Overview
Located near Rylstone, NSW, Ferntree Gully Walking Track is a 2.5-kilometre Grade 3 loop that descends from dry woodland into a cool sandstone gorge filled with tree ferns. Despite its modest length, the circuit offers striking changes in vegetation, temperature and scenery. The narrow valley floor is filled with tangled roots, orchids and mossy rocks which create an almost prehistoric atmosphere. The upper track provides views across forested ridges and pagoda sandstone formations. Allow one to 1.5 hours, although photographers may want much longer. We took one hour fifteen minutes with lots of stops for photos. The steep stairs, uneven ground and rock scrambling require reasonable fitness and sturdy footwear.
Getting There
The reserve sits about 17 kilometres north of Rylstone, beside Bylong Valley Way. Follow Bylong Valley Way and watch for the turn towards Ferntree Gully. The final three kilometres cross bushland on an unsealed access road. Generally, ordinary cars can manage this section in dry conditions. However, heavy rain may create rough, muddy or slippery patches. Therefore, drive slowly, watch for wildlife and check local conditions after severe weather.
Car Park and Facilities
The access road ends at a free bushland car park beside the track entrance. An information board shows the walking routes. Nearby, a sheltered picnic area offers a pleasant lunch stop. A basic long-drop toilet stands nearby. However, there is no running water, shops or services here. Therefore, bring drinking water, food and sun protection. In addition, take all rubbish home and leave the reserve clean.
The Ferntree Gully Walking Track
Starting near the carpark, the track initially takes you through eucalypt forest. Soon, the woodland track reaches a junction and starts its descent towards the gorge. At this,point, if you don’t want to walk down into the valley, head to the lookouts. This track loops back to the carpark.
Around 100 steps lead down through dense vegetation, with several steep and uneven sections. Loose soil, leaf litter and damp rocks can make footing uncertain, especially after rain. Take care going down the steps and climbing over rocks.
The Valley Floor
On the valley floor, dry woodland gives way to lush rainforest vegetation. Tree ferns spread above the track, while vines, roots and mosses cover fallen timber and sandstone walls. Large figs and rock orchids thrive within this sheltered environment. The track crosses stones, roots and natural debris rather than a smooth surface. At times the track is very narrow and you need to climb over boulders and around fallen trees. Of course this all part of the fun of this kind of walk.
Board Walk
A short side track reaches a boardwalk in one of the gully’s dampest sections. The raised walkway protects sensitive vegetation while offering access among tall tree ferns. At its end, a seat provides a place to rest and listen to birds. However, the timber surface may become slippery after rain, so careful steps remain important. Afterward, return along the same boardwalk and re-join the main circuit.
Steps Up
At the end of the valley, you need to climb over fallen boulders before reaching a steep flight of roughly 100 steps which lead back to the clifftop. However, the climb is short, and regular pauses make it manageable for many walkers. At the upper junction, follow the signs towards the lookouts instead of taking the quickest route to the car park.
Lookouts
Ted Daniels Lookout opens across sandstone pagodas and forested slopes. From there, a level track continues towards the turn-off for Norm King Lookout. A short rocky descent reaches this viewpoint above the gully and surrounding ranges. Together, the lookouts reveal scenery that the rainforest canopy conceals below. Finally, the upper bush track crosses open woodland and returns to the car park.
What Did We Think
This was a nice little track, with the contrast from open woodland to rainforest being amazing. The valley floor really has a prehistoric feel to it, making it feel almost like an Indiana Jones setting.
Leave a Reply