Pros & cons
PROS
- Cool, shaded gullies make it a great hot‑day hike
- Quieter than the upper‑mountains tourist tracks, with a tranquil creek soundtrack
CONS
- Leeches and slick rock after rain can be a buzzkill
- Track network junctions can confuse first‑timers without a map or GPX
Faulconbridge trailhead parking near the cemetery/Jackson Park; loop or through-walk options to/from Springwood also work well via train.
Slippery sandstone and mud after rain, minor creek crossings, leeches in wet/humid conditions, occasional fallen trees, and patchy mobile reception.
Overview
A classic lower Blue Mountains bushwalk, the Victory Track drops from Faulconbridge into cool, ferny gullies and follows Sassafras Creek through coachwood–sassafras rainforest. It’s about 4.3 miles one way (this is the creek‑level section itself, not a full loop), and it’s loved for running water, small cascades, and that peaceful “hidden valley” feel—no big clifftop views, just lush forest and birdsong.
Route options and highlights
From the Faulconbridge side (near the cemetery/Jackson Park), you’ll descend the steepest stretch to reach Sassafras Creek, then meander along the valley floor past pools, sandstone overhangs and side creeks. Near Perch Ponds you can continue deeper along Glenbrook Creek or swing into loop options. Popular add‑ons use Magdala Creek or the Sassafras Gully Track to reach Springwood/Fairy Dell, creating a satisfying 10–11 km circuit. Short side trips access modest but photogenic falls like Magdala Falls and Martins Falls, and there are pleasant picnic spots around Perch Ponds and the Lagoon.
On‑trail feel and difficulty
After the initial descent, grade is generally gentle with rock steps, roots and short undulations around bends and boulders. Expect multiple minor creek crossings and sections that turn wet or muddy after rain. It’s solidly moderate overall—fit beginners can manage the Victory Track segment; the longer loop days suit regular walkers. This is a sound‑of‑water, fern‑frond kind of walk rather than a scenery “wow” from lookouts.
Best time to hike
Year‑round. The gullies stay cool and shaded on hot days, but can feel humid in summer. After rain, creeks and cascades come alive (and surfaces get slick), so pick footwear accordingly. In long dry spells the water features diminish. For quiet trails, start early on weekdays; midday sun provides soft, dappled light in the gully, but photography really pops after recent rain.
Logistics and tips
- Navigation is straightforward at signed junctions, but the network has many intersections—carry a map or GPX. Phone reception can be patchy.
- Wear grippy, waterproof footwear; expect slippery sandstone, mud, and the occasional fallen tree after storms. In wet/humid spells, leeches are common.
- Bring all your water (treat creek water if you must). There are no facilities in the gully; services are in Faulconbridge/Springwood.
- Easy public‑transport access for through‑walks/loops via Faulconbridge or Springwood stations.
- Dogs are not permitted, and day hikers don’t need permits for this track.
Elevation
4.3 mi · 3.5 hrWhere it starts
-33.6973, 150.5350Wildlife on this trail
Near Victory Track
All places →All trails →
2.4 mi awayKing's CaveShort stroll to a sandstone cave with a spring and old carvingsTrailhead · Parking
2.9 mi awayParadise PoolSecluded sandstone swimming hole with a sandy bottom and waterfallTrailhead · Parking
3.5 mi awayMartins Lookout TrackShort, steep stroll to huge Glenbrook Creek views near SpringwoodModerate · 0.5 mi · 48 min
3.5 mi awayMartin's LookoutShort stroll to sweeping Glenbrook Creek valley viewsTrailhead · Parking
3.5 mi awayLost World TrailSteep lookout-to-lookout epic with a creek crossing and solitudeChallenging · 4 mi · 3.5 hr
3.7 mi awayLost World LookoutQuiet cliff-edge lookout with big Glenbrook Creek valley viewsScenic Viewpoint
4.3 mi awayFlorabella PassShady lower mountains gully linking Warrimoo and BlaxlandModerate · 3.7 mi · 2.5 hr
4.9 mi awayBlue Gum Swamp LoopShady blue gum forest loop with gentle grades and optional viewsEasy · 6.2 mi · 3 hr
