This classic walk takes you from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves via a historic horse route. The walk travels mainly along well-maintained service tracks and explores Nellie's Glen, Megalong Valley, Cox's River, Black Range, and Jenolan. There are well established and popular campsites along the way.
(open in app)
There are Closed areas in Blue Mountains National Park Today's Fire rating LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
Cross sectional view of the Six Foot Track bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Six Foot Track 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
45km
Time
3 Days
.
Grade 4/6
Track: Hard
AS 2156.1
Gradient
Very steep (4/6)
Quality of track
Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
Signs
Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience Required
Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
Weather
Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
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
18km of this walk has short steep hills and another 17km is very steep. Whilst another 8km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.8km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
33km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 10km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 1.6km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and the remaining 430m follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 32km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 13km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
Around 33km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 11km requires some bushwalking experience.
Weather
Around 37km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 8km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
24km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 19km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats). The remaining (1.6km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).
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Individuals and family groups do not need to book for the walk, however large groups such as school groups should be registered via recreation@lands.nsw.gov.au Please provide contact details, basic itinerary, dates, number of students or people and teachers or leaders.
NSW Department of Primary Industries – Lands within the Department of Industry is the state government agency, which manages and maintains the Six Foot Track (as well as others including the Great North Walk and the Hume & Hovell Walking Track). They sell a detailed map kit for the Six Foot Track scaled at 1:50,000 with 100m contour intervals, containing track notes, walking times & distances, points of interest, history, flora & fauna, as well as safety tips. The kit is available for $10 (plus $2 postage & handling), with proceeds from all of their map kit sales supporting ongoing maintenance of the tracks.
To order their Six Foot Track Map Kit, or for Lands tracks & trails, see their order form (PDF 80kb) . More info
Free Beacon Hire
Alt = 0 m
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
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[1] in 1884 in an attempt to preserve the engravings[2]. The engravings are no longer visible[3] and there is even debate over the last 100+ years as to the authenticity of the engravings[4].
(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'[5] (at the intersection of Nellies Glen Rd and the Great Western Hwy), this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track - 200m' sign[6] up along the sealed Nellies Glen Rd[7] for just over 200m before turning left at another 'Six Foot Track' sign[8]. Here the walk comes to a dirt car park[9] and shelter[10] with a large 'Six Foot Track' information sign[11].
(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[12] around the lower locked metal gate to follow the management trail gently downhill[13]. 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[14] and a 'Nellies Glen Bushland Restoration' sign[15].
(0.81 km)
Int of 6 Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail
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Norths Lookout Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 210 m
Time = 6 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -32 m
Continue straight: From the intersection[16], this walk heads through the gap in the large metal gate, over a small rise. The fairly narrow track soon leads down a series of timber steps[17], past some nice views for just shy of 150m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a 'Bonnie Doon Fauna Study' sign[18]. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the track downhill towards the open views[19]. After about 50m the track comes to the fenced[20] and signposted 'Norths Lookout'[21] with great views over Nellie's Glen and into the valley[22]. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then veer left to continue along this walk.)
(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[23], fairly steeply down the management trail past the 'Nellies Glen' metal plaque[24] 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[25]. As the sign suggests, this walk now leads steeply down the Nellies Glen canyon steps[26] for about 300m, passing alongside the tall rock walls[27] 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)[28]. Here the track mostly flattens out[29] and leads along the side of the gully for another 400m to pass a 'Blue Mountains National Park' sign[30], then just over 100m later, passes another sign marking the lower end of 'Nellies Glen'[31]. 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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Int of Nellies Glen Rd Trail and Devils Hole Trail Track: Moderate - managementtrail
Length = 1.98 km
Time = 36 mins
Climb = 14 m
Descent = -102 m
Veer left: From the clearing, this walk follows the wide trail gently downhill[32] while keeping the valley to your right. The trail leads generally downhill through the scribbly gum forest[33] for about 1.4km to then cross the culverted[34] Devils Hole Creek - just past the creek is an unused concrete pipe[35] with wild bee hives[36] inside. This walk continues along the trail for another 500m to an intersection with the Devils Hole Trail[37] (on your left), marked a 'Six Foot Track' and a 'Ladders have been removed' sign.
(4.42 km)
Int of Nellies Glen Rd Trail and Devils Hole Trail
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Megalong Village site Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 88 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[38] along the Nellies Glen trail, to cross the culverted Diamond Creek[39] to then come pass alongside the old Megalong 'Village site'[40] and horse paddock[41] (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[42]. 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[43] with a view of the escarpment behind. A small bronze sign marks the site[44] .
(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'[45], this walk heads along the wide trail, initially keeping the horse paddock[46] and view to the escaprment to your left after just shy of 250m this walk heads through a usually closed gate[47] and continues gently undulating along the trail through the tall scribbly gum forest[48] for 500m, crossing a usually small creek[49] to then pass a 6FT '40km' arrow post[50]. About 400m further along this trail, soon after crossing the usually small Corral Creek[51], this walk comes to a T-intersection[52], where a 'Six Foot Track', sign[53] points back along the trail, and where there are some power lines[54] 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[55] to climb the fence using a stile [56]. The walk continue along the (now public) dirt Nellies Glen Road, for 900m passing a series of driveways[57], to rejoin then power lines[58] for 120m passing just below a nearby house[59]. Here the road leads downhill for 200m to pass a large 'Road subject to flooding...' sign[60] then just 100m later this walk comes to an intersection with 'Six Foot Track' sign and stile[61] (just before the road bends right to cross Megalong Creek[62]).
(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[63] over the fence using the stile[64]. A sign reminds walkers to stay on the track as this section is on private property[65]. The walk leads through mostly open farmland for 130m passing a 'Private Land No Camping' sign[66] to then cross Mitchells Creek[67], this creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Over the next 300m the trail leads over a rise[68] through the farmland to then cross a fence using a stile on the right[69]. The track now leads through a denser forest for another 300m to cross 'McLennan Bridge'[70], 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[71] for another 200m to cross a fence using a stile[72]. Here the walk crosses the sealed Megalong Rd, to find a car park[73] beside a clearing[74] and several 'Six Foot Track' signposts[75] (about 400m south of Megalong Creek).
Old Ford Reserve
Alt = 544 m
Old Ford Reserve campsite is a few meters north of the Megalong Rd bridge over Megalong Creek. The campsite is accessible by car, has a (wheelchair accessible) toilet, and plenty of flat space to pitch a tent. Some nice groupings of trees and access to the creek makes this an OK place to stay. Been on the side of the road this campsite does attract some load campers at times. The campsite is about 500m north of the Six Foot Track crossing point at Megalong Rd.
(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[76] over the cattle grate[77] or stile[78] and goes beside the large sheltered 'Six Foot Track' information sign[79]. Here the walk heads gently downhill along the dirt road[80] for about 80m to come beside a stone memorial[81], marking 'Megalong Cemetery'[82] (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[83]. Many of the grave sites[84] 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[85] 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.[86]
(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'[87], this walk heads gently downhill along the dirt road[88] for about 80m to pass through gate with a 'No Through Road' sign[89]. Just shy of 300m later, this walk passes a few driveways, beside the farmland[90] to cross another cattle grate[91]. Then about 150m later, the road leads close to Megalong Creek[92], where a sign reminds visitors this is private land[93]. About 30m further on, the main dirt road veers right at a Y-intersection[94] then crosses a cattle grate[95]. Here the walk heads uphill along the dirt road for just over 200m (with views of the escarpment behind[96]) to cross another grate and come to an intersection marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign pointing right into the valley[97].
