Top 5 spots to view glow worms

What is a glow worm? Glad you asked. Glow worms are the bioluminescent larvae of Arachnocampa richardsae, a type of fungus gnat. These fascinating little creatures typically hang from damp cave ceilings, spinning delicate silk threads that glisten softly in the dark. While they might look magical, glow worms are quite sensitive – sudden sounds or bright torches can disrupt their glow, making quiet footsteps and dim lights a must. 

If you’re keen to experience the gentle sparkle of these tiny insects first-hand, the glow-worm tunnels dotted around NSW, such as the Lithgow Glow Worm Tunnel in Wollemi National Park or the lesser-known Helensburgh Tunnel, offer ideal spots for an adventure. Weekdays tend to be quieter, and visits during spring or autumn are recommended since glow worms are less active in extreme weather. Of course, like most wildlife encounters there's a bit of luck involved, but that's part of the charm. 

1. Glow Worm Tunnel, Newnes Plateau 

Hidden within Wollemi National Park, about 30km north-east of Lithgow, lies one of NSW’s most enchanting spots – the Glow Worm Tunnel. Carved through sandstone cliffs as part of a historic railway route originally used for transporting shale, this abandoned tunnel is now famed for the dazzling display of glow worms that call it home. 

Getting to the tunnel itself involves a moderately challenging 6km return walk, which takes around two to three hours. It’s classified as a Grade 3 hike, so expect some uneven surfaces, slippery patches, and occasional steps. Definitely pack sturdy hiking boots and carry a torch – it gets very dark inside the tunnel. 

Weekends, holidays, and summer months can see the site buzzing with visitors, making parking limited, so arriving early or choosing off-peak times is your best bet for a quieter experience. Once you’re inside the tunnel, pause a while, switch off your torch, and stay quiet. As your eyes adjust, thousands of tiny glow worms begin twinkling along the tunnel walls, creating a magical, star-like spectacle that’s well worth the hike. 

If you're feeling adventurous, there's another route accessible via the Newnes campground. This more challenging 9km Grade 4 Wolgan Valley loop suits experienced bushwalkers and offers incredible scenery along the way. Highlights include dramatic sandstone pagodas, lush Penrose Gorge rainforest, and breathtaking views across the Wolgan Valley, before finally reaching this enchanting glow worm tunnel. 

2. Helensburgh Tunnel  

Considered one of the best places to see glow worms in NSW, the historic Helensburgh tunnel is approximately 60km south of Sydney city. It is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty, largely thanks to the sheer number of glow worms illuminating its walls. 

The tunnel was constructed in the late 19th century and originally formed part of the railway line connecting Sydney to Wollongong. It now offers visitors a unique glimpse into the area's historical past combined with a captivating natural spectacle. 

Conveniently located just 200 metres from Helensburgh train station, this glow-worm tunnel is particularly easy to reach via public transport, making it ideal for visitors coming from Sydney and surrounding areas. Despite its accessibility, getting to the tunnel itself can be a somewhat muddy and slippery adventure, especially after rainy weather. Visitors are strongly advised to wear sturdy, water-resistant or waterproof footwear and long trousers they don't mind getting muddy. 

Once you arrive, take extra care when entering the tunnel as visibility quickly diminishes. Remnants of the old rail sleepers remain in place for about the first 100 metres, creating an uneven and potentially tricky surface. Pausing to allow your eyes to adjust is recommended so you can fully appreciate the worms’ ethereal glow, which illuminates the tunnel walls. 

3. Stokers Siding tunnel 

Tucked away along the scenic Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Stokers Siding tunnel is a hidden gem in northern NSW, easily accessible via the old disused railway corridor running from Casino to Murwillumbah.  

Nestled between Burringbar and Murwillumbah (affectionately known as Mur'bah by locals) and situated near the intersection of Tunnel Road and The Bloodwood Road, this lesser-known tunnel has quietly become home to numerous glow worms. 

Because the rail trail is now popular with walkers and cyclists during daylight hours, visiting Stokers Siding tunnel at night provides the best