Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve)

Six Foot Track

Individuals and family groups do not need to book for the walk, however large groups such as school groups should be registered via [email protected] 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

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)

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.

(0km) Explorers Tree → Six Foot Track Info Shelter

260 m
5 mins
8m
-6m

Easy track

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].

(0.26km) Six Foot Track Info Shelter → Int of 6 Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail

550 m
12 mins
2m
-68m

Moderate track

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].

(0.81km) Int of 6 Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail → Norths Lookout

210 m
6 mins
1m
-32m

Moderate track

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]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

(0.81km) Int of Six Foot Track and Norths Lookout Trail → Int at Lower Nellies Glen

1.6 km
44 mins
26m
-337m

Hard track

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.

(2.44km) Int at Lower Nellies Glen → Int of Nellies Glen Rd Trail and Devils Hole Trail

2 km
36 mins
14m
-102m

Moderate track

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.

(4.42km) Int of Nellies Glen Rd Trail and Devils Hole Trail → Megalong Village site

90 m
1 mins
1m
0m

Easy track

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)

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] .

(4.5km) Megalong Village site → Int Mitchells Creek and Nellies Glen Rd trails

1.1 km
18 mins
8m
-23m

Easy track

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.

(5.6km) Intersection of Medlow Gap Management Trail and 6 Foot Track → Int of Six Foot Track and Megalong Rd

2.6 km
48 mins
61m
-60m

Moderate track

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]).
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

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.

(8.23km) Int of 6 Foot Track and Megalong Rd → Megalong Cemetery

100 m
2 mins
0m
-5m

Easy track

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)

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.

(8.32km) Megalong Cemetery → Int Near Guyver Bridge

770 m
15 mins
14m
-34m

Easy track

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].

(9.09km) Int Near Guyver Bridge → Euroka back gate

1.9 km
41 mins
69m
-122m

Moderate track

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].

(10.94km) Private Gate → Bowtells Bridge East

3.4 km
1 hr 25 mins
157m
-348m

Hard track

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

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.

(14.38km) Bowtells Swing Bridge → Coxs River Campsite

1.1 km
25 mins
46m
-74m

Hard track

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. Now Veer right to rejoin the main walk .

(14.38km) Bowtells Swing Bridge → Six Foot Track Lodge

920 m
24 mins
64m
-81m

Moderate track

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].
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

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 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.

(15.3km) Six Foot Track Lodge → Coxs River Campsite

410 m
8 mins
7m
-19m

Moderate track

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

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

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.

(15.71km) Coxs River Campsite → Kiangatha Yards

3.1 km
1 hr 10 mins
354m
-61m

Moderate track

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.

(18.76km) Kiangatha Yards → Alum Creek Reserve

3.1 km
1 hr 14 mins
184m
-190m

Hard track

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

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).

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(21.82km) Alum Creek Reserve → Int of Black Range Rd and Cronje Mtn Fire Trail

4.2 km
1 hr 32 mins
468m
-54m

Hard track

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].

(26.01km) Int. Black Range Rd and Cronje Mtn Fire Trail → Int. Black Range Rd and Moorara Boss Fire Trail

2.1 km
38 mins
103m
-24m

Moderate track

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).

(28.06km) Int. Black Range Rd and Moorara Boss Fire Trail → Int. Black Range Rd and Warlock Fire Trail

3.2 km
57 mins
118m
-32m

Moderate track

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).

(31.27km) Int. Black Range Rd and Warlock Fire Trail → Black Range Rd

3.1 km
51 mins
82m
-13m

Moderate track

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].

(34.34km) Black Range Rd → Black Range Camping Ground

360 m
8 mins
0m
-28m

Moderate track

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

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]

(34.7km) Black Range Campsite → Int of 6 ft track and Jenolan Caves Rd

3 km
1 hr 5 mins
141m
-123m

Hard track

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],

(37.73km) Int of 6 ft track and Jenolan Caves Rd → Jenolan Caves Cottages Administration

2.4 km
49 mins
82m
-102m

Moderate track

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].

Jenolan Caves Cottages

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. The cottages have a two night minimum stay and prices are from around $130 per night per cabin.

(40.11km) Jenolan Caves Cottages Administration → Jenolan Caves Cottages

540 m
11 mins
17m
-18m

Easy track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Cottages’ sign[308] along the driveway past the ’20’ km/h speed limit sign, initially keeping the office/house to your left[309]. The driveway leads over a small rise then heads downhill for about 300m to pass a toilet block[310]. Here the walk stays on the driveway as it bends left[311] and continues beside the clearing[312] to come beside the cottages[313].

(40.65km) Jenolan Caves Cottages → Carlotta Arch Lookout

3.7 km
1 hr 22 mins
65m
-402m

Hard track

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.
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).

(44.34km) Top of Carlotta Arch Steps → Bottom of Carlotta Arch Steps

30 m
1 mins
1m
0m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk goes down the stairs until coming to the entrance of the cave. On the way, this walk goes under the towering Carlotta’s Arch. The lookout has great views of the valley and Blue Lake. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

Carlotta Arch

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.

(44.34km) Carlotta Arch Lookout → Caves House

410 m
12 mins
21m
-74m

Moderate track

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

Jenolan Caves House, built in 1898, is a heritage-listed building which houses dining, a variety of accommodation options, 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.

Maps for the Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve) walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Six Foot Track	1:50 000 Map Series	Six Foot Track	NSW-six-foot-track
Hampton	1:25 000 Map Series	89304S HAMPTON	NSW-89304S
Jenolan	1:25 000 Map Series	89303N JENOLAN	NSW-89303N
Katoomba	1:25 000 Map Series	89301S KATOOMBA	NSW-89301S
Katoomba	1:100 000 Map Series	8930 KATOOMBA	8930

Cross sectional view of the Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve) bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve)

Daily actual walking time estimates

Day	Walking Time	Length
1	8 hrs 34 mins	23.2 km
2	7 hrs 46 mins	23 km

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	44.8 km
		Time	2 Days
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	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)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining 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).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve) walk starts at the Explorers Tree (gps: -33.70397, 150.29126)
Your transport options to Explorers Tree are by;

Bus. (get details)

Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

The Six Foot Track (Alum Creek Reserve) ends at the Caves House (gps: -33.820325, 150.02117)
Your transport options to Caves House are by;

Bus. 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 ( 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 details)

Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

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.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Central Tablelands weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/sftacr

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