(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[98] downhill along the narrow track into the valley. The walk now crosses a small creek on the timber 'Guyver Bridge'[99], 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[100] and over a rise[101]. The track now follows a wire fence down through the farmland[102] and across a valley (above a dam) for almost 100m to metal stile just before a dirt trail[103]. Here the walk turns right and crosses the fence using the stile[104], then follows a 'Six Foot Track' sign along the track as it undulates over a series of hills[105] for about 300m before crossing another fence using another metal stile[106] beside a large tree. The track now leads uphill for 200m to pass a 'Private Land - No Camping before Coxs River Reserve' sign[107], then winds along the side of the hill for a further 150m before heading into a wooded forest and down some timber steps[108]. 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[109], then 150m later, crosses another fence using a metal stile[110]. 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[111], marked with a few 'Private Property' signs[112].
(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[113], 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[114], 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[115], then about 250m later, the track passes a few granite boulders[116] and heads down a few timber steps. About 400m after this, this walk heads down a 100m-long series of timber steps[117] to cross a gully and find a series of large granite boulders[118] - one of the small overhangs is home to a wild bee hive[119]. 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[120], then heads down some more timber steps[121]. About 250m later, the track leads down another set of timber steps[122] to then head through a pleasant lush gully with views close to the river[123]. 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[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.
(14.38 km)
Bowtells Swing Bridge
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Coxs River Campsite Alternate Route:
Track: Hard - bushtrack
( Show detail)
Length = 1.13 km
Time = 25 mins
Climb = 46 m
Descent = -74 m
Continue straight: From the intersection just above above Bowtells Swing Bridge[128], this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[129] along the clear track keeping the main valley to your right. After about 30m the track passes an intersection with another track (to the bridge[130]) then continues along the side of the hill for about 800m crosses several gullies [131] to come an intersection with a trail beside a short timber fence[132]. The walk continues beside this fence for about 70m to then turn right to follow the 'Six Foot Track' sign[133] moderately steeply down the embankment. Here the walk leads down across the open floodplain[134] to the bank of the Cox's River[135]. Continue straight: From the clearing and floodplain[136], this walk
crosses the river that may flow in two or three sections[137] across smooth and slippery rocks. This river becomes impassable when in flood[138], the river is normally only shin deep, if deeper consider using the swing bridge upstream. Once on the sandy beach on the far side, this walk follows the wide trail uphill for about 40m to the intersection marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign[139], where the Coxs River Campsite is just up to the right. Veer right to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 15.71km 'Coxs River Campsite'.
(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[140] down the timber steps[141] to the southern end of the 'Bowtells Bridge'[142]. Here the walk climbs the ramp and crosses the Cox's River on the suspension bridge[143], observing the 'Only one Person at a time'[144] 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[145]. On the far side, this walk steps off the bridge onto the large rock platform[146].
(14.51 km)
Bowtells Bridge West
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Six Foot Track Lodge Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 793 m
Time = 20 mins
Climb = 49 m
Descent = -73 m
Continue straight: From the north side of the bridge, this walk heads up the timber steps through the dense forest[147] to soon pass the 'Bowtells Bridge' sign[148]. At the top of these steps, the track bends left then leads along the side of the hill for 500m, crossing a few gullies[149] and undulating up and down a series of timber steps to then pass between a couple of fences posts[150]. Here the walk continues down a series of timber steps[151] to a clearing and intersection marked with a 'Private Land - No Camping' sign[152]. Turn sharp right: From the intersection and clearing, this walk follows the 'Camping Ground-500mtrs' sign[153] north up the timber steps. The track soon bends left and follows the side of the hill[154] for about 130m to then head through a gate with a 'Welcome' sign[155]. The walk continues along the clear track for another 70m to the intersection with the timber path[156] just below the 'Six Foot Track Lodge'[157].
Six Foot Track Lodge
Alt = 291 m
The Six Foot Track Lodge is situated above the flats of the Coxs River along the Six Foot Track alternate route, not far north of Coxs River Campsite. The lodge consists of two cabins, each with the capacity to sleep twelve people in bunks[158]. The cabins are equipped with linen, warm blankets, log fire[159], pizza oven[160], tank water[161] and has its own outhouse toilet[162]. At $35[163] per person per night, this is a very pleasant way to spend an evening. Authentic meals can also be organised for a fee. For more information, visit www.6fttracklodge.com or call Pavel on 0421 932 631. Walk-ins are welcome, however to ensure beds are available, booking in advance is recommended.
(15.3 km)
Six Foot Track Lodge
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Coxs River Campsite Track: Moderate - bushtrack,servicetrail
Length = 409 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 7 m
Descent = -19 m
Continue straight: From the intersection below the 'Six Foot Track Lodge'[164], this walk follows the clear track west initially keeping the lodge up to your right. After about 30m this walk crosses a gully[165] then climbs over a fence using stile[166]. Here the walk turns right and follows the track for almost 50m to a T-intersection[167] with a wide trail, beside a private property gate[168] and marked with several 'Six Foot Track' signs[169]. Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Camping Ground-200m' sign[170] gently down along wide trail[171]. After about 230m the trail flattens out and passes below the main camping area[172] marked with a 'Coxs River Reserve' sign[173]. About 30m past here, this walk comes to a clear intersection with a dirt road marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign[174].
Coxs River Campsite
Alt = 276 m
Coxs River Campsite, on the Six Foot Track, is found on the western bank of the Coxs River. It provides a sheltered picnic table[175], water (rain tank[176] or creek[177] - treat before drinking either), toilet[178][179] and a flat grassed camping area[180] with excellent access to the river[181]. The campsite is used by people walking the Six Foot Track, but is also visited at times people people camping in 4WD. A nice place to camp. Despite the several fire scares, this is a fuel stove only area no fires allowed[182].
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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Kiangatha Yards Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 3.06 km
Time = 1 hr 10 mins
Climb = 354 m
Descent = -61 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[183] uphill along the dirt road
passing alongside the Coxs River Campsite (which is on your right). After about 150m this walk crosses the usually shallow Gibraltar Creek[184] that leads uphill for another 150m to pass close to a high tension power line tower[185] (up the hill to your left). The walk continues up along the dirt road for 200m to cross a usually small creek[186] then heads under the high tension power lines to cross the usually usually shallow Gibraltar Creek[187] again. These creeks may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain, they also often dry up. From here the dirt road winds moderately steeply uphill for about 2.1km where it then passes around a left hand hairpin bend to pass another 'Drive With Caution Walkers On Road' sign[188] (where there is also some views to your left). The road leads more gently uphill where it then bends right to lead gently past the top of the Kiangatha Yards[189] to cross a cattle grate[190] on the dirt road.
(18.76 km)
Kiangatha Yards
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Alum Creek Reserve Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 3.06 km
Time = 1 hr 14 mins
Climb = 184 m
Descent = -190 m
Continue straight: From beside Kiangatha cattle Yards[191] this walk heads north west along the dirt road to cross a small dip and head straight through an intersection and continue for 250m to pass a 'Grid' sign[192] (facing away). About 140m later this walk pass another 'Grid' sign[193] then 100m after crosses another cattle grid[194]. The walk continues (moderately steeply in places) up the dirt road for 700m where it flattens out mostly[195] at a grassy clearing with view of the distant escarpment[196] (behind). Here the dirt road leads more consistently and steeply uphill for 300m until suddenly flattening out on at the top of Mini Mini Saddle, beside a large clearing[197] (on your left). Continue straight: From beside the Mini Mini Saddle clearing[198], this walk follows the dirt road gently uphill along the side of the hill. The road leads past a open section of forest and starts to head downhill to pass a 6FT '20km' arrow post[199] about 250m after leaving the clearing. Here the track leads downhill, moderately steeply in places for 900m where the road bends left[200] around the edge of a grassy clearing. About 40m further down the road, this walk passes an intersection with the regenerating trail[201] (on your right) and continues steeply downhill for just shy of 300m to turn left at the intersection at the other end of the regenerating trail[202]. This walk continues more gently downhill along the dirt road for just over 350m until coming to the signposted (and gated) 'Alum Creek Reserve'[203] (on your right).
Alum Creek Camping ground
Alt = 560 m
Signposted as 'Alum Creek Reserve'[204], this fairly flat grassy area[205], off the side of the dirt Glen Chee Road, part of the six foot track). The campsite is the least used and least developed of the three official campsites on the Six Foot Track, and makes a good place to stay if attempting the walk in two days. There are no facilities provided but the flat campsite is in a well-protected valley with the small Alum Creek beside the campsite and the fairly reliable Little River down the road (treat water before use).
(21.82 km)
Alum Creek Reserve
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Int of Black Range Rd and Cronje Mtn Fire Trail Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 4.19 km
Time = 1 hr 32 mins
Climb = 468 m
Descent = -54 m
Continue straight: From 'Alum Creek Reserve'[206], this walk follows the dirt road downhill for just shy of 100m to cross Alum Creek[207]. Here the walk heads up between the two timber posts[208] and heads through old farmland[209] for about 300m to pass a 'Drive with Caution Walkers on road' sign[210] (facing away). Over next 300m this walk continues through the old farmland[211], then leads beside Little River[212] before crossing the usually shallow Little River[213]. Just over 100m later this dirt road leads across the river again [214], then again after another 110m[215]. These creeks may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain, and may become dry. The dirt road now starts to head uphill for about 300m where it then bends right around a hand hairpin bend then a short distance further up to the 'Kiangatha' gate[216]. Continue straight: From here, this walk heads up through the Kiangatha Gate[217] and continues walking fairly steeply uphill along the dirt road. After about 500m the road leads around a left hand hairpin bend[218] then 150m later the road briefly flattens out beside a large flat clearing (on your left)[219]. The walk continues steeply uphill for 800m to walk past a 'Drive with Caution Walkers On Road' sign[220] (facing away) to come to a Y-intersection with the signposted 'Waterfall Creek Fire Trail'[221] (on your right). Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the arrow on the metal post quiet steeply uphill along the dirt road. After about 400m this walk passes a '20km' 6FT arrow post[222] then about 150m later the road flattens out briefly to pass a clearing on the top of the ridge (on your left)[223]. The dirt road continues to wind fairly steeply uphill for another 700m with some distance views of the escarpment[224] behind before passing around a sharp left hand hair pin bend[225]. Just shy of 150m later this walk comes to a clearing at the top if Black Range, marked with a few 6FT signs and the intersection with the signposted 'Cronje Mountain Fire Trail'[226].
(26.01 km)
Int. Black Range Rd and Cronje Mtn Fire Trail
to
Int. Black Range Rd and Moorara Boss Fire Trail Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 2.06 km
Time = 38 mins
Climb = 103 m
Descent = -24 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the '6`t' arrow on metal pole generally west along main dirt road that follows the top of the ridge line. The dirt road undulates along the ridge line for 2.1km, moderately steeply in a few places through a wooded forest and past a few large ant mounds[227] until leading up to the signposted intersection with 'Moorara Boss Fire Trail'[228] (on your left).
(28.06 km)
Int. Black Range Rd and Moorara Boss Fire Trail
to
Int. Black Range Rd and Warlock Fire Trail Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 3.21 km
Time = 57 mins
Climb = 118 m
Descent = -32 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the '6`t' arrow on metal pole[229] west and uphill along the main dirt road that follows the ridge line. After about 100m this walk heads past a small dam on the side of the road[230] then continues along the dirt road as it gently undulates through the pleasant open forest for 2.3km before heading up a short steep section[231]. About 900m from the top of this steep section the road leads fairly gently up to and intersection with the signposted 'Warlock Fire Trail'[232] (on your left).
(31.27 km)
Int. Black Range Rd and Warlock Fire Trail
to
Black Range Rd Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 3.07 km
Time = 51 mins
Climb = 82 m
Descent = -13 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the arrow on the metal '6`T' post west along the main dirt road. After just shy of 100m this road splits in two for a short distance[233] then almost 400m later this walk comes to an intersection with the signposted 'Beefsteak Creek Fire Trail'[234] (on your right). Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the '6`t' arrow on a metal post north west, uphill along the main dirt road. Soon the road leads up a short steep rise then leads more gently as it undulates along the ridge for 400m to pass straight ahead at an intersection marked with a metal 'Kanangra Boyd National Park' sign[235]. This walk continues along the main dirt road for another 1.2km to pass a short trail (on your right, that leads into a clearing that has been used as a campsite[236]). Here the dirt road continues gently uphill for 500m to find an intersection[237] with a faint trail (on the left), just before the clearing and pine forest[238]. Continue straight: From the intersection[239], this walk heads north and gently uphill along the main trail, towards the clearing. After about 80m the dirt road leads past a 'Black Range Fire Trail' sign[240] then about 25m later comes to the edge of the clearing and intersection with another trail[241]. Here the walk continues straight and gently up along the main dirt road for 400m as the road bends right to a T-intersection on the edge of the pine forest [242], marked with a '6`t' metal arrow post[243].
(34.34 km)
Black Range Rd
to
Black Range Camping Ground Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 358 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -28 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the '6`t' metal arrow post[244] downhill along the dirt road keeping the main pine forest to your right[245]. After about 250m this walk comes to a clear four way intersection[246] marked with several 'Six Foot Track' signs[247][248], and some power lines on your left. Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track - Black Range Camping Ground' sign[249] gently downhill and some under power lines[250] along the dirt road. After about 50m this walk heads past a 'Drive With Caution Walkers On Road' sign[251] then another 50m later comes to an information sign in front of the 'Black Range Camping Ground'[252] (on your right).
