glen' sign. After another 80m, the trail narrows and this walk turns left to head through the green timber chicane with the 'Caution - Steep Decent' and 'Pedestrian Access only' signs[18]. As the sign suggests, this walk now leads steeply down the Nellies Glen canyon steps[19] for about 300m, passing alongside the tall rock walls[20] and crossing the usually small creek a few times before bending distinctly left to cross below a small set of falls (below the main Bonnie Doon Falls)[21]. Here the track mostly flattens out[22] and leads along the side of the gully for another 400m to pass a 'Blue Mountains National Park' sign[23], then just over 100m later, passes another sign marking the lower end of 'Nellies Glen'[24]. About 600m after this sign, the track bends to cross a narrow gully then leads up to a small clearing at the northern end of the wide Nellies Glen trail.
(2.44 km)
Int at Lower Nellies Glen
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Megalong Village site Track: Moderate - managementtrail,servicetrail
Length = 2.06 km
Time = 37 mins
Climb = 15 m
Descent = -102 m
Veer left: From the clearing, this walk follows the wide trail gently downhill[25] while keeping the valley to your right. The trail leads generally downhill through the scribbly gum forest[26] for about 1.4km to then cross the culverted[27] Devils Hole Creek - just past the creek is an unused concrete pipe[28] with wild bee hives[29] inside. This walk continues along the trail for another 500m to an intersection with the Devils Hole Trail[30] (on your left), marked a 'Six Foot Track' and a 'Ladders have been removed' sign. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[31] along the Nellies Glen trail, to cross the culverted Diamond Creek[32] to then come pass alongside the old Megalong 'Village site'[33] and horse paddock[34] (which is on your left).
Megalong Village (Historic)
Alt = 585 m
In 1870, kerosene shale was discovered in the area surrounding the upper end of Megalong and Diamond Creeks so in 1885, Mr J. B. North started to mine the resource. The mine continued for nearly 10 years. During the life of the mine, the Megalong Village grew to to a small town with a hotel, butchery, bakery, public hall and around about 40 families[35]. When the mines were closed in 1904, the best buildings were demolished and rebuilt in Katoomba. In the December of 1904, a huge bushfire ripped up through the valley destroying what buildings were left. Now the area is private land with a horse paddock[36] with a view of the escarpment behind. A small bronze sign marks the site[37] .
(4.5 km)
Megalong Village site
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Int Mitchells Creek and Nellies Glen Rd trails Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 1.1 km
Time = 18 mins
Climb = 8 m
Descent = -23 m
Continue straight: From the beside the historic Megalong 'Village site'[38], this walk heads along the wide trail, initially keeping the horse paddock[39] and view to the escaprment to your left after just shy of 250m this walk heads through a usually closed gate[40] and continues gently undulating along the trail through the tall scribbly gum forest[41] for 500m, crossing a usually small creek[42] to then pass a 6FT '40km' arrow post[43]. About 400m further along this trail, soon after crossing the usually small Corral Creek[44], this walk comes to a T-intersection[45], where a 'Six Foot Track', sign[46] points back along the trail, and where there are some power lines[47] to your right.
(5.6 km)
Intersection of Medlow Gap Management Trail and 6 Foot Track
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Megalong Ford Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 1.49 km
Time = 26 mins
Climb = 21 m
Descent = -39 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads west along the Nellies Glen Road trail, initially keeping the power lines to your right. After about 170m this walk veers right at the locked 'Wari-Wari' gate[48] to climb the fence using a stile [49]. The walk continue along the (now public) dirt Nellies Glen Road, for 900m passing a series of driveways[50], to rejoin then power lines[51] for 120m passing just below a nearby house[52]. Here the road leads downhill for 200m to pass a large 'Road subject to flooding...' sign[53] then just 100m later this walk comes to an intersection with 'Six Foot Track' sign and stile[54] (just before the road bends right to cross Megalong Creek[55]).
(7.09 km)
Megalong Ford
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Int of Six Foot Track and Megalong Rd Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.14 km
Time = 22 mins
Climb = 40 m
Descent = -21 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[56] over the fence using the stile[57]. A sign reminds walkers to stay on the track as this section is on private property[58]. The walk leads through mostly open farmland for 130m passing a 'Private Land No Camping' sign[59] to then cross Mitchells Creek[60], this creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Over the next 300m the trail leads over a rise[61] through the farmland to then cross a fence using a stile on the right[62]. The track now leads through a denser forest for another 300m to cross 'McLennan Bridge'[63], named after Mr Michael (Mick) McLellan who has been in charge of the maintenance of the 6FT for many years. Just shy of 150m after the bridge this walk continues straight at a four-way intersection[64] for another 200m to cross a fence using a stile[65]. Here the walk crosses the sealed Megalong Rd, to find a car park[66] beside a clearing[67] and several 'Six Foot Track' signposts[68] (about 400m south of Megalong Creek).
(8.23 km)
Int of 6 Foot Track and Megalong Rd
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Megalong Cemetery Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 96 m
Time = 2 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the car park on Megalong Road (about 400m south of Megalong Creek), this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[69] over the cattle grate[70] or stile[71] and goes beside the large sheltered 'Six Foot Track' information sign[72]. Here the walk heads gently downhill along the dirt road[73] for about 80m to come beside a stone memorial[74], marking 'Megalong Cemetery'[75] (on your left).
