Ferntree Gully is circuit walk about 17Km north of the charming historical town of Rylstone. The moment you step foot beyond the pincic area come carpark, it is like going through a portal into a new dimension reminiscent of a Lewis Carrol novel. You are led into a dreamy meandering subtropical track dwarfed by the monolithic cliffs blanketed with lichen and prehistoric ferns. The intertwining ferns and tree roots desperately compete for the slivers of warm sunlight whilst the songs of lyrebirds echo through this other worldly cauldron. Although this is a relatively short walk, it’s definitely worth the journey because it really is something special. It also makes a great addition to your trip when visiting Rylstone and the Mudgee region.
The stats
Distance: 2.8 kilometres
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 91 metres
Parking
When you turn off from the main road, you will follow a dirt road that will lead directly to a parking area and just next to the beginning of the track. You can park anywhere here. In this location there is a ‘long drop dunny’ and a sign that maps out the different trails within the walking area. There are two options, however this blog will be about the longer of the two.
Starting the circuit
The entrance is clearly sign posted and is located at the top of the car park, left of the picnic benches and shelter. The first 50 metres are easy and will direct you to the first turn (left). From this point, you will descend into the gully.
Although still a relatively easy trail it’s helpful to know you will find yourself clambering over a few rocks and ducking under fallen trees. Despite it not being the longest of treks, be prepared for some knee trembling scrambling and the 110 step ascent back up to the surface.
The gully
At this point it is pretty clear how the location got its name and for the next 500 metres, you will be amazed by the display of all different fern species fighting for real estate with the deep green native flora. Tree roots and vines spiral and weave creating beautiful organic braids of bark take bid over the forest, and grass trees illuminate in sprays of sunlight that just manage to peak through the gorge.
There is a board walk which runs for 100 metres to a sudden but picturesque dead end where there is a rudimentary but pretty picnic spot underneath the grass tree foliage to enjoy a half way breather.
As you continue through the gully, the walk does somewhat open up but you’ll continue to experience the same beautiful scenery for another 500 metres prior to reaching the dreaded 100 stairs.
The lookouts
After climbing the stairs, you’ll find yourself walking back on yourself, retracing the gully from the cliffs above. Lined with eucalyptus trees, you will be led towards two equally stunning lookouts. Both Ted Daniels and Norm King Lookout overlook the gully, taking your eye through the cliff faces, to the rugged hills of surrounding landscape.
The final leg
The orange dirt trail continues on the same route, weaving between trees and arid terrain before merging back onto the track that you began on. This is just above the stairs leading into the descend. At this junction, turn left and you will find yourself back into the car park.
Wander Mak 
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