Black Range camping ground
Alt = 1190 m
Black Range camping ground is found along the Six Foot Track, and is also accessible by car. The well maintained and signposted[253] campsite has a couple of sheltered picnic tables[254], toilets[255][256], rainwater tank[257] and and information board with map[258]. The campsite is in a large fenced grassy area[259]. The tank water is quiet reliable but the tank can become empty during long dry spells or through vandalism, please treat before use. A sign reminds campers that this is a Fuel Stove Only area - no camp fires[260]
(34.7 km)
Black Range Campsite
to
Int of 6 ft track and Jenolan Caves Rd Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 3.03 km
Time = 1 hr 5 mins
Climb = 141 m
Descent = -123 m
Continue straight: From the information sign in front of 'Black Range Camping Ground'[261], this walk follows the dirt road gently downhill initially keeping the campsite to your right[262]. After about 100m this walk leaves the edge of the campsite and comes to an intersection with a management trail (on your left), marked with a 6FT arrow post[263]. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 6FT arrow post gently downhill (south west) along the management trail[264] through the tall wooded forest. After almost 200m this walk passes a '10km' 6FT arrow post[265] then about 400m later the trail bends right and heads more steeply downhill[266] for about 200m where the trail bends left to cross a ferny gully (the upper reaches if Bulls Creek)[267]. The walk continues along the trail heading uphill past a few more 6FT arrow posts[268] for about 500m to a clearing at the top of the ridge[269]. Here the trail bends and leads downhill through tall eucalypt forest with some pine trees[270] for 250m to veer left at an intersection with a faint trail (on your right)[271]. The walk now continues up the moderately steep hill[272] keeping the valley on the left for just shy of 300m to then head up a notably steeper section of trail[273] with a few Telsta posts[274] for about 250m. About 40m from the top of this climb the walk comes to a clear intersection with a trail (on your right), marked with 6FT arrow post[275]. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follow 6FT arrow post south west[276] gently downhill along the clear trail. After about 50m the trail bends right then leads fairly steeply downhill[277] for 250m to a pleasant gully[278]. The trail then gently undulates along the side of the hill for 300m to find a T-intersection, marked with a 6FT arrow post (pointing right)[279]. Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 6FT arrow post[280] gently uphill along the trail heading north west. After about 120m this trail bends left (at a large grassy clearing[281]) then just over 100m later the trail passes a 'Road Ahead' sign[282] and comes to a larger clearing and gravel stock pile[283] beside the sealed Jenolan Caves Rd[284],
(37.73 km)
Int of 6 ft track and Jenolan Caves Rd
to
Jenolan Caves Cottages Administration Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 2.39 km
Time = 49 mins
Climb = 82 m
Descent = -102 m
Continue straight: From the clearing and gravel pit[285], this walk crosses Jenolan Caves Road[286] (take care with traffic) veering a little left to follow a 6FT arrow post[287] along the narrow track. Here the track leads past a 'Road Ahead' sign[288] (facing away) and winds gently along the side of the hill for about 300m before turning right, following a 6FT arrow post[289], down some timber steps[290]. After another 40m this walk crosses a ferny gully and small creek on a small flat timber plank bridge[291]. Here the walk heads along the side of the gully and up timber steps[292] for about 100m before flattening out and heading around the side of the hill for another 200m. Here the walk comes beside the road and heads just behind the safety barrier[293] for about 30m before heading around the side of another small hill for 120m. Here the walk turns right and follows another 6FT arrow post[294] down some timber steps[295] for about 80m to cross another gully on another small flat timber plank bridge[296]. The walk now heads up more timber steps[297] for about 40m where the track flattens out near the road again[298]. Turning right the walk now heads around the side a small hill for 40m before once again turning right and following the 6ft arrow post down timber steps[299] across a gully then head up the hill for 130m to the large blue 'Jenolan Caves Welcome' sign[300].
The track now widens (into an old trail) and follows fairly close to road and power lines for 400m before bending right to lead up over a hill[301] for about 600m (passing a '5km' 6FT arrow) to then come down and walk along side of a vegetating clearing[302] and come back to the road[303]. From here this walk follows the track keeping the road a short distance to your left[304] for 150m to an intersection with driveway near a large blue 'Jenloan Caves Cottages' sign[305].
(40.11 km)
Jenolan Caves Cottages Administration
to
Jenolan Caves Cottages Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 538 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 17 m
Descent = -18 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Cottages' sign[306] along the driveway past the '20' km/h speed limit sign, initially keeping the office/house to your left[307]. The driveway leads over a small rise then heads downhill for about 300m to pass a toilet block[308]. Here the walk stays on the driveway as it bends left[309] and continues beside the clearing[310] to come beside the cottages[311].
Jenolan Caves Cottages
Alt = 1183 m
Located 9km from Jenolan Caves by road, Jenolan Caves Cottages offers eight well presented self contained timber cottages for guests to stay in. Each is fully insulated and furnished, with lounge, kitchen, two bedrooms and linen. The is a large flat grassy area in front with often with kangaroos grazing and with a children's playground. For more information call the Jenolan Caves on 1300 763 311[312]. The cottages have a two night minimum stay and prices are from around $130 per night per cabin[313].
(40.65 km)
Jenolan Caves Cottages
to
Int of 6FT and Carlotta Arch Track Track: Hard - servicetrail,bushtrack
Length = 3.68 km
Time = 1 hr 22 mins
Climb = 65 m
Descent = -402 m
Continue straight: From beside Jenolan Caves Cottages[314], this walk heads gently uphill along driveway[315] (initially keeping the cottages to your right) for about 60m to walk around the metal gate beside 'Six Foot Track' sign[316]. This walk continues along this mostly flat trail for 350m through tall wooded forest to a T-intersection marked with a 'Kia-ora Hill Fire Trail' sign[317]. This walk turns right and follows 'Six Foot Track' sign[318] gently down along the trail for about 300m to find a fairly large flat clearing[319]. The walk continues along the trail which generally leads downhill along the ridge line for 1.5km to where the trail moves to the side of the steep valley (on your right)[320]. The trail begins to become steeper then after 400m the trail leads particularly steeply down along the rocky trail[321] for about 600m. Here the trial flattens out on a saddle with a Y-intersection marked with a 'Six Foot Track' sign (pointing right) and a 'Mt George' sign (pointing ahead)[322]. Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Six Foot Track' sign[323] downhill along the narrowing track, keeping the steep wide valley to your right. After about 25m the track leads between two timber posts[324] and continues fairly steeply down the side of the valley with glimpses to the cave buildings for 500m where the track flattens out a bit and heads under a solid gum tree leaning over the track[325]. The track continues leading downhill for another 300m to cross a narrow saddle and along a very narrow ridge[326] where there are good views down to Blue Lake[327] (on your left). The track now leads down some timber steps for about 50m to a T-intersection[328] with a gravel path where a 'Six Foot Track' sign points back uphill.
(44.33 km)
Int of 6FT and Carlotta Arch Track
to
Carlotta Arch Lookout Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 14 m
Time =
Climb = 0 m
Descent = 0 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Caves House' sign[329] gently downhill along the gravel path a short distance to an intersection and fenced lookout near 'Carlotta Arch'[330][331] (on your left).
Carlotta Arch
Alt = 843 m
Carlotta Arch is a large and spectacular cave remnant overlooking Blue Lake. It is believed that the arch was named in honour of a daughter of a surveyor - General P.F. Adams. Adams is credited with having taken some of the earliest photos at Jenolan.
(44.34 km)
Carlotta Arch Lookout
to
Caves House Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 414 m
Time = 12 mins
Climb = 21 m
Descent = -74 m
Continue straight: From the fenced lookout near 'Carlotta Arch'[332][333], this walk follows the 'Caves House' sign gently uphill along the stone path[334] with handrail. The path leads over a small rise to a view into another valley. Here the path begins to zig zag fairly steeply downhill for 150m beside the limestone cliffs[335] passing views down to Caves House[336], past a bench seat[337] to a 'Caves House' information sign[338]. The path continues more gently downhill for another 100m past the 'Grand Arch' information sign (and view of the Arch)[339] then just over 30m later to the 'Southside Show Caves' information sign[340]. The path continues down the side of the valley for another 80m to head down some concrete steps to the side of Jenolan Caves Road[341], opposite Caves House[342], where a 'Six Foot Track' sign points up the steps[343]. The official end of the Six Foot Track.
