The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk is an 11.5km, grade 3 circuit hike located in Wollemi National Park New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 4hrs mins to complete.

Summary

One of the most popular and famous tracks near Lithgow the Glow Worm Tunnel Walk passes through a spectacular old railway tunnel. With thousands of glow worms along the sides and roof of the tunnel a fascinating effect of the stars is produced. Remember that it is necessary to be quiet so as not to disturb the glow worms. A torch is required – the tunnel is pretty long and it gets really dark in the middle.

This hike is an extended version of the Glow Worm Tunnel Walking Track and completes a circuit via the Old Coach Road.

About the Region

World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park offers a dramatic setting for scenic walks, swimming, canoeing and camping, just a couple of hours north-west of Sydney.

Discover the spectacular landscapes of Wollemi National Park, part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. From scenic canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers and serene forests, there are ample opportunities to be immersed in the beauty of the largest wilderness area in NSW.

In the southeast of the park, pack a picnic and hike down to the beautiful Colo river for lunch, or riverside camping, in the dramatic surrounds of one of the state’s longest and most picturesque gorges.

Set up camp at Newnes, near the Wolgan River, and head out to explore the historic ruins, once the site of an oil shale mining facility, or take the kids to marvel at the luminous occupants of the Glow Worm Tunnel, part of the old railway that once serviced the area. Bushwalkers and rock climbers will thrill at the hikes and climbing opportunities available in this striking, escarpment-bound valley.

In the northwest of the park, Ganguddy (Dunns swamp) offers a tranquil escape. Camp below the remarkable pagoda rock formations and plenty of opportunities for easy walks, swimming and canoeing.

Getting There

From Bells Line of Road via Newnes Plateau Turn off Bells Line of Road at Clarence (Zig Zag Railway).Follow the gravel road through Newnes State Forest for 39km. Continue on Glow Worm Tunnel Road until you reach the carpark. From here, it’s an easy 1km walk along the railway formation to the tunnel entrance.From Lithgow via Newnes Plateau. The route is signposted from the corner of Bridge St and Main Street.Turn left at Atkinson Street and after 750m, right at State Mine Gully Road.Continue on Glow Worm Tunnel Road until you reach the carpark. From here, it’s an easy 1km walk along the railway formation to the tunnel entrance.

Please drive slowly along the narrow gravel roads and look out for wildlife. Unsealed roads Vehicle access 2WD vehicles (no long vehicle access) Weather restrictions 4WD required in wet weather Parking The carpark is at the end of Glow Worm Tunnel Road, 1km south of the Glow Worm Tunnel. Car spaces are limited during peak times. You can also park at the Old Coach Road carpark and walk along the Pagoda walking track and connect with Glow Worm Tunnel walking track (4km return).

Tips

• Please take care in the tunnel as the ground is rocky, uneven and slippery.
• It’s completely dark inside the tunnel, so remember to bring a torch.
• Try to keep noise to a minimum as glow worms are sensitive to sound.
• It’s best to visit during the week or in spring or autumn. It can be very busy and there’s limited parking during summer, weekends, and holiday periods.
• Please stay on the walking track to protect the fragile ecosystem in this World Heritage-listed national park.