Jersey Spring Walk

This is a 5.2 km return walk from Willow Tree Flat along Lady Carrington Drive to the grassy river clearing just beyond Jersey Spring, then back along the same road. Allow about 1 hour 45 minutes. The old carriageway is broad with mostly gentle climbs, so this is an easy outing rather than a strenuous hike. This is the shorter Willow Tree approach; the separate Fig Tree Flat route takes longer. Domestic pets aren't allowed in NSW national parks.

Tall eucalypts and palms shade much of the way. The Hacking River appears through the trees in glimpses rather than opening into long views. Small creeks cross beneath old stone culverts, including the named Mullion and Wurrul crossings. The best place to pause is Gibraltar Rock: the road passes under a broad sandstone overhang and over a surviving cobbled stretch. Include some of the cobbled track in a photo to show the rock’s scale. Cyclists use the same road, so leave them room.

Two weathered sandstone troughs sit beside Jersey Spring. They date to 1892 and once watered horses and travelers using the old carriageway. Continue a short distance to the quiet grassy clearing beside the river, where a picnic table makes a good rest stop before you retrace your steps. The spring water isn't safe to drink; bring your own drinking water for the full return.

Park at Willow Tree Picnic Area and walk the short access distance to the Lady Carrington Drive gate. The picnic area is the documented parking option for this shorter route.