Spring and summer in New South Wales just got a whole lot more exciting with the launch of two new walking trails. Nestled within the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area near Lithgow, these tracks meander past towering sandstone cliffs, rugged views, and vibrant seasonal blooms. The Broad Swamp Loop Walk is an easy hike that takes you through the park’s largest swamp, Broad Swamp, where you can explore a rare and protected ecological area, home to the endangered Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp. For a more challenging journey, the Broad Swamp to Birds Rock track offers a 17.5km one-way trek filled with wild scenery. Before heading out, here’s everything you need to know about these trails to make the most of your outdoor adventure.
Broad Swamp Loop Walk
The Broad Swamp Loop Walk invites you to explore 6 kms of diverse landscapes, including open woodlands, unique pagoda formations, flowing creeks, and peaceful vistas. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services recommend tackling the trail clockwise for the best experience. Begin your adventure at the Broad Swamp carpark, cross Western Boundary Road, and head towards the trackhead to kick off your journey. About 1km in, you’ll encounter a series of bog bridges that help protect the sensitive areas of the swamp.
On the other side, you’ll find grassy woodlands with the swamp in view. Keep an eye out for red-necked wallabies, echidnas, and native birds soaring above. Complete the loop by crossing Western Boundary Road and heading back to the Broad Swamp carpark. For an extra treat, you can make a beeline for the Lost City lookout and enjoy sweeping pagoda views, just a 20-minute drive from the carpark.
Broad Swamp to Birds Rock walk
After about 3kms on the Broad Swamp Loop, you’ll come across the turn-off for the Broad Swamp to Birds Rock track. Take a right and follow the trail as it crosses Broad Swamp, leading you into the 17.5km stretch ahead. This part of the trail winds past hidden creeks, thick gorges, narrow, winding canyons, and dramatic clifftop vistas. If you’re game for the longer walk, be prepared for a hike that takes around seven to eight hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. This section is best suited for experienced hikers, as it presents a more challenging route.
NSW National Parks recommends arranging a car shuffle with two 4WD vehicles if you’re planning to tackle this as a one-way walk, as the Birds Rock carpark is only accessible by 4WD. Find more information about the Broad Swamp Loop Walk here.
Key features of Broad Swamp Loop Walk
Where: Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area
Distance: 6km loop
Total time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Skill level: Grade 3 or intermediate
Parking: Broad Swamp carpark is at the start of the walking track
Wheelchair access: No
How to get there
The Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney. Take the M4 Motorway west, then head towards Lithgow via the Great Western Highway, following signs to the conservation area for a scenic drive through the Blue Mountains region.