Mount Solitary walking track

The walking track is a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

Multi-day, backcountry walking safety

• This walk is only suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable and self-reliant with backcountry hiking and camping. 
• Know your route. Maps and trail guides can be purchased from Blue Mountains Heritage Centre at Blackheath or Katoomba visitor centre at Echo Point.
• Visit Katoomba Police station and complete a trip intention form before you start this 3-day walk. Tell family and friends where you’re going and when you’ll be back. 
• Hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) from Katoomba Police station before you set off.
• Call (02) 4787 8877 to talk to staff at NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath get the latest track conditions.
• The weather in this area is highly variable. Sudden cold changes are common and walkers are at high risk of exposure. Bring warm, water-proof clothing.
• Bring a topographic map, compass, and GPS or other electronic navigational device.
• Allow enough time during daylight hours to complete each section of the walk.
• This walk includes strenuous hill climbs over rough ground. The trail from Ruined Castle to Sublime fire trail is Grade 5 and navigation skills are required as there is no signage.
• Stay on the track; shortcuts are misleading and damage the environment. 
• Bring proper equipment to treat the water from tanks, creeks, or waterholes before drinking. Many walkers become sick after drinking dirty water.
• Bring enough food for this 72hr adventure. An additional supply of high energy emergency food like nuts or dried fruit trail mix is recommended. 
• Include someone with first aid training on your walk.

Camping safety

Whether you're pitching your tent on the coast or up on the mountains, there are many things to consider when camping in NSW national parks. Find out how to stay safe when camping.

• Don’t camp under large trees, especially those with dead or hollow branches. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause trees and branches to fall suddenly.

Fire safety

During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety.

• If you're planning to walk this track, contact the local NPWS office on (02) 4787 8877, to get the latest fire safety information before you set off 
• You’ll also need to check whether a Total Fire Ban has been declared by visiting the Rural Fire Service website. 

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

River and lake safety

The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.