
The Lost City Newnes Plateau
Explore a surreal landscape of honeycombed ironstone towers, a geological marvel offering breathtaking views and a sense of ancient discovery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

The Lost City Newnes Plateau
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surreal landscape of honeycombed ironstone towers, a geological marvel offering breathtaking views and a sense of ancient discovery.
"A real-life stone labyrinth, feeling like an explorer discovering ancient ruins. "

🚗 4x4 Essential for Direct Access
A 4x4 is recommended for the direct route; otherwise, budget for a 30-40 min walk.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Wear good walking shoes for navigating the rocky terrain and steps.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Honeycombed Ironstone Towers
The Lost City
Explore a unique geological marvel of towering, honeycombed ironstone rock formations.

Stone Labyrinth Exploration
The Lost City
Navigate through a fascinating maze of rock formations, feeling like an ancient explorer.

Panoramic Valley Views
Overlooking the valley
Be rewarded with breathtaking, expansive views of the surrounding valley landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for an Off-Road Adventure
Weather and What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Essential for Direct Access
A 4x4 is recommended for the direct route; otherwise, budget for a 30-40 min walk.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Wear good walking shoes for navigating the rocky terrain and steps.
🗺️ Navigation Aids Recommended
Carry a map or GPS as tracks can be confusing; an 'exit strategy' is wise.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer parts of the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Essential for Direct Access
A 4x4 is recommended for the direct route; otherwise, budget for a 30-40 min walk.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Wear good walking shoes for navigating the rocky terrain and steps.
🗺️ Navigation Aids Recommended
Carry a map or GPS as tracks can be confusing; an 'exit strategy' is wise.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer parts of the day.
📸 Capture the Unique Landscape
The rock formations offer incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique, otherworldly landscape of The Lost City, comparing it to ancient ruins and stone labyrinths. The panoramic views and the geological formations are consistently praised. While the journey can be challenging, especially for those without a 4x4, the reward is a truly memorable and visually stunning experience.
"Lost City Hike – A Chilly Start to a Glorious Day ❄️☀️
We began our hike in freezing, foggy weather — it felt like walking through a cloud. But as the sun broke through, the entire landscape transformed into something magical. By midday, it was a perfect 12°C and just stunning.
The trail offers so much — breathtaking panoramic views, pagoda-style rock formations that truly live up to the “Lost City” name, peaceful rainforest patches, yellow wattles in bloom, and even the sound of flowing creeks. 🌿🌼
There are steps to climb, little dams to cross, and loads of photo-worthy spots. Trails are now well-marked after the upgrades, and there are portable toilets and street parking at the start (some roadwork still ongoing).
We hiked as a group of 14, and the company made it even more special — great conversations, endless laughter, and the most amazing mix of snacks: fruits, papadams, chocolate-covered strawberries... we were hiking in style! 😄🍓
A hike that began with cold fingers but ended with full hearts. Beautiful in every way. 👣💚"
Abid Iqbal
"Making up a great 4X4 day trip out of Sydney, the journey to the Lost City, Lithgow, combines, great views, rocky tracks, and as much challenge as you want.
This place is a maze of tracks, chicken tracks and side tracks. It’s great for exploring, and checking out the capability of yourself and your 4X4. keep an eye out on your ground clearance, and keep an ‘exit strategy’ in mind. That being said, there is almost always an option that is less onerous. This can be a single journey, or it can make up part of a bigger run. While you’re out there, check out the Black Fellows Hand track, the Glow Worm Tunnel.What makes this place so worthwhile is Lost City itself. When you make it, you’ll be looking over an incredible valley, filled with towers of honeycombed ironstone rock. It’s a unique geological phenomenon, crafted out of the earth over millions and millions of years.
This is a reasonably challenging journey, so you need to be prepared. Pack the usual suspects when it comes to recovery gear: straps, points and a shovel. Because of the nature of the tracks, it would be worthwhile taking some mapping with you as well, an/or a GPS or Navigator to find your way."
peter g
"Gorgeous rock formations and fantastic views."
Geoff Yetta Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing The Lost City Newnes Plateau typically involves driving on unsealed, challenging 4x4 tracks. If you don't have a suitable vehicle, you can park your car and walk for about 30-40 minutes to reach the main formations. Some roadwork may still be ongoing in the area.
It is generally not recommended for regular cars due to the rough and rocky nature of the tracks. A 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance is advised for direct access.
The tracks can be corrugated, have potholes, and are often rocky. It's recommended to air down your tires to around 25 psi for a smoother ride and better traction.
Yes, The Lost City can be part of a great 4x4 day trip from Sydney, often combined with the Black Fellows Hand track or the Glow Worm Tunnel.
Street parking is available at the start of the trail, though some roadwork might be present.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required for entry to The Lost City Newnes Plateau, as it's a natural geological formation. However, be aware of any potential parking fees or park entry charges if applicable to the broader area.
The Lost City Newnes Plateau is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the landscape.
Currently, there is no explicit entry fee mentioned for The Lost City itself. However, it's always a good idea to check local council or national park websites for any updated information on access or fees.
No booking requirements are typically associated with visiting The Lost City Newnes Plateau for day exploration. If you plan to camp in the wider Newnes area, separate camping permits might be necessary.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the challenging terrain and lack of lighting, which can be dangerous.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the incredible maze of honeycombed ironstone rock formations. You can explore these unique towers, enjoy panoramic valley views, and hike through surrounding bushland.
Exploring the main formations can take 1-2 hours, depending on how much you wander and photograph. If you include the walk in and out, budget an additional 1-1.5 hours.
Recent upgrades have improved trail marking, making it easier to navigate. However, due to the maze-like nature of the formations, it's still wise to be mindful of your surroundings.
The experience involves walking on uneven terrain, climbing steps, and crossing small creeks or dams. It's a moderately challenging hike.
Portable toilets are available at the start of the trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique honeycombed rock formations themselves are incredibly photogenic. Look for interesting angles within the maze and capture the panoramic views from elevated points.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the rock formations. Midday can be harsh but still offers great views.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views and the scale of the formations.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying.
Expect to capture abstract textures of the ironstone, dramatic silhouettes of the towers, and sweeping vistas of the valley.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the 4x4 access as an option if you have a suitable vehicle and experienced driver, but the walk is a great way to involve the whole family in the journey. Portable toilets are available at the trailhead, adding a layer of convenience for families.
🚗 4x4 Enthusiasts & Campers
While The Lost City itself is a day-visit attraction, the wider Newnes area is popular for camping. If planning an overnight stay, ensure you are aware of any camping regulations and permit requirements. This region is a haven for those who love the outdoors and off-grid exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Lost City: 4x4 vs. Walking
Alternatively, a 30-40 minute walk from a designated parking area provides a more accessible route. This option is perfect for those without a 4x4 or who prefer to conserve energy for exploring the formations themselves. The walk itself can be enjoyable, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape before you reach the main attraction. Regardless of your chosen method, the destination is well worth the effort, offering a unique geological spectacle.
Key Takeaway: Assess your vehicle and comfort level. Both 4x4 driving and walking are viable ways to experience The Lost City, each offering a different adventure.
The Geological Wonder of The Lost City
This landscape is a stark contrast to the typical Blue Mountains scenery, especially after recent bushfires have cleared some of the surrounding vegetation, further highlighting the rock formations. The sheer scale and intricate details of these natural sculptures are a testament to the power of geological processes over vast timescales. It's a place that sparks wonder and invites contemplation about the earth's history.
Don't Miss: The intricate honeycomb patterns and the sheer height of the ironstone towers.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit