Trail Fast Facts
Six Foot Track Half is a 35km, grade 3 hike in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 3 days to complete.
Hike Overview
Day 1: Drive from Sydney to Katoomba, about 1 1/2 hours or catch the train to Katoomba Station. You can park at The Explorer's Tree, but you will need someone to pick you up down at the end. If you catch the train you will also need a pick up or walk back out.
Walk from the Exploroer's Tree to the Lookout then down Nellie's Glen, stop and have a look at the lookout on the way. Nellie's Glen has lots of step so it can be hard on the quads. Look out for leaches as well.
Have lunch when you reach the farms at the bottom. There was an old town there but there's not much left now. Continue on to the Old Ford Reserve. If someone drives around it's a good idea for them to take fresh water and firewood.
You will need to sterilise the creek water very well. In total about 11km.
Day 2: Hike to the swing bridge. This is a good spot for lunch by the Cox's River.
Then continue on another 2km to Cox's River campground. You can stay the night here which will be about an 8km day or hike back to Old Ford Reserve and 18km round trip.
Day 3: Try pre-booking some horse riding at Megalong Valley Farm, 4km up the road from the Old Ford Camping Ground. Lunch or afetrnoon tea at the Megalong Tea Rooms.
Getting there
Drive to the Exploroer's Tree just west of Katoomba or catch a train to Katoomba (extra 3km). You will need to have another vehicle drive to the Old Ford Reserve (via Blackheath).
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1061 m
Min elevation: 275 m
Total climbing: 1265 m
Total descent: -1715 m
Photo gallery
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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 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.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Blue Mountains National Park 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.
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
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.
Weather
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.
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Currently closed due to fires ?