Wollangambe Exit Track

Overview

This is the classic in-and-out route from Mount Wilson to the Wollangambe River — the go-to exit for canyoners and a solid standalone bushwalk. It’s a 4.3-mile total out-and-back that drops from the Mount Wilson plateau to the river, then makes you earn your views on the return climb. Expect a rugged, natural track with some steep, hands-on moments and a remote feel.

What You’ll See

The descent starts on basalt-rich soils around Mount Wilson before quickly giving way to weathered Triassic sandstone country. You’ll move through warm temperate forest with lush undergrowth, then into sparser heath as the sandstone takes over. Look for large sandstone outcrops and pagoda formations, occasional unfenced vantage points with sweeping glimpses toward the river, and finally the high, narrowing walls and deep pools that signal the mouth of the Wollangambe canyon section. On hot days, the river’s clear, cold pools are the reward.

Trail Notes & Difficulty

It’s mostly downhill to the river, culminating in a steep, root-assisted down-climb into a shady gully that can be slick after rain. The return is a steady, calf-burning ascent back the way you came. Signage is clear near the start by Mount Wilson Fire Station, but fades deeper on the descent, so bring a map or GPS and pay attention. There are no facilities or water on the track; treat this as a wilderness outing.

Best Time to Hike

Open year-round, but summer shines if you want to swim or combine the walk with canyoning — the Wollangambe stays cold even in heat, so warmer air temps make it enjoyable. Spring adds wildflowers through the forested sections. Winter and early spring are chilly and can be wet, which makes the steep gully more hazardous and swimming a non-starter. Start early to give yourself generous daylight for the return climb.

Tips & Safety

Unfenced cliff edges and informal vantage points require caution. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, and don’t underestimate the slippery down-climb after rain. Only strong swimmers should enter the river; currents and low temperatures are real factors, and a wetsuit is wise for extended time in the water. Let someone know your plans and consider carrying a PLB given the area’s remoteness. If you’d rather sample the views without the steep descent, nearby lookouts around Mount Wilson (like Du Faurs Rocks) offer an easier taste of the Wollangambe country.