Mount Solitary Walking Track Circuit (34km)

Starting at Scenic World, descend Furber Steps to Federal Pass and walk the track where a horse-drawn tramway once ran.

Day 1 takes you on a 7km hike through a wonderland of rocky terrain, emerald tree ferns and towering mountain blue gums. After roughly 4.5 hours, you'll reach Ruined Castle campground, where you can pitch your tent among the fascinating remnants of an 1882 mining operation. Take a short walk to the iconic rock formation nicknamed "Ruined Castle" and soak in the sunset's magic. Watch as deep shadows creep across the cliffs and paint the Jamison Valley in a stunning twilight palette.

Tips for day 1: The Ruined Castle campground has a drop toilet, water tanks, picnic tables and shelter. As this was a short day and we were't certain about the reliability of water, we carried enough water to get us through days 1 and 2.

Day 2 is the hardest and you'll need 8hrs to cover 9km of difficult terrain. Get the heart pumping with a hike up Koorowall Knife Edge along a rough unformed track on the western ridge of Mount Solitary. This unformed track along the mountain's western ridge is no walk in the park, but the payoff is epic. Prepare for adrenaline-pumping moments as you navigate the rocky terrain and soak in the panoramic views.

When you reach Chinamans Gully via a short detour you'll be rewarded with spectacular views and wedge-tailed eagles surfing the valley thermals. Bask in spellbinding views across Jamison Valley. To the south, spot the rugged ravines of the Wild Dog mountains and the unspoilt Kanangra-Boyd wilderness. Take a moment to admire the hardy mountain heath, old man bankias, and scribbly gums while listening for the call of peregrine falcons.

The final leg takes you across the top and down the steep eastern slope of Mount Solitary to Kedumba River. This is s steep and long descent along rocky and slippery terrain so careful navigation is needed. Embrace the challenge and savor the feeling of accomplishment as you reach your campsite. Remember to treat the water from the Kedumba River before drinking, and keep your ears tuned for the enchanting calls of lyrebirds, possums, and owls as you settle in for a night under the stars.

Tips for day 2: The Koorowall Knife Edge is steep and challenging but is well marked with directional markers on the rocks. Once on the Solitary plateau, there is no reliable water source but you may be able to locate some in the headwaters of various gullies. The Kedumba River offers a reliable water source but should be treated before drinking.

Day 3 and the final day involves a 14km walk. From Kedumba River you'll continue to follow Mount Solitary walking trail for 2km as it steeply ascends to the Sublime Point fire trail. When you meet the fire trail, follow it to the west, passing Jamison and Leura Falls Creeks. Wander through Leura forest and into the rainforest gully known as Fern Bower. Look out for the splash of red waratah flowers amid the grey forest gums if you happen to be here in spring. Finally, ascend the Three Sisters to Echo Point via the Giant Stairway then follow the Prince Henry Cliff Walk back to Scenic World. If you opt to follow Federal Pass to the west, rather than ascending the Giant Stairway, you'll finish back at the base of Furber Steps where you started.

Tips for day 3: Most of this day follows the Sublime Point fire trail so is not as 'remote' as the previous days. It is a long day with a lot of ascent, especially at the end when you will either climb the Furber Steps (951 steps) or the Giant Stairway (998 steps).