Megalong Cemetery (historical)
Alt = 566 m
The Megalong Cemetery became the final resting place for at least 14 people who died between 1894 and 1931[76]. Many of the grave sites[77] are in poor repair or can no longer be easily found - please take care in the area to avoid any further damage. A tall stone monument[78] marks the edge of the cemetery on the Six Foot Track, about 100m west of Megalong Road. This cemetery is currently under the management of the Blue Mountains City Council, and is recognised by the National Trust.[79]
(8.32 km)
Megalong Cemetery
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Int Near Guyver Bridge Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 770 m
Time = 15 mins
Climb = 14 m
Descent = -34 m
Continue straight: From beside 'Megalong Cemetery'[80], this walk heads gently downhill along the dirt road[81] for about 80m to pass through gate with a 'No Through Road' sign[82]. Just shy of 300m later, this walk passes a few driveways, beside the farmland[83] to cross another cattle grate[84]. Then about 150m later, the road leads close to Megalong Creek[85], where a sign reminds visitors this is private land[86]. About 30m further on, the main dirt road veers right at a Y-intersection[87] then crosses a cattle grate[88]. Here the walk heads uphill along the dirt road for just over 200m (with views of the escarpment behind[89]) to cross another grate and come to an intersection marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign pointing right into the valley[90].
(9.09 km)
Int Near Guyver Bridge
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Euroka back gate Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.85 km
Time = 41 mins
Climb = 69 m
Descent = -122 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[91] downhill along the narrow track into the valley. The walk now crosses a small creek on the timber 'Guyver Bridge'[92], named in honour of Jon Guyver who worked hard to redevelop the 6FT as the track coordinator/administrator until 2010. Here the walk heads up the timber steps[93] and over a rise[94]. The track now follows a wire fence down through the farmland[95] and across a valley (above a dam) for almost 100m to metal stile just before a dirt trail[96]. Here the walk turns right and crosses the fence using the stile[97], then follows a 'Six Foot Track' sign along the track as it undulates over a series of hills[98] for about 300m before crossing another fence using another metal stile[99] beside a large tree. The track now leads uphill for 200m to pass a 'Private Land - No Camping before Coxs River Reserve' sign[100], then winds along the side of the hill for a further 150m before heading into a wooded forest and down some timber steps[101]. The walk then crosses a steep gully and winds along the side of the hill for just over 100m to pass a '35km' 6FT arrow post[102], then 150m later, crosses another fence using a metal stile[103]. Here the walk continues for another 600m through a mix of farmland and open forest, crossing a few more steep gullies with timber steps to head through a closed gate[104], marked with a few 'Private Property' signs[105].
(10.94 km)
Private Gate
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Bowtells Bridge East Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.43 km
Time = 1 hr 25 mins
Climb = 157 m
Descent = -348 m
Continue straight: From the gate, this walk heads downhill along the narrowing track, keeping the valley to your right. After about 120m, this walk crosses a timber fence on a metal stile[106], then continues down the track over a few large rocks for just over 200m, to an intersection with a wide trail. Here the walk turns right then immediately left[107], to continue along the track as it narrows again. The track then leads down along the side of the valley for about 600m and passes through another usually closed gate[108], then about 250m later, the track passes a few granite boulders[109] and heads down a few timber steps. About 400m after this, this walk heads down a 100m-long series of timber steps[110] to cross a gully and find a series of large granite boulders[111] - one of the small overhangs is home to a wild bee hive[112]. The track leads out of the valley and gently down along the side of the hill for about 1km, where the valley opens up with wider views down to the Coxs River[113], then heads down some more timber steps[114]. About 250m later, the track leads down another set of timber steps[115] to then head through a pleasant lush gully with views close to the river[116]. The track then heads along the hillside for another 150m to an intersection (just above the swing bridge, to your right), marked with a 'Six Foot Track' and 'Alternative Bridge' signs[117].
(14.38 km)
Bowtells Swing Bridge
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Bowtells Swing Bridge North Track: Moderate - duckboard
Length = 130 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 15 m
Descent = -8 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Alternative Bridge When River High' sign[118] down the timber steps[119] to the southern end of the 'Bowtells Bridge'[120]. Here the walk climbs the ramp and crosses the Cox's River on the suspension bridge[121], observing the 'Only one Person at a time'[122] safety sign. This crossing can take some time with a large group - the bridge does swing a fair bit and people concerned by heights may find this challenging. The bridge spans 100m, giving great views of the river below[123]. On the far side, this walk steps off the bridge onto the large rock platform[124].
Bowtells Swing Bridge
Alt = 296 m
This suspension footbridge[125] spans the Coxs River and provides an alternate route for the Six Foot Track when the river is in flood[126]. Regardless of weather, this route is now becoming more popular with many walkers, wanting to avoid the river crossing. The bridge was built and opened in 1992 by the Royal Australian Engineers. The bridge is named after a fellow soldier of the builders, Corporal Bob Bowtell, who suffocated and died in foul air whilst attempting to clear a tunnel of the VC during the Vietnam war [127]. Bowtell grew up in Katoomba and is now buried in West Malaysia.