Jenolan Caves House
Alt = 790 m
Jenolan Caves House, built in 1898, is a heritage-listed building which houses dining, a variety of accommodation options[344], and other services for visitors to the caves. Jenolan has two licensed restaurants: Trails Bistro is open from breakfast onwards and closes early evening. Trails serves a range of light meals including sandwiches, salads and hot food. Chisholm's Restaurant is open each morning for breakfast and each evening for dinner from 6.00pm. Essential items and beautiful souvenirs may be purchased from Things Jenolan, located on the ground floor of Caves House. Don't forget to explore one of the many caves to explore in the area. For more information, call Jenolan Caves on 1300 76 33 11.
Catch the bus from Caves House
There is no public transport from Jenolan caves. There are a lot of tourist buses, most will not give you a lift.Trolley Tours has a special deal for bushwalkers and offers a $40 ($35 concession) one way deal from Jenolan to Katoomba. The bus leaves the caves at 3pm daily and takes about 1.5 hrs to get to Katoomba town center (about 1 min walk to the train station). Tickets must be pre booked and paid for by phoning 1800 801 577, or through their website. Timetable
Catch a bus to There is no public transport from Jenolan caves. There are a lot of tourist buses, most will not give you a lift.Trolley Tours has a special deal for bushwalkers and offers a $40 ($35 concession) one way deal from Jenolan to Katoomba. The bus leaves the caves at 3pm daily and takes about 1.5 hrs to get to Katoomba town center (about 1 min walk to the train station). Tickets must be pre booked and paid for by phoning 1800 801 577, or through their website. Get Timetable
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 8 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 8 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
Region: Sydney & Surrounds Park feesCampingFacilities I am not aware of any closures in this park at the moment.
Jenolan State Forest North of Jenolan Caves and Kangangra-Boyd NP This state forest is used by 4wd and dirt bike riders. It is also home to part of the well known Six foot track and the Black Range Camping Ground. Gibraltar Rocks is a spectacular rock escarpment on the parks eastern boundary. Region: I am not aware of any closures in this park at the moment.
Jenolan Karst Conservation ReserveLink to official closures and fire bans page This Reserve is home to the world famous Jenolan Caves. The are a number of guided tours avaible paying visitors to explore the underground on well maintianed tracks through the caves. There are also a number of self guided caves that you can walk through at your own leisure, including the masive Grand Arch which you can drive through. There is accomodation and food avaialble in the area and a number of nice walks. Region: Park fees I am not aware of any closures in this park at the moment.
Hi Bill
Thanks for the note. The PDF link is working for me, I have tested it on a few computers. It is a large file so it might take a while to download. If you still can't get it please e-mail me matt@wildwalks.com and I will e-mail you a copy.
Matt :)
Amanda
IP:121.44.43.xxx | 2009-04-19 23:28:06
On 15-17 April 2009 one of my Scouts organised for herself, 4 of her scouting friends and myself and 1 other leader to do this walk (backwards from Black Range). It was a great hike, the scouts enjoyed themselves though were very tired at the end. Differently a hike to be done in cooler weather when water is in tanks and rivers running. Scouts enjoyed a swim in Cox's River.
:D
troiks
Registered | 2009-06-10 12:28:33
My girlfriend & I just did this walk over the June long weekend. It was quite busy with plenty of trailbikes & 4WD's unfortunately but it may be a bit less hectic at other times of the year.
The second day was the toughest with about 10km of going uphill followed by another 10km after that. We found items other people had dumped along the way like tins of tomato soup & a 1kg jar of jam???
The track itself is very well marked however we didn't think it was all that interesting. The scenery on other tracks in Blackheath & Katoomba is much more enjoyable.
All in all not bad, crossing the swing bridge was cool, however there are better tracks in the area
Tim - Six Foot track
IP:218.215.28.xxx | 2009-10-18 06:19:03
My 13 year old son and I have just got back from completing the track using the track notes from WildWalks.
The track notes were excellent - many thanks.
Neither of us were prepared for the second day (we were going from Katoomba to Jenolan)it was a real test of our strength and much much much better in hindsight!!
The two camping areas were very well maintained and the track was easily followed. The track notes kept our spirits up as we looked out for the next landmark. We did notice some differences between distances on the track notes and on the Dept. of Lands maps but it really didn't matter.
To be on the safe side we had borrowed an EPIRB from Springwood Police station before we set off. It was very light and gave us just a little extra sense of security. They are free to borrow, Springwood has 3, Katoomba is reported to have 6 and NPWS has some but I don't know how many.
We got back yesterday and today our legs are reminding us of the hard work but brilliant time we had.
Getting back from Jenolan was easy as we had pre booked with Blue Mountain busses although it was a pity that the bus is timetabled to arrive in Katoomba at the same time as the hourly train to Sydney departs!!
We are now searching through the Wild walks web site for our next trip - not next weekend though!!!
:D
Allana
IP:220.233.90.xxx | 2009-10-20 09:21:56
My 15 year old daughter and I completed the walk over 3 days during the last school holidays - our first overnight walk. The track is VERY easy to follow. I had read my notes before starting and found that I only had to occassionaly refer to them whilst doing the walk. The campsites were well maintained, with plenty of water in the tanks due to the recent rain.
However, the notes didn't mention how steep :cry: the track was on day 2! It was a very tough 20km slog, and as previously stated by 'troiks', not that scenic once past Allum Creek. The walking on day 1 and 3 was much more pleasant - both the scenery and terrain.
Despite these negatives, we had a great time, with a definite sense of achievement at the end. We met some other lovely people, shared blister stories and are now looking towards our next adventure.
Dominic - six foot track
IP:114.73.38.xxx | 2009-10-21 11:39:11
Ever tried doing the track @ night?
it is quite interesting, you get to see alot of different animals come out at night, i do the track twice a year, june l'wkend and 2 days after xmas, this year it was my 28th time and i'll still keep on do'in it,i don't go to the caves, i go the opposite direction to mt vic.
see ya!!
Mike
IP:202.181.29.xxx | 2010-03-28 08:20:31
Just thought i would share my thought on the track,
Last year (2009) i organised to do the walk with myself and 6 friends from scouts, Started at Katoomba, camping at Coxs river and Black range finishing at Jenolan.
We did the walk in the middle of the 2nd week of the school term 3/4 holidays and there was a very little number of people, you could choose to camp wherever you want and there were no noisy campers.
If you are thinking of doing the hike, it is defiantly worth it, great scenery and the track, alltho its quite long is very easy to walk along.
hope this helps,
HAVE FUN :D
Andrew - 6'T
IP:38.108.124.xxx | 2010-04-27 23:46:59
Did this walk on the ANZAC long weekend. Being a long weekend, there were a lot of other hikers on the track - some going the reverse direction, some doing it in 2 days, even a couple of runners wo did the whole track twice (once each way) in 2 days.
We decided to camp at Alum Creek on the first night, as we made it to Cox's river around lunch time. That was a hard day. Getting that head start on day 2 was great though, and we arrived at Black Range well before the hordes of other hikers.
Track notes were good. Didn't really need them (the track is well marked), but they helped us gauge our progress.
Lindsay
IP:211.30.223.xxx | 2010-10-15 03:44:20
Just finished this walk. Very enjoyable and quiet mid week. Had the Coxs river and Black Range camps to myself and only saw two other walkers (apart from some day walkers the first day)
Only down side was the putrid state of the Back Range toilets, possibly because there is vehicle access here and they see a lot more use than the composting system can handle, as well as day trippers leaving rubbish behind.
