Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Six Foot Track hiking trail are found in each of the tabs below
Six Foot Track
Time
Length
Climb
Style
3 Days
44.3 km
2036 m
One way
0.9 km WSW of Katoomba
Six Foot Track Heritage Reserve, Blue Mountains National Park, Jenolan State Forest, Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve
Track: Hard
This classic track takes walkers 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 campsites along the way.
Bushwalking can be fun and interesting when you are well prepared. Please ensure you and your group are well prepared and equipped for all possible dangers. The authors, staff and owners of wildwalks take care in preparing these notes but do not accept responsibility for any inconvenience, loss or injury sustained when using these notes. Please take care and feel free to provide feedback through our website. Please note that side trips and alternate routes mentioned in these notes are not included in the tracks overall rating, distance or time estimate. The notes also only describe the side trip and alternate routes in one direction.
You can promote your organisation on the web and in the bush by sponsoring a set of Wildwalks tracknotes. Sponsorship starts from $10 per/month. This program is unique and will offer a great return on your investment.
Registration is required for all larger organised groups such as: schools, scouts, guides, defence forces, and walking clubs. There are no requirements for individuals or small family groups to Register. Registration through the Six Foot Track Heritage Trust needs to be completed before starting the walk. (contact Jon below) The Trust also produce and excellent map of the walk, which also has extra information about points of interest along the way. The map is scaled to about 1:50k and has a contour interval of 100m. The proceeds of the map sales supports the ongoing track maintenance. well worth the $7.15 This classic track is managed and maintained by the Six Foot Track Heritage Trust in partnership with the Department of Lands (NSW). Jon Guyver, Six Foot Track Heritage Trust PO Box 2146, Orange NSW 2800 Phone 02 6391 4321 jon.guyver@lands.nsw.gov.au Official Six Foot Track SiteMore info
Explorers Tree (Katoomba)
Alt = 1051
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 this tree on the side of Pulpit Hill. The tree now caged to minimises further vandalism, marks the start of the Six Foot Track. There has been much debate over the last 100+ years as to the authenticity of the engravings. More info
(0 km) Explorer's Tree to Int of 6 Foot Track and Nellie's Glen Lookout Trail Walk: Easy - road
Distance = 0.8 km
Time = 15 mins
Climb = 9 m
Descent = -73 m
From Explorer's Tree the track heads west along Nellie's Glen Rd for approximately 200m before turning left at the 6 Foot Track sign. The trail follows a wide dirt road until coming to a large boom gate and large trail information sign. The trail continues south along the service trail following the track markers until coming to an intersection with a bush track signposted as the Cliff Track off to the left.
(0.81 km) Int of 6 Foot Track and Nellie's Glen Lookout Trail to Nellie's Glen Lookout Optional Side Trip: Track: Moderate - Bush Track
Distance = 0.2 km
Time = 5 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -33 m
From the intersection the track heads south along the cleared bush track until coming to an intersection with another bush track off to the left signposted as part of the 'Bonnie Doon Fauna Study' From the intersection the track heads south down the bush track until coming to a great lookout over the Megalong Valley
(0.81 km) Int of 6 ft Track and Nellie's Glen Lookout Trail to Int of Devils Crk Service trail and 6 ft Track Track: Moderate - Bush Track
Distance = 3.5 km
Time = 1 Hrs 20 mins
Climb = 56 m
Descent = -454 m
From the intersection the track heads west steeply down the service trail until coming to the sign saying Nellie's Glen. The track turns sharply left and heads through the gully formed in the cliffs. The track is made up of steep steps and occasionally crosses small sections of creek. These crossings are particularly slippery. Gradually the track turns to the south-west and flattens out. Shortly after passing another sign saying Nellie's Glen the track widens into a service trail. This continues south-west until coming to an intersection with another service trail, next to several private paddocks.
Megalong Village (Historic)
Alt = 584
In 1870 Kerosene shale was discovered in the Nellie's Glen area and 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 little town with a hotel, butcher, bakery and public hall. When the mines were closed in 1904, the best buildings were were demolished and move and rebuilt in Katoomba. The the December of 1904, a huge bushfire ripped up through the valley destroying what buildings were left.
(4.33 km) Int of Devils Creek Service trail and 6 Ft Track to Int of 6 Ft Track and Megalong Rd Track: Moderate - servicetrail, bushtrack
Distance = 3.8 km
Time = 1 Hrs 5 mins
Climb = 69 m
Descent = -83 m
From the intersection the track heads south-west along the Nellies Glen Rd service trail. Shortly after the intersection the track passes a service trail which heads off to the right and across Megalong Creek. Several hundred metres beyond this the track passes through a gate (leave the gate as your found it). From here the track continues until crossing Coral Creek just before coming up to the intersection with the Medlow Gap Management Trail. From the intersection the trail heads west along the service trail. This continues until coming to an intersection with the track heading off to the north and across Megalong Creek whilst the 6 ft Track crosses the fence on a set of stiles and goes across the paddocks. In this section the track passes numerous intersections with other service trails. These are all marked private property access trails, so that it is obvious not to go into any of them. The track also passes over several fences using the stiles and small bridges that have been installed. From the intersection the track crosses over the fence using the stile and heads south-west across the paddocks. Shortly after beginning this section the track crosses over Mitchell Creek turns slightly more to the south. The track continues until the track turns sharply to the west and heads along the bush track. This is largely through the paddocks however it is clear by the signs where the track goes. This continues until the track descends down to a small bridge and onto the bush track. The track goes across another small bridge several hundred metres on, just before coming to an intersection with Megalong Rd, marked with several signs saying Megalong Cemetery.
