Mount Banks Summit Walk
A steady climb through heath to a basalt-capped summit on the quiet northern side of the Grose Valley.
- Distance2.4km return
- Time2 - 3hrs
- DifficultyGrade 3 of 5
- Nearest townBilpin
About this walk
Mount Banks is the dome you can see from every lookout at Blackheath. The summit walk climbs from the picnic area through wind-pruned heath - brilliant with wildflowers in spring - into tall forest growing on the basalt cap.
The views are from the climb, not the wooded summit. You are looking straight across the Grose Valley to Govetts Leap.
Route map
Mapped length 2.5 km. Route line from OpenStreetMap; distance and grade in the summary are the official NPWS figures where available.
Take this map offline
Phone reception drops out across most of the Mountains. Save the route before you leave town.
GPX opens in Gaia GPS, AllTrails, Organic Maps, Garmin and most navigation apps and shows your live position on the route with no signal. How to use offline maps.How to get there
From Bells Line of Road, take the signposted Mount Banks turn-off between Mount Tomah and Bell, and follow the unsealed road about 1 km to the picnic area.
Parking: Mount Banks picnic area (free). Short unsealed access road, fine for 2WD in dry weather.
Good to know
- No water at the picnic area.
- Far quieter than the Great Western Highway side - a good pick on long weekends.
Common questions
How long is Mount Banks Summit Walk?
Mount Banks Summit Walk is 2.4km return and takes about 2 - 3hrs.
How hard is Mount Banks Summit Walk?
It is rated Grade 3 on the Australian Walking Track Grading System: suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with some steps and short steep sections.
Where does Mount Banks Summit Walk start?
From Bells Line of Road, take the signposted Mount Banks turn-off between Mount Tomah and Bell, and follow the unsealed road about 1 km to the picnic area. GPS: -33.58331, 150.36715.
Where do I park for Mount Banks Summit Walk?
Mount Banks picnic area (free). Short unsealed access road, fine for 2WD in dry weather.
Can I take my dog to Mount Banks Summit Walk?
No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in NSW national parks, including on leads or in vehicles.
Is there phone reception at Mount Banks Summit Walk?
Do not rely on it. Download the GPX file or save this page offline before you leave Bilpin.
Sources: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (distance, time, grade, coordinates); OpenStreetMap contributors (route line). Last checked Friday 13 November 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
Photo: MrActiniuM, CC BY-SA 4.0.
