Blue Gum Forest Trail Loop

The Blue Gum Forest Trail Loop is 44.06 km long with 2,481 m of elevation gain, so it is a serious multi-day route rather than a casual day hike. With extra difficult grading and long climbs in and out of the Grose Valley, most hikers should plan on an overnight trip and allow extra time for steep descents, river flats, and breaks at lookouts.

Blue Gum Forest in the Grose Valley is reached on foot from the Blackheath side of Blue Mountains National Park, with common access from Perrys Lookdown or from Pierces Pass. Parking is available at both Perrys Lookdown and Pierces Pass, and Perrys Lookdown is reached via Hat Hill Road from Blackheath.

Yes. Blue Gum Forest is commonly visited as an overnight walk, and Acacia Flat campground in the Grose Valley is the established remote campground associated with the area. It sits near Blue Gum Forest and has toilets, making it the logical camping stop for a multi-day loop of this length and difficulty.

No. The Blue Gum Forest Trail Loop is in Blue Mountains National Park, and dogs are not allowed on this route. That matters on a 44.06 km multi-day circuit because there are no legal sections of the loop where pets can be taken through the national park.

Yes. The Blue Gum Forest Trail Loop is graded Extra Difficult, and the numbers explain why: 44.06 km with 2,481 m of climbing in rugged Blue Mountains terrain. Expect sustained ascents and descents, remote valley travel, and a route that suits experienced hikers with strong fitness and solid navigation skills.

The route centers on Blue Gum Forest itself, a historic stand of tall eucalypts in the Grose Valley Wilderness. Depending on the exact line taken, the broader loop area is known for major Blue Mountains viewpoints including Perrys Lookdown and Govetts Leap, with wide views across the Grose Valley and toward Mount Banks.

The route can be hiked year-round, but conditions in the Blue Mountains are usually most comfortable in the cooler months and shoulder seasons when daytime temperatures are milder. Summer heat can make the long climbs much tougher, while heavy rain can affect track conditions and access, so checking current park alerts before setting out is important.