Trail Fast Facts
Pulpit walking track is a 7km, grade 3 hike in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Pulpit Rock is an isolated pinnacle standing away from the cliff-face on a massive blade of rock. You can walk to it from Govetts Leap, enjoying heathlands, swamps, waterfalls, and an ever-changing view of the Grose Valley.
The track begins to the left of Govetts Leap lookout - go down the steps into the shelter of a small creek, where black wattles grow in thick stands. From here, cross the bridge and follow the track to the cliff edge. You'll pass several small lookouts on route giving you the chance to admire a breathtaking 280-degree panorama of the Grose Valley and distant mountains. Cross Popes Glen Creek before following the steps up to a lookout above Horseshoe Falls.
The track then continues along the cliffline, around hanging swamps and open heathland - look out for wildflowers in November. Eucalypt forests then become a feature of the landscape as you near Pulpit Rock lookout. Retrace your steps back to Govetts Leap or leave a vehicle at Pulpit Rock lookout, accessed via Hat Hill Road.
Take a virtual tour of Pulpit walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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
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
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
Pulpit Rock walking track starts at Govetts Leap lookout in the northern precinct of Blue Mountains National Park.To get there:Turn right off Great Western Highway, at Blackheath traffic lights, into Govetts Leap Road.Drive for 2.5km. After passing through the park entrance, follow the signs to Govetts Leap lookout.Pulpit Rock walking track can also be accessed from Pulpit Rock lookout. Parking Parking is available at Govetts Leap lookout, including several designated spots.
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.