Grose River Walking Track from Faulconbridge

This is a 9.4-mile (15.1-kilometer) out-and-back from Faulconbridge Ridge to a deep pool on the Grose River. You follow a broad fire trail along the ridge, then take an unsigned branch and descend steeply through forest to the water before climbing back the same way. Go for a long, demanding day and the river setting at the end; the first several kilometres are mostly a warm, open ridge approach. Allow about six to seven hours with a proper stop at the river.

The fire trail has gentle rises and limited shade. About 5.5 kilometres from the gate, look for the broad but unsigned turn to the right. There’s no sign confirming the river route, so have the mapped line ready and check that you’re following the descent rather than continuing toward Faulconbridge Point. The route described here ends at the river pool; the lookout is a separate spur.

The side track starts gently, then alternates steep pitches with easier stretches. Loose soil and leaf litter can make the ground slippery. A ferny gully and a flatter stretch break up the drop, but the last roughly 250 metres are the toughest: rocky footing, fixed ropes and a ladder lead down to the water. The pool sits among large boulders beneath forested slopes. It’s a fine place to stop, but the way back means climbing the same rough section and ridge approach.

The approach is part of the outing, not just a link to the river. Faulconbridge Ridge is known for spring wildflowers and views across the Lower Grose wilderness. If that is the experience you want, Faulconbridge Point is a different lookout spur; adding it changes the distance and isn’t included in this route.

Start at the locked gate on Faulconbridge Ridge Fire Trail, where roadside lay-bys provide the parking. There is no formal car park. Dogs aren’t permitted in NSW national parks; trained assistance animals are allowed. The lower Grose Valley can close in poor weather or fire danger, so check official park alerts before setting out.