The bus from Jenolan to Katoomba now costs $40, and is an excellent way to get back without using a complicated car shuttle or relying on a lift.
I would reccommend this walk to anyone.
conor - heights
IP:203.206.228.xxx | 2010-11-03 02:50:57
I would like to do this hike but am very much not a fan of heights.
are there any on the walk?
admin - re: heights
Super Administrator | 2010-11-03 03:14:21
conor wrote:
am very much not a fan of heights.
Hi Conor
At the start of the walk the track passes down a gap in the cliff, there so there are some heights there. Also at the end of the walk coming into the caves area there are also some. About a 3rd of the way along the walk, the track cross the river on a steel 'swing bridge'. Not knowing how much an issue heights are for you, it is hard to give much more info. It is more that the track is steep, rather than running along the edge of an unfeced cliff.
Hope that helps
Matt :)
PK - Link Damaged
IP:144.136.68.xxx | 2010-11-15 06:44:41
The pdf file is corrupted
admin - re: Link Damaged
Super Administrator | 2010-11-15 23:51:56
PK wrote:
The pdf file is corrupted
Hi PK. Thanks for letting me know. Some browsers seem to have trouble downloading the PDF's from the main link. I can't work out why yet. Try this link http://www.wildwalks.com/maps/pdf/nsw-bmnp-sft.pdf
Hope that helps, if not drop me an e-mail and I can send you the PDF.
Matt :)
Greenie - 6' track
IP:61.8.15.xxx | 2011-02-03 23:25:10
I did this walk in the middle of winter last year. I had the track almost mostly to myself.
The notes were great. Although not needed all the time, good for giving me motivation in knowing what was ahead.
You can read about my walk here www.greeniesgonebush.com
Therese - Parking at Jenolan Caves
IP:175.39.66.xxx | 2011-03-02 05:26:50
Hi, We are walking from Katoomba, and may drop a car down to Jenolan before we start. Can anyone tell me if there is a particular place to park your car? Or is a bus the best option?
Therese
admin - re: Parking at Jenolan Caves
Super Administrator | 2011-03-02 05:38:47
Therese wrote:
Can anyone tell me if there is a particular place to park your car? Or is a bus the best option?
Therese
Hi Therese
There is plenty of parking at the caves, some limited, but plenty of unlimted parking as well. The bus is a great option, it is a long drive there and back.
Enjoy
Matt :)
Storm
IP:111.220.229.xxx | 2011-04-06 21:59:06
Hey Guys has anyone done the walk from Jenolan back to Katoomba... just wondering what it was like where you camped ? Cheers Storm
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2011-04-06 22:06:03
Storm wrote:
Hey Guys has anyone done the walk from Jenolan back to Katoomba..
Hey Storm
Sure can, a fair number of people walk J2K there is more uphill, but you get to look straight at the escarpments across Megalong Valley. Use the same campsites as in the notes, the first day will be fairly short, but this can line up well if you are catching the bus down to Jenolan.
Have a great walk - I hope to be down there next week.
Matt :)
Rhonda - Can we walk from Coxs River to
IP:203.63.248.xxx | 2011-04-20 03:33:48
Hi all! We're both fit walkers and were wanting to do the 6 ft track in two days - 1 day from katoomba to coxs river(staying at 6 ft track lodge) and then getting up early to be on the track for 6am the next day, with a view to finshing at jenolan that afternoon. Possible, or am is this being silly? R :-)
admin - re: Can we walk from Coxs Rive
Super Administrator | 2011-04-20 04:20:31
Rhonda wrote:
Hi all! We're both fit walkers and were wanting to do the 6 ft track in two days - 1 day from katoomba to coxs river(staying at 6 ft track lodge) and then getting up early to be on the track for 6am the next day, with a view to finshing at jenolan that afternoon. Possible, or am is this being silly? R :-)
That would be a huge second day. Last week I did this in two days staying at Alum creek campsite. This made for a big second day as I was aiming for a 3pm bus out of the caves. If it were summer and you had longer daylight and happy to just keep walking all day then it would be do-able, but this time of year I think you would be finishing after sunset. If you only have two days and are fit then camping at Alum creek is a good option. Otherwise you may want to organise a lift from near Black Range campsite.
Hope that helps
Matt :)
Anuj
IP:202.124.73.xxx | 2011-04-26 02:00:59
Just wanted to say thanks to the people who maintain Wildwalks. Thanks to your notes, it was easy doing the track.
Did this track over the easter long weekend (I counted at least 50 odd people at the campsites- I guess the more the merrier). Overall its a well maintained clean track.
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2011-04-26 23:48:16
Anuj wrote:
Just wanted to say thanks to the people who maintain Wildwalks. Thanks to your notes, it was easy doing the track.
Busy long-weekend on the 6ft by the sound of it, great stuff. I just re-walked this last week as well, had a great time, you should see some updates to the notes soon.
Thanks for you positive feedback, I am glad to hear the website is helpful.
Matt :)
Roslyn
IP:115.64.84.xxx | 2011-05-21 03:44:38
Hi Matt,
Great job on the up-dated track notes, they seem much better and awesome photos - makes me miss the place. Can't wait to do it all again, such a great life experience.
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2011-05-22 23:36:21
Roslyn wrote:
Great job on the up-dated track notes.......
Thanks Roslyn
Appreciate your feedback. I had a great time re-walking it.
Matt :)
toby
IP:60.228.51.xxx | 2011-05-31 09:20:09
hey matt, i was passing through katoomba today and am interested in the hike. read everything at the start of the track and would like to know if u have any idea if there are any fundraisers sort of like a school fun run maybe sponsors from people maybe pay u by how many kms u can do, something along those lines anyway. not very sure about the organisation of all this but ill get there. sounds like your input would be highly appreciated. Are there many access points throughout the track for vehicles? cheers toby.
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2011-06-01 01:24:53
toby wrote:
hey matt, i was passing through katoomba today and am interested in the hike. read everything at the start of the track and would like to know if u have any idea if there are any fundraisers sort of like a school fun run maybe sponsors from people maybe pay u by how many kms u can do, something along those lines anyway. not very sure about the organisation of all this but ill get there. sounds like your input would be highly appreciated. Are there many access points throughout the track for vehicles? cheers toby.
Hi Toby
There are many places you can access the Six Foot Track by 4wd car.
As for organising a fundraiser, I am unsure what you are trying to do there, how about you email me (matt@wildwalks.com) and I will see if I can help you get started.
BTW any 'event' on the 6FT will likely require permission from a few bodies such as the Six Foot Track heritage trust, NPWS, and Forest NSW.
Thanks
Matt :)
fwiffo - Six foot track easter 2011
IP:203.219.184.xxx | 2011-06-18 03:16:18
I did this hike last easter/ANZAC day long weekend. It's an easy hike for a 3 day blue mountain hike but certainly a challenge for beginners. Carrying heavy packs on the uphill of the second day is not easy, but once the uphill is over the rest of the hike is not too hard.
Some notes:
1. Crossing the road on the 3rd day, we made a mistake and missed the right trail, took us a bit of time to figure this out because we did not understand the track notes. The correct track is a little to the left of where you cross the road.
