All details inluding link to this event will be emailed to those participating.

Route plan as follows

Route Cards: 3-Day Mount Solitary Hike, Blue Mountains

Overview: A challenging Grade 5, 34 km circuit for experienced, self-reliant bushwalkers. Start and finish at Katoomba Falls Kiosk, descend via Furber Steps to Federal Pass, camp at Ruined Castle, cross Mount Solitary, descend into Kedumba Valley, then return via Leura Forest/Federal Pass. Check NSW National Parks alerts, weather, fire danger and water availability before departure.

Day 1: Katoomba Falls Kiosk to Ruined Castle Campground

1. Katoomba falls kiosk – Descend concrete steps travel approx. 50 metres junction 3 tracks head right follow sign Katoomba falls.
2. 10 mins further past witches leap waterfall round walk junction turn left Furber step track follow signs to federal pass
   1. Passing Rainforest lookout
   2. Queen Vict lookout
   3. Furber lookout
3. Arrive at federal pass turn right follow to base scenic railway
4. Base of scenic railway just past track forks keep right (ignore signs to boardwalk)
5. follow signs to landslide
6. 10 mins further 60mts past steel cables (ignore the track veering left) keep going straight
7. Exposed coal – steal poles painted yellow mark the route across rock and water gullies. Here the track widens to led to ruined castle mines
8. From end of landslide beyond small creek mineshaft into bank on right MT Rennie Tunnel
9. Another km level walking track junction where the golden stairs descend from narrow neck keep going straight
10. Vegetation changes thru forest several old mines campsites and a ruined hut.
11. 45 mins (2.5km) from golden stairs go 300m to campsite BBQ and water refill.

 

Day 2: Ruined Castle Campground to Mount Solitary and Kedumba Valley

1. Leave Ruined Castle Campground early. Refill and treat water before departing if available.
2. Follow the track east toward Ruined Castle. Optional short side trip to the Ruined Castle rock formation for views over Jamison Valley.
3. Return to the main track and continue toward Mount Solitary. The route becomes rougher and less defined.
4. Begin the steep climb up Korrowal Knife Edge on the western ridge of Mount Solitary. Expect scrambling, exposure, loose rock and slow progress.
5. Continue along the Mount Solitary ridge through heath and eucalypt forest. Navigation may be difficult in poor visibility.
6. Pass possible high camps on the ridge only if water and conditions allow. Do not rely on water on the summit plateau.
7. Descend carefully via Chinaman’s Gully toward Kedumba Valley. This section is steep and can be slippery.
8. Continue to Kedumba River area or suitable bush camp, keeping well away from waterways and treating all water before drinking.
9. Estimated distance/time: around 9–12 km, allow 7–9 hours depending on group pace, conditions and navigation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day 3: Kedumba Valley to Katoomba Falls Kiosk

1. Break camp early and ensure all rubbish is packed out.
2. Follow the valley track north-west through Kedumba Valley toward Leura Forest/Federal Pass.
3. Expect a long, steady day with remote walking, creek crossings and sections that may be overgrown or rough.
4. Join Federal Pass and continue beneath the cliffs toward Scenic World/Katoomba area.
5. Climb out via Furber Steps to Katoomba Falls Kiosk, unless current closures or conditions require an alternate exit.
6. Finish at Katoomba Falls Kiosk/Katoomba Oval parking area.
7. Estimated distance/time: around 12–15 km, allow 6–8 hours depending on exit route and track conditions.

 

Planning and Safety Checklist

• Experience: Suitable for very experienced bushwalkers only; sections are remote, steep, rough and may have little or no signage.
• Navigation: Carry a topographic map, compass and offline GPS. Do not rely on phone reception.
• Water: Treat all creek, river, waterhole or tank water. Carry enough capacity for dry sections, especially Mount Solitary ridge.
• Emergency: Lodge a trip intention with a trusted contact and carry a Personal Locator Beacon.
• Conditions: Check NSW National Parks alerts, fire bans, weather forecast and track closures immediately before departure.
• Leave No Trace: Camp on durable surfaces, toilet at least 50 m from water, bury waste at least 15 cm deep, and carry out all rubbish.
• Gear: Tent, sleeping system, wet-weather gear, warm layers, first aid kit, headtorch, stove, food for 3 days plus emergency rations, sun protection and sturdy footwear.

Important note: Track access in the Blue Mountains can change quickly due to landslips, fire, flooding and maintenance. Confirm the intended route is open before committing to the circuit; if western access is closed, consider an out-and-back from Kedumba Valley instead.

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