Broad Swamp loop walk

Where

Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area in Sydney and surrounds

Accessibility

No wheelchair access

Distance

6km loop

Time suggested

1 - 2hrs

Grade

Grade 3

What to
bring

Sturdy shoes, clothes for all weather conditions, first aid kit, personal locator beacon, hat, sunscreen, raincoat, snacks, food supplies

Please note

There is no phone reception along the walk. Download Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area in the NSW National Parks app before you leave home. This will show you where you are on a map of the walk, even when you have no mobile reception.

Closures for construction will continue over the next 12-18 months, so plan ahead and check alerts before you leave home.

Broad Swamp loop walk is a fun hike for families in Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area. Families will enjoy exploring Broad Swamp – the largest swamp in the park. It's also home to an endangered ecological community called Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp.

This loop track is best enjoyed in a clockwise direction. From the Broad Swamp carpark, cross Western Boundary Road towards the trackhead to start your journey. This will lead you to a series of bog bridges about 1km into the walk. These low, plank-like bridges help to protect soft, sensitive areas of Broad Swamp. Listen for the musical trill of swamp robins and flame robins as you weave your way through their habitat.

After about 3km, you'll pass the turn-off for Broad Swamp to Birds Rock walking track. Turn right to follow the loop track that crosses Broad Swamp. There's no bridge or formal stepping stones to help you cross the shallow creek, so take it slow as it can be slippery. The creek can also get up to ankle height after rain so your feet might get wet.

On the other side of the swamp, keep right to meander through grassy woodlands with the swamp as a backdrop. Keep an eye out for red necked wallabies or echidnas among the shrubs. You might also spot a Swamp Harrier flying above hunting for prey. Finish the loop by crossing Western Boundary Road and following the track back to Broad Swamp carpark.

You can also enjoy pagoda views at Lost City lookout on your way back to Lithgow. With picnic benches overlooking an expansive view, it's well worth the 20min drive from Broad Swamp carpark.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info