On this 3 day walk you will explore some remote areas around the Kedumba Valley, and some of the most famous spots in the Blue Mountains. The walks starts at Scenic World to head down Furber Steps and follow the Federal pass past the Scenic Railway, the land slide, to an optional side trip up Ruined Castle. The walk then climbs steeply up to Mount Solitary to stay the night. The next day the walk heads steeply down to cross the Kedumba River then follows the trail through the valley to stay near Leura Creek. Day three brings you back to the federal pass, the up the Giant Stair case, past the Thee Sisters and some grand lookouts back to the start of the walk.
(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 Mt Solitary and Kedumba Valley Circuit
Cross sectional view of the Mt Solitary and Kedumba Valley Circuit bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Mt Solitary and Kedumba Valley Circuit 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
34km
Time
3 Days
.
Grade 5/6
Route: Hard
AS 2156.1
Gradient
Very steep and difficult scrambles (5/6)
Quality of track
Rough unclear track (5/6)
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
No facilities provided (5/6)
*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
13km of this walk is very steep and another 12km has short steep hills. Whilst another 6km has gentle hills with occasional steps and a 2.6km section is very steep with difficult rock scrambles. The remaining 1.2km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
13km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 8km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely. Whilst another 7km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and a 3km section follows a rough unclear track. The remaining 2.3km follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
16km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 11km has minimal directional signs. Whilst another 3.6km Has no directional signs and the remaining 3.6km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
14km of this walk requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience and another 8km requires some bushwalking experience. Whilst another 6km requires no previous bushwalking experience and the remaining 4.8km requires a leader with a high level of bushwalking experience.
Weather
13km of this walk is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety and another 10km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation). Whilst another 10km is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety and the remaining 450m forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather likely to have an impact on your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
14km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 11km has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged). Whilst another 4.8km has no facilities provided and the remaining 4.8km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
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Scenic World is one of the most renowned tourist attractions of Katoomba and the Blue Mountains. Located on the cliffs of the Jamison Valley [1], 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
(0 km)
Scenic World
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Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Katoomba Falls Round Walk Track: Moderate - footpath,bushtrack
Length = 172 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = -33 m
From the Scenic World main entrance, this walk follows the 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk' signs down the concrete steps and around to the back of the building, where it comes to a wooden footbridge that curves around behind the main car park. At the end of the footbridge, this walk comes to an intersection with the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track down the gentle hill, winding down some wooden steps as the track bends around to the right. It then arrives at the signposted intersection of the 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk' and the track to the base of the Scenic Railway.
(0.17 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Katoomba Falls Round Walk
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Vanimans Lookout Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 38 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -16 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the steep wooden steps, following the signs to the bottom of the Scenic Railway. The walk comes to the intersection of Vanimans Lookout at the bottom of the steps.
Vaniman's Lookout
Alt = 909 m
Vaniman's Lookout is a fenced, long and narrow lookout on the cliff edge, opposite Reids Plateau. The view looks directly over the Three Sisters across the Kedumba Valley, under the Scenic Skyway. The lookout was considered one of the finest views on the Three Sisters in the 1900's. The lookout was named after Chester Melvin Vaniman in 1905, a well-know adventurer and artist from the USA, who visited the Blue Mountains in 1903[2]. More info
(0.21 km)
Vanimans Lookout
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Int of Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Juliets Balcony Track Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 107 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 4 m
Descent = -11 m
Turn right: From Vanimans Lookout, this walk follows the bush track heading away from the bottom of the wooden steps. The track winds around the side of the hill and down the steep metal stairs. At the bottom, the walk comes to the intersection of the Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Juliets Balcony track (unsignposted).
(0.32 km)
Int of Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Juliets Balcony Track
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Juliets Balcony Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 12 m
Time =
Climb = 1 m
Descent = 0 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the short set of wooden steps, winding up to the raised rock platform, and along the bush track to the edge of the fenced-off rock shelf. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)
Juilets Balcony
Alt = 902 m
Juliets Balcony is a spectacular lookout, perched on top of a rock buttress near Orphan Rock, under the Scenic Skyway. The lookout provides sweeping views of the start of the Kedumba Valley, from Katoomba Falls to the Three Sisters. The lookout is accessed by a staircase, off the Furber Steps track. The fenceline continues along the lookout, forming a long, fenced balcony.
(0.32 km)
Int of Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Juliets Balcony Track
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Int of Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Furber Steps Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 63 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 3 m
Descent = -4 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the long set of wooden steps winding down the side of the hill. After this, the walk flattens out for a short distance then continues up a short set wooden steps to the intersection of the Round Walk and the Furber Steps track.
(0.38 km)
Int of Katoomba Falls Round Walk and Furber Steps
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Rainforest Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 13 m
Time =
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -1 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Base of Scenic Railway' signpost down the wooden steps to the bottom, where it comes to the Rainforest Lookout.
Rainforest Lookout
Alt = 900 m
Unlike many lookouts in the area, Rainforest Lookout does not offer sweeping valley views. Instead, this lookout offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with the canopy of the rainforest. Spend some time in the cool shade listening to the birds and Witches Leap creek passing by. A sign at the lookout explains that there once were wood-fired barbeques here for picnics, but removed due to the toll on the local environment[3].
(0.39 km)
Rainforest Lookout
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Int of Furber Steps and Katoomba Falls Lookout Track Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 17 m
Time =
Climb = 1 m
Descent = 0 m
Turn right: From the Rainforest Lookout, the track follows the bush track heading past the base of the wooden steps and then through the forest for a short while, until it reaches the signposted intersection of the Underfalls Walk.
(0.41 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Katoomba Falls Lookout Track
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Katoomba Falls Optional sidetrip: Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 184 m
Time = 6 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -67 m
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Underfalls Walk' sign down a short set of steps and across a small waterfall using the wooden bridge (This creek flows from Witches Leap all the way down to Veras Grotto). Once past the falls, the track continues through the rainforest, winding along the well-defined path until arriving at Katoomba Falls Lookout, right at the base of the falls. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
Rainforest Lookout
Alt = 900 m
Unlike many lookouts in the area, Rainforest Lookout does not offer sweeping valley views. Instead, this lookout offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with the canopy of the rainforest. Spend some time in the cool shade listening to the birds and Witches Leap creek passing by. A sign at the lookout explains that there once were wood-fired barbeques here for picnics, but removed due to the toll on the local environment[4].
(0.41 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Katoomba Falls Lookout Track
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Queen Victoria Lookout Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 34 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -1 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Scenic Railway' sign along the bush track, winding through the forest for a short while before passing a large rock overhang with a wooden bench seat underneath. The walk continues down a set of stairs until reaching the signposted 'Queen Victoria Lookout'.
(0.44 km)
Queen Victoria Lookout
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Int of Furber Steps and Lynes Point Track Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 6 m
Time =
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -1 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the short metal staircase to the intersection of the Queen Victoria Lookout at the top.
(0.45 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Lynes Point Track
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Furber Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 31 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -7 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track heading away from the short metal staircase, winding along the side of the hill to the top of some concrete steps where there is a 'Furber Steps' signpost. From here, the walk continues down the concrete steps for a short distance until it comes to the signposted 'Furber Lookout'.
(0.48 km)
Furber Lookout
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Int of Furber Steps and Vera's Grotto Track Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 87 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 17 m
Descent = -84 m
Continue straight: From the Furber Lookout, this walk heads down the concrete steps that zigzags steeply down to the bottom of the cliffs. The track then flattens out and continues through the forest with the hand railing on the right, crossing a short boardwalk and coming down to the signposted intersection of the Vera's Grotto track.
