Blending industrial heritage with natural beauty, the Box Vale Mine Walk follows the route of a disused railway line from the 1800s. Passing through bushland, cuttings, and a long tunnel, the walk rewards explorers with the impressive Forty Foot Falls.
What You’ll Experience
The trail is around 4.4 kilometres return and begins just outside Mittagong. Walkers follow the old rail corridor, with sandstone cuttings and shady bushland creating a sense of history and discovery. A highlight is the 84-metre railway tunnel, which feels like stepping back in time.
At the end of the track, you’ll be greeted by Forty Foot Falls – a graceful waterfall hidden deep within the escarpment. After rainfall, the falls are especially striking, cascading into the natural gorge below.
A Walk for Adventurers
The track is moderate in difficulty, suitable for most walkers with reasonable fitness. Families with older children enjoy the sense of adventure, while nature lovers appreciate the birdlife and wildflowers along the way. Be sure to bring a torch for the tunnel and good shoes for uneven ground.
Getting There
The Box Vale Mine Walk starts at a carpark off Box Vale Road, about a 10-minute drive from Mittagong Holiday Park. The trail is clearly signposted, making it easy to follow from start to finish.
Why It’s a Must-See
Combining history, bushwalking, and a stunning waterfall, the Box Vale Mine Walk & Forty Foot Falls is one of the Southern Highlands’ best-kept secrets – and a rewarding adventure for visitors.