Old Ford Reserve
Alt = 544
This campsite is a few meters north of the Megalong Rd bridge over Megalong Crk. The campsite is accessible by car, has a toilet, and plenty of flat space to pitch a tent. Some nice grouping of trees and access to the creek makes this a nice place to stay. The campsite is about 500m North from where the Six Foot Track crossing Megalong Rd.
Megalong Cemetery (historical)
Alt = 570
There are few historical records about this cemetery. There a few remaining tomb stones. Currently under the management of the Blue Mountains City Council, and recognised by the National Trust.
(8.15 km) Int of 6 Ft Track and Megalong Rd to Bowtell's Swing Bridge Track: Moderate - Bush Track
Distance = 5.9 km
Time = 2 Hrs 10 mins
Climb = 195 m
Descent = -467 m
From the intersection of the trail heads down the hill along the service trail to the west. Approximately 200m down the hill the track crosses over a fence using a stile. The track then flattens out slightly and continues along the service trail until crossing another fence and heading through the paddocks. The direction of the track is clearly signposted and at all points where it is necessary to cross fences stiles have been installed. Just after Harry's Creek the track goes more into bushland. At this point there are several gates (leave them as you found them). From here the track continues around the hill above the Cox's River. This continues with several small ups and downs until the track crosses a small tributary of Cox's River and turns north for several hundred metres before turning back to the west. After this change of direction the track there are several little hills to cross until it is possible to see a large swing bridge in the distance. At this point the track heads down almost to the level of the Cox's River and continues for several hundred metres until coming to an intersection signposted as the way to 'Bowtells Swing Bridge'
Bowtell's Swing Bridge
Alt = 296
This Bridge is a foot suspension bridge that spans the Cox's River. This bridge now avoids the often dangerous river crossing when the Cox's is in flood. The bridge was built and opened in 1992 by the Royal Australian Engineers. The bridge is named after fellow soldier of the builders, Corporal Bob Bowtell, who suffocated and died in foul air whilst attempting clear a tunnel of the VC during the Viet Nam war. Bob grew up in Katoomba and is now buried in West Malaysia.
(14.01 km) Bowtell's Swing Bridge to Cox's River Campsite Alternative ROUTE: Route: Hard - bushtrack, wade ( Show detail)
Distance = 1.1 km
Time = 20 mins
Climb = 46 m
Descent = -71 m
From the intersection of the 6 Foot Track and the Bowtell's Swing Bridge Track the trail heads south-west around the valley above Cox's River for a few hundred metres until the track turns more to the west continuing around the hill. The track continues in this manner until coming to just above a paddock where it steeply descends into the grasslands. This is the east side of the Cox's River Campsite. For amenities including shelter, tables, fresh tank water and toilets it is necessary to cross the Cox's River to the other side of the campsite. From the intersection the track heads down the hill to the river bank. The track crosses the river by the rocks or wading through it to the other side. The track then climbs up the far bank to continue up the grassy hill to the shelter at Cox's River Campsite. This river crossing can be very dangerous (especially in flood) the Bridge to the north offers a safer way of crossing the river when the water is at a dangerous level.
(14.01 km) Bowtell's Bridge East to Int. Six Foot Trk and Lodge Trk Track: Moderate - duckboard, bushtrack, bushtrack
Distance = 0.9 km
Time = 20 mins
Climb = 56 m
Descent = -71 m
From the eastern bank the track crosses the bridge approximately 100m to the other side. The bridge swings and bounces as you walk across it. From the swing bridge the track heads up some stairs into the bush. The track then undulates around the hillside for approximately 1km to descend quite a few stairs to a flat clearing beside the river. From the intersection the track heads down along the flat grassy area for approximately 60m to tend left for approximately 5m to the intersection at the bottom of two flights of stairs.
(14.88 km) Stile to Six Foot Track Lodge Optional Side Trip: Track: Moderate - Bush Track
Distance = 0 km
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 9 m
Descent = 0 m
From the stile over the fence, the track heads up the hill for to turn left up the boardwalk to the Lodge above on the left.
Six Foot Track Lodge
Alt = 292
The Six Foot Track Lodge is situated above the flats of the Cox's River along the Six Foot Track. The lodge consists of two cabins each with the capacity to sleep twelve people in a bunks. The cabins are equipped with linen, warm blankets, log fire, BBQ and has its own out house. The maximum rate for a nights stay is $35. For more information view the website or call (02)98103695. Booking before starting the walk are essential for use (the cabin is not staffed).
