Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
It's hard not to feel energised by the abundant and pristine beauty that surrounds you on this gorgeous, easy walk at Jenolan Caves.
Suitable for almost everyone, and at any time of year, Jenolan River walking track is all about scenic water views. Beginning and ending from the eastern side of Grand Arch, the track rewards you with beautiful views of the river, lake, waterfalls and suspension bridge. You can even bring your gear to enjoy a dip in one of the swimming holes.
To make the most of this walk, why not pack some lunch to enjoy at the nearby waterfront picnic area? See if you can spot the trout ladder adjacent to the hydro hut or glimpse the Blue Lake's resident platypus.
Birdwatchers are in for a treat with bellbirds, rock warblers and lyrebirds often spotted amongst the area's diverse plant life, while kangaroos, wallabies and eastern water dragons are also never far away.
Tips
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
The section of road into Jenolan Valley is one-way from 11.45am to 1.15pm every day to allow coaches to enter Jenolan safely. Take Oberon Road if you're leaving Jenolan between these times.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching
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.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve.
To Jenolan Caves. Jenolan River walking track is in Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve. To get there from Sydney:Take M4 Motorway, then Great Western Highway over Blue Mountains to Hartley. Turn off at Hartley onto Jenolan Caves RoadIt’s approximately 45 minutes from here to the caves Park entry points Jenolan Caves See on map Parking Parking is available at any of the 3 main carparks at Jenolan Caves. Designated disabled parking spots can be found adjacent to the Guides Office and behind Caves House. Bus parking is also available. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Explore the caves at Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve, near Oberon. It's a great daytrip from Sydney, or enjoy a weekend away staying in heritage accommodation. The Jenolan Caves are limestone caves located within the Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve in the Central Tablelands region, west of the Blue Mountains, in Jenolan, Oberon Council, New South Wales, in eastern Australia.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Hartley, Jenolan Caves, Katoomba, Lithgow, Little Hartley, Mount Victoria, Oberon, Tarana, Wentworth Falls
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Suggest an edit
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Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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.