2. The camping sites are all accessible by car (4x4), this means that on Easter they are full of people.
3. Much of the track is accessible to motorcycles and 4x4s, so lots of traffic at some points especially day 2.
In general this is not your typical blue mountain hike, you don't quite feel alone with nature at any point. But it is very nice to do if you don't want to bother with planning for a tougher hike.
admin - re: Six foot track easter 2011
Super Administrator | 2011-06-20 05:26:22
fwiffo wrote:
1. Crossing the road on the 3rd day, we made a mistake and missed the right trail, took us a bit of time to figure this out because we did not understand the track notes. The correct track is a little to the left of where you cross the road.
Hi fwiffo
Thanks for the feedback.
I tweaked the notes at the road crossing to make it clearer that you veer a little left to find the track. I hope the detour was not to frustrating.
thanks again
Matt :)
Nate
IP:121.216.104.xxx | 2011-07-05 12:33:25
Going to do this hike shortly just wondering what kinds of food other people have taken for the three days?
Josh - Return trip/camps
IP:119.12.178.xxx | 2011-09-05 15:43:08
Hello, I'm organising to do the walk but i want to know if anyone has walked from K-Jc and back.( I want to do it 2 days each way).
I'd like to camp as close as possible to that large incline on the first night, is Allum creek the closest?
I'm going to use dehydrated food for brekkie and dinner but what should I take for lunches?
Thanks
Rhys - Silver Duke of Edinburgh
IP:175.39.3.xxx | 2011-10-07 11:39:12
Hi
I just finished this walk for my Silver Duke of Edinburgh qualifiying trip. It was really helpful to have the Wildwalks tracknotes for this walk; really helps to anticipate some of the hills, especially on the second day leading up to the rain gauge. This walk definitely deserves its title as a classic walk.
Graham - Car Parking
IP:203.27.62.xxx | 2011-10-20 04:18:13
Hi,
My 2 sons and I are planning on driving down from QLD to do the hike. Can anyone tell me if there is a secure parking area to leave our car near the start of the track?
Thanks
Admin - re: Car Parking
IP:211.30.222.xxx | 2011-10-21 03:09:54
Graham wrote:
secure parking area to leave our car near the start of the track?
Hi Graham
There are no formal secure car parking places in the area, but there are plenty of places to park your car. I have parked in the car parking area at the near the explorers tree (in view of the highway) and had no trouble. You could also park closer into town then walk a few extra KM to the start of the walk. Some people leave there glove box, and center console containers open to show that there is no loose change or CD's etc in the car.
Hope that helps
Enjoy the walk
Matt :)
Andrew
IP:27.111.0.xxx | 2012-01-02 23:08:13
I'm 48, my son is 16 and we did the three day walk. First time of anything this length for us, but it was amaazing. Second day nearly killed us; ditto others on how touch are the hills out of Alum and then again into Black Range. An early start from Cox's really helped, as we were doing the hills in the cool of the morning. We drank about 2l each on each hill!
The walking notes were excellent. I photocopied them as an A5 booklet to keep in my pocket. (It might be good to note the absence of signage in the third quarter of Day 2. This freaked us out at one point -- wondered if we'd somehow fallen off the track.)
We stayed a day in the Gatehouse at Jenolan before catching the bus the next day -- a much needed rest day.
Roy - Floodwaters Six Foot Track
IP:60.241.132.xxx | 2012-02-13 05:47:59
Hi,
I was wondering if some of you know a bit more about the floodwaters in the Blue mountains, because my mate and i would like to go there tomorrow.
I hope to hear from you
Roy,
admin - re: Floodwaters Six Foot Track
Super Administrator | 2012-02-13 06:41:01
Roy wrote:
...I was wondering if some of you know a bit more about the floodwaters in the Blue mountains, because my mate and i would like to go there tomorrow...
Hi Roy
Yes, there is a lot of water in the Blue Mountains. The main river crossing on this walk is the Cox's river, which has a large swing bridge to avoid the main crossing. All the small creeks would be big, and the normally dry gullies would be creeks.
There has been atleast one small landslide reported in Katoomba, and likely to be others, there has been a lot of rain.
The first half of the trip (Katoomba End) is where the main creek crossings are. So if you want to start the walk, then just turn around if you get to an impassable point that could work. One thing to be mindful of is that any more rain the creeks will rise quickly again.
Feel free to try calling the track manager(see the first blue box in the notes), he might have some more specific info, but might not be in the office.
Hope that is of some help.
Matt :)
Skinny - Six Foot
IP:121.210.89.xxx | 2012-04-15 11:46:51
Thanks heaps for the notes - though the track is clearly marked it did an insight into what lay ahead
WOW, the second day is a punish. Strangely none of my friends who had completed the walk before 'remembered' to warn me. The comments here helped but still it TOUGH.
The rivers and creeks were up but easily passable (sans shoes) and midweek in school holidays saw only 3 other groups of two on the track.
I was disappointed not to be able to get a 'I finished the six foot track' souvenir at Caves House, so have had a stubby holder made up. I had to order a minimum of 100, so if anyone wants one please let me know.
Cheers and good hiking!
Skinny
(if interested in a six foot stubby holder email me at skinnyohearn@hotmail.com)
admin - re: Six Foot
Super Administrator | 2012-04-16 01:30:10
Skinny wrote:
WOW, the second day is a punish. Strangely none of my friends who had completed the walk before 'remembered' to warn me.......
It is a very hilly second day indeed. Well done - glad you enjoyed it and found the notes helpful.
I like the stubby holder idea - a very creative solution to the lack of anything at the end of the walk. I got a burger and coke :)
Matt :)
liabra - six foot
IP:211.30.124.xxx | 2012-05-08 07:31:24
DAY 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
admin - re: six foot
Super Administrator | 2012-05-08 07:38:15
liabra wrote:
DAY 2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yeah - Steep hey
Slow and steady.
Matt :)
Brosh - Tips for FIRST TIMERS!
IP:163.8.84.xxx | 2012-05-22 08:22:29
This was the first overnight hike that we tried, and we were almost psyched out by all the warnings about the second day (we did consider turning back and walking out the way we came, because of all the warnings). If you are considering the 6 FOOT TRACK as your first big hike, my recommendation is that it IS do-able. As everyone has said already, slow and steady on the second day, but you CAN do it (we are SO glad that we did!).
Also for newbies: The suspension bridge across Cox's River on Day 1 IS THE EASIER OPTION. I found all the alternate route stuff gets a bit confusing when my brain was tired. ONLY go down to the river crossing if you like cold feet and are more adventurous. As a newbie myself, I just wanted to get to camp at the end of the day.
(PS: Thanks so much for trip notes and all the comments here from other walkers! They were a huge source of comfort for our first time)
Fitryder - Caves to Katoomba
IP:115.64.77.xxx | 2012-06-20 00:00:59
My girlfriend and I did this walk in "reverse" in mid June. She is only a beginner and it was her first time carrying all her gear (normally I help her out but she wanted to challenge herself this time) and we didn't want the worry of making a bus over our head.
Over all this is an excellent walk. The terrain is great, a little challenging for some but it makes the reward of getting to camp all that much better.
We camped at black ridge on the first night. Good site, well kept.
Coxs river the second night and ditto on the above.
The path is in excellent condition (altho we always carry a map and gps we didn't need to use them).
My tips for the walk
- have well worn in, comfortable boots. Due to the large amount of up and down hill it is very easy to get blisters
- have a solid sleeping back. Nights get cold up there, having a bad nights sleep because of the cold is not fun.
- go over the bridge at Coxs river. You can do river crossings anywhere but this bridge is a lot of fun to do and was a highlight.
