Trail Fast Facts
Mount Banks Summit walk is a 2.4km, grade 3 hike in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
For some of the most spectacular scenic views across Blue Mountains National Park, grab your camera and head for Mount Banks Summit walk, near Mount Wilson. The distinctive double hump of Mount Banks is visible for miles and this challenging walking track gives adventurous walkers the opportunity to explore it at close range.
From Mount Banks picnic area, you'll ascend steeply and it's not just the windswept dramatic landscape you'll want to photograph. Near the unfenced summit you'll discover a fascinating new world. The unique basalt cap is home to a tall forest of monkey gums, so named by early explorers who mistook resident greater gliders for monkeys.
Enjoy a well-earned break while taking in the magnificent panoramic views over the Grose Wilderness. From here you can truly appreciate the staggering diversity and immense beauty of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.
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.
Tips
The summit is unfenced so please take care and supervise children at all times.
It's a good idea to fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB when planning your hike. Bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this park.
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.
Map and GPX file
Help fellow hikers navigate with confidence. Share your GPX or KML file for this trail and help build a more comprehensive resource with precise waypoints and elevation profiles. Your contribution will empower adventurers with details they need for a safer and more enjoyable experience. I meticulously verify every file using official maps and surveys, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and reliability. Submit your file now and become a trailblazer for your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Mount Banks Summit walk is in the Mount Wilson precinct of Blue Mountains National Park. To get there:Drive west from Richmond on the Bells Line of RoadAbout 10kms past Mount Tomah, take the turn off to Mount Banks Picnic Area.Drive for 1km along the unsealed road to the parking area Parking Parking is available at Mount Banks picnic area. It can be a busy place on weekends, so parking might be limited.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and Country NSW regions
Blue Mountains National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. Some parts of the park close overnight; details are provided for specific attractions.
9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
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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.