Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the enchanting Split Rock trail, a moderate 2.5km return hike located near the delightful Deep Pass campground. This 2-hour adventure offers a blend of well-maintained rocky fire trails, dirt paths, and an exciting scramble leading to a majestic sandstone formation. Get ready to explore a narrow, dry canyon that occasionally twinkles with glowworms, adding a dash of magic to your bushwalking experience. Don't forget your head torch for the U-shaped tunnel exploration, and always prioritise safety.

Length:

2.5km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 982m

Min elevation: 853m

Total Ascent: 177m

Start: Deep Pass North Carpark

End: Deep Pass North Carpark

Wollemi National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Wallerawang

From state capital: 160km

Latitude: -33.340280644305565

Longitude: 150.30002817594064

Walk map

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Safety advice

Many of the walks in this area require rock scrambling and abseiling skills. You should be certain of your capabilities, and always walk in a group.

Hike overview

The trail to Split Rock follows the initial section of the Deep Pass Canyon Loop, leading you to the charming Deep Pass campground. Here, the real magic begins.

On the southern side of the campground lies Split Rock, a majestic sandstone formation that begs exploration. Scramble around its back and discover a narrow, dry canyon offering a unique perspective. Feeling adventurous? Squeeze through a U-shaped cave/tunnel, but be sure to pack a head torch! This hidden gem often twinkles with glowworms, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for those willing to adjust their eyes to the darkness.

The hike itself takes roughly 2 hours to complete. The first half follows a well-maintained rocky fire trail, offering an easy and scenic walk. The remainder transitions to a dirt path with a few loose sections, but nothing too challenging when dry.

The final approach to Split Rock involves a short scramble, but the reward is well worth the effort. Once inside, navigate the narrow slot canyon with ease and marvel at the geological wonders surrounding you. This adventure is perfect for those seeking a taste of challenge and a dose of natural wonder. Just remember to be prepared and prioritise safety throughout your exploration.

If you wanted to stay in the area and explore Deep canyon, pitch a tent at the Deep Pass walk-in campsite.

Deep Pass walk-in campsite

Set up camp at remote Deep Pass campground in World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park. With unmarked sites suitable for tents only, this walk-in campground is near scenic walks, rockpools and canyons.

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Walk map and GPX file

Deep Pass Split Rock (3km)

Total distance: 2692 m
Max elevation: 982 m
Min elevation: 853 m
Total climbing: 177 m
Total descent: -177 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Bells Line of Road, Bilpin, Broke, Bulga, Bylong, Capertee, Cessnock, Colo, Colo Heights, Denman, Kandos, Kurrajong, Kurrajong Heights, Lithgow, Mount Tomah, Mount Wilson, Putty, Rylstone, Sandy Hollow, Singleton

Getting to the trailhead in Wollemi National Park.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Deep Pass, a saddle located on the western end of Railmotor Ridge near Mount Norris, beckons exploration. Accessible via Glowworm Tunnel Road, Eastern Boundary Road, and the Deep Pass Trail, this historical landmark was designated a Rural Place in 1997. You can even spot it on the 1882 map of the Parish of Rock Hill. A small creek named Deep Pass Creek, stemming from the south side of the saddle, flows for 2.1km before meeting Dingo Creek.

Just a few hours northwest of Sydney lies Wollemi National Park, a World Heritage site that will leave you breathless. Immerse yourself in the vast Wollemi Wilderness, the largest declared Wilderness Area in New South Wales. Towering cliffs, wild rivers, canyons, and serene forests provide endless opportunities for scenic walks, drives, wildlife spotting, canoeing, and camping.

Wollemi National Park offers diverse experiences across different regions. Near Windsor, discover the beauty of the Colo River and its gorges, perfect for hiking, picnics, riverside camping, and canoeing. Explore historic mining ruins and the magical Glow Worm Tunnel near Newnes campground in the Wolgan Valley. Hike or rock climb the magnificent escarpments that rise from the valley floor.

Seeking tranquility? Escape to Gunguddy (Dunns Swamp) in the Mudgee Region. Here, you can camp, swim, and canoe while marveling at the remarkable pagoda rock formations on easy walking tracks. The park's northeast region, bordering the Upper Hunter Valley, is best explored on a scenic drive or 4WD adventure. Discover remote camping options near Sheepskin Hut and historical remnants from the area's mining and pastoral past.

Whether you're seeking a challenging hike through Deep Pass or a relaxing escape within a specific region of Wollemi National Park, there's something for everyone. Remember to check park regulations and plan your trip accordingly. T

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Wollemi National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Deep Pass Split Rock (3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Hike at a Glance

Safety advice