Update on new accessible Zig Zag to Siding Lookout track

Update on new accessible Zig Zag to Siding Lookout track

September 2022

Improvements to Lapstone Zig Zag Walking Track to Siding Lookout have been delayed due to multiple natural disasters in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

The accessibility upgrade will provide a new inclusive experience for more members of the community and is one component of a $2 million upgrade to nearly two and a half kilometres of lower mountains walking tracks.

The Lapstone Zig Zag to Siding Lookout upgrade includes the construction of a new accessible pathway along the current track alignment, to an upgraded Siding Lookout, providing improved vistas of the Nepean River and across the Cumberland Plain.

Following the historic Zig Zag railway track alignment the path will keep the bushland experience natural and intact as well as making significant heritage features more accessible. This will be the first fully accessible bushland track in the lower Blue Mountains. Currently less than four per cent of bushland walking tracks in the Blue Mountains are wheelchair accessible.

The upgrade to Siding Lookout will wrap the edge of the existing switchback. It will also include seating and interpretive signage, and will address drainage issues.

Council will be formalising some parking at the end of Knapsack Street, with priority given to compliant accessible parking. You can view the proposed parking plan here.

Work is now expected to commence in 2022 (but is dependent on weather). During works, the track will be closed to the public for safety reasons. There will be no alternative route to connect to Zig Zag.

Designs for the accessible path are now available. The community is also invited to have its say on the colour of the path. Take our quick poll to tell us your preference. The poll closes on Tuesday, 5 October. Council is also looking into options for the texture of the path, in line with accessibility standards.