Glow Worm Tunnel
Glow Worm Tunnel
4.5
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- Bruce MSydney, Australia821 contributionsExtraordinary off the beaten track nature experiencesDue to a landslide, access is not available via Wolgan Valley so the options are Glow worm tunnel road or Old Bells Line of road ( latter turnoff at Clarence near the Zog Zag railway station. It’s about a 30-40 minute drive from Clarence on dirt roads although these were in quite reasonable conditions apart from a few very small sections of potholes. A normal sedan can do it quite comfortably but a low slung sports car would struggle. Glow worm tunnel road ends at a new car park and there is a well constructed flat path to the cave itself although there is a short section of stairs into and out of a small creek ( there is a bridge over the creek). The tunnel is part of the old Newnes railway and there is work in progress to extend the wide walkway inside the tunnel. The wide walkway goes in perhaps 150 metres before it narrows. The glow worms can be seen from the end of the walkway so there isn’t a need to go further unless you choose so. Take a good torch as it’s very dark in the tunnel. Tip: One of the best kept secrets is the Dry Canyon walking trail which is nearby. It’s not signposted but to find the trail starting point head back up Glow worm tunnel road through the first short tunnel and look for a small parking area on the right ( heading back in the direction to Lithgow). There is a low metal wire barrier to stop cars venturing further. The trail winds past rock pagodas ( hence the name pagoda track) for perhaps 1.5km before there is a bit of a scramble down a slope to the first slit dry canyon which has a fantastic micro climate. Once you are through the first slit canyon, head on for perhaps 150 metres to the second dry canyon which is quite different to the first. There are some blogs on the dry canyons which give detailed directions and it’s worth downloading those to save time heading down an incorrect trail. The final 3 photos are the entrance to Dry CanyonVisited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 January 2024
- Tony WSydney, Australia4,607 contributionsNot the easiest place to visit but well worth the effortThis attraction is not the easiest place to visit but it is well worth the effort. Firstly a 45 minute drive along an unsealed road that is in great condition. Would not attempt this road in the wet. When you reach the car par it is a 30 minute one kilometre walk to the tunnel (and 30 minutes back) For most of the walk the path is well formed, firm and free of obstructions. However about 600 metres in you encounter a section with a large number of stairs down and back up. When you reach the tunnel you are greeted with a recently constructed concrete path and handrails running the length of the tunnel (thanks so much to the local authorities for this!!). The inside of the tunnel is pitch black so remember to bring torches. Shine the light onto the floor, not the walls or ceilings. About half way into the tunnel, stop, allow your eyes to adjust and look up. You will then see beauty of the glow worms (not really worms, fly larvae) Its a magical place and well worth a visit!Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 June 2024
- Kirsty H5 contributionsWorth visitingGreat morning out. Road was excellent (we were in a 4wd but smaller cars would be fine). Walk was reasonably easy our 5&6 year olds had no trouble. Glow worms were out and putting on a great show! Take a torch!Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 20 July 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
167 reviews
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Sudha Mukundan
13 contributions
Apr 2021
The 40KM drive on unsealed roads was scary. Was afraid the car tyre could be punctured and we will be stranded in the middle of nowhere. After negotiating the deep trenches on the road, we were unsure if we should drive through the tunnel as it was so narrow. We backed up and waited and saw a few cars drive through. We cautiously followed and were relieved to see the end of the tunnel and the car park after that.
The walk from car park to tunnel is beautiful, however you have to negotiate a few steep steps and reach the glow worm tunnel. The floor of the tunnel as advised in the website is very uneven and covered with big boulders and considerable amount of water continuously flowing , and pitch dark.
We were able to see the glow worms, whenever the flash lights were dimmed by other tourists. I was more afraid of having a fall than enjoying the glow worms .
Would not recommend this for 60's or 70 year olds or anyone not very fit.
The walk from car park to tunnel is beautiful, however you have to negotiate a few steep steps and reach the glow worm tunnel. The floor of the tunnel as advised in the website is very uneven and covered with big boulders and considerable amount of water continuously flowing , and pitch dark.
We were able to see the glow worms, whenever the flash lights were dimmed by other tourists. I was more afraid of having a fall than enjoying the glow worms .
Would not recommend this for 60's or 70 year olds or anyone not very fit.
Written 7 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AustTrail
Sydney530 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
As others have noted the drive up is probably the hard bit but if you have a 4wd you will have no problems.
Low clearance 2wd cars will find it difficult navigating through those pot holes.
After 30km of driving the unsealed road from Lithgow (and yes you will need to drive through a narrow cave!) you will reach a well maintained car park. It looks like they are doing some work here so I am sure the conditions will be even better.