(14.88 km) Stile to Cox's River Campsite Track: Moderate - Service Trail
Distance = 0.4 km
Time = 5 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = -15 m
From the stile over fence, the track heads down then up the hill west to the gate on the service track above 'Six Foot Track' signs. From the gate the track follows the 'Six Foot Track' signs down the hill for approximately 200m to the corner of a fence where a bush track leaves the service trail up the grassy hill to the shelter of Cox's River Campsite.
Cox's River Campsite
Alt = 276
The Cox's River Campsite, on the Six Foot Track, is situated on the western bank of the Cox's River. It provides a shelter, water (Rain tank or Creek - treat before drinking either), picnic tables, toilet and a flat grassed camping area with excellent access to the river.
Cox's River
Alt = 270
The Cox's River starts west of Katoomba runs South east as the main tributary for the Warragamba Dam. The Six Foot Track crosses the river by either steeping stones or when in flood the large metal swing bridge, Bowtell's Bridge. Although a campsite has been named and sited on the banks of the Cox's River, the water itself is not safe to drink without prior treatment. The river provides an nice swimming spot with its pools and interesting granite rock formations.
(15.25 km) Cox's River Campsite to Kiangatha Yards Track: Moderate - Service Trail
Distance = 3.1 km
Time = 1 Hrs 10 mins
Climb = 368 m
Descent = -74 m
From the shelter the track heads up the hill parallel with the creek and the large power lines above for some approximately 1km. The track then winds left around a hill leaving the power lines behind, and then further up the hill away from the creek below on the right. The track then passes through two minor creeks and heads up hill to turn steeply left around a spur then passing a stockyard on the right. The track then wraps around a small shaded forest on the right to continue approximately 200m to a large sign marked 'Six Foot Track'.
(18.32 km) Kiangatha Yards to Alum Creek Reserve Track: Moderate - Service Trail
Distance = 3.1 km
Time = 1 Hrs 10 mins
Climb = 189 m
Descent = -196 m
From the intersection the track heads up the hill in a westerly direction. For approximately 1km the track heads up a spur with steep gullies either side to lead into the trees. The track heads up through the trees for some time to climb to a clearing on the left marked by a stump with an orange arrow nailed to it. From the clearing the track heads south west down a slighter gradient hill. The track winds down the hill for approximately 1km to a steep area of track. There is a direct track deeply cut by water leading straight down to the service trail below. The track winds around to the bottom of this and continues for approximately 300m with the ridge above to the right as it makes its way down the hill to a sign marked 'Department of Lands Alum Creek Reserve'.
Alum Creek Camping ground
Alt = 560
Signposted as 'Alum Creek reserve' this flat grassy area off the side of Glen Chee road (part of the six foot track) is the quietest of the three official campsites on the six foot track. There are no facilities provided but the flat campsite is in a well protected valley and the Little River down the road is a fairly reliable water supply (needs treating before use).
(21.38 km) Alum Creek Reserve to Int. Black Range Rd and Cronje Mt Fire Trail Track: Moderate - Service Trail
Distance = 4.2 km
Time = 1 Hrs 25 mins
Climb = 470 m
Descent = -55 m
From the Alum Creek Reserve sign the track heads down the hill. The track crosses a small creek after approximately 40m. After a short time the track winds down a hill into a grassy gully. The track passes a service track off to the left which accesses the river. The track continues through the grassy gully to a small river crossing. From the far bank of the river the track traverses a slight hill for approximately 100m to a second river crossing. The track passes through the river and meanders south for approximately 200m with the creek on the left to a third creek crossing. The track then climbs away from the creek on the right of the track. The track rises away from the creek for a short time to wrap around a gully to a gate marked 'Kiangatha Private Property'. From the gate the track winds up the hill, tending left. The track winds up the hill for a short time to a grassy gully on the right. The track swings right, around the top of the gully to lead up the hill. The track continues up to a sharp left turn and climbs approximately 200m to a turn around junction on the left. The track straightens out up the top of a spur for some time until the track winds along the right of the spur to a sign marked 'Drive with caution walkers on road'. The track passes this sign to continue up the hill to a sign posted intersection. From the intersection the track follows the arrow of the sign post up the hill, south. There is a track from just down the hill from which leads up the spur to the turn around area at the top. The service trail leads up the right of a spur for approximately 1km to a turn around area on the left of the service trail. The track then continues winding up the hill for approximately 1km tending left, up to the intersection.
(25.56 km) Int. Black Range Rd and Cronje Mt Fire Trail to Kanangra Boyd NP Sign Track: Moderate - Service Trail
Distance = 5.5 km
Time = 1 Hrs 30 mins
Climb = 229 m
Descent = -54 m
From the intersection the track heads south up the hill. The track leads right then left to round a knoll to then climb steeply and slightly left up to a flat area. The track then heads west up the right of the spur to lead across a knoll and into a saddle. The track crosses the saddle and continues west up the fire trail to a gate on the left marked as 'Moorara Boss Fire Trail'. From the intersection the track heads west up the hill. The track heads over the spur and into a saddle where it veers right to head up the left of a spur line. The track leads then leads up the hillside with the spur line above on the left for some time. The track continues up the hill to a gate on the left of the track marked 'Warlock Fire Trail'. The track is frequently sign posted with 6'T po
Hiking near Sydney 
10 km
