Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
Located at the head of the Wolgan Valley, enjoy this fascinating walk into the history of Newnes - once the site of a thriving shale oil mining industry. You'll see some remarkably well-preserved remnants of the area's mining history, including old coke ovens, brick kilns, paraffin sheds and crumbling walls.
Starting at the Ruins carpark, the walking track zig zags across the large site, which is on a steep slope. The 15m 'Big Wall' is a highlight, and the unique beehive kilns are the largest of their type in Australia. Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above.
Follow the route of the railway line back to the carpark. If walking from the river crossing, you'll need to add an extra 1km each way. Why not stay the night under the stars at Newnes campground with the local wombats and wallabies.
Tips
The Ruins carpark is only accessible by 4WD or rock hopping on foot across the Wolgan River. Please don't try crossing the river in a 2WD.
If crossing the river on foot, you'll need to add an extra 1km (approx. 20-30mins) each way to the Ruins carpark.
Please don't climb the fragile ruins as they can be unstable
Remember to stay on the track as there are hidden holes off the track
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: Wollemi National Park.
Newnes Industrial Ruins are in the Lithgow area of Wollemi National Park. To get there from Lithgow:Follow the Great Western Highway west from Lithgow for 6.5km, then take the Castlereagh Highway exit towards Mudgee.At the village of Lidsdale, turn right onto Wolgan Road towards Wollemi National Park and Newnes.Newnes is around 34km from the Lidsdale turnoff.Cross the Wolgan River at the 4WD ford 100m north of the old Newnes Hotel, and turn left onto the gravel road. You’ll pass several camping sites on your left before reaching the Ruins carpark. The signposted track begins at the locked gate.If walking to the ruins site:Cross the Wolgan River using the stepping stones, and follow the gravel road on the left around 1km to Newnes Ruins carpark, where the track begins. Road quality Mixture of sealed and unsealed roads Vehicle access All roads require 4WD vehicle Weather restrictions 4WD required in wet weather Parking Parking is available at the ruins carpark or near the Wolgan River crossing and Newnes Hotel.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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: Bells Line of Road, Bilpin, Broke, Bulga, Bylong, Capertee, Cessnock, Colo, Colo Heights, Denman, Kandos, Kurrajong, Kurrajong Heights, Lithgow, Mount Tomah, Mount Wilson, Putty, Rylstone, Sandy Hollow, Singleton
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 Wollemi National Park? 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.






