Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the untamed beauty of the Blue Mountains on the 11km Starlights Trail. This Grade 4 hike, located near Mittagong and Katoomba, offers experienced bushwalkers stunning views of the Nattai River and its surrounding cliffs, as well as the towering Russell's Needle sandstone spur and Mount Jellore. Marvel at the eucalyptus and Nattai Sandstone River peppermint forests along the trail, and don't miss the breathtaking views from Ahearn lookout.

Length:

11km

Duration:

4.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 659m

Min elevation: 235m

Total Ascent: 616m

Start: Nattai Road-w11e

End: Nattai Road-w11e

Nattai National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Wattle Ridge

From state capital: 122km

Latitude: -34.29723077

Longitude: 150.42869389057162

Overview

Map

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7,330 views

Important info

This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you're well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.

Hike overview

Starlights trail is a scenic bushwalk, suited to experienced hikers, which forms part the Greater Blue Mountains trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba.

Starlights trail is part of the greater trail network between Mittagong and Katoomba, where you can walk for up to seven days in complete, untouched wilderness.

A favourite bushwalker's hike, this walk runs through Nattai National Park and into Nattai Wilderness, with astonishing views of Nattai River and its surrounding cliffs.

Along the way, you'll enjoy majestic views from Ahearn lookout of cliffs and bluffs. Walkers travelling south of Emmetts Flat can also see glimpses of the towering Russell's needle sandstone spur and Mount Jellore.

Many eucalyptus trees will line your path, as well as pockets of blue-leaved stringybark forest and, on Nattai River, majestic stands of Nattai Sandstone River peppermint forest.

Tips

You'll need to bring your own drinking and cooking water
You're encouraged to bring gas or fuel stoves, especially in summer during the fire season.

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.

Walk map and GPX file
Starlights Trail Walk (11km)

Total distance: 13204 m
Max elevation: 659 m
Min elevation: 235 m
Total climbing: 616 m
Total descent: -616 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Nattai National Park.

Start from the end of Wattle Ridge Road west of the township of Hilltop. A visitor carpark with visitor information is located at the start of the walk at Wattle Ridge carpark. Walkers then access the Nattai Road fire trail then deviate onto the Starlight’s trail, dropping into the Nattai Valley. Parking is available at Wattle Ridge carpark.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Nattai National Park has plenty of astonishing beauty on offer, including Nattai River, the dominant Hawkesbury sandstone cliffs, and the inspiring views out over the park from Mount Jellore.

Throughout the park, you'll spot a large variety of animals, like wallaroos, emus, wallabies, grey kangaroos, wombats, and dingos. There are also over 160 species of birds in the area, including some truly magnificent owls and birds of prey. Keep your eyes open for platypus in the river, squirrel gliders and koalas in the trees, and rock wallabies on the ground.

You can enjoy rugged hiking in an amazing setting of giant, craggy sandstone cliffs and unspoilt bushland nestled amidst the peace and tranquillity of the valley. Try Starlight's trail or Couridjah Corridor walk. There's also a remote campground by the Nattai River known as Emitts Flat, which can be found at the end of Starlight's trail.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

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: Bargo, Bowral, Douglas Park, Mittagong, Picton, Thirlmere

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 Nattai National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Reviews
Starlights Trail Walk (11km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

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