(14.51 km)
Bowtells Bridge West
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Coxs River Campsite Track: Moderate - bushtrack,servicetrail
Length = 1.2 km
Time = 28 mins
Climb = 56 m
Descent = -92 m
Continue straight: From the north side of the bridge, this walk heads up the timber steps through the dense forest[128] to soon pass the 'Bowtells Bridge' sign[129]. At the top of these steps, the track bends left then leads along the side of the hill for 500m, crossing a few gullies[130] and undulating up and down a series of timber steps to then pass between a couple of fences posts[131]. Here the walk continues down a series of timber steps[132] to a clearing and intersection marked with a 'Private Land - No Camping' sign[133]. Turn sharp right: From the intersection and clearing, this walk follows the 'Camping Ground-500mtrs' sign[134] north up the timber steps. The track soon bends left and follows the side of the hill[135] for about 130m to then head through a gate with a 'Welcome' sign[136]. The walk continues along the clear track for another 70m to the intersection with the timber path[137] just below the 'Six Foot Track Lodge'[138]. Continue straight: From the intersection below the 'Six Foot Track Lodge'[139], this walk follows the clear track west initially keeping the lodge up to your right. After about 30m this walk crosses a gully[140] then climbs over a fence using stile[141]. Here the walk turns right and follows the track for almost 50m to a T-intersection[142] with a wide trail, beside a private property gate[143] and marked with several 'Six Foot Track' signs[144]. Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Camping Ground-200m' sign[145] gently down along wide trail[146]. After about 230m the trail flattens out and passes below the main camping area[147] marked with a 'Coxs River Reserve' sign[148]. About 30m past here, this walk comes to a clear intersection with a dirt road marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign[149].
Coxs River Camping Area
Alt = m
Cox's River Campsite, on the Six Foot Track, is situated on the western bank of the Cox's River. It provides a shelter, water (rain tank or creek - treat before drinking either), picnic tables, toilet and a flat grassed camping area with excellent access to the river.
Coxs River
Alt = 270 m
The Coxs River starts west of Katoomba, running south-east as the main tributary for the Warragamba Dam. The Six Foot Track crosses the river using on the slippery rounded stones or, when in flood, the large metal Bowtells Bridge. The campsite is located a short distance up the west bank from where the 6FT crosses. The water must be treated before drinking. The river provides some potentially nice swimming spots, with pools and interesting granite rock formations, be very careful if deciding to swim as it can also be a very dangerous.
(15.71 km)
Coxs River Campsite
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Coxs River Floodplain Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 167 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 3 m
Descent = -5 m
Turn sharp left: From the the intersection south of the Coxs River Campsite, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[150] downhill for 40m to the sandy beach on the bank of the river[151]. Please heed the 'Do Not Cross River When In Flood Use Alternative Bridge' warning sign[152], this river is normally about shin deep, if deeper consider using the swing bridge upstream. From the beach, this walk crosses the river that may flow in two or three sections[153] across smooth and slippery rocks. On the far side this walk comes to a clearing on the floodplain[154].
(15.88 km)
Cox's River Campsite (East)
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Little River and Coxs River Int Track: Hard - undefined
Length = 3.13 km
Time = 1 hr 1 mins
Climb = 87 m
Descent = -106 m
Turn right: From the east side of the Cox's River Campsite, this walk heads south-east alongside the river, through the pastures where cows often graze. At this point, the track is not defined. As such, the best navigational tool is the river. After leaving the paddocks, the walk continues between the fence on the hill, and the river. There are numerous 'No Entry' signposts, indicating private property - in order to walk through this section of land, you will need to obtain permission from the owners or walk right next to the creek, which is public land. This walk continues around the river, turning to the east, taking the easiest routes around the numerous boulders and rocks strewn around. The walk continues in this manner, as the river turns back around to the south. Power lines can be seen in the distance. After crossing underneath these, the walk continues for approximately 100m before coming to an intersection with a management trail, marked by a bridge going across the Cox's River.
(19.01 km)
Little River and Coxs River Int
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Quartpot Gully/ Coxs River Track Intersection Track: Hard - undefined
Length = 3.3 km
Time = 1 hr 5 mins
Climb = 93 m
Descent = -119 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads south-east along the management trail, keeping the river to the right. After approximately 100m, the walk breaks off the trail and heads down to the creek through the cattle gate (remember to leave the gate as you found it). The walk then follows the river south, passing a house on a private property to the left. Following the river, this walk gradually bends around to the west, the trail becoming more distinct as it passes several creeks and gullies. The walk then comes to a sharper bend in the river to the south (left), where the walk comes to an intersection with a track, up the hill on the left. (This is not long before Quartpot Gully.)
(22.31 km)
Quartpot Gully/ Coxs River Track Intersection
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Coxs River Blue Mountains NP Entry Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.68 km
Time = 35 mins
Climb = 66 m
Descent = -67 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south, keeping the Cox's River on the right. The walk follows a reasonably well-defined bush track, however at times this becomes slightly less well-defined, particularly in the areas of high grass and boulders. There are occasional ventures through stinging nettles. The walk passes numerous signposts saying 'Blue Mountains National Park' and pointing south along the river, as well as signs prohibiting camping. After a while, the trail comes to a small gate and a 'Blue Mountains National Park' sign.
(23.99 km)
Coxs River Blue Mountains NP Entry
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Int of Coxs Ck and Breakfast Ck Trks Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.24 km
Time = 1 hr 15 mins
Climb = 169 m
Descent = -186 m
Continue straight: From the gate, this walk heads south, keeping the Cox's River to the right. The track is quite well-defined around here but tends to fade when going through areas of boulders and grasslands. There are steep hills on both sides of the creek, and some great views to the south. About 1.3 km past the gate, the trail crosses the river - At the time of writing, this was marked by a large stick stuck into the ground, ahead of which the dense bushland comes down to the river bank. After crossing the river, the track continues along the western bank, keeping the river to the left. This continues for approximately 1.6 km until crossing back to the eastern bank of the river. Note: This crossing is not as noticeable as the first one and therefore it is necessary to watch for the track on the opposite side of the creek. The track continues south along the river, though staying about 30m back from the banks. The walk passes several small campsites and soon comes to the junction of Breakfast Creek (which goes to the left).
Breakfast Creek Campsite
Alt = 210 m
This campsite is located at the junction of the Cox's River and Breakfast Creek. Fresh water is available from the Cox's River but should be treated before drinking. There are no facilities at this campground.
(27.23 km)
Int of Coxs Ck and Breakfast Ck Trks
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Breakfast Ck and Blackhorse Ridge Trk Int Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.74 km
Time = 1 hr 33 mins
Climb = 281 m
Descent = -185 m
Turn left: From the junction, this walk heads east along Breakfast Creek, keeping the creek to the right. Very soon, the track crosses to the southern bank, but its easier just to walk along the creekbed for the first little section. After joining up with the track on the western bank, the walk continues east. This continues for several kilometres until the trail stays on the northern bank for quite a large section before climbing up and over a small steep knoll and then joining back up with the river on the eastern side. After crossing the knoll, the track continues east in the same manner as before, with the track frequently crossing the creek. The track comes to a distinct turn in the creek, where it heads north, and an intersection with a rough bush track coming down through Bad Dog Gully from the Blackhorse Ridge Track.
(30.97 km)
Breakfast Ck and Blackhorse Ridge Trk Int
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Int of Ironpot Mtn and Dunphys Servicetrails Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.13 km
Time = 1 hr 26 mins
Climb = 361 m
Descent = -54 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north-east on the track running next to Breakfast Creek. The track crosses the creek at numerous points, while steadily and gradually climbing. Approximately 1km after the intersection and on the east side of the creek, the track passes a reasonably large clearing which has clearly been used as a campsite.
From here, the walk continues north-east along the bush track until gradually turning more to the east and the creek becomes largely dried up. Near the top of the creek, the track turns right and sharply heads uphill through the cleared grasslands to the east. The walk follows a faint outline of a management trail. This continues until the track bends to the north (left) and heads along the management trail, passing by a sign saying 'Blue Mountains National Park - Please Take All Rubbish With You'. Approximately 50m up the hill from here, the walk crosses over a fence at a National Parks stile, then comes to an intersection with a more distinct management trail.
(34.1 km)
Int of Ironpot Mtn and Dunphys Servicetrails
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Dunphys Camping Area Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 290 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 32 m
Descent = -1 m
Veer right: From the stile, this walk turns to the right, initially heads east on the management trail. This heads up the hill for approximately 250m until coming to a campsite marked with a signpost saying 'Dunphy's Camping Area'.
Dunphys Camping Area
Alt = 630 m
Dunphy's camping area is at a large clearing next to the very southern end of Megalong Valley Rd. There is a large, well-built toilet, barbeques with shelter and a rainwater tank. There are also information signs on the walks and tracks in the area. The campsite is next to private property so be prepared to wake up in the morning to cows and horses wandering around the campground.
(34.39 km)
Dunphys Camping Area
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Int Medlow Gap Management Trail and Carlons Head trk Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 1.29 km
Time = 32 mins
Climb = 114 m
Descent = -32 m
Continue straight: From Dunphy's camping area, this walk heads south-east, steeply up the management trail following the signs to the 'Bellbird Ridge Lookout Track'. Once reaching the first rise, the track turns slightly north and continues to climb more gradually. Once reaching the ridge, the track continues along the flat management trail, gradually turning back to the east until coming to a large gate signposted 'Blue Mountains National Park'. About 150m later, the walk comes to an intersection marked by a green signpost saying 'Bellbird Point 1.5km'. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads east along the wide management trail for approximately 550m. The walk then comes to an intersection with a more distinct management trail, signposted 'Medlow Gap Management Trail', directly under the high-tension power lines.
(35.68 km)
Int Medlow Gap Management Trail and Carlons Head trk
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Bottom of Carlon Head Pass Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 548 m
Time = 28 mins
Climb = 192 m
Descent = -10 m
Continue straight: From the intersection (at the 'Medlow Gap Management Trail' sign), this walk takes the overgrown management trail north-east under the power lines. Near the tower, the walk turns to the east (right), following the rough bush track directly up the hill. This section of the track is very steep and often slippery.
The track continues to be very steep until reaching the first set of cliffs. The track heads around to the north slightly (left) around the knoll for approximately 50m until coming to a chimney and set of chains on the rock, this is the bottom of Carlon Head Pass.
(36.23 km)
Bottom of Carlon Head Pass
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Top of Carlon Head Pass Route: Unmanaged - bushtrack
Length = 96 m
Time = 20 mins
Climb = 102 m
Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From the bottom of Carlon Head Pass, the climb starts, heading up four main climbs in close succession. Ensure the chain is safe to use before starting to climb, check the pegs are secure before use. The walk then heads up the cliff using the chain, pegs and carved foot holds up the cliff. Once at the top there is a fantastic view back across the valley. ####Please note these chains are rusting and a walker reported (April 2011) that the lower peg on the chain broke[155], this pass is particularly hazardousness ####
Carlon Head Pass
Alt = 968 m
Carlon Head Pass has a chain and metal spikes to assist with three consecutive drops of about five metres each. This is a vertical climb/descent and the chain is secured to the rock. Great care is required to scale Carlon Head pass safely as it is very exposed.
(36.32 km)
Top of Carlon Head Pass
to
Fire Tower Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.31 km
Time = 27 mins
Climb = 91 m
Descent = -27 m
Continue straight: From the top of Carlon Head Pass, this walk heads east away from the view, through thick forest and scrub. The track is unclear much of the way, but it follows the ridge line till coming to the public toilets at the fire tower on Bushwalkers Hill.
(37.64 km)
Fire Tower
to
Int of Glenraphael and Cliff Drives Track: Moderate - servicetrail,road,road,road
Length = 9.56 km
Time = 3 hrs 27 mins
Climb = 361 m
Descent = -454 m
Turn left: From the fire tower at the top of Bushwalkers Hill, this walk heads north, following the dirt road through the thick gum tree forest and through the scrub. The trail undulates along Narrow Neck ridge, until it comes to the intersection of the southern Castle Head track. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the dirt road up to the top of the steep hill. The track then flattens out and continues along until it reaches the intersection of the northern Castle Head track. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north, following the dirt road as it undulates along the ridge for a while, before it reaches the National Park gate and the car park just on the other side. (For emergency access, keys to the National Park gate are available from the local council, police and National Parks services.) Continue straight: From the National Park gate, this walk follows Glenraphael Drive north through the parking area. The dirt road continues through the bush, undulating along the ridge for about 1km before coming to the signposted intersection at the top of the Golden Stairs, with some more car parking either side of the road. Continue straight: From the Golden Stairs car park, this walk follows the dirt road north, down the gentle hill and along the ridge as it undulates up and down for about 1km, before reaching the Sydney Water management trail - this is closed to the public at all times. Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the dirt road heading up the hill and undulating along the ridge for about 1km, before it climbs up to the intersection with Cliff Drive.
(47.2 km)
Int of Glenraphael and Cliff Drives
to
Scenic World Walk: Easy - road
Length = 566 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 7 m
Descent = -34 m
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk heads up Cliff Drive briefly, then follows the management trail on the right, just past the house. At the end of the trail, this walk turns right onto Violet Street, following this to the front entrance of Scenic World.
Scenic World
Alt = 951 m
Scenic World is one of the most renowned tourist attractions of Katoomba and the Blue Mountains. Located on the cliffs of the Jamison Valley [156], visitors can enjoy a ride on the Scenic Railway (the world's steepest incline railway) or the Scenic Cableway, into the Jamison Valley, and explore the Scenic Walkway from the base. Alternatively, the Scenic Skyway offers a bird's eye view over the valley, with a glass floor to enhance the experience. Scenic World also features a revolving restaurant, a cafe and a kiosk, in addition to the documentary theatre and souvenir shop. Rides can be purchased, starting from $16 for adults and $10 for children, and combination or family passes are available. More info
Fire Danger This walk passes Central Ranges fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place. (Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago) This walk passes Greater Sydney Region fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place. (Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago) Please Note: Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Blue Mountains National ParkLink to official closures and fire bans page Attracting over 3 million visitors annually, Blue Mountains National Park holds some of Australia's most spectacular and diverse wilderness areas. Explore the Grose Valley, with its sheer sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and scenic walking, or enjoy the famous views of the Three Sisters. Easy access makes a day trips very worthwhile, but with such diversity it would be great to stay in one of the many B&B's and spend a few days soaking up the region. Region: Sydney & Surrounds Park feesCampingFacilities Current Park Closure information for Blue Mountains National Park Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM Closed areas: Grand Canyon walking track The Grand Canyon walking track will be closed from Wednesday 14 October 2015 to mid-June 2016. The closure is necessary to allow work to continue on improving the walking track. Access for canyoners will be on weekends only. Access from Evans Lookout via Beauchamp Falls to the Grose Valley will remain open. Evans Lookout carpark, Loop carpark, and Neates Glen carpark will remain open. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 47878877 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Waratah Native Gardens Waratah Native Gardens picnic area is closed for maintenance. This includes the Gorge Walking track. No access to the area is permitted.Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Hawkesbury area office on (02) 4588 2400 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Prince Henry cliff walk, Leura Blue Mountains City Council wishes to advise that Prince Henry cliff walk between Majestic lookout and the junction with the Leura Cascades walk is currently closed due to a landslip. Detours will be in place and clearly signposted around the affected area. Access from the Leura picnic area to the cascades is unaffected. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains City Tourism on 1300 653 408 or Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Butterbox Swamp track The traditional access to Butterbox Canyon via the endangered swamp is now closed and rehabilitated. No access permitted. Canyoners should use the new track provided. Temporary signage is in place. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Claustral canyon access change Access to Claustral canyon via the previous route across private land at Mount Tomah is no longer possible due to landholders denying access. Canyoners should respect the rights of Mount Tomah residents and avoid using private land. Alternative access from the west side of Mount Bell has been identified. For more information, please contact the Blue Moauntains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, open seven days 9am to 4.30pm, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Cahills lookout - Katoomba As a result of a recent bushfire, Cahills lookout remains closed until further notice. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains City Council on (02) 4780 5000.
Closed areas: Waratah Native Gardens Waratah Native Gardens Some areas of this park are closed due to a major landslip event occurring across The Gorge Walking Track. Closed areas include The Gorge Walking Track in the Blue Mountains National Park. A full assessment is underway to determine the extent of damage and to ensure the area is made safe. The Gorge Walking Track is closed at the entry trackhead however the Waratah Native Gardens Day Use and Picnic Area located off Valley Ridges Road Berambing (west of Bilpin) has now been reopened. This closure may be extended and any extension will be posted as soon as possible. For more information, please contact NPWS Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, open seven days 9am to 4.30pm, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines
The track crosses Coxs a three times between Jenolan river intersection abd breakfast Ck. Traveling south, the first two can be avoided by a simple scramble over some boulders. If the river is up even a little, these can be quite deep.
