Glow Worm Tunnel self-guided audio tour
Wollemi National Park
Overview
Discover the fascinating history of the Glow Worm Tunnel on this self-guided audio tour in Wollemi National Park. You’ll follow the bed of the old Wolgan Valley Railway line to Tunnel No. 2, now home to thousands of glow worms.
- Accessibility
- No wheelchair access
- Distance
- 6km return
- Time suggested
- 2-3 hr
- Grade
- Medium. This 10-stop tour takes place along a hard-packed ground track with sections of uneven stone ground. The tunnel is completely dark and the ground can be slippery.
- What to
bring - Mobile phone, headphones, drinking water, torch
- Please note
It's a good idea to download the app and tour before your visit, because there is no mobile reception in this part of the park.
Bring a torch with a red light to help you find your way in the tunnel.
Did you know that when you walk along the Glow Worm Tunnel walking track, you’re following the bed of an old railway line?
The Wolgan Valley Railway was built in 1907 and was an engineering marvel, covering 51km of forbidding terrain in what we now know as Wollemi National Park.
On this audio tour, you’ll learn about the history of the railway and what life was like for the labourers who worked here. Along the way, you’ll visit Tunnel No. 2, an old railway tunnel that’s now home to a colony of glow worms.
Feel your senses awaken when you reach the tunnel and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Then bask in the glow of thousands of twinkling lights as entomologist Dr. David Merritt shares his knowledge of the glow worms and their unique behaviours.
Download the tour before you go
Before your visit, download the free NSW National Parks mobile app.
- Search for Wollemi National Park in the app
- Go to the Immersive Story section and click 'Start story' to download the tour.
Also see
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Life and light in Glow Worm Tunnel
Glow Worm Tunnel is a habitat for glow worms and an enchanting walk for visitors. Watch our videos to learn how an old railway tunnel from the days of oil shale mining has taken on a new life.
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Glow Worm Tunnel walking track
Glow Worm Tunnel walking track is the fastest and easiest way to experience the wonder of this historic tunnel, lit by thousands of glow worms. It’s a favourite with visitors to Wollemi National Park, near Lithgow.
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Glow Worm Tunnel via Wolgan Valley loop
Set aside a day to hike 9km through Wollemi National Park on Glow Worm Tunnel via Wolgan Valley loop. Marvel at the historic railway tunnel, a lush rainforest gorge, and rocky pagoda outcrops, on this special walk between Newnes and Lithgow.