Mount Hay summit walking track

Mount Hay summit walking track is a 3.3 km (2.1 mi) out-and-back from Mount Hay Carpark to the summit and back. It climbs through heath and swampy meadows, crosses a sandstone ridgeline, then reaches the forested summit dome. This short distance still means a Grade 5, very steep and difficult walk: allow 2–3 hours, and choose it only if you are comfortable with rough footing, a hard climb and sparse signs.

The winding approach passes rock formations and swampy patches before the ridge opens out. At the junction, keep right toward the summit and look northeast for the dome. There are limited signs and false leads to viewpoints, so stay with the summit track instead of following every side path. The exposed ridge gives you the first long views across cliff bands and forest.

The sandstone escarpment drops away beside the route, with the Grose Wilderness forest below and Mount Banks' double-humped profile on the skyline. Near the top, grassy slopes dotted with rocks give way to taller forest growing on fertile soil over a basalt cap. A large cairn marks the summit. From a safe spot well back from the edge, frame the cliff bands with Mount Banks for a sense of the scale.

The swampy ground is habitat for the giant dragonfly and the endangered Blue Mountains water skink. In spring, pink boronia, blue iris and flowering banksias brighten the heath and attract birdlife.

Mount Hay Carpark is at the end of Mount Hay Road. The unsealed access road runs 4 km to the park boundary and another 11.4 km to the carpark; it can be rough, boggy and potholed. A 2WD can reach it in dry weather, while a 4WD is recommended especially after rain. There are no toilets or bins at the carpark; the nearest public toilets are at Leura Station or Leura Mall. Bring water and snacks, and leave pets at home: dogs and other domestic pets are not allowed in NSW national parks.