The Sassafras Gully is a real gem of the Lower Blue Mountains.
As winter sets in, the Upper Blue Mountains can seem a little daunting for walkers among us who are partial to a temperate climate. Katoomba’s average temperature throughout June and July sits at around 5°C. Combine that with some light drizzle and a biting wind, and a day on the trail may not be as pleasant as the warmer months. However, the good news is that the lower mountains are just that little bit warmer, and offer a variety of trail networks that are able to be walked all year round, freeze-free guaranteed.
The Magdala Creek Loop Walk is a great way to explore Springwood’s Sassafras Gully. The trail is well-maintained, and features a satisfying tour of the area’s lush forests and bubbling creeks, with few panoramic views thrown in. It makes for an easy day walk for visitors from Sydney, being only 1.5hr by train from the city. Springwood is the second biggest township in the Blue Mountains, so there are plenty of opportunities to pick up some supplies for lunch on Macquarie Rd on your way to the trailhead.
The walk begins at the eastern end of Picnic Point, which is within easy walking distance of the train station. Following the track into the Magdala Gully, the track descends until it joins the creek and continues downstream on its left-hand side. There is plenty of pleasant walking as you meander along the creek, which is lined with ferns. Keep an eye out for an impressive variety of fungi, some of the more floral forms contrast beautifully with the mossy undergrowth.
After a large rocky creek crossing, take the trail towards Martins Lookout and the Perch Ponds camping area. Before long, you will pass Martins Falls, marked by a small wooden plaque attached to a tree on the left-hand side of the track. The rock scramble which takes you behind the small waterfall is worth the effort for a closer look at the formation, which arches over the creek in an impressively flat rock shelf.
Passing the Perch Ponds camping area, the trail splits and offers two choices. The left trail is a return trip to Martins Lookout, offering impressive views of the surrounding valleys that are well worth the somewhat strenuous climb. However, if you’re running short on time, head straight for the Victory Track to the right, which later joins the Sassafras Gully Track. This leads you to Sassafras Gully Road, which is within walking distance of the Springwood train station.
Walknotes
Magdala Creek Loop Walk
Time/distance: 4hr/10km. Grade: easy.
Words and photos_Doug Wright