The walk to the cave was very pleasant and can be done by even those with average fitness. When you reach the cave, be sure to watch where you are going as it is quite wet and slippery in there. So those with mobily issues in the cave may find it difficult to navigate. A good head lamp would be a good idea too. When everyone turns off their torches, that is when you can see the glowworms on the ceiling at the middle point of the cave.
Some worms are on the walls too so can you what they really look like.
A great experience but just make sure you are prepared for the drive .
Low clearance 2wd cars will find it difficult navigating through those pot holes.
After 30km of driving the unsealed road from Lithgow (and yes you will need to drive through a narrow cave!) you will reach a well maintained car park. It looks like they are doing some work here so I am sure the conditions will be even better.
The walk to the cave was very pleasant and can be done by even those with average fitness. When you reach the cave, be sure to watch where you are going as it is quite wet and slippery in there. So those with mobily issues in the cave may find it difficult to navigate. A good head lamp would be a good idea too. When everyone turns off their torches, that is when you can see the glowworms on the ceiling at the middle point of the cave.
Some worms are on the walls too so can you what they really look like.
A great experience but just make sure you are prepared for the drive .
Written 16 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Denyelle D
17 contributions
Dec 2020 • Family
The best way to access the Glow Worm Tunnels I think is via the Wolgan Valley entrance. The road is sealed most of the way. Expect a 5 hr round trek that includes some hilly sections, wash outs that you will need to climb over rocks etc. wear appropriate footwear for this walk.
Most of the walk is relatively flat along the old railway line and you will be rewarded with spectacular views into the Wolgan valley below. The last part of the walk is through a beautiful fern gully. Well worth it in my opinion.
Most of the walk is relatively flat along the old railway line and you will be rewarded with spectacular views into the Wolgan valley below. The last part of the walk is through a beautiful fern gully. Well worth it in my opinion.
Written 23 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ptrabant
Cronulla, Australia950 contributions
Jun 2021
Stunning scenics either end of the tunnel especially at the Newnes end of the tunnel . The tunnel is quite long so take a decent torch as you dont get light on the middle . also a bit wet underfoot and uneven so take decent footwear . enjoyable and very different place.
Written 19 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
carey c
1 contribution
Jan 2021 • Family
The road is unsealed but it is in good condition again after being graded so previous comments don’t apply at the moment. It takes about 45 mins though as it’s rough in parts. We drove in easily without a 4WD, though it had been dry for a week before. Probably not a good idea after rain. It’s a nice drive, interesting rock formations along the way. We parked at the closest car park, only one other vehicle when we arrived at 10am on a Tuesday. We took the advice of a previous poster, and in the tunnel we turned our lights off and waited silently, at first a smattering of glow worms, but the longer we waited the more plentiful and beautiful they were. My 8 year old and I had a great morning, the drive was easy, the walk in is nice and the tunnel is quite special.
Written 31 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony W
Sydney, Australia4,607 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
This attraction is not the easiest place to visit but it is well worth the effort. Firstly a 45 minute drive along an unsealed road that is in great condition. Would not attempt this road in the wet. When you reach the car par it is a 30 minute one kilometre walk to the tunnel (and 30 minutes back) For most of the walk the path is well formed, firm and free of obstructions. However about 600 metres in you encounter a section with a large number of stairs down and back up. When you reach the tunnel you are greeted with a recently constructed concrete path and handrails running the length of the tunnel (thanks so much to the local authorities for this!!). The inside of the tunnel is pitch black so remember to bring torches. Shine the light onto the floor, not the walls or ceilings. About half way into the tunnel, stop, allow your eyes to adjust and look up. You will then see beauty of the glow worms (not really worms, fly larvae) Its a magical place and well worth a visit!
Written 30 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sammywammy_12
Melbourne, Australia240 contributions
Jun 2020 • Family
Absolutely wonderful tunnel but crazy busy and dangerous on weekends. The car park is small, there are tourists everywhere and the whole experience is kind of ruined. If you MUST go on a weekend get there EARLY!!! Road is 4WD ONLY! Also, navigating through the tunnel is difficult with very young children due to a creek flowing through it. Take a good torch if you have one. It's pitch dark!
Written 28 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David S
Magenta, Australia143 contributions
Jul 2020
An underwhelming experience after over 3 hours return on dirt roads worse than anything we have experienced 4WDriving in the Pilbarra (WA). The Lithgow Visitor Centre, whilst very friendly, appear to have little knowledge of just how bad the road is. 4WD essential just to get enough ground clearance. Despite being careful with lights and noise, the glowworms took some finding. Consider your need to do this trip.
