Australia — Katoomba
Walk the historic Six Foot Track, a 45km, 3-day moderate route through Australia's Blue Mountains National Park. This varied trail connects Katoomba to the spectacular Jenolan Caves, winding through eucalyptus forests, fern-filled gullies, and dramatic escarpments for a genuine wilderness experience.
Distance: 45.0 km
Elevation Gain: 1500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3 days
The Six Foot Track is a historic 45-kilometre, three-day walking track traversing the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains National Park, west of Sydney, Australia. This iconic trail connects the charming mountain town of Katoomba to the Jenolan Caves, one of the world's most spectacular limestone cave systems. The track winds through diverse landscapes, from dense eucalyptus forests and fern-filled gullies to open heathlands and dramatic escarpments, offering a genuine wilderness experience within easy reach of the city.
Originally established in the 1880s as a more direct route to the caves, the Six Foot Track has evolved from a rough bridle path into a well-maintained but challenging walking trail. It demands a good level of fitness and preparedness, rewarding walkers with stunning vistas, the sounds of native birds, and the profound sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a multi-day trek through a World Heritage-listed area.
The Six Foot Track offers a compelling journey through the heart of the Blue Mountains, a region renowned for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and unique flora and fauna. The trail's name originates from its initial construction as a six-foot-wide track, intended for horse-drawn carriages and riders, a testament to its historical significance as a vital link to the Jenolan Caves.
The walk begins in the bustling tourist hub of Katoomba, a town famous for the Three Sisters rock formation and its vibrant arts scene. From here, the track quickly plunges into the wilderness, descending steeply into the Jamison Valley. This initial descent is a significant challenge, testing the knees and quads of even experienced hikers. The path then follows the Coxs River, a picturesque waterway that carves its way through the landscape, offering opportunities for rest and reflection.
The second day involves a substantial climb out of the Coxs River valley, leading walkers towards the Black Range. This section is characterised by open forest and heath, with expansive views opening up as you gain elevation. The air here is often crisp and clean, filled with the scent of eucalyptus. The trail then continues towards the Jenolan Caves area, with the final day involving a shorter but still engaging walk to the cave entrance.
Throughout the trek, walkers can expect to encounter a rich diversity of plant life, including towering eucalypts, delicate ferns, and colourful wildflowers, depending on the season. The sounds of native birds—such as the kookaburra, lyrebird, and various honeyeaters—are a constant companion. While the track is generally well-marked, its remoteness and the potential for challenging weather conditions mean that preparedness is paramount. The Six Foot Track is more than just a walk; it's an immersion into the wild, untamed spirit of the Blue Mountains.
The Six Foot Track's history is intrinsically linked to the development of tourism and exploration in the Blue Mountains during the late 19th century. As the railway line pushed westwards from Sydney, Katoomba emerged as a popular destination, and the desire to access the newly discovered and increasingly famous Jenolan Caves grew. The existing routes were arduous and time-consuming, often involving long horse-drawn coach journeys over rough terrain.
In the 1880s, a concerted effort was made to create a more direct and accessible route. The track was initially conceived and constructed as a six-foot-wide bridle track, designed to accommodate horse-drawn vehicles and riders. This width was a significant undertaking for the era, requiring considerable labour and engineering to carve through the dense bushland, across steep valleys, and over rugged ridges. The construction was driven by the burgeoning tourism industry, with hotels and businesses in Katoomba keen to attract visitors to the natural wonder of Jenolan Caves.
The track's construction was not without its challenges. The terrain is unforgiving, with steep ascents and descents, and the need to bridge or ford the Coxs River presented significant engineering hurdles. Despite these difficulties, the track was completed, providing a vital link that facilitated the growth of tourism to Jenolan Caves. For many years, it was a popular route for both adventurous travellers and those seeking a more direct way to experience the region's natural beauty.
Over time, as road access to Jenolan Caves improved, the Six Foot Track saw a decline in its use as a primary transport route. However, it remained a cherished destination for bushwalkers and nature enthusiasts. In recent decades, there has been a renewed appreciation for the track's historical significance and its value as a multi-day hiking experience. Efforts have been made to maintain and improve the track, ensuring its preservation while allowing walkers to experience the same landscapes that captivated explorers and tourists over a century ago. The track is also situated within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, recognising its outstanding universal value and the importance of protecting its natural and cultural heritage.
The Six Foot Track experiences distinct seasonal variations, each offering a unique perspective on the Blue Mountains environment. Understanding these differences is crucial for planning a safe and enjoyable trek.
Autumn (March-May): This is widely considered the prime season for walking the Six Foot Track. The weather is typically stable, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and lower humidity. The eucalyptus forests take on a golden hue, and the air is crisp and fresh. Rainfall generally decreases, making river crossings less hazardous. The risk of bushfires is also lower during these months. This season offers excellent visibility for the expansive views from the higher sections of the track.
Spring (September-November): Spring is another excellent time to tackle the Six Foot Track. The bush comes alive with a riot of wildflowers, and the native birdlife is particularly active. Temperatures are generally mild, though can be variable, with cooler mornings and warmer afternoons. There is a higher chance of rain compared to autumn, and occasional strong winds can occur. The track can be muddy in places after rain.
