Trail Fast Facts

The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk is an 11.5km, grade 3 hike in Wollemi National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.

Length: 11.5km

Duration: 4 hrs

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: Circuit

Start: Glowworm Tunnel Rd

End: Old Coach Trail

Location: Wollemi National Park

State: New South Wales

Nearby town: Newnes Plateau

From state capital: 167km

Latitude: -33.24794227

Longitude: 150.2236262

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Reviews

Hike Overview

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.

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.

Map and GPX file

The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (11.5km)

Total distance: 11541 m
Max elevation: 886 m
Min elevation: 553 m
Total climbing: 417 m
Total descent: -386 m

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Trailhead

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.

Getting there

The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (11.5km)

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).

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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

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Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Wollemi National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Reviews

The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (11.5km)

3 Reviews on “The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (11.5km)”

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Emily Smith

Jessica Smith

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Fool Joshua

Nick Lyell

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Leanne Smith

Brad Smith

24/03/2022, 05:13

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.

Explore Safe

While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.

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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.

Trail Fast Facts

Hike Overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

The Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (11.5km)