Written 27 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BlueMountainsGuide
Blue Mountains, Australia14 contributions
Jan 2023
Due to a landslide on Wolgan Gap, the Glow Worm Tunnel is presently not accessible via Wolgan Road. Access is only possible via Glowworm Tunnel Road from Lithgow and Bell Line of Road. Wolgan Road is expected to remain closed for most of 2023
Written 8 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ChrisO
Antigua, Guatemala29 contributions
Aug 2020
Amazing history to the area, natural beauty.
Tip: walk until you can’t see the light from either entrance of the tunnel. (Total tunnel length is about 400m) Turn you torch off and wait until your eyes adjust. They are the small dull glowing green dots on the wall, waterside of the tunnel.
Tip: walk until you can’t see the light from either entrance of the tunnel. (Total tunnel length is about 400m) Turn you torch off and wait until your eyes adjust. They are the small dull glowing green dots on the wall, waterside of the tunnel.
Written 16 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, we re planning to go to worm tunnel in Lithgow. Is it possible to go there with 2WD SUV (KIA Carnival 2016) ?
Written 16 June 2021
As of Nov 2024, yes good quality dirt road.
Written 15 November 2024
Hi. If you walk from the car park to the tunnel that’s the glow tunnel is it a hard and long walk for older people I mean middle-aged do you think it’s hard to walk and return to the car park. nothing has been said regarding it is rough walk for older people or not I appreciate your feedback thank you
Written 3 March 2021
It’s an easy walk - flat most of the way. Some stairs. We did it with a person with a health condition who can find walking painful and they were fine.
The walk in the tunnel itself is more uneven and has water. Still possible. Need good light though.
Written 14 March 2021
Kate M
Kingswood, Australia
Is it possible to get to the tunnel in a 2wd or do you need a 4wd to get through?
Written 6 April 2019
I have driven the dirt road twice now; in 2017 and again in 2019. The first time was in a Toyota Camry. The car wasn't damaged at all and there were no major problems, but it was a nerve-wracking and uncomfortable experience because of the deep potholes along the entire stretch of the dirt road.
I used a 4wd SUV in 2019 and it was a much better experience.
Written 29 April 2019
Can i go to the Glow Worm Tunnel during day time and able to see Glowworms ? Or must I go only at night ? Is this manageable for 3 years old children and elderly people?
Written 22 August 2018
Day or night doesn't make a difference (go daytime, it is easier to drive to the area). Time of the year makes a difference. Glow worm population is larger in warmer season.
Written 13 April 2019
Would it be possible to take a dog on a lead through the glow worm tunnel?
Written 21 January 2018
Good question. Dogs are banned in National Parks, but allowed in State Forests. And I think the Tunnel is actually in a national Park, even though you drive through a state forest to get to it.
Honestly I'd leave the dog at home.
Written 22 January 2018
can i take a 4x4 and camper to the glow tunnels and is there parking available for car and van please.
Written 9 August 2017
You can take your car and camper as far as the parking area. You are still about 1.5 km from the Glow Worm Tunnel . Enjoy! Remember to take a torch, we did but the batteries were flat.
Written 9 August 2017
My 6yrs old son uses a wheelchair to go around.. just wondering if plausible for him to go in the tunnel?
And is there a way I can park as close as possible if I need to just carry him?
thanks
Written 9 May 2017
Agreed with Brookë G.
Unfortunately, the path from car park to the tunnel is not wheelchair friendly. Steps, narrow passage and uneven surface make it very difficult. I have heard about a place in Southern Highlands called "Glow Worm Glen". I have not been there but apparently you can also see the glow worms there. You can find useful information on Google.
I have two links but TripAdvisor does not allow to include them in the response.
Written 11 May 2017
evar72017
Sydney, Australia
When is the best time of year to see the glow worms at their prime?
Written 25 April 2017
There is no real season. Glow worms are at a certain stage in their life cycle when they glow . However there are so many that there are always heaps at this stage. The main thing is that you are quiet and turn off your torch to see them.
It is a wonderful walk, terrific tunnel and the glow worms are fabulous. Enjoy!
Written 25 April 2017
What is the best way to reach cave from Sydney? Traveling with small children, looking for closest drop off point.
Written 15 April 2017
Hi pep_02,
The best path is from Lithgow, so I recommend you drive from Sydney to Lithgow and then take the road to Glow Worm Tunnel.
Good to have GPS with you especially with travelling with small children. The roads are very similar and easy to be mistaken. If you go during weekends or public holidays, it would be much easier to find the way (because there are many cars on the way), and also safer.
I do not know which type of car do you have, but please note it is ~30km unsealed road from Lithgow.
Good information on visit nsw website.
The road is so beautiful and the experience is unique.
Have a safe trip.
Written 15 April 2017
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