Dr Dark's Cave Walk

Dr Dark’s Cave Walk is a 3.2 km return out-and-back from Fortress Ridge Carpark to a tall sandstone overhang beside a small waterfall. Allow about two hours. The short distance hides a steep, rough descent and a couple of scrambles, so this is a hard walk rather than an easy waterfall stroll. The 3.2 km includes the carpark approach and cave branch; nearby Fortress Rock is a separate optional spur.

Pass the gate and follow the gently rising fire trail to an unsigned junction, then turn left. About 300 m later, take the narrow branch to the right. It descends steeply toward the creek bed; the tread becomes harder to see there, so keep northwest along the valley. Two short scrambles arrive near the overhang, including a slick rock step and a climb over a rocky outcrop. Return the same way, which means climbing back up the steep descent.

The destination is a large, deep sandstone shelter framed by trees, with a small waterfall beside it. Katoomba doctor Eric Payten Dark and his wife Eleanor are reported to have found it in 1937 and used it as a family retreat through the 1930s and 1940s. Historical accounts describe cookware and other household belongings left in the shelter; leave everything where it is. The waterfall was used as a water source, but it is not confirmed as safe to drink.

Start at Fortress Ridge Carpark, about 9 km along Mount Hay Road from the Great Western Highway. The last 6 km are unsealed, and higher clearance is recommended; parking is limited and can be busy on weekends. Toilets and drinking water at the carpark were not confirmed, and phone reception is reported absent on the route, so bring water and an offline map. Pets are not permitted in the national park; trained assistance animals are allowed.