(0.57 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Vera's Grotto Track
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Vera's Grotto Optional sidetrip: Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 25 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 27 m
Descent = -3 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Vera's Grotto' sign along the bush track, winding down a set of wooden steps to Vera's Grotto Lookout at the bottom. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
Vera's Grotto
Alt = 849 m
Vera's Grotto is a pleasant little spot located amongst the cascades on Witches Leap creek. This is a great area for lunch on a hot day, as it is always kept cool by the falls and the shade from the surrounding trees. When venturing to the grotto, you may be lucky enough to spot the Whistler and Yellow Robins. Superb Lyrebirds [5] are also heard and even seen frequently in the surrounding area.
(0.57 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Veras Grotto Track
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Int of Furber Steps and Scenic Railway Track Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 134 m
Time = 6 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = -75 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk goes down the stairs. These zigzag down the hill and, at several points, go under overhangs in the cliff. The walk continues steeply downhill (occasionally on metal stairs) until reaching an intersection with a bush track signposted 'Federal Pass'.
(0.7 km)
Int of Furber Steps and Scenic Railway Track
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Scenic Railway (Bottom Platform) Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 167 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 10 m
Descent = -15 m
Turn right: From the bottom of Furber Steps, this walk follows the 'To base of scenic railway' sign keeping the handrail on the left, and following the flat bush track. This track passes through a small gate over a metal bridge at the bottom of the Scenic Railway.
(0.87 km)
Scenic Railway (Bottom Platform)
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Landslide Track: Moderate - duckboard,bushtrack
Length = 1.34 km
Time = 46 mins
Climb = 175 m
Descent = -178 m
Continue straight: From the bridge over the bottom of the Scenic Railway, this walk follows the signs to 'scenic walkway', passing a replica of a mining cart, as well as an old mine. Just past this, the walk comes to a pipeline that runs down the hill collecting fresh water, signposted as drinkable. Continuing past the old mine shafts along the boardwalk, this walk comes to an intersection with a bush track going slightly off to the right. This is signposted as the way to the Landslide. Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the wide track and signposts towards the 'landslide'[6] (keeping the cliffs on the right). The walk winds along a bush track with small boulders strewn along it. There are a number of old mine shafts just off the track and some interesting historical items. The track continues under Malaita Point before breaking out of the vegetation to a worthy view of the valley, just before the landslide. As the track comes to the old landslide site, it become rougher with plenty of boulders over the track. There are also excellent views of the cliffs above and the landslide as the vegetation is quite sparse here.
The Landslide
Alt = 742 m
'The Landslide' is a large rockfall going into the valley approximately 100m. There is a good vantage point for the landslide from under the cliffs to the east, and a great but more distant view from Narrow Neck lookout. The landslide occurred in 1931 after a few days of rumbling. There has been much debate as to whether this event was helped along by erosion and coal mining in the area at the time.
(2.21 km)
Landslide
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Bottom of Golden Staircase Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.55 km
Time = 42 mins
Climb = 128 m
Descent = -123 m
Continue straight: From the eastern side of the Landslide, the walk heads across the face of the landslide (keeping the cliff on the right). At this point, the track is quite rough, with frequent boulders making it a slight scramble. On the other side of the landslide, the track narrows and becomes a flat bush track that follows the base of the cliffs. The surrounding trees become quite dense again, adding quite an ambiance to the area. The walk heads along the bottom of the Narrow Neck escarpment, until coming to an intersection with a set of stairs off to the right, signposted as the 'Golden Staircase'.
(3.76 km)
Golden Stairs Track carpark
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Bottom of Golden Staircase Alternate Entry:
Track: Hard - bushtrack
( Show detail)
Length = 638 m
Time = 27 mins
Climb = 50 m
Descent = -257 m
Continue straight: From the Golden Stairs car park and information sign on Glenraphael Dr[7], the walk follows the 'Golden Stairs / To Federal Pass' sign[8] along the narrow track. The track leads gently downhill[9] past the black and yellow 'Warning - Sections of the Golden Stairs are unfenced and can be slippery when wet' sign[10], with the occasional glimpse out to Malaita Point and towards the Three Sisters[11][12]. The walk soon heads down a few steep eroded sections of track[13] and passes through a couple of switchbacks. The track then leads to a fenced rock platform[14] signposted as 'Botting's L.O.'[15]. Turn right: From the lower side of Botting's Lookout[16], this walk heads downhill along the eroded track[17]. The walk follows the steps through a narrow gully[18] then turns right to flatten out[19] and head under a small overhang between the cliff and fence (passing a 'Caution Rockfall Hazard' sign[20]). After about 100m of fence, the track turns right to cross a wide gully[21]. On the other side of the gully, this walk climbs down a series of metal[22] and stone[23] staircases. The walk flattens again before heading down another series of stairs. Finally, the track winds down the wide spur[24] to meet the signposted T-intersection with 'Federal Pass'[25]. Turn right to join the main walk, following the notes from 3.76km 'Bottom of Golden Staircase'.
(3.76 km)
Bottom of Golden Staircase
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Miners Campsite Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 2.26 km
Time = 51 mins
Climb = 104 m
Descent = -129 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Federal Pass - Ruined Castle' sign[26] along the flat wide track, keeping the valley to your left. This track follows the old horse-drawn coal tram route. The track leads through a tall rainforest filled with fern trees[27] and vines[28], with the occasional lyrebird. After about 1.3km the forest opens up[29], letting in more light and exposing some distant filtered views. After wandering through the more open forest[30] for about 250m, the track passes a small campsite[31] (on the right). This walk continues for another 700m along the main track through the bracken fern forest[32] to find a larger campsite[33] (just up to the right) with a short stone wall on one side[34]).
Miners Campsite
Alt = 726 m
This flat campsite beside the Federal Pass walking track about 2.2km south of the intersection at the bottom of the Golden Stairs. There is short constructed stone wall[35] left over from when there area was habited by miners. The campsite is surrounded by a tall forest, bracken ferns and some nice fern trees. There is no water or facilities.
(6.02 km)
Miners Campsite
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Northern Ruined Castle campsite Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 300 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 16 m
Descent = -11 m
Continue straight: From the miners campsite[36], this walk follows the clear track south-west, keeping the valley to your left. The mostly flat track narrows a bit as it leads past a large flat area (on your right) after about 140m[37], then past a smaller campsite[38] a short distance later. The track then winds through the forest for another 100m to come to a clearing and signposted three-way intersection[39], where there is a 'Federal Pass - Katoomba' sign[40] pointing back along the track. (There is a campsite a few metres further on and to the the left[41].)
Northern Ruined Castle campsite
Alt = 726 m
A short distance south east of the intersection[42] with the Federal Pass and the northern access track to the Ruined Castle, is a fairly large basic campsite. There are two main flat areas for camping, both with fire scares[43]. The area is surround with tall trees and ferns[44][45][46][47]. There is no water nor any other facilities.
(6.32 km)
Northern Ruined Castle campsite
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Ruined Castle Optional sidetrip: Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 727 m
Time = 20 mins
Climb = 82 m
Descent = -17 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Ruined Castle'[48] sign uphill along the eroded track and soon passes the yellow 'Warning - Remote area indistinct route steep terrain - Exposed climbing loose surfaces - No reliable water Carry plenty Sterilise any water found on route' sign[49]. The track winds up the wide valley getting steeper as it goes, climbing up onto the main ridgeline. Here the walk turns left (away from the view of Castle Head[50]) and follows the rocky track more gently uphill for about 220m to pass under the side of a large boulder[51]. The track continues along the narrow ridge for about 280m, with some filtered views past another large boulder to the base of the tall Ruined Castle summit[52]. Here the walk heads gently down a bit (keeping the rock wall to your left), past a crevice[53], then follows the main track to the other (southern) side of the summit. The track then heads up again to find a number of rocky pinnacles[54]. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)
The Ruined Castle
Alt = 793 m
A formation jutting out of the Jamison Valley, the Ruined Castle has great views of the Jamison Valley from Katoomba to Leura. It is also possible to see Mt Solitary to the south-east.
(6.32 km)
Northern Ruined Castle campsite
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Ruined Castle mine campsite Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 553 m
Time = 12 mins
Climb = 12 m
Descent = -31 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Mount Solitary' sign[55] past the campsite (on your left) and past the 'Warning - Remote area indistinct route steep terrain - Exposed climbing loose surfaces - No reliable water Carry plenty Sterilise any water found on route' sign[56]. This walk continues along the mostly flat track, passing through a tall turpentine forest[57] for about 450m where you come into view of a campsite[58] (down to your left). The walk continues a short distance further, coming to an intersection[59] where there is a fair amount of coal on the ground[60], a campsite down to your left[61] and the entrance to an old small coal mine[62] (behind a rock) on your right.
Ruined Castle mine campsite
Alt = 707 m
This campsite is almost due east of Ruined Castle, just off the track that leads around the base of hill. The campsite is down a short but steep bank near the site of an old mine[63]. The are a few campsites scattered along the flat area, mostly surrounded by some tall stringy barks. There are a few fire scars and some filtered valley views. A pleasant spot to stay. There was once a water spring nearby, but this is no longer reliable, you will need to carry in your own water.
(6.88 km)
Ruined Castle mine campsite
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Intersection South of Ruined Castle Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 380 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 10 m
Descent = -46 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follow the main track south-east, initially keeping the campsite and valley to your left. The track initially heads down a short rocky section[64] then flattens out to pass a large square boulder[65] after about 100m. The track continues through ferny forest for just over 200m, then passes another campsite[66] (down a steep hill to your left), and about 30m further on, comes to a signposted intersection where a 'Katoomba' arrow[67][68] points back along the track.
(7.26 km)
Intersection South of Ruined Castle
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Bottom of Korrowall Knife-edge Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.33 km
Time = 35 mins
Climb = 132 m
Descent = -38 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Mount Solitary' sign[69] gently downhill along the fairly narrow track[70], keeping the main valley to your left. After about 300m, the more eroded and rocky track[71] begins to climb the ridge and after climbing for just shy of 300m, the track flattens out and passes a couple of small clearings[72][73] - the second clearing is just past where the track leads downhill. Just after the second clearing (used as a campsite[74]), the track begins to climb up the ridge again[75]. This track climbs up a few rocky eroded section and soon comes to the base of a tall series of rockwalls - the Korrowall Knife-edge[76].
(8.59 km)
Bottom of Korrowall Knife-edge
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Corowal Plateau campsite Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 653 m
Time = 31 mins
Climb = 205 m
Descent = -17 m
Continue straight: From the base of the rocks[77], this walk starts the arduous climb up the Korrowall Knife-edge. Ascending the Korrowall Knife-edge is a hard climb, vertical in places and much of the climbing will involve both hands - some people use ropes to help lift heavy packs. This walk initially heads around to the left of the first boulder to head up through the eroded steep valley[78] between the rocks. The walk continues to scramble up the side of the rocks[79], then climbs vertically up a crack in the rock[80] to a small flat area[81], offering the first distant view[82] for this climb. The walk continues by climbing up a 3m rock wall[83], then up the eroded track[84] before climbing up through the obvious gap[85] in the next rock wall. At the top of this climb is another great view[86] and a short distance further up, this faint track passes a rock with a hole/cave[87] (on your right). From here, the walk follows the worn track up through a couple more rock gullies[88], still generally keeping the rock wall to your right (and passing a couple of arrows[89]). This brings the walk to an exposed flat area, with red dirt and fantastic views[90]. The walk continues by climbing up through the next eroded gully[91] to the top of the Korrowall Knife-edge, where there is a large rock wall on your left[92]. Continue straight: From the top of Korrowall Knife-edge, this walk heads south following a worn track that initially heads steeply down beside the large rock wall[93] (keeping the wall to your left). The track passes a small cave[94] at the base of this cliff then climbs up beside the cliff[95] to the top of the ridge[96], past the rocks[97] to find a view to the left[98]. Here the faint track veers right[99] to follow along the base of another cliff[100]. The walk then heads up a short but steep climb[101], where a short flat walk[102] leads to a fantastic view on your right, looking over Cedar Creek valley to Narrow Neck[103]. After following this faint track a further 60m south along the base of another cliff[104], this walk then climbs up the middle of a steep gully [105] - just past the top of this climb, the track bends sharp left and leads up[106] the hill for about 50m to enter a lovely she oak forest[107], a clearing[108] and the Corowal Plateau campsite[109].
Corowal Plateau campsite
Alt = 953 m
The Corowal Plateau campsite is an informal campsite at the north eastern end of Mount Solitary. The clearing is set among some pleasant casurina forest. There are a few campfire scares, although this is in a fuel stove only area. There is plenty of flat area but there is no water source or any other facilities.
(9.24 km)
Corowal Plateau campsite
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Chinamans Gully Campsite Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 818 m
Time = 19 mins
Climb = 8 m
Descent = -120 m
Veer right: From the campsite[110], this walk heads south-east, following the mostly flat track along the top of the ridge through the she oak forest[111]. After about 200m, this walk enters a banksia forest[112], and continues along the flat ridge (past a few impromptu campsites) for about 400m, where the track begins to head downhill[113]. The track winds downhill for about 170m (passing a track on your left) and comes to a large flat saddle[114] and clearing with a large rock wall, Chinamans Gully Campsite[115].
Chinamans Gully Campsite
Alt = 841 m
Next to a small creek (often dry) and sheltered from the winds, this campsite is great for those wanting to camp on Mt Solitary. For daywalkers, this spot offers the chance to rest under the overhangs of the cliffs before continuing. Water here is not reliable, please note that in the past water was more reliable, but not so now. Please carry plenty of water. There is a camping area near the beginning of the track and there are also a few spots along the gully where people have camped previously.
(10.06 km)
Chinamans Gully campsite
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Chinamans Gully view Optional sidetrip: Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 388 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -50 m
Turn left : From Chinamans Gully campsite, this walk follows the track north[116], keeping the rock walls to you right[117]. The track soon starts to head gently downhill, keeping the small gully on your left and passing through a number of sandstone camping caves[118][119]. The track then heads left to follow the gully downhill[120] for about 150m, and comes to a small clearing and campsite[121] at the junction of two creeks. The track then crosses the side creek[122] and heads gently up the side of the hill[123], coming to an unfenced filtered view up the Kedumba Valley to Katoomba[124]. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
(10.06 km)
Chinamans Gully campsite
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Campsite View Optional sidetrip: Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 56 m
Time = 2 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -14 m
Veer right: From Chinamans Gully campsite, this walk follows a faint track south, keeping the main rock wall immediately to your left[125]. The track soon bends right[126] and heads up onto a rock platform[127], suddenly coming to the top of an unfenced cliff with stunning views south[128]. This point is sometimes called 'Melvilles Lookout', but there is some debate as the name appears in different places on different maps. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)
(10.06 km)
Chinamans Gully campsite
to
Singa-Jingawell Creek Campsite Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.81 km
Time = 55 mins
Climb = 179 m
Descent = -206 m
Continue straight: From the large campsite at the top of Chinamans Gully, this walk heads east up the gully[129], initially keeping the large main rock to your right (and Chinamans Gully to your left). The track leads up the short gully[130] to the top of the rock, where there is a filtered view[131](to your right). This walk follows the track as it winds up the hill for about 130m, passing another great view[132] (on your right). The track then mostly flattens out, following the top of the ridge for another 500m to pass a small campsite[133]. About 200m past this campsite, the track then passes a short track (on your left that provides great unfenced views over the Kedumba Valley[134]). Over the next 400m, the track continues east, fairly closely to the northern face of Mount Solitary, with the occasional gap in the trees to provide great views. The track alternately rises and falls, and passes the (not very noteworthy) summit[135] of Mount Solitary. From here, the track starts to lead down[136] a ridge, passing a few filtered views over about 500m, then comes to a large campsite[137], with a rock platform[138] (up to the left) that provides even more views[139].
Singa-Jingawell Creek Campsite
Alt = 814 m
Singa-Jingawell Creek Campsite is near the northern wall, partway across the eastern half of Mount Solitary. The informal campsite sits in a pleasant little depression beside the small, usually dry creek. There is a rock platform at the top of the campsite that provides great views[140] up the Kedumba River towards Katoomba. There is a large fire scare[141], but this is in a fuel stove only area, so please avoid lighting any campfires. The creek gets a small amount of water in it after rain, but it does not last long, so always best to bring your own.
(11.87 km)
Singa-Jingawell Creek Campsite
to
Solitary Pass Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.19 km
Time = 29 mins
Climb = 61 m
Descent = -105 m
Continue straight: From Singa-Jingawell Creek Campsite, this walk heads south-east, initially keeping the rock wall to your left. After about 80m, this walk stays left (ignoring the track that crosses the creek). Here the track climbs the fairly short hill then follows the ridgeline for just over 100m to climb up the gully[142] beside the large rock formation[143], then climbs up a rock wall[144] (about 2-3m tall). There are some views (to the right) over Singa-Jingawell Creek valley[145]. The rocky track continues east for about 500m and then turns right, coming to a small ridgetop campsite[146] just over 100m later. Shortly after this campsite (just before a large rocky outcrop[147]), the walk turns left and starts to lead down the ridgeline, quite steeply in places[148], for about 250m and finds an intersection in a saddle, with a steep gully[149] on your left and a short climb to a rocky viewpoint[150][151] (and logbook[152][153]) straight ahead.
(13.05 km)
Solitary Pass
to
Int of Kedumba Camping and Solitary Tracks Route: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.2 km
Time = 40 mins
Climb = 11 m
Descent = -428 m
Turn left : From the saddle, this walk follows the eroded track very steeply down the gully[154] to the north. The track soon bends right[155] around the base of the cliff to find the ridge[156]. The walk follows the steep eroded track down the ridge for about 300m to where the track flattens out for a short time[157], then turns left to wind down through the casuarina forest[158]. The track winds down through this casuarina forest, very steeply and slippery in places[159] for about 800m, (turning right at the faint track intersection partway down) heading east to a flat area, campsite[160] and signposted intersection, where a 'Mount Solitary' sign[161] points back up the hill.
(14.25 km)
Int of Kedumba Camping and Solitary Tracks
to
Kedumba River Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.4 km
Time = 31 mins
Climb = 2 m
Descent = -206 m
Continue straight: From the intersection and campsite[162], this walk follows the 'Kedumba Pass'[163] and 'Kedumba River'[164] signs west, gently downhill along the ridge. After about 600m, just after passing between some boulders[165], the track starts to steepen[166] and leads down towards the views of the cliff[167] (on the far side of the valley), then mostly flattens out again[168]. This track then steeply descends[169] again, until the track bends right and comes to a beach on the south (western) side of the Kedumba River[170]. Here the walk crosses the river[171] (usually lower-shin deep, this river has a large catchment and may be impassable after rain). Once on the other side, this walk comes to a rocky beach and climbs over a large fallen tree[172] to see the main track continuing ahead and a little to the left (sometimes marked with a cairn[173]). There is a place that has been used as a campsite a short distance upstream[174] (not safe if there is a chance of the river rising), or there are a few alternative places to camp up the embankment[175].
Kedumba River Campsite
Alt = 150 m
This campsite is next to the Kedumba River, along the Mount Solitary walking track. This is a large clearing and basic campsite. Open fires are not permitted so it is necessary to take a fuel stove. There is normally plenty of water in the creek, but it should be treated for drinking. There are no facilities.
(15.65 km)
Kedumba River
to
Int of Kedumba River track and Sublime Point trail Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 2.19 km
Time = 1 hr 8 mins
Climb = 345 m
Descent = -17 m
Continue straight: From the Kedumba River crossing, this walk follows the track (sometimes marked with a rock cairn[176]) north, up the embankment and away from the river. The track soon bends left and leads around the side of the flat area with a nice blue gum stand[177]. The track then starts to climb, steeply at first[178], for about 400m (passing some views back to the cliffs of Mount Solitary[179]) before flattening out[180]. The track then leads gently up through the open forest[181] for about 800m, where it then leads gently down to cross a small gully[182][183]. The track continues up the main ridge for another 400m then along the side of a narrow steep gully[184] (on your left). Near the top of this gully, the track turns left to cross the now small gully[185]. The track now leads north for a little while around the ridge and climbs the hill for another 500m, passing through a ferny forest, to find a yellow 'warning' sign[186]. From this sign, the track leads left and up the bank, coming to an intersection with the Sublime Point management trail, where a 'Mount Solitary' sign[187] points back along the track.
(17.84 km)
Int of Sublime Point trail and Kedumba Valley Rd
to
Jamison Creek Crossing Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 3.14 km
Time = 1 hr 5 mins
Climb = 28 m
Descent = -311 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Leura' sign[188] downhill along the wide management trail. The trail soon crosses a concrete ford then leads up a short hill. The trail then winds down through the tall wooded forest for about 1km to cross a culverted creek[189]. The steeper sections of this trail have been concreted. The trail continues to wind downhill for another 500m, to some good views (left) to the cliffs of Mount Solitary[190]. Over the following 600m, the trail passes through some sharp bends, then heads along the side of a steep gully[191] (on your left). As the trail continues down, it crosses a saddle, after which it has a steep gully[192] on the right. The trail then leads down the side of this gully to pass a small clearing (used as a campsite)[193], and come to a 'Jamison Creek' sign[194], just before the creek[195].
Jamison Creek campsite
Alt = 195 m
There is a small clearing[196] beside the management trail about 60m north east of the Jamison Creek crossing[197][198]. There are no facilities and water from the creek must be treated well before use. The area is surrounded by a tall wooded forest with dense undergrowth[199].
(20.99 km)
Jamison Creek Crossing
to
Leura Falls Creek Crossing Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 3.92 km
Time = 1 hr 36 mins
Climb = 275 m
Descent = -192 m
Continue straight: From the Jamison Creek sign[200], this walk crosses Jamison Creek on the concrete ford[201] (usually ankle deep). Warning - this river may be impassable after rain, depth indicators are present[202]. On the other side, the trail bends right and leads uphill for just over 1km to come to a flat open saddle with great views over the valley to the Three Sisters[203] and also much of the surrounding escarpment[204]. From here, this walk continues along the trail as it winds generally downhill for almost 3km, with the steeper sections concreted. As the trail approaches Leura Falls Creek crossing, it winds down into a deep cool gully[205], passing through several sharp bends. Just before the creek, there is a clearing[206] and campsite[207] (on your left), then the trail comes to a 'Leura Creek - Dont drink water' sign[208], just before the concrete ford[209].
Leura Falls Creek Crossing
Alt = 278 m
Just on the eastern side of Leura Creek is a fairly large clearing[210] near the tight bend in the management trail. This informal campsite is set along the tall wooded forest and has close access to 'Leura Creek'[211][212][213], a pleasant spot to cool of on a hot day. The creek flows from near the old sewage treatment plant and also has run off from townships, so treat the water well before use. This informal campsite is still just inside the Blue Mountains National Park boundary.
(24.9 km)
Leura Falls Creek Crossing
to
Old STP site Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 4.23 km
Time = 1 hr 52 mins
Climb = 438 m
Descent = -103 m
Continue straight: From the sign[214], this walk heads down and crosses Leura Falls Creek on the concrete ford[215] (usually ankle deep). Warning - this creek may be impassable after rain, depth indicators are present. The trail then winds uphill steeply at first and after about 1km, the trail comes to a particularly wide section[216] (with 'special area' signs[217], pointing back) with good views up to the Three Sisters[218]. This walk continues along the trail as it starts to head fairly consistently uphill again for another 1.5km, until mostly flattening out just past the large square boulder[219]. Here, the trail bends right (ignoring the faint track on your left[220]) and gently undulates along the side of the hill for about 300m to pass below the Three Sisters[221] (visible up to your left). After another 300m, the trail crosses a concrete ford[222], then just over 100m later, passes another narrow track[223] (on your left). Continuing along the trail for another 600m, this walk comes to the edge of a large clearing[224] with great views up to the surrounding cliffs. Here the walk heads around the revegetating site of the sewage treatment plant, following the now grassy trail[225] up to the left, to a flat area[226] with a campfire scar[227] (just before the trail leads into the dense fern forest[228]).
Old South Katoomba STP site
Alt = 605 m
This area, currently under rehabilitation, is the site of the old South Katoomba sewage treatment plant (STP). This and other nearby STP's were decommissioned in the mid 1990's[229]. The clearing provides great views of Leura's escarpment[230] to the north and is surrounded by a dense forest with fern trees[231]. This site is managed by Sydney Catchment Authority, and is outside the boundaries of the Blue Mountains National Park. This area is used occasionally as a campsite, and there are a couple of campfire scares[232]. There are a few creek along the track north west of the clearing, but any water in the area should be treated well before use.
(29.13 km)
Old STP site
to
Lower Linda Creek Falls Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 546 m
Time = 16 mins
Climb = 71 m
Descent = -4 m
Continue straight: From the top of the old STP site, this walk follows the old trail uphill and into the dense fern forest[233]. The old trail narrows[234] to a track as it winds up through the moist forest and after about 240m, this walk bends right and crosses a small gully[235] (ignoring the track up to the left[236] just before the gully). The track then bends left and passes a metal vent post[237] (on your right) under a fallen tree[238], then continues uphill for about 200m where the track leads across a small creek (just downstream of an old timber bridge)[239]. The track continues up the side of the hill for about 20m, passing a couple of concrete pipe maintenance holes[240][241] to come to a large concrete maintenance point[242] (in view of some small falls to your right[243]). Here the walk turns very sharply left[244], stepping up a short way. This walk follows the track around the side of the hill for about 60m to come to a signposted intersection with the 'Federal Pass'[245] just in front of a small waterfall[246].
(29.68 km)
Lower Linda Creek Falls
to
Leura Forest Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 301 m
Time = 10 mins
Climb = 50 m
Descent = -9 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk crosses Linda Creek just below a pleasant cascade[247] using the foot bridge with a handrail[248]. This walk then continues along the bush track that winds along the valley floor, to the signposted 'Leura Forest'. From here, the walk continues along the wide bush track, passing a few picnic tables, and winding through the forest to an open area with a large gazebo and an information sign at the intersection of the Federal Pass and the Dardenelles tracks.
Leura Forest
Alt = 721 m
Leura Forest is a great picnic area in the Jamison Valley at the junction of the Federal Pass and Dardenelles Tracks. This place was home to a popular tea house (also known as 'Lady Carrington Dining Hall') from the late 1800's[249]. Today walkers can still enjoy the historic rotunda and the foundations of the original tea house[250]. The picnic area provides a great rest spot under the shade of the lilli pilli and coachwood forest.
(29.98 km)
Leura Forest (Int of Federal Pass and Dardenelles Tracks)
to
Bottom of Giant Staircase Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 873 m
Time = 27 mins
Climb = 108 m
Descent = -89 m
Turn right: From the pergola at Leura Forest, this walk follows the 'Dardenelles Track' sign (the sign is up the hill behind the pergola) which heads up the stairs towards the cliff face, before turning left behind Leura Forest. The walk then leaves the shade of the forest, along a track with many fallen logs, until coming to the base of the Giant Staircase (signposted).
(30.85 km)
Bottom of Giant Staircase
to
Top of the Giant Staircase Track: Hard - bushtrack,footpath
Length = 244 m
Time = 23 mins
Climb = 182 m
Descent = -20 m
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the sign up the 'Giant Staircase'. This climbs steeply (with handrails) until coming to an intersection with a bridge that goes across to the First of the three Sisters. Along the way, there are chairs in which to rest from the climb and enjoy the magnificent views of the valley. Veer right: From the bridge, the walk heads up the staircase steeply to the top. The stairs have handrails and climb up the side of the cliffs to the intersection with the Lady Game Lookout track.
(31.09 km)
Top of the Giant Staircase
to
Oreades Lookout Walk: Easy - bushtrack,footpath
Length = 38 m
Time = 2 mins
Climb = 21 m
Descent = 0 m
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the footpath up and away from the lookout, passing under a rock archway and continuing up the gentle hill to the intersection with the Cliff Drive access track. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the stone/concrete steps on the main path to almost immediatly find an unnamed, fenced lookout platform[251] (on the left).
(31.13 km)
Oreades Lookout
to
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Track and the Three Sisters Footpath Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 109 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 18 m
Descent = -2 m
Continue straight: From Oreades Lookout, this walk heads uphill along the path for about 30m to pass a stone seat[fac=8022] (on the right), in a small sandstone overhang[252]. Check the miniature cicada sculptures[253] above the overhang. From here the walk leads moderately steeply[fac=8024] uphill along the smooth concrete path[254] for about 90m[255], to come to a clear intersection marked with a large 'Three Sisters Walk' sign[256]. On the left is a small flat loose gravel area with two seats[fac=8021].
(31.24 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Track and the Three Sisters Pathway
to
Echo Point Archway Intersection Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 296 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 19 m
Descent = -8 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the large 'Echo Point' sign[257] uphill along the smooth concrete path. The path leads uphill for about 45m
to find a sandstone seat (on the right)[fac=8020]. From here the path continues winding gently uphill for another 70m to pass another sandstone seat (on the right)[fac=8019]. From this seat the path continues gently uphill for another 60m past yet another similar stone seat[fac=8018] (on the right), this seat has a blue tongue lizard sculpture[258]. After another 15m
this walk comes to a clear signposted Y-intersection[259]. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Katoomba & Echo point' arrow [260] uphill along the concrete path, initially keeping the metal fence to the left. The path leads uphill for about 80m then over a rise to head downhill for short distance to an intersection with a track[261] (on the left) just before the stone archway[262] near Echo Point.
(31.54 km)
Echo Point Archway Intersection
to
Echo Point Information Center Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 31 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From the interestction[263], this walk heads past the 'Blue Mountains National Park' sign[264] and under the stone archway[265]. Here the walk veers left passing the toilet block[fac=8015][266] to find the front of the visitor center[267] (on the left) and an accessible car parking area[fac=8014] (on the right).
Echo Point Information Centre
Alt = 947 m
This modern building at Echo Point is a great source of information. It is open daily from 9am-5pm (except Christmas Day). There is a large range of books, maps and information about the area (and ice creams). There are toilets opposite the entrance[fac=8015], and mobility parking opposite[fac=8014]. For more information, phone 1300 653 408. More info
(31.57 km)
Echo Point Information Center
to
Echo Point Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 85 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 3 m
Descent = -22 m
Continue straight: From the front of the Echo Point Visitor Center[268] and mobility car parking area[fac=8014], this walk heads downhill following the 'Echo point' sign[269] across the wide open concrete area[270]. After about 30m the walk leads past a large concrete seat[fac=8016] (on the left) then passes a similar seat[fac=8017] after another 20m. Continue gently downhill towards the view for another 30m to the stunning views at the formal Echo Point lookout[271].
Echo Point
Alt = 929 m
Echo Point is the Blue Mountains' most famous and popular lookout, home to one of the best photo opportunities for the Three Sisters[272]. Visited by over two million tourists each year, this popular spot also serves as the starting point for many great walks in the area. The lookout is well fenced[273], has information signs[274][275] and stunning views across the valley to the Three Sisters[276] and Mount Solitary[277]. There are mounted binoculars and seats nearby.
(31.65 km)
Echo Point
to
Lady Darley Lookout Track: Moderate - footpath,bushtrack
Length = 483 m
Time = 18 mins
Climb = 54 m
Descent = -66 m
Turn right: From the main lookout area at Echo Point, this walk heads across the concrete, keeping the view to the left, and then follows the concrete ramp down the gentle hill to the intersection of the Queen Elizabeth Lookout path. Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the footpath heading away from Echo Point, winding through the bush for a short while until coming to the Kedumba View at the information sign, near the end of the footpath. Turn right: From the Kedumba View, the walk heads off the footpath and follows the bush track, keeping the valley to the left while winding through the bush and along the side of the hill, climbing up to the 'Lady Darley Lookout'.
Lady Darley Lookout
Alt = 920 m
Lady Darley Lookout is a moderately-sized, fenced lookout, found on the Prince Henry Cliff Track. The lookout can also be accessed directly by a track from Panorama Drive. There is an information sign describing the view and the traditional naming of the natural features. The panoramic views from the lookout are great, from Kings Tableland on the left to Mount Solitary, Narrow Neck and parts of Scenic World on the far right.
(32.14 km)
Lady Darley Lookout
to
Allambie Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 144 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 11 m
Descent = -19 m
Veer left: From Lady Darley Lookout, the walk heads down the metal staircase to the bush track, which it follows down the long set of wooden steps to the bottom, then continues through the bush until it climbs up a few more wooden steps to the Allambie Lookout.
Allambie Lookout
Alt = 910 m
Allambie Lookout is a small, fenced lookout on the side of the Prince Henry Cliff Track. The lookout provides an opportunity to enjoy the valley view and the sights of the Three Sisters, Kings Tablelands and Mount Solitary.
(32.28 km)
Allambie Lookout
to
Wollumai Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 99 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 13 m
Descent = -10 m
Continue straight: With the lookout and the valley to the left, the walk follows the bush track, winding along the side of the hill with the cliff's edge visible (down the hill to the left), as the track passes through a patch of tall gum trees and winds up some concrete steps, continuing along through thick scrub to Wollumai Lookout.
Wollumai Lookout
Alt = 911 m
Wollumai Lookout is a small, fenced lookout on the side of the Prince Henry Cliff Track. The lookout is on a sandstone platform at the base of a cliff, and looks over a much larger drop into the Jamison Valley. There is a bench seat to enjoy the views over the valley, including Mount Solitary, Narrow Neck and glimpses of the Three Sisters.
(32.38 km)
Wollumai Lookout
to
Cliff View Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 235 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 29 m
Descent = -25 m
Continue straight: Keeping the lookout and the valley to the left, the walk follows the bush track through the scrub and across the short wooden walkway, winding past a wooden picnic bench, and continues through the dense scrub until it drops down some wooden steps and comes to Cliff View Lookout.
Cliff View Lookout
Alt = 916 m
This large, fenced wheelchair accessible lookout provides great mountain views[278] of Mt Solitary[279], Kedumba Valley, Narrow Neck[280] and across to Scenic World[281]. There's a bench seat[fac=8110] at the back of the lookout to enjoy the views from. The lookout fence is 1.2m high, the platform is 7.8x5.5m wide.
(32.61 km)
Cliff View Lookout
to
Katoomba Falls Park Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 278 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 28 m
Descent = -10 m
Turn right: From the lookout[282], this walk follows the concrete path gently up and over a rise keeping the fence and the valley on the left[283]. This walk continues for about 40m to come to a 3-way intersection[284] with the 'Skyway East Station' staircase (on the right). Continue straight: From the intersection[285], this walk follows the stenciled concrete path gently downhill[286], keeping the view and handrailing to your left. After about 90m this walk flattens and comes to a second handrail[287] (on the right) at the start of a slightly steeper uphill section. After about 45m this walk flattens a bit and continues to meander along following the path gently downhill for about 120m to come to 3-way intersection[288], marked by a signposted mobility parking bay[fac=8111] beside Cliff Drive.
(32.89 km)
Katoomba Falls Park
to
Katoomba Cascades Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 127 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -18 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the 'Cliff View Lookout' sign, keeping the road on the right of the footpath. The path heads into open parkland, around the edge of the park and down the wooden steps to the bottom, where the walk comes to the Kedumba River crossing, just downstream of the Katoomba Cascades.
Katoomba Cascades
Alt = 919 m
Popular with locals and visitors alike, these picturesque cascades are on the Kedumba River. The cascades are nestled in the bend on Cliff Drive, near Katoomba Park. There are stepping stones across the creek at the bottom of the falls and a bench seat in the shade. There are a few small clearings where visitors can sit and enjoy the falls.
(33.02 km)
Katoomba Cascades
to
Kedumba River lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 181 m
Time = 4 mins
Climb = 4 m
Descent = -22 m
Continue straight: From the cascades, this walk crosses the creek to the western side, where it passes a picnic bench. The track continues downstream, winding through the forest for a short while until climbing up a gentle hill to the Kedumba River lookout.
Kedumba River lookout
Alt = 901 m
This unnamed, fenced lookout is at the bend in the track along Kedumba River, at the top of Katoomba Falls. The lookout gives great views across the valley to Mount Solitary and Narrow Neck. There are also glimpses of the Katoomba Falls as it drops away, far into the valley below.
(33.2 km)
Kedumba River lookout
to
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Reids Plateau loop Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 130 m
Time = 5 mins
Climb = 31 m
Descent = -4 m
Veer right: From the intersection at the lookout, the walk follows the bush track going up the hill, keeping the valley to the left. The track soon comes to the intersection with the Solitary lookout track. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the hardened footpath, keeping the handrailing on the left as the path begins to wind uphill, climbing up some wooden steps to the top, where it comes to the large clearing at the intersection of the Reids Plateau track and the Katoomba Falls Round Walk.
(33.33 km)
Int of Katoomba Kiosk Loop and Witches Leap Track
to
Int of Katoomba Kiosk Track and Prince Henry Cliff Walk Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 25 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = 0 m
Turn right: With the Katoomba Falls track to the left and the picnic bench to the right, this walk heads north up the concrete stairs, passing a 'Greenspace Project' sign. The walk comes to the top of the stairs, to the signposted intersection of 'Round Walk' at the back of the small park near the Katoomba Kiosk.
(33.35 km)
Int of Katoomba Kiosk Track and Prince Henry Cliff Walk
to
Scenic World Track: Moderate - bushtrack,footpath
Length = 431 m
Time = 9 mins
Climb = 39 m
Descent = -18 m
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Scenic Railway' sign along the hardened bush track, winding along the side of the hill as the track heads through the forest, to the signposted intersection of the Round Walk and the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the only unsignposted bush track up the gentle hill. It winds up the wooden steps, bending around to the left until it flattens out at the intersection with the Scenic World footbridge. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the wooden footbridge that winds around the back of the Scenic World multi-story car park, to the concrete footpath. The walk continues around the main building, climbing up some concrete steps to the main entrance of Scenic World.
Fire Danger 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
We've made it yesterday in one day - took us 11 hrs walking time with maybe 15 min for a rest. Despite cold temperature (+8-12) we've run out of water and were ready to drink from a river. During the summer time the route is doable in one day given plenty of water as you walk most of the time in the shade, below tree branches. Very good scenery along the way. Don't try to make it in one day in winter though as we did, walking in the darkness is VERY unpleasant experience.
Neil Buckley - Warning ...
IP:124.168.22.xxx | 2011-09-30 00:10:33
3 of us just completed this walk ... and it is a fabulous walk except for the section below - as far as we can make out the track / steps has been completely washed away --- and we had to cross Linda Falls and then scramble up a 20m slippery dirt hill - then climb down further upstream and recross the falls where we found the track again. It had been raining and the river was running quite fast and was very cold & lots of spray - so just be warned. We waded across waist high in one section, tho not running too fast.
BRW - The last concrete maintenance vent had sprayed on it "dead end, ladder gone - return to Kathoomba via Leura"
From track notes .... come to a large concrete maintenance point[238] (in view of some small falls to your right[239]). Here the walk turns very sharply left[240], stepping up a short way. NOTE ... THIS IS WHERE WE HIT A VERTICAL 4 M SHEER WALL WITH 5 STEPS AT THE BASE THEN NOTHING AND WE HAD TO TURN TO THE RIGHT... This walk follows the track around the side of the hill for about 60m to come to a signposted intersection with the 'Federal Pass'[241] just in front of a small waterfall[242].
One other note - about half way across Mt Solitary the track clearly divides into two near a campsite - take the left hand track. Not mentioned in track notes and is a bit confusing.
admin
Super Administrator | 2011-09-30 00:52:33
Hi Neil
Thanks for the feedback, glad you mostly enjoyed the walk, sounds like an epic finish. Sorry the notes where not as helpful as they could have been.
It sounds to me that you kept going past the concrete maintenance point??
So the intention is at this point
you stop, turn around and then get this view
in this photo, the left track is where you just walking up, the right track is where you are to go. Hence why I say "the walk turns very sharply left, stepping up a short way". Can you provide me any more info on how I might make this clearer, or have this changed with the flooding??
Also can you let me know about the other track divide on top of Mt Solitary. Where about it was in the notes, and I can look back through my photos, and see if I can add it in.
Thanks
Matt :)
jenny
IP:122.108.190.xxx | 2012-01-29 08:40:51
Hey Matt
where is the best "half way" point if we were to do this in 2 days? and, it seems by the notes that the track is visible all of the way. Is this so?
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2012-01-30 02:02:15
jenny wrote:
Hey Matt
where is the best "half way" point if we were to do this in 2 days? and, it seems by the notes that the track is visible all of the way. Is this so?
Hi Jenny
It can be done in two days, just make sure you get an early start and that the weather is favorable.
Camping near the Kedumba River is a good option. If the river is at a resting level, there is a sandy bank there. Otherwise you will find smaller areas above the creek. Just be mindful of potential flooding, this river can flood big time.
This is a grade 5 walk, meaning there are section where the track is faint and indistinct The section east of Mt Solitary is the main faint section. At time there are many faint tracks, so part of the trick is making sure you don't loose the main track.
Happy walking
Matt :)
Thanks Chris
I will update the notes now
Happy walking
Matt :)
Chris Moore - Prince Henry Cliff Walk closed
IP:27.32.63.xxx | 2012-04-28 03:39:48
I walked this track with a couple of friends this week. We really enjoyed it - stuck mostly to the notes, but pushed on to the Singa-Jingawell campsite on the first night, where we were lucky enough to find a trickle of a creek (though we'd brought enough water anyway). Then on the second night we went on to the old STP site, making for a short morning trip back to Katoomba (though it was a slog up from Leura Creek, it only took us around 90 minutes).
One note we were unsure of was "Jamison Creek Crossing to Leura Falls Creek Crossing" - it felt more like 3km of uphill and 1km of downhill than the other way round!
The Prince Henry Cliff Walk is closed due to bushfire damage. A sign estimated trackwork would start in July, reopened by September. There is an alternate route that follows the cliffs, but along the road, taking you back to Scenic World.
For those wanting to do it in 2 days, I'd recommend cutting up off the fire trail before you hit the STP site (there's a track to the left marked with a pink ribbon) onto the National Pass - you might save half an hour. We reached our campsites at around 4pm both days, so if we'd pushed on further to the edge of Solitary the night before there would have been lots of time to get up the Giant Stairway (as long as your legs could take it).
Thanks for the notes!
admin - re: Prince Henry Cliff Walk cl
Super Administrator | 2012-04-28 11:57:51
Hi Chris
Thanks for the feedback. Glad you guys enjoyed the walk.
Chris Moore wrote:
One note we were unsure of was "Jamison Creek Crossing to Leura Falls Creek Crossing" - it felt more like 3km of uphill and 1km of downhill than the other way round!
Sure does - check the numbers and they are correct. But I remember that section feeling like it was going on and on. - a few good views of the 3 Sisters through :)
Chris Moore wrote:
The Prince Henry Cliff Walk is closed due to bushfire damage.
Thanks, I have updated these and a few other notes to make this clearer. BTW all known park closures are in the weather and park info tab, but it covers the whole park so there is a little digging to do. So when there is something significant like this I do try to add it to the notes.
Thanks
Matt :)
Claire
IP:110.33.108.xxx | 2012-05-14 00:55:17
My boyfriend and I competed this walk on the weekend and did it over two days camping at the Kedumba river on Saturday night. We found the walk up to Mount Solitary relatively easy going, with him having to drag me up a small section of the knife-edge via my pack (my legs just wouldn't reach). One change to note, when you get to this section towards the end of Mount Solitary:
"Shortly after this campsite (just before a large rocky outcrop[143]), the walk turns left and starts to lead down the ridgeline, quite steeply in places[144], for about 250m and finds an intersection in a saddle" when you get to that small campsite and are turning left of the rock it looks as though a tree has fallen down across the track very recently so you have to bush bash past that to find the track again.
The walk down from the log book to the Kedumba river is very, very steep and even though we are reasonably young and quite fit we found it really hard going, and even with walking poles I had to slide down on my bottom in sections.
Camping at the Kedumba river there are very few camp sites possibly due to the heavy rain this year, and there is lots of wildlife including some very persistent rats! Both us and another guy camping down from us had a night of shooing away rats that were all over the tent, trying to eat through the tent to get to food and some even managed to suck on my camel back to get to the Gatorade remains inside, luckily we had water bottles as well.
A few other things to note about the track:
There is still a little bit of running water in Chinamans Gully, although it doesn't look like it will last much longer without rain.
If you are going to do it over two days get a really early start on the first day. We left the Katoomba Caravan Park at 7am and arrived at the Kedumba river at 3pm with a quick lunch break at Chinamans Gully. The second day was much quicker with us leaving the Kedumba river at 7:45am and we got to the Katoomba police station (to return our ELB) at 1:30pm. And don't underestimate the climb up the Giant Staircase!
It's a beautiful walk with some stunning views, especially from the knife edge and along Mount Solitary.
Thanks again for the fantastic track notes Matt, with these and our topographical maps and compass we had no trouble finding our way. Can't wait to get back out in the Blue Mountains again.
Greg - Overnighter
IP:58.166.69.xxx | 2012-05-23 03:08:14
Hey Matt,
Just got back from doing a variation on this walk as an overnighter. To split the walk in two and to be able to camp on Mt Solitary, I started and finished at Jamisons Lookout and camped at Singajingawell. For me a hard but enjoyable couple of days.
If I did it again I'd probably skip the old STP site/Linda Creek section and take the taped route mentioned by Chris Moore above from the STP road up to the Federal Pass track, either starting and finishing at the top of the Giants Staircase or at the Scenic Railway.
A question though: why you don't mention in your notes the fantastic lookout a few meters to the south of Chinamans with views of Lake Burragorang and the Blue Breaks? It's about 20-30 meters beyond the leaning tree in your photo [85] (107/189).
This lookout is unnamed on the Jamision topo at about 512585, though on the NPA sketchmap it's labelled Mevilles Lookout. On the Jamison topo Melvilles Lookout is marked to the south of west of this point at about 510584.
admin - re: Overnighter
Super Administrator | 2012-05-23 04:51:39
Greg wrote:
A question though: why you don't mention in your notes the fantastic lookout a few meters to the south of Chinamans with views of Lake Burragorang and the Blue Breaks? It's about 20-30 meters beyond the leaning tree in your photo [85] (107/189).
Hi Greg, Glad you enjoyed your walk, it is a great area to explore.
Thanks for pointing out the missing 'Melvilles Lookout'. This was a simple oversite, I wrote the tracknotes, just forgot to include it in this walk.
It is a great spot and we worth the short detour.
Thanks
Matt :)
MaddieC - Water availability?
IP:122.150.70.xxx | 2012-06-14 08:09:21
Hi Matt, me and about 5 other students (ages 15-18) and 2 teachers are planning on doing this walk for our Silver Duke of Edinbrough Awardin this coming July holidays. I am scared that there will be no water along the track and we would run out within the second day? How does the water supplies go for this time of year? We have previously completed the Six Foot Track, so how would you compare these two also?
Thanks, Maddie.
Dominic - Great hike
IP:121.45.163.xxx | 2013-04-21 11:39:33
I just finished the hike in a group of 8 of us. This hike is simply AMAZING. Loved all of it. It is very challenging and rewarding. Come prepared, take at least 4l of water to the first campsite. It poured down rain 3 days before we got there and there wasn't any water in sight. Be warned, there are lots of big climbs in this. the first day is a piece of cake. Leeches everywhere second day! The track is very easy to navigate, I found the track notes excessive and could easily be trimmed down to a page or two max. Great hike, great adventure!
paul rhodes
IP:129.78.233.xxx | 2013-09-10 03:24:35
Just walked this on the weekend but got freaked halfway down the descent to the Kedumba valley because of the ridge at the bottom of the first gully..should be have continued right after that gully? we slept in the cave along to the left but it was getting dark..the next day we didnt have the nerve to keep going that way as we arent all that experienced...i take my hat off to you folks who see that kind of descent as normal but it was pretty bloody tough..im keen for any inf on how to get down after the first descent?
paul rhodes
IP:129.78.233.xxx | 2013-09-10 03:25:18
*the cave was to the right not the left
admin - Paul
IP:211.30.210.xxx | 2013-09-10 03:35:17
Hi Paul -- thansk for the feedback. If the point you are talking about is just past the 13km - you go down a gap in the rock (cliff on left and right) at the bottom of the scramble you turn right and follow the top of the ridge line downhill. (have not noticed the cave -- any good??)
sounds like you might have been in the right spot -- but I think you made a good call if you where uncomfortable with it as it is very steep and the track faint in places.
Emma - Map
IP:14.200.158.xxx | 2013-09-12 10:09:47
Hi I've just been reading your track notes and comparing them to your map and my maps and I think your route marked out doesn't match up with the track notes. You describe going in a circuit but the map shows Katoomba to Wentworth Falls. Am I correct? cheers
Emma
Andy - Kedumba River Crossing
IP:124.149.70.xxx | 2013-11-24 09:40:35
Just did this walk over 2 days, seriously deserves the 5/6 grade. The decent of Mt Solitary is brutal as is the whole of day 2 from Kedumba River (so much uphill !)
It might be worth noting that there are 2 trees which can be used to cross the Kedumba River just downstream from the track. I found them after I'd waded waist deep through the flooded river!
Eva - fire affected?
IP:58.165.249.xxx | 2013-12-12 06:40:00
Hi there,
We plan on doing this hike soon. Have any of the sections been affected by the recent fires?
Ta
Eva
Peter
IP:203.219.65.xxx | 2014-10-08 06:00:53
I did this over the recent long weekend. Thanks, the track notes were really helpful - we referred to them whenever we couldn't find the way ahead :-)
We camped at the Kedumba river and then at the old STP site which we were happy with. No water at the STP site but was available a short walk further along after we packed (could hear the waterfall from our camp)
Patrick - watersources
IP:60.242.27.xxx | 2014-11-12 04:13:24
Can anyone recommend any good water sources along the trail?
Perry
IP:121.44.151.xxx | 2015-01-19 02:07:16
My wife and I just did this walk over two days this weekend (2 previous times were over 3 days). We started and finished at the top of the Furbar Stairs.
Breaking the walk into two days, camping at Kedumba Creek, is not difficult time wise (about 7hrs/day), but there wasn't a lot left in the legs at the end of the days :)
It was a shame to see the excessive clearing on the track up from Kedumba Creek. Not sure why this has been done, but it looked like someone had taken a brushcutter down there?
Didn't look for water in Chinaman's (we weren't stopping), but the other creeks were great (treated tho').
There are also new shelters and water tanks below Ruined Castle.
Bob
IP:101.174.155.xxx | 2015-03-30 11:24:49
can you do this in 1 day??
i reckon it would take 12hrs straight walking?
or would i have to jog some of it?
also would 3L of liquid be enough
Bob
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2015-04-02 02:22:43
Bob wrote:
can you do this in 1 day?
Is possible in one day - if you are one of those crazy fit people. Be prepared to finish in the dark though. You may prefer this version that finish on roads. http://www.wildwalks.com/bushwalking-and-hiking-in-nsw/blue-mountains-katoomba/scenic-railway-ruined-castle-mt-solitary-kedumba-river-wentworth-falls.html
Soon after crossing the Kedumba River you are mostly on wide trails so you can move quickly. But across Mt Solitary can be slow going and the track is not very obvious so not great for moving quickly. I would suggest you get familiar with the route first before attempting the whole circuit.
You can collect water from the Kedumba (needs treating) - I would suggest filling there.
Matt :)
Troy - Great walk
IP:124.168.187.xxx | 2015-05-24 21:35:09
A friend and I did this walk on the weekend. It's a spectacular walk, we reversed it though. I had walked golden stairs to ruined castle before so know that track well, as we were attempting this in 1 day wanted to be on a trail I knew better once we lost light.
This trail in a day is not for the faint hearted, unprepared or inexperienced, it's full on but well worth it.
Here are my recommendations for a one day attack:
- research the area prior to trekking, topographic maps, blogs, visiting the valley prior to get a layout, so you have some reference points etc.
- be well hydrated prior to setting off, carry at least 500ml of water per hour. This day took us 11hrs which was about 10.15 walk time. We carried about 8ltr each (it's actually recommended a litre an hour)
- always plan for the worst- carry a first aid kit, water treating tabs or filter straw, fully charged phone with back up battery pack, a torch, warm/dry clothes, emergency blanket. Theses things are light to carry and will make it much more comfortable if you get stuck out there.
- a torch/ head torch/ charged phone torch is a must, we set off at 8.30am, sunset 5pm, totally dark by about 5.20ish, and didn't get out of the valley till 7.30pm. Unless you're running this or set off just on day break, chances are you will be walking in the dark. It's great though, as I said we reversed the trail, as knew the track better around that side and it's a little more open over the rock slide which gives you amazing views of the open sky. We took stops to turn off lights and take in the stars = awesome!!
We will do this again but over the recommended 3 days, we will do same direction we did it in. Camp one kedumba river, then climb to solitary camp on mt and walk out the next day with a ruined castle climb.
But heaps of great places to camp along the way.
This trail is well worth the effort either way you choose to attack it.
Troy - Adding to last post.
IP:124.168.187.xxx | 2015-05-24 21:43:15
To the last post - calories!! calories!!
You will need a heap of energy for this trail in a day. Things like:
-chocolate
-dried fruit
-nuts
- protein bars
- muesli bars
- jerky
- rice crackers
- fruit
And after beer never tasted so good and cold 😜
David - Water Tanks below Ruined Castl
IP:115.70.82.xxx | 2015-10-04 05:01:47
To expand on @Perry on 2015-01-19 (I missed his one-liner before doing the hike).
There are two new water tanks below Ruined Castle. They capture rain water off the roof of picnic table shelters.
The tanks are at MGA 494610.
For the Track Notes, they are in the section on day one headed "(6.88 km) Ruined Castle mine campsite to Intersection South of Ruined Castle".
Hiking near Sydney 
Route: Hard
5 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 :)