Summer (December-February): Summer on the Six Foot Track can be challenging due to heat and humidity. Daytime temperatures can soar, making strenuous climbs difficult and increasing the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Bushfire risk is at its highest during this period, and sections of the track may be closed at short notice. While the rainforest gullies offer some shade, exposed sections can be very hot. Thunderstorms are also common in the afternoons, bringing heavy rain and potential flash flooding, particularly along the Coxs River.
Winter (June-August): Winter offers a different kind of beauty, with crisp, clear days and the possibility of frost or even light snow at higher elevations. The landscape can appear stark and dramatic. However, days are shorter, and temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. Rainfall is common, and river crossings can be more hazardous due to higher water levels. The track can be slippery and muddy. While less crowded, winter requires careful preparation for cold weather and shorter daylight hours.
Weather Reality: The Blue Mountains are known for their unpredictable weather. Even during the best seasons, conditions can change rapidly. Rain can fall at any time of year, and flash flooding along the Coxs River is a significant hazard, especially after heavy rainfall. Always check the weather forecast immediately before your trip and be prepared for a range of conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
Day 1: Katoomba to Coxs River Campground
Day 2: Coxs River Campground to Black Range Campground
Day 3: Black Range Campground to Jenolan Caves
Important Notes:
The Six Foot Track is a multi-day hike that requires careful planning and preparation. Given its remoteness and the potential for challenging conditions, it is essential to be physically fit and well-equipped. The closest major city is Sydney, from which you can travel to Katoomba by train or car. Katoomba is the primary gateway town, offering a range of accommodation, dining, and gear supply options. It's advisable to spend at least one night in Katoomba before starting your hike to finalise preparations and acclimatise.
Logistics for the Six Foot Track involve getting to the start point (Katoomba) and arranging transport from the end point (Jenolan Caves) back to your vehicle or onward travel. Many walkers arrange a shuttle service or a taxi from Jenolan Caves back to Katoomba, or to their parked car if they have arranged for it to be moved. It is also possible to arrange for a car shuffle if hiking with a group.
The Six Foot Track offers basic camping facilities at designated campgrounds. There are no huts or lodges along the route.
What's NOT provided: Huts, shelters, showers, potable water, cooking facilities, electricity, mobile phone reception (patchy at best).
Seasonal Availability: Campgrounds are generally open year-round, but conditions can be challenging in winter and summer. Autumn and spring offer the most pleasant camping weather.
This is a multi-day hike requiring overnight camping.
While the Six Foot Track itself does not require a specific "walk permit" in the same way as some national parks, you are required to book and pay for camping at the designated campgrounds managed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). These fees contribute to the maintenance of the track and facilities.
Campground Booking:
National Park Entry: The Six Foot Track is located within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area and is managed by NPWS. While there is no general entry fee for the national park itself, fees apply for specific facilities like campgrounds.
Jenolan Caves: If you plan to visit the Jenolan Caves after your hike, separate entry and tour fees apply. These should be booked in advance directly with Jenolan Caves.
Important Considerations:
Precisely traced GPX for the Six Foot Track, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Blue Mountains and the Jenolan Caves region offer a wealth of activities to complement your Six Foot Track adventure:
Pre-Trip Checks:
Key Hazards:
Emergency Procedures:
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover potential medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations.
Coxs River Suspension Bridge: A historic and iconic feature of the Six Foot Track, this sturdy wooden suspension bridge spans the Coxs River, providing a safe crossing point. It's a significant landmark and a great spot for photos, offering a sense of the track's historical engineering. The river itself is a beautiful spot to rest and refill water supplies (remember to treat it).
Jenolan Caves: While the end point of the hike, the Jenolan Caves are a major point of interest and a significant geological wonder. The network of limestone caves is one of the most spectacular in the world, with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Taking a guided tour after completing the hike is a highly recommended way to experience this natural marvel.
Lookouts near Katoomba: Before or after your hike, take time to visit the famous lookouts around Katoomba, such as Echo Point, which offers iconic views of the Three Sisters rock formation. These provide a dramatic introduction or conclusion to the Blue Mountains landscape you will be traversing.
Megalong Valley: As you traverse the track on Day 2, you will pass through or near the Megalong Valley. This fertile valley is known for its farms and vineyards. While facilities are limited, it offers a glimpse into rural life within the mountains and can be a good spot for a brief rest stop.
Diverse Flora and Fauna: The Six Foot Track passes through a variety of ecosystems, from dense eucalyptus forests to fern-filled gullies and open heathlands. Keep an eye out for native Australian wildlife, including various bird species (kookaburras, lyrebirds, parrots), wallabies, and if you're very lucky, echidnas. The changing vegetation provides a constant visual interest throughout the trek.
The Six Foot Track winds through the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, a region of immense natural beauty and ecological significance. Practising Leave No Trace principles is crucial to preserving this environment for future generations.
Your responsibility as a walker:
By adhering to these principles, you help ensure that the Six Foot Track remains a wild and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.
