Dargan Arch

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Route: Sandham Road, Dargan Arch Track, Dargan Arch

Date: 30/09/2023
From: Sandham Road

Parking: Sandham Road
Start Point: Sandham Road
Finish Point: Dargan Arch
Region: Blue Mountains National Park

Route length: 1.6km
Time taken: 00:38
Average speed: 4.1km/h
Ascent: 113m
Descent: 110m

Points of Interest: Dargan Arch

Dargan Arch is a hidden gem which often escapes the notice of visitors to the Blue Mountains. The stunning sandstone formation can be reached via a brief hike, allowing the chance to cross the arch's summit and explore the old cavern beneath. The arch is named after the nearby town of Dargan, which was named after John Dargan, an Irish convict who settled in the area in the 1820s. He was granted land by Governor Macquarie and became a successful farmer and innkeeper. He also built a road from Richmond to Mount Victoria, which later became part of the Bells Line of Road.

Situated close to the small town of Bell the parking area can be found along Sandham Road, around 3km after the intersection with Bells Line of Road and Darling Causeway. Turning off the road, there is an open area with a pair of power poles in the centre - this is the parking and trailhead for Dargan Arch. It's important to note that Sandham Road is unpaved, but it's in a suitable condition for 2WD vehicles.

The trek from the trailhead to the top of the arch covers less than 1km and is all downhill. The initial 500m follows a fire trail, gradually descending and becoming steeper. Once the fire trail ends, there's no marked path, but you'll begin to navigate through the rocky terrain. Keep following the general direction of the fire trail and you'll eventually encounter Dargan Arch.

Dargan Arch

The arch is nestled below some cliffs and is likely to have been an extensive cave before the roof collapsed and the arch took shape. When you first see the top of the arch and the big hole nearby, you might not immediately want to walk across it. But as you get closer, you'll see that the top is quite wide and flat, with plenty of space for several people to walk around easily.

The fun part is making your way down to the arch's base, which involves an easy scramble down grippy rock. It's worth it as the view of the arch from below is impressive. Even though there isn't an official trail you'll easily spot the way down to the left of the arch.

To descend, navigate the rocky terraces which may seem steep, but the rock is grippy making it manageable. After reaching the base of the rock, head to the right, cross the fallen tree and make your way toward the arch's interior. Inside the arch, you'll find a hill that's easy to climb, offering even more unique views.

A look back at the route down to the arch - it's easier than it looks

Approaching the arch

Dargan Arch

Dargan Arch

Dargan Arch

Dargan Arch

Dargan Arch

Once you’ve finished admiring the arch, retrace your steps back to the top via the same path. Once you’re back on higher ground, simply follow the walking track back to the car parking area.

Dargan Arch

Above the arch and surrounding canyons