Trail Fast Facts

Tolmer Falls to the Lost City is an 8.3km, grade 4 hike in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.

Length: 8.3km

Duration: 4 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Tolmer Falls Carpark

End: Tolmer Falls Carpark

Location: Litchfield National Park

State: Northern Territory

Nearby town: Batchelor

From state capital: 155km

Latitude: -13.202729294525376

Longitude: 130.71384608745578

Overview

Map and GPX file

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Hike Overview

Witness the grandeur of Tolmer Falls, considered one of Litchfield National Park's most spectacular waterfalls. Cascading over two escarpments into a deep plunge pool, the falls offer a breathtaking sight. Open year-round, Tolmer Falls is a popular destination for visitors. While camping is not permitted, the surrounding area provides habitat for rare Ghost Bats and Orange Horseshoe Bats.

An off-the-beaten-path adventure awaits experienced hikers on the 8.3km Tolmer Falls to Lost City hike. This challenging route traverses the park's upper tableland terrain, offering a unique perspective of the landscape. Due to the distance (almost 9km round trip) and lack of shade, an early start is crucial to avoid the afternoon heat. Remember to bring plenty of water, as none is available at The Lost City itself.

The reward for this challenging hike is reaching The Lost City – a collection of towering sandstone formations that resemble ancient ruins. These formations were created by the erosion of softer sandstone, leaving behind the impressive rock structures we see today. The Lost City was once a landmark along an old wagon road used by pioneers, with the last section of the current access road following the original route. However, this 4WD track is typically closed until June or July, making the Tolmer Falls hike an alternative way to access The Lost City during the wet season.

Contributed by: William Harburn

Track Grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Tips

Only for experienced bush walkers.
Take water, Good hat, PLB or EPIRB, Sunglasses [the start of the walk is directly into the rising sun], compass & copy of
Australian Topographical Chart 5071 'Reynolds River'
Note LOST CITY is incorrectly positioned - correct position is FL881380 which is approx 700 mts west of where it is shown.

Map and GPX file

Tolmer Falls to the Lost City Hike (8.3km)

Total distance: 8276 m
Max elevation: 179 m
Min elevation: 110 m
Total climbing: 156 m
Total descent: -171 m

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Trail Location (trailhead)

Getting there

Tolmer Falls to the Lost City Hike (8.3km)

Drive to Tolmer Falls in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory. Follow the marked trail East to Tolmer Creek then South along the creek & cross when the creek turns West. There is a bench on the other side & the hike starts from here.
There is no marked trail & no phone reception.

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About the region

Litchfield National Park: A Natural Wonder of the Northern Territory. Litchfield National Park, encompassing roughly 1,500 square kilometres, is a jewel of the Northern Territory. This ancient landscape, shaped by water over millennia, boasts a captivating array of natural wonders. Cascading waterfalls tumble from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range, forming crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming.

The park is significant to the Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat, and Warray Aboriginal people, with their ancestral stories woven into the very fabric of the landscape. Visitors can explore shady monsoon forest walking trails, marvel at the unique magnetic termite mounds, or be awestruck by the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City.

A Haven for Adventure
Litchfield National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek refreshment beneath cascading waterfalls, marvel at fascinating termite mounds, discover hidden waterholes, or challenge yourself on hiking trails, this park caters to all interests. Camping is the primary accommodation option within the park boundaries, but various lodges and resorts are located nearby for those seeking different comforts. Even a well-planned day trip can allow visitors to experience the park's highlights.

History and Accessibility
The park's name honours Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the Finniss Expedition, the first European encounter with this region. Extensive mining for tin and copper dominated the area from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. Declared a national park in 1986, Litchfield has become a haven for nature lovers.

While a sealed road connects the park's major attractions, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access The Lost City, Homestead, Central Valley, and the Reynolds River Track. During the dry season, this track allows experienced drivers to reach the Daly River Road. Renting a vehicle? Confirm if it's permitted on unsealed roads.

Accessibility is twofold. The park can be reached via the southern entrance near Batchelor or the northern entrance along Peninsula Way, forming the Litchfield Loop. This loop integrates the park with the Cox Peninsula, creating a more extensive sightseeing experience.

A Local Favourite
Litchfield National Park's pristine swimming holes and scenic walking tracks make it a cherished destination for Darwin residents. Basic amenities like meals and refreshments are available near Wangi Falls, while various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, including campsites, cabins, and caravan parks within or near the park, and lodging options in the nearby township of Batchelor.

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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.

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Tolmer Falls to the Lost City Hike (8.3km)

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