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Clarke Gorge walking track

High Plains area in Kosciuszko National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Clarke Gorge walking track.

Track grading

Grade 5

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

5km return

Time

3hrs 30min - 4hrs 30min

Quality of markings

Limited signage

Experience required

Some bushwalking experience recommended

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Rough unformed track

Getting there and parking

Clarke Gorge walking track is in the Blue Waterholes precinct of Kosciuszko National Park, 25km north east of Snowy Mountains Highway via Long Plain Road and Blue Waterholes trail. The track starts near Blue Waterholes campground.

Road quality

  • There's no vehicle access to the trackhead of Clarke Gorge walking track in winter, and roads may close in extreme weather.
  • Check the weather before you set out as Long Plain Road and Blue Waterholes trail can become boggy when it rains.

Parking

Parking is available on Blue Waterholes trail, next to Blue Waterholes campground.

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Cave Creek can experience strong flows and can be very cold, so please ensure you're well-prepared. Bring appropriate clothing as weather can be extreme and unpredictable in this remote location.

Adventure sports

Adventure sports like climbing, caving, canyoning and abseiling offer a thrilling opportunity to explore our unique environments. Before you head out, be aware of the risks and stay safe during adventure sports.

Alpine safety

Alpine areas present special safety issues. Conditions can be extreme and may change rapidly, particularly in winter. It’s important to be prepared and find out how to stay safe in alpine areas.

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.

Fishing safety

Fishing from a boat, the beach or by the river is a popular activity for many national park visitors. If you’re planning a day out fishing, check out these fishing safety tips.

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.

Permitted

Fishing

A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

Prohibited

Drones

Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.

This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.

Commercial filming and photography

Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Clarke Gorge walking track

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Park info