The Kanangra to Katoomba trail traverses remote wilderness with no signs and vague tracks. Many hikers have encountered difficulties, so confident navigation skills and thorough preparation are essential for safety.
The Kanangra to Katoomba (K2K) hike is a challenging 47-kilometre journey through the rugged landscapes of the Kanangra-Boyd and Blue Mountains National Parks in New South Wales. Recognised as a Grade 5 hike, it typically takes three to four days to complete, offering a true wilderness experience. With its remote setting and stunning scenery, K2K is a must-do for experienced hikers looking for a demanding adventure in one of Australia’s most remarkable natural environments.
The trail weaves through some of the Blue Mountains’ most iconic landmarks, including the dramatic Kanangra Walls, the peaceful Coxs River, the imposing Mt Cloudmaker, and the steep climb of Tarros Ladders. The terrain is wild and untamed, providing an opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the wilderness. However, the route is largely unmarked, and the path can be faint or unclear, requiring strong navigation skills and careful planning.
The hike is typically divided into three sections. Day one starts at Kanangra Walls, climbing through ridgelines before reaching Mt Cloudmaker and then descending to Dex Creek. Day two continues through the rugged terrain of Mt Strongleg, with a steady descent towards Mobbs Swamp. On the final day, the trail climbs through Medlow Gap, crossing Narrow Neck before finishing in Katoomba. Each section offers its own challenges, with steep ascents and descents, limited water sources, and the need for careful route finding.
While the standard route is completed over three days, fit and experienced hikers may choose to tackle the K2K in two days or even attempt the “K to K in a Day” challenge. This fast-paced variation is physically demanding and should only be considered with proper preparation. For those new to the area, an overnight hike to 100 Man Cave offers a good introduction to the terrain and a chance to gain experience before attempting the full K2K.
Preparation is crucial for this hike, especially considering the trail’s isolation and the limited water supply along the way. Water is scarce between Kanangra Walls and Mt Cloudmaker, and while Dex Creek and Mobbs Swamp usually have water, it’s not guaranteed. It’s recommended to carry enough water for at least two days, particularly during the warmer months when conditions can be more challenging. Proper planning and a solid understanding of the terrain will ensure a safe and rewarding experience on this demanding trail.
- Plan your route carefully: While K2K follows a general path, there are multiple route variations, so ensure you’ve mapped your journey in advance.
- Choose campsites wisely: Dex Creek and Mobbs Swamp are popular overnight stops due to their typically reliable water sources, though they can be busy during peak seasons. Other good options include the saddles between Mt Berry and Mt Strongleg, which have grassy clearings, or Konangaroo Clearing, a spacious site near Kanangra Creek.
- Avoid the summer months: This hike is best undertaken during cooler months, as its steep climbs and descents are physically demanding, and water sources are limited.
- Pack for the terrain: Bring sufficient water-carrying capacity and navigation tools. Be prepared for unmarked trails and rely on topographic maps, a GPS, or both.
- Be mindful of your fitness: This hike involves multiple steep sections and long stretches without easy exit points. Train accordingly and don’t underestimate the physical demands.
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Total distance: 46937 m
Max elevation: 1160 m
Min elevation: 160 m
Total climbing: 2947 m
Total descent: -3068 m
Getting to the trailhead: Kanangra-Boyd National Park.
Reaching the K2K trailhead requires logistical planning and a lengthy car shuffle. Leave one vehicle in Katoomba, either at the locked gate on Narrow Neck or the Golden Stairs car park. Then drive the second vehicle to Kanangra Walls, the starting point of the hike. For groups, an alternative is to split into two teams starting from opposite ends of the track and meeting in the middle to swap car keys, though coordinating this can be tricky.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Hartley, Jenolan, Jenolan Caves, Kanangra, Mount Victoria, Oberon
Part of Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Kanangra-Boyd National Park is just 180km from Sydney. Enjoy superb scenery, abundant wildlife, cycling and walking.
Just 180km from the outskirts of Sydney, Kanangra-Boyd National Park, part of Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, feels like you’ve crossed an ocean to get there. Take in the magnificent scenery – the sheer sandstone cliff faces of Kanangra Walls or mist-wreathed Mount Cloudmaker – before walking down forest-lined trails to one of the park’s waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for echidnas and lyrebirds, particularly during summer.
An easy day trip from the Blue Mountains, Kanangra-Boyd also has quiet campsites among the snow gums at Boyd River if you want to get away from it all. Cyclists will want to bring their mountain bikes to explore the park’s fire trails. For the fishing enthusiasts, trout can be caught along Kowmung River and, for the adventurous, canyoning is popular during the warmer months.
Looking for more walks in or near Kanangra-Boyd National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
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.
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.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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8 Reviews on “Kanangra to Katoomba - K2K Hike (47km)”
Just finished the K2K (29-31 Dec 2022), path is non-existent and completely overgrown with vines and dense regrowth between Dex Creek and Cox’s River. Took us an hour per 750m between those two locations, so definitely make sure to add time at the moment! Path betweek Kanangra and Dex Creek and Coxs River to Katoomba is fine, if a little overgrown.