WikiCamps Australia

Southern End Of Glow Worm Tunnel Walk (Carpark)

Day Use Area

Contact

Glowworm Tunnel Road, Newnes Plateau, New South Wales / ACT.

parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/glow-worm-tunnel-walking-track

Description

The Glowworm Tunnel is a disused railway tunnel between Lithgow and Newnes in Wollemi National Park, NSW. It is notable for its resident glow-worms. 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. Distance: 2km return. Its 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. The track starts from the carpark at the end of Glow Worm Tunnel Road. Enjoy the easy 1km walk to the tunnel entrance, past an impressive landscape of tall forests, lush tree ferns, narrow gorges and stunning pagoda rock formations. The 400m-long tunnel was built in the early 1900s as part of the railway for the thriving mining industry at Newnes. Its now home to thousands of glow worms that cling to the dark, damp walls. Switch off your torch, keep quiet, and wait for the worms to light up the tunnel with pinpricks of blue light. On your way back, look for goannas and lyrebirds. If youre lucky, you may spot a swamp wallaby or koala. During spring and summer, the walking track is dotted with yellow pagoda daisies, while banksias bloom in the cooler months. You can also access Glow Worm Tunnel from Old Coach Road or from Wolgan Valley Road near Newnes. If youre up for a challenge, the 7.5km Wolgan Valley circuit is a 4hr loop that features pagoda and Wolgan Valley views. Pets are not permitted. No camping or overnight parking.