Trail summary

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Quick overview: Experience a piece of Australian history on this 3km hike over the Blue Mountains, taking in the historic Knapsack Viaduct - once the largest in Australia. Starting from Wentworth Falls, this Grade 2, easy-level walk is perfect for bushwalkers looking to glimpse the past. Traverse the now pedestrian-only bridge, enjoy stunning views of the gully, and explore the zig-zag path of the old railway line. Perfect for a 1.5-hour outing, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains with this unique trail.

Length: 3km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: One Way

Start: Knapsack Reserve Carpark

End: Knapsack Reserve Carpark

Location: Knapsack Reserve

State: New South Wales

Nearby town: Lapstone

From state capital: 60km

Latitude: -33.76547099622349

Longitude: 150.6397354602814

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Hike overview

An historic abandoned viaduct and zig zag on part of the first railway line constructed over the Blue Mountains.

The former railway route adopted involved an impressive sandstone viaduct over Knapsack Gully. The viaduct was the largest in Australia, being 388 feet long and 120 ft high with 5 spans of 55 ft and 2 of 20 ft.

Construction commenced in 1863. The line was opened to Weatherboard (now Wentworth Falls) on J Originally built to carry a single railway track, the bridge was later fitted with a new concrete deck, enabling it to carry 2 lanes of road traffic. It formed part of the Great Western Highway until being by-passed in the mid 1990's. Today it is used only by pedestrians, bicycles, emergency vehicles, & the Olympic Torch Relay.

Photo credit: Rail Trails Australia. For more information and a location map please visit RailTrails Australia.

Tips

Coarse gravel
Flat to slight incline

Map and GPX file

Lapstone Viaduct & Zig Zag Walk (3km)

Total distance: 2976 m
Max elevation: 169 m
Min elevation: 88 m
Total climbing: 159 m
Total descent: -158 m

Download file: Lapstone-Viaduct-Zig-Zag.gpx

Getting there

Lapstone Viaduct & Zig Zag Walk (3km)

Knapsack Viaduct is signposted from the M4 Motorway/Great Western Highway at the Emu Plains exit. From the car park at the junction of the old highway and historic Mitchells Pass, a concrete footpath rises gently and follows the former railway and highway route to and over the viaduct. From here, dirt paths (suitable for walking only) descend below the stone arches or climb to Elizabeth lookout, upper Zig-Zag ‘roads’ and Lucasville station.

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If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.

A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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.

About the region

An 634 metre-long 1892 tunnel, which bypassed the Zig-Zag, is located mainly south of the Great Western Highway. The tunnel is not open at this stage but Blue Mountains City Council are working on reopening it for cyclists and pedestrians. The entrances to the tunnel can be reached by walking tracks. The eastern entrance can be reached via a tunnel beneath the M4 to Governors Drive and then a track (overgrown at times) from near a water tank. The western end can be reached from the top of Tunnel Gully on the northern side of the Great Western Highway. Once closed in 1913, the tunnel was at times used to house a mushroom farm and to store mustard gas.

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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

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Looking for things to do in Knapsack Reserve or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans

Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

Reviews

Lapstone Viaduct & Zig Zag Walk (3km)

3 Reviews on “Lapstone Viaduct & Zig Zag Walk (3km)”

Overall rating

Lisa Horan

Can you please post some Victorian walks? ??

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Lapstone Viaduct & Zig Zag Walk (3km)