This inspiring walk for photographers, birdwatchers and bushwalkers, starts from Glory Cave carpark at Yarrangobilly Caves. Follow the path above the Yarrangobilly River, passing Glory Arch and South Glory Cave, as you head towards Castle Cave.
Along the way you'll see dry stone walls, built from hand cut limestone in days past. Continue below spectacular limestone cliffs until the track veers left to Mill Creek Gorge, and on to Castle Cave.
Ask the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre about guided tours through Castle Cave, before you start the walk. South Glory Cave is open year-round for self-guided tours, and makes a great detour as you head back along the track. You'll need to buy tickets for all caves from the visitor centre.
In warmer months, why not extend your walk to visit the Yarrangobilly River and Thermal Pool. Enjoy fishing and swimming in the pristine mountain waters, while the currawongs and kookaburras chatter in the trees. Winter often blankets the area in snow and offers the chance to see glistening icicles clinging to the South Glory Cave entrance.
With overnight options at nearby historic Yarrangobilly Caves House and Lyrebird Cottage, you might be tempted to linger a while in the magnificent high country.
For guided and self-guided tours of caves, you'll need to buy tickets before you start the walk at Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre.
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.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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Getting to the trailhead: Kosciuszko National Park.
To Glory Hole carpark. Castle Cave walk is in the northern precinct of Kosciuszko National Park. To get there:From the Monaro Highway:At Cooma, take the Snowy Mountains Highway and continue for approximately 110kmTurn left into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly CavesCastle Cave walk begins near Yarrangobilly Caves House.From the Hume Highway:At Gundagai, take the Tumut exit and follow Gocup Road to TumutContinue on Snowy Mountains Highway south for approximately 75kmTurn right into Yarrangobilly Caves Entrance RoadFollow the unsealed road for approximately 6km to Yarrangobilly CavesCastle Cave walk begins near Yarrangobilly Caves House. Park entry points Glory Hole carpark See on map Road quality Yarrangobilly Caves entrance and exit roads are graded gravel. They’re suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles up to 12.5m in length, however the Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) advise that the roads are unsuitable for caravans. RMS recommends snow chains are carried by all vehicles driving in the park in winter, including 4WD and AWD, in case of extreme weather. Visit the Life Traffic website for road conditions. Parking Parking is available at Glory Cave carpark. Please note park entry fees apply for vehicles without a Kosciuszko National Park day pass or NPWS All Parks annual pass. Bus parking is available – contact the visitor centre on (02) 6454 9597 for access.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Kosciuszko National Park spoils you with snow sports, walks and mountain biking in the Snowy Mountains. Go camping, explore caves, climb Australia's highest mountain, or stay in heritage accommodation. There are 7 areas in this park:
1. Thredbo-Perisher area is your gateway to Mount Kosciuszko. Find NSW's favourite ski resorts, top alpine hikes, mountain bike trails, and endless adventures in the Snowy Mountains.
2. The Lower Snowy River area embraces the wild south of Kosciuszko National Park. Camp by the Snowy River and explore the scenic trails on a walk, bike or horse ride.
3. Khancoban area is the western gateway to Kosciuszko National Park. Discover Geehi and Tom Groggin's camp spots, fishing, and riding. Marvel at the Western Fall views or explore huts and hikes in the Jagungal Wilderness.
4. The Selwyn area is your perfect base to explore the walks, rides, and top fishing spots of central Kosciuszko National Park. Selwyn Snow Resort and historic Kiandra are closed due to severe fire damage.
5. The Yarrangobilly area is a highlight of northern Kosciuszko National Park. Explore jaw-dropping caves on a guided tour and swim in the thermal pool. Stay at historic Caves House and enjoy the walks and wildlife.
6. The Tumut area is your launch pad into northern Kosciuszko National Park. Discover water sports and wildlife at Blowering Reservoir. Camp and explore hidden walks and waterfalls in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains.
7. The High Plains area spoils you with summer walks, horse rides and bike trails to mountain huts, caves, and gorges. Camp, stay in Currango's heritage cottages, and discover Kosciuszko's wild north-east corner.
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Adaminaby, Cabramurra, Cooma, Crackenback, Dalgety, Jindabyne, Khancoban, Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Tumbarumba, Tumut
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Kosciuszko National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
5 Reviews on “Castle Cave Walk (3.2km)”
Rob Muirhead probably wouldn’t get out of bed for such a short walk but looks cool ?
Donna Haigh