- stop and enjoy the views. Yes there is a lot of up hills. The distance between camps is not great, we were doing a full 8hrs on the trails because we stopped ever 30-60min, relaxed, took in the views and enjoyed. You are on holiday after all, arnt you?
Enjoy!
Weekend warriers - Explorers Tree to Jenolan
IP:101.170.255.xxx | 2012-08-08 07:12:12
I have just returned from this walk and was VERY disappointed with the track between Alum Creek Camp and the Black Range Camp.
Day 1 from Explorers Tree to Alum Creek was great in the beginning, but we were overtaked by quite a few cars on the dusty road between Cox River and Alum Creek.
Day 2 was Alum Creek Camp to Black Range and the whole 14km was graded and bulldozed to be like a super highway. The bush on either side of the track was destroyed by the track widening with trees pushed over everywhere.
Day 3 was Black Range Camp to Jenolan Caves and although the paperwork said it was 4.5 hours, we did it in 3 (possibly because we were glad to be off the wide road)
And ALL of the campsites can be accessed by car (I thought some of them were behind locked gates but there were none of these on the track in August 2012).
I would rethink walking this track if you were expecting to be walking on relatively unused fire trails... as this is not the case.
Disappointed.
Steph - Water
IP:211.26.185.xxx | 2013-02-18 22:28:33
Thinking of doing this walk. Can someone advise about water? Where to get it? Is it dependable? How much to start the track with?
Petra - Jenolan to Explorers Tree
IP:115.64.228.xxx | 2013-04-01 06:19:30
This was my first real experience with the Blue Mountains and I unfortunately have to say, quite disappointing one.
I have certainly enjoyed some smaller parts of the "track " but mostly felt really surprised with so many positive reviews considering it is a mainly walk on the road.
Mostly road walking, some very long and steep downhill sections ( if going from Black Ridge to Cox River)and fact that we were constantly avoiding 4WDs and motorcycles didn't live up to our expectations and popularity of the track.
On a positive note, campsites are really nice and if you can manage to avoid public holidays and loads of car campers, it is a pretty nice spot to stay at( esp. Cox River campsite). Lots of nice folks on the trail too. But I wouldn't recommend it and repeat the walk.
Barbara
IP:203.48.99.xxx | 2013-04-18 06:16:34
PDF link is not working -
"Sorry but that is not a valid walk. Please just click on a PDF icon to download a walk. If you are trying to do a bulk download of all PDF's, why not just e-mail me and ask for them, it will be much easier and much faster."
We did the walk in a day, starting at 7am at the Explorer's Tree and ending at 7.30pm in Jenolan (very few breaks). The section that everyone moans about was indeed very tough going... it's an uphill slog on a dirt road with nothing in the way of views, and the heat was fairly fierce (we went through about 5 lt water in the day). Don't underestimate the heat!
We had dinner at the bar in Caves House (last orders 8pm!), stayed overnight at the hostel, and were able to enjoy the caves the next day before getting the 3pm bus back to Katoomba. The bus driver was just about the nicest person I've ever met!
I'm glad we did the walk, it's good to tick it off, but I really don't think it shows off the beauty of the Blue Mountains. The section from Katoomba to the Cox River is lovely, but after that there's very little to see. If you only do one walk here then head elsewhere -e.g. the Jamison valley or the blue gum forest.
Cath - Overnight to Cox's River and
IP:101.164.8.xxx | 2013-12-30 02:56:01
We did an overnight trip from Katoomba to Cox River and back the next day this past weekend.
The fire trail made up at least a 3rd of the entire walk which was a bit disappointing (especially on Day 2, they felt never-ending), but the rest of it was lovely!
The campground was very nice, though there were a number of car campers there (one group had brought shower tents and furniture!) and some prohibited campfires burning. Loved soaking my feet in the river after a long day.
The second day was much more difficult going back uphill (I'm a beginner) and the very steep stairs (I counted 477) from Nelly's Glen to Explorer's Tree were absolutely brutal.
The river bridge was definitely a highlight of both days, as well as the open hillside near the Cemetery car park area.
Jackee - Six Foot Track or not?
IP:120.150.178.xxx | 2014-03-10 00:28:01
My husband and I did the walk in January 2010 and I remember it was very hot, day two sucked big time, I got 5 blisters and lost my big toe nail. We are thinking about doing it again but in the reverse order. From reading the above posts I think we might be crazy. We have completed the Blue Gum Track twice and would like to do another two or three day hike. Any suggestions?
Katherine Rothwell - Change to Department of Lands
IP:121.210.136.xxx | 2014-03-24 22:29:28
Hi
please update your contact for Department of Lands, no longer Terry, it is now George.
Hi matt
I'm accompanying a group of girls on duke of ed gold practice in April so really need to do 3 nights 4 days walking. They are not all experienced walkers and really have to be self sufficient to qualify. So 6 foot track would be great but is there a detour we cold add in for the extra night?
Any help much appreciated.
Cheers
Mark
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2014-04-03 02:54:05
Mark wrote:
..is there a detour we cold add in for the extra night?
Bit tricky sorry Mark. There are some tracks down the Cox's and beyond Jenolan Caves but they are for experienced walkers, otherwise it is mostly boring fire trails. You could stay at either Alum Creek or Old Ford Reserve to break it up a bit more then spend the extra time mucking around at the Cox's river.
A few other options
A day walk either end (Katoomba Escarpment or some of the walk around Jenolan). Maybe Change plans and do 4 days on the Great North Walk.
Hope that helps.
Matt :)
Mark
IP:27.32.127.xxx | 2014-04-03 09:19:02
Thanks matt. Looking at maps and your guide books right now. I recon we can do enough to qualify with a few extra Ks at the star, old ford, alum creek, and on ....
Cheers
Mark
Ghaz - Coordinates
IP:120.151.11.xxx | 2014-04-06 05:30:24
Hi, does anyone know if there are coordinates available for the main POIs or intersections for the track that match track notes? This would be to upload a route into a navigation watch just for comparison to navigation with the maps.
Thanks
Ghaz
Naj - Cordinates
IP:49.0.8.xxx | 2014-09-23 20:53:57
Hi, @ Ghaz....I got gpx file for this walk if you need let me know your email.
Naj
Madge - Black Range Camp Ground - gett
IP:58.111.140.xxx | 2015-01-01 01:37:24
My boys loved the hike (except for day 2). I found it very difficult to find BY CAR the Black Range Camp Ground as we were meeting up with them to camp overnight.
Alot of the roads off Jenolan Caves Road are unmarked. Look for the "Oberon via Boggy Creek Road" sign and take the unmarked track opposite it. This is located approx 8km south of the intersection of Duckmaloi Rd & Jenolan Caves Rd or 3 km north of the "bushwalker's crossing" sign.
The GPS coordinates for Black Range Camp Ground are -33.750721, 150.045225
SamiDuke - One Day?
IP:14.203.203.xxx | 2015-09-16 23:40:59
Hi There, Getting your feelings for doing the walk in one full day. Any advise?
Tony Hill - Six Foot Track car access
IP:114.78.123.xxx | 2015-10-20 02:16:04
We are a group of mature age walkers who have just finished the Great North Walk and are now looking at our next challenge.
Is it possible to schedule a three day walk and have friends pick us up by car at the end of days one and two?
Where would those points be and what is/are the best maps to cover the area?
Hiking near Sydney 
Track: Hard
10 km
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
There is free parking available.
Catch a bus to 
not too much longer now :)