Carlotta Arch walking track is a 0.8km, grade 3 one way hike, located in the Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve, New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 45mins to complete.

Hike Summary

Be astounded by the beauty of the world’s oldest cave system on the picturesque Carlotta Arch walking track, also known as Shaping Waters walk. Part of the exquisite Jenolan Caves network in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Carlotta Arch walking track leads you along a short, circular track and offers a stunning introduction to the reserve. Beginning opposite heritage-listed Caves House, the track climbs steeply uphill and incorporates plenty of steps, so you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to complete it. It’s not a long walk though, and in no time you’ll be face-to-face with the enormous freestanding limestone Carlotta Arch. From under Carlotta Arch, you can experience a bird’s-eye view of the brilliant Blue Lake. Wander down into the massive Devil’s Coach House cave, and check out Grand Arch before returning to Caves House. Visit any time of year to soak up the scenery, or go bird watching for lyrebirds and pretty little rock warblers. In warmer weather, you can spot Cunningham’s skinks basking in the sunshine, while wallabies and other native wildlife are often nearby. As well as being a stunning spot to sightsee or relax after a day of caving, this majestic arch forms a sensational backdrop as a wedding venue.

About the region

Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve

Getting there

To Jenolan Caves. Carlotta Arch walking track is in Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve. To get there from Sydney:Take M4 Motorway, then Great Western Highway over Blue Mountains to Hartley.Turn off at Hartley onto Jenolan Caves RoadIt’s approximately 45 minutes from here to the caves???? Park entry points Jenolan Caves See on map Parking Parking is available at any of the 3 main carparks at Jenolan Caves. Designated disabled parking spots can be found adjacent to the Guides Office and behind Caves House. Bus parking is also available.?? It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.

Tips

The section of road into Jenolan Valley is one-way from 11.45am to 1.15pm every day to allow coaches to enter Jenolan safely. Take Oberon Road if you’re leaving Jenolan between these times.
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you’re well-prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.