Six Foot Track

Fast facts

• Distance and time: 44km one-way, three days
• Level: Grade 4 track. The walk mostly follows well-maintained service tracks, but there are some steep and challenging sections. It is not recommended for people with impaired mobility or wheelchair users.
• Accommodation: There are four campsites and one lodge along the route. There’s also accommodation available at both ends of the walk. You will need to register or book before you set out.
• Top attractions: Megalong Valley, Bowtells Swing Bridge, waterfalls, Jenolan Caves.
• You will need to bring drinking water, sunscreen, clothing for all weather, a compass and topographic map, camping supplies and a Personal Locator Beacon.
• Make sure to let someone know where you are going and fill in a trip intention form. You can also hire a free Personal Locator Beacon from the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre or the police station in either Katoomba or Springwood.
• Consider doing a guided hike with Australian Walking Tours, Life's an Adventure or GirlsTrek if you'd prefer to have commentary and someone taking the lead along the trail.
• Due to the closure of Jenolan Caves, the walk currently finishes at Binda Bush Cabins.

> View map of the Six Foot Track

Megalong Valley, Blue Mountains

Start exploring 

This epic hike begins in Katoomba at the former site of the Explorer Tree, where Gregory Blaxland, William Wentworth and William Lawson carved their names during their historic crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1813. Following timber steps and glens, the track descends into the beautiful Megalong Valley. 

From the old cemetery, the track then winds through bucolic farmland and past Dryridge Estate and Megalong Creek Estate wineries, before descending to the Coxs River. Make the precarious crossing over Bowtells Swing Bridge, or pause for a dip in the refreshing waters. 

On the third day, the path climbs the range before the descent into Jenolan Caves, one of the world's oldest cave systems, dating back at least 340 million years. Here you can tour the impressive Lucas Cave, follow an ancient river passage through the Imperial Cave, or observe the beautiful crystalline decorations of Orient Cave. (Note that Jenolan Caves is currently closed and scheduled to reopen in late 2026.)

Jenolan Caves, Jenolan Caves - Credit: Timeless Creations | Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust

Where to stay

Along the track you can camp at dedicated campgrounds: Old Ford Reserve, Coxs River, Black Range and Allum Creek. Not far north of Coxs River campsite, you will find the Six Foot Track Eco Lodge situated above the flats of the Coxs River along the Six Foot Track alternate route. Bookings must be made before commencing your walk.

Six Foot Track Eco Lodge, Ganbenang - Credit: Six Foot Track Eco Lodge

Getting there

The start of the Six Foot Track is around two kilometres outside of Katoomba and there is a dirt car park 200 metres down Nellies Glen Road. The drive from Sydney takes 90 minutes. If you want to catch public transport, you can get the train direct to Katoomba Station and get a taxi. There is no public transport available from the finish point at Binda Bush Cabins, so you will need to arrange a private transfer.

Binda Bush Cabins, Jenolan - Credit: Jenolan Caves | DCCEEW

Before you go 

Before venturing out on a long hike or visiting a remote part of the Blue Mountains National Park, visit the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath to complete a trip intention form. You can also visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information on the Six Foot Track.