Clarke Gorge walking track Trail Hiking Australia

Length: 5km
Duration: 4hrs
Grade: 5
Style: Return
Start: Blue Waterholes Trail, Cooleman
End: Blue Waterholes Trail, Cooleman

Location: Kosciuszko National Park
Closest Town:
Distance from CBD: 508 km
State: NSW
Latitude: -35.62284255
Longitude: 148.6985289

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Clarke Gorge walking track is a 5km, grade 5 return hike, located in the Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 4hrs to complete.

Hike Summary

As you hike through the narrow gorge cut by Cave Creek, spectacular limestone cliffs, and cave formations on either side, you'll never imagine that Clarke Gorge walking track could get any better. But it does, finishing at the top of Cave Creek Falls . There's a 15m drop of water as well as views down Wilkinsons Gorge. Unsurprisingly, this walk is very popular with photographers.
As well as the beauty of the rock features, some of which were formed more than 400 million years ago, the landscape is dotted with snow gums and black sallee (another high-altitude eucalypt with dark bark), rare discaria shrubs, and vibrant yellow billy buttons. You'll likely see grey kangaroos bounding in the distance and wedge-tail eagles circling overhead. Fishermen might also want to bring their lines with them because there are a few waterholes along Cave Creek where they can try their luck catching trout, before returning to the walk's starting point at Blue Waterholes campground.

About the region

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, 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.

Getting there

Clarke Gorge walking track is in the Blue Waterholes precinct of Kosciuszko National Park, 25km north east of Snowy Mountains Highway via Long Plain Road and Blue Waterholes trail. The track starts near Blue Waterholes campground. Road quality There's no vehicle access to the trackhead of Clarke Gorge walking track in winter, and roads may close in extreme weather. Check the weather before you set out as Long Plain Road and Blue Waterholes trail can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available on Blue Waterholes trail, next to Blue Waterholes campground.

Tips

This walk is medium to hard difficulty, requiring several water crossings and scrambling over rock surfaces. Please take care on uneven and wet surfaces and ensure you have good boots and appropriate clothing.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB before you arrive. It's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass or GPS.

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.