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Mount Solitary walking track

Katoomba area in Blue Mountains National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Mount Solitary walking track.

Track grading

Features of this track

Distance

34km loop

Time

3 days

Quality of markings

No directional signage

Experience required

Very experienced bushwalkers

Gradient

Very steep and difficult

Steps

Many steps

Quality of path

Rough track, many obstacles

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Mount Solitary walking track is in the Katoomba area of Blue Mountains National Park. To get there by car:

    • Drive west from Sydney on Great Western Highway to Katoomba
    • Turn into Katoomba Road and follow signs to Cliff Drive
    • Park at Katoomba Kiosk overnight, located near Katoomba Oval on Cliff Drive.

    Road quality

    • Sealed roads

    Vehicle access

    • 2WD vehicles

    Parking

    Free parking is available near Katoomba Kiosk and Katoomba Oval, on Cliff Drive. 

    If using a two cars you can park the second car at Kedumba Valley gate on Kedumba Valley Road.

    By public transport

    Catch the train to Katoomba. From here you can walk to Furber Steps near Katoomba Kiosk and Scenic World, or take the local hop-on hop-off tourist bus down to Katoomba Kiosk on Cliff Drive.

    Facilities

    Most facilities are available in Katoomba, Leura, and Wentworth Falls, including accommodation. 

    Toilets

    Toilets only available at Ruined Castle.

    • Non-flush toilets

    Picnic tables

    Picnic facilities only available at Ruined Castle.

    Carpark

    Overnight parking available at Katoomba Kiosk car parking area, next to Katoomba oval.

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    The walking track is 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.

    Bushwalking safety

    If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

    Multi-day, backcountry walking safety

    • This walk is only suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable and self-reliant with backcountry hiking and camping. 
    • Know your route. Maps and trail guides can be purchased from Blue Mountains Heritage Centre at Blackheath or Katoomba visitor centre at Echo Point.
    • Visit Katoomba Police station and complete a trip intention form before you start this 3-day walk. Tell family and friends where you’re going and when you’ll be back. 
    • Hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) from Katoomba Police station before you set off.
    • Call (02) 4787 8877 to talk to staff at NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath get the latest track conditions.
    • The weather in this area is highly variable. Sudden cold changes are common and walkers are at high risk of exposure. Bring warm, water-proof clothing.
    • Bring a topographic map, compass, and GPS or other electronic navigational device.
    • Allow enough time during daylight hours to complete each section of the walk.
    • This walk includes strenuous hill climbs over rough ground. The trail from Ruined Castle to Sublime fire trail is Grade 5 and navigation skills are required as there is no signage.
    • Stay on the track; shortcuts are misleading and damage the environment. 
    • Bring proper equipment to treat the water from tanks, creeks, or waterholes before drinking. Many walkers become sick after drinking dirty water.
    • Bring enough food for this 72hr adventure. An additional supply of high energy emergency food like nuts or dried fruit trail mix is recommended. 
    • Include someone with first aid training on your walk.

    Camping safety

    Whether you're pitching your tent on the coast or up on the mountains, there are many things to consider when camping in NSW national parks. Find out how to stay safe when camping.

    • Don’t camp under large trees, especially those with dead or hollow branches. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause trees and branches to fall suddenly.

    Fire safety

    During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety.


    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    River and lake safety

    The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.

    Accessibility

    Disability access level - no wheelchair access

    Permitted

    Camp fires and solid fuel burners

    Camping


    Gathering firewood

    Prohibited

    Cycling

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    Map image of Mount Solitary walking track

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    Park info

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