Anonymous - chains at carlons
IP:130.56.76.xxx | 2010-10-09 08:59:05
Heya,
The notes were great except for the stuff going down Carlons Pass. Here the notes should be treated with great skepticism. Rather than following the notes in the prescribed way we went backwards (so we started at Katoomba).
Luckily we did this because these cliffs were extremely dangerous and attempting to climb these without significant rockclimbing experience and gear would have been foolhardy considering that the chains are not always securely bolted into the rock and the cliffs are sheer.
Even abseiling we encountered 6 separate drops rather than 3. Consequently,I would recommend that people do not do not do this section of the walk unless they have abseiling experience, ropes and time. All in all rather than the suggested 20 minutes that the notes stated, it took us approximately 6 hours to get ourselves and gear from the top of the cliff down to the bottom.
All in all, a long and stressful day.
However thanks heaps wildwalks for the information on the rest of the walk.
admin - re: chains at carlons
Super Administrator | 2010-10-13 05:30:16
Anonymous wrote:
Heya,
the chains are not always securely bolted into the rock and the cliffs are sheer.
Hi Anonymous, thanks for taking the time to leave feedback. Yes this is a very steep section of rock. When you say "not always securely bolted" did you see the chain undone?? There are several chains, and some secured in several places. Climbing up these things are generally easier then climbing down. I suspect that since you had abseil gear you where already planing on abseiling??, and yes generally abseiling is a very slow process with a group, esp multi-pitch.
I have included some photos below to give a better sense of the climb.
Michael Zolotarev - Mr
IP:61.95.26.xxx | 2010-11-07 23:48:40
1. DO NOT EVEN THINK OF DOING IT WITHOUT AN EMERGENCY BEACON!
2. First aid kit is the must, do not push your luck.
3. Not less than 3 people in a group, and at least 2 must be males.
4. GPS and the maps.
The trek is dangerous and hard, boulders are slippery, possibility of someone falling badly is very real. 3 of us went, all males, one has fallen and broke a rib. 2 Panadein Forte pills immediately and one more later, so he has managed to make it up to the Dunphy, where fortunately there were people with a car.
Navigating up Breakfast Ck is strenuous, you have to constantly watch for the path, which in some parts crosses the stream every 50m or so.
Leaches.
Having some signs along the trek would help to avoid getting lost, but it does not make it easier to cross.
admin - re: Mr
Super Administrator | 2010-11-08 04:01:49
Michael Zolotarev wrote:
The trek is dangerous and hard, boulders are slippery, possibility of someone falling badly is very real.
Hi Michael
Thanks for the feedback, sounds like you had a tough trip. Hope your friend is OK. This is a good reminder that any 'back diamond' walks (class 5 and 6) walks have sections that need navigation's and remote area skills and equipment.
Maps, PLB and groups between 4-6 people with at least two experienced and fit people is good advice, especially for class 5&6 walks.
Matt :)
Alexia Horton - Breakfast Creek and Carlons
IP:124.169.225.xxx | 2011-01-17 09:17:39
Hi
My husband and I did this walk in December 2010 and now I wish I'd read these comments before we went!
Regarding Carlon Head Pass, we went up and found it very stressful. Fortunately we both had rock climbing experience but I would not suggest attempting this without suitable rock climbing gear. We didn't take any (thinking it wouldn't be needed) and there's no way I'd climb up that again without it, especially carrying packs!
Breakfast Creek is absolutely beautiful, but yes, there are leeches. And beware the turn off Breakfast Creek to go up to Dunphy's - we missed it the first time because we were waking higher up on the other side of Breakfast Creek didn't see the incoming creek which you are meant to go up because it was hidden by bush.
We ended up taking more time to do this walk instead of the 3 days. I'd probably suggest camping 3 nights and taking 4 day to do it (camping at Cox's River campsite, Breakfast Creek/Cox's River junction and then at Dunphy's campsite). It could be done in 3 days but I really think it would be a tough walk.
Other than those warnings, it was a fantastic, beautiful and challenging walk and I would definitely recommend it.
Tommy Delcher - Mr
IP:82.71.190.xxx | 2011-10-18 13:15:29
I did this trek by myself 18 months ago and must say it was extremely naïve of me to attempt it solo. On top of this I didn’t take any sort of tracking beacon with me (other than my mobile phone) so had anything happened to me, I would have been in a lot of trouble.
On the other hand, getting lost is pretty much an impossibility if you stick to the basics. Day 1 = follow the very easy family route to campsite. Day 2 = follow the river until you reach the very visible creek on the left. Day 2/3 = follow the creek to the campsite. Climb the mountain. Follow the path to Katoomba. This is why I decided this hike was the safest to take by myself.
Don’t do what I did and cut across a hill to make up some time as you will end up going back on yourself and needing to camp in a makeshift campsite with not a soul in site - other than what I can only assume was a wild boar I heard sniffing by my head at 1am.
I also concur with many regarding the cliff climb. Following the instructions here I came to the conclusion that it would be a tough but relatively safe ascent. In reality it is an extremely precarious and very high cliff face with only rusty pegs and chains to support you as you climb. You need to give many of these your full weight at times and had any of them given way (which some had done with others on previous occasions already), I’m of no doubt that I’d have met my demise.
But I didn’t and after three days and quite an excursion I returned home feeling extremely satisfied. Some of the views - particularly at the top of the cliff climb - were nothing short of spectacular. Aussie landscape at its very best.
This trek comes highly recommended but with warning – take a beacon, take a buddy and take bloody good care of yourself!
