WHAT TO EXPECT

Departing at 8am from the Glow Worm Tunnel Trailhead in Wolgan Valley, our passionate local guide will introduce you to the UNESCO-inscribed Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, whilst surrounded by a symphony of nature's sound and spectacular towering sandstone cliffs.

Our first stop of the day is the tranquil Wolgan River where a short and shallow bare-foot walk through its crystal-clear waters awakens the senses. Our knowledgeable ecological guide will share with you what makes this wild river special and the incredible 2000km + journey of the native Long-tailed Eel that call these waters home during summer.

As we enter the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area into Wollemi National Park, a moderate to steep 9km return walk awaits with plenty of stops along the way to learn about the rich history, diverse flora and fauna, and the geological marvels that define this UNESCO world heritage-listed region.

While immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Wollemi, there will be ample opportunity to participate in wildlife conservation through research, surveying some of the unique and diverse wildlife we encounter along the way.

As we make our way through the aptly named Bellbird Gorge, listen out for the bell-like chorus of its resident Bell Miner colony as we meander through the tall forests of Blue Mountains Ash and Brown Barrel. Walking along the Old Coach Road, your knowledgeable local guide will share with you the stories behind the construction of this historic road and the lifeline that it provided for the community of Newnes.

Before departing this historic road, we will stop to enjoy a delicious morning tea of locally baked goods and seasonal fruit whilst taking in the ancient sandstone rock pagodas that are synonymous with the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone region. For the more adventurous, an optional steep climb leads to the summit of a towering sandstone rock pagoda, taking in the spectacular scenery below.

After morning tea, our journey takes us along the Pagoda Track and Glow Worm Tunnel Trail for the iconic Glow Worm Tunnel, along the way you will learn about how Wollemi National Park came to be, and the natural and cultural values that have contributed to its proclamation as a protected area in 1979.

Traversing the narrow winding track of the long-since abandoned railway line we finally reach the illuminating wonder of thousands of Blue Mountains Glow Worms (Arachnocampa richardsae) in former Railway Tunnel No.2. Learn about the amazing life cycle of these special tiny insects and the incredible story of the construction of the Wolgan Valley Railway and the people and characters that brought the famous railway to life.

Our next stop is the breathtaking Penrose Gorge and Bells Grotto, where you will be lead on an 800m easy walk through these stunning fern-filled slot canyons. Relax and take in the cathedral-like atmosphere of this ancient location whilst enjoying a gourmet picnic lunch featuring local seasonal produce.

Whilst our journey discovering Blue Mountains Glow Worms and exploring fern-filled canyons has come to an end, we return to Wolgan Valley via Old Coach Road taking in some breathtaking views whilst reflecting on the day that has been.

Our small group tours ensure ample opportunities to connect with our local guide, ask questions, and fully appreciate the diversity and wonders of the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone.

INCLUSIONS

Return vehicle transfers for guests staying in Wolgan Valley.
Small group size maximum 10 people.
Your own local guide who specialises in ecology and heritage.
All meals including a delicious morning tea and lunch with your choice of espresso coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit juice and bottled water (using our reusable water bottles).
Use of special wildlife-friendly headlamps and tablet device for recording wildlife sightings.
Visits Wollemi National Park including Wolgan River, Bellbird Gorge, Glow Worm Tunnel, Penrose Gorge and Bells Grotto.

TOUR DEPARTURES

Our Glow Worm Tunnel Hike departs at 8am and returns to the Glow Worm Tunnel Trailhead, Old Coach Road, Wolgan Valley NSW 2790. We offer complimentary return vehicle transfers for guests staying at accommodation in Wolgan Valley.