Meg Thornton
IP:115.64.31.xxx | 2012-03-23 20:19:24
Im looking at these notes in preparation for a trip. I have previously down climbed this route twice. In a party of women . Yes no men.
If you have experience of serious canyons, serious bush walking in rugged terrain and rock climbing skills, this route is a good, satisfying and challenging access point.
An emergency beacon is no substitute for each individual taking responsibility for acquiring the appropriate skills for their chosen route. I would argue that it serves as a crutch - If you don't have the skills for the terrain , turn around and go back or just don't go there. There are many many less challenging & equally delightful routes to choose.
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2012-03-27 02:15:11
Meg Thornton wrote:
In a party of women . Yes no men.
Good one Meg. :)
Meg Thornton wrote:
An emergency beacon is no substitute for each individual taking responsibility for acquiring the appropriate skills for their chosen route.........
Agree, but we also need to remember that no amount of experaince or skill is a substitute for a PLB either. Sometimes stuff just goes wrong, someone has a stroke, a rock falls, a stick in an eye. In these cases the earlier someone gets medical care the better of they will be. I always carry a PLB and always hope I never have to use it.
Thanks for the feedback.
Matt :)
Anonymous
IP:58.173.102.xxx | 2012-05-22 06:07:41
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE CLIMBING GEAR (harness, ropes, biners etc.) IT IS VITAL; ENSURE YOU HAVE AN EPIRB OR SIMULAR AND A FIRST AID KIT!!!!! I just got back from this hike, Man it’s really important, one of our members slipped while climbing down a 15m cliff; he also had his pack on; to makes thing harder; luckily they were roped in and didn’t hurt themselves. Make sure your prepared guys!!! But if you are it’s a lot of fun.
Steve - Carlon head pass
IP:113.29.215.xxx | 2012-06-13 01:34:58
Hey guys,
Just wondering, I'm planning on doing this hike, with 3 mates, we are doing it in reverse, so we will be abseiling of the Carlons pass, we are all experienced, but I cant find the approximate of the overall abseil so I can bring the correct size rope, could someone help me out??
cheers
admin - re: Carlon head pass
Super Administrator | 2012-06-13 11:03:30
Steve wrote:
Hey guys,
Just wondering, I'm planning on doing this hike, with 3 mates, we are doing it in reverse, so we will be abseiling of the Carlons pass, we are all experienced, but I cant find the approximate of the overall abseil so I can bring the correct size rope, could someone help me out??
cheers
Hard for me to guess sorry. Maybe 15m (I am thinking cautiously 20m). It has been a while sorry. I assume you will need to double rope it. I hope I am right, but prepared to prusic back up I am wrong. Let us know what you find.
Matt :)
Steve
IP:113.29.215.xxx | 2012-06-15 00:24:50
Cheers matt, would you need to do multi pitch? or is it a straight cliff
Cheers
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2012-06-17 07:56:19
Steve wrote:
..would you need to do multi pitch? or is it a straight cliff
Cheers
A group of 3 of us just tried this trek over the weekend. Started off from the YHA in Katoomba at 5.30am in the hopes of being able to complete it in 2 days. Dunphy's campsite would be our overnight stop.
In this section of the trail notes - Coxs River Blue Mountains NP Entry to Int of Coxs Ck and Breakfast Ck Trks. We spent way too much time trying to locate the stick which marked the river crossing nor could we really see a distinct trail on the other side of the river bank. The river was flowing high and it made any crossings quite dangerous. It was dark and we had been hiking for 13 hours, the decision was made to put up a makeshift camp along the river and resume the next day.
After back tracking to the gate and continuing on the trail again we ended back to our makeshift campsite. The trail abruptly ends here with thick bush in our path. After crawling through the thick scrub and scrambling over some boulders we found the trail again and hoped that the crossing wasn't far. Though by this time, daylight would be fading in a couple of hours and even though if we made it to Breakfast creek there is a high chance we would be hiking in the dark again.
We headed back and followed the red/orange ribbons up Tinpot mountain to the car park where a friendly local gave us a lift back to Katoomba. It sure was an adventure. We'll be back again in Spring... to complete this in 3 days :)
admin - re: It's not a walk in a park
Super Administrator | 2012-07-02 23:46:08
LT wrote:
It sure was an adventure. We'll be back again in Spring... to complete this in 3 days :)
Hi LT
Thanks for the feedback. sounds like a tough few days. This is a tough walk, but it does sounds like it is overgrown a bit more now. I will add a note to the walk summary info.
THanks
Matt :)
zephaniah - solo december 2011-2012
IP:203.6.77.xxx | 2012-09-08 04:12:20
Hi;
I set out on Dec 29th 2011 this walk. From Katoomba via Devils Canyon which was spectacular but very steep and slippery. There is NO track here. Just map to ground and zig zagging the steep contours till you hit the track some 6-7kms later at the bottom.
That night i stayed at coxs river campsite. Two british tourists had walked in after me and were also attempting the Coxs river return via Narrow Neck......only problem was they had no Topographical maps, no compass, no gps, no epirb.
WTF????
I convinced them to turn around and head back to Katoomba.
The rest of the walk is extremely inhospitable and required endless rock hopping along the Coxs River. I was glad to be free of it to be honest and was at times considerring turning back.
Day 2 is a nightmare in summer. Its about 3.5km to 4km of rock hopping.
To be honest at this point i sat down and had a well earned vrew and realized i was not going to make it the rest of the way. Swallowing my pride i did an about face and on the 3rd day walked back via the six foot track into katoomba.
Still an enjoyable walk. But to do it on ones own in summer....I would suggest going 'ultra-lite' with no more than 12kg. That would be 4 litres of water, 3kg food. A 'hoochie', lite weight synthetic bag , 3/4 ridgerest mat, epirb,compass,gps(garmin wrist type)first aid kit, toiletries, headtorch. cylume sticksx2. gaiters,walking poles. knife. jetboil and gas. 1 x hexy cube(emergency)Insect repellant and mozzie net head wrap.
I think one may have more issues at Carlon Head though...not having been that far i dont know.
Would it be prudent to rig up a safety line '"BEFORE" starting out on this trip. ??
If i was doing it again I think I would pre rig some 11mm and carry a lite weight riggers belt and a lite weight ascendar for the ascent out??
Just asking.
Tough walk on your own.
Great website.
Igor Pluzhnik
IP:203.110.235.xxx | 2012-11-15 04:33:31
I took this route 3 times once in the company of 2 men, once with my wife and once with a friend and 2 females (one was my wife again).
Each time we've completed the whole route in one day.
The reason I'm writing this is because another friend of mine with a group of males and females is planning to go on a 2 days weekend trip and were asking my opinion. So I went back and reread the notes and was LOL.
Guys and girls
I just can't believe some of the notes. Are you serious? What's wrong with you guys? Since when climbing a 6 m step using pegs and a chain has become a heroic deed? Why you are winging like girly men? I repeat - each time we did the whole track and extra 5 km i.e. from Katoomba to Explorer tree in ONE day. Yes you have to push, you sweat and your muscles are sore next day, but it means you are alive, you pushed yourself, you proved to yourself that you are capable on more than drink beer in front of a TV. Stop being a chicken just go and do it.
One advice though - take extra pair of shoes. When turn left from Cox river and walking along the Breakfast Cr you have to cross it many times. So just put on spare shoes and walk across or alongside the creek, until it's time to go up. Then change it to the dry boots. This way your feet are only wet for 1-1.5 hrs. We actually did it with my wife in winter and I had to carry her each time across the creek and Cox river so her feet were dry. And real men are just happy when it's cold and your feet are wet.
The view on top of the climb is just breathtaking. And if you drop below you are dead anyway so don't bother with PLB. Just kidding. Its not that bad.
zephaniah - I dont believe you.....
IP:203.6.77.xxx | 2012-12-23 02:32:07
Dear Igor;
I find your comments extremely hard to believe.
You did all this; 43km in One day???
You would have to be jogging the from the Explorers Tree to Coxs River campsite.(17km)..then running once you got to Glen Raphael Drive.
I just can not believe your comments are truthful. From Coxs River campsite to Breakfast creek it is physically impossible to move at even a middle pace...its 12km of very hard walking. You can't run anywhere along this section....then you have to head up along Breakfast Creek which is even tougher...
Your story is extremely hard to take seriously mate.
"Real men are happy when its cold and wet" comment is interesting bravado. Something only an idiot would write if they had ever experienced the debilitating effects of hypothermia.
Lindsay - Igors stories
IP:58.111.144.xxx | 2013-06-26 07:34:00
Just seen this. This is the same bloke who, on the Bushwalk Australia site, claims to have done the six foot track in one day with a pram, and swears by the suck and spit method of snake bite treatment. Yeah, right.
Lyonel - Challenging trail
IP:60.240.56.xxx | 2014-06-10 01:44:18
Just did this over the weekend. We are 3 guys in our early-mid 30s with limited rock climbing experience (mainly indoor), hauling 20kg packs with around 5 litres of water each. Set off before sunrise on Saturday from the YHA in Katoomba and returned on Sunday evening.
Some notes:
- Cox's river was relatively calm and made the crossings easy. We made 2 crossings overall to reach Breakfast creek. If you zoom into the map from the links you can see our exact crossing points.
- We aimed to make it to Dunphy's camp on the first day but was too exhausted and ended up camping 3.24km into Breakfast creek from the Cox's river junction. Breakfast creek was brutal in the dark! Slippery wet rocks and multiple crossings in limited vision slowed us down to about 30min/km. It took us 1hr 37min to cover 3.24km. Looking back it was a blessing in disguise because the campsite as outlined in the notes as a 'large clearing' was pretty sweet. An open canopy meant a perfect view to the night sky.
- As we arrived at Dunphy's camp in the morning we found the rain water tank was empty. For future hikers you might want to fill up at Breakfast creek instead.
- The Carlon Head track to the bottom of Carlon Head Pass was not very distinct and quite steep. Had to check the compass a few times to gauge direction.
- All the feedback regarding Carlon Head Pass is pretty much on point. It's NOT to be taken light heartedly. We didn't have proper climbing equipment so We ended up using carabiners which I happened to have, to secure our backpacks and haul them up first before climbing the cliffs. The third set of cliffs are the most dangerous as it is very exposed... all the way down to the valley floor in fact. If you're afraid of heights like I am... just DON'T look down! Climbing it with a 20kg pack on your back would be fatal if you lost your footing. The chains and pegs seemed to be holding up well but use them with extreme caution. Apart from that, the top of Carlon Head Pass was the perfect spot for lunch with rad views.
- From the top of Carlon Head Pass to the fire tower a good chunk of the trail was not clear so the compass came in handy again.
Strolling across Narrow Neck with the sun setting across the valley made for some spectacular views to end the journey. A great trail, thanks for the notes it gave us a hiking experience we'll never forget!
Hiking near Sydney 
Route: Unmanaged
10 km
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
There is free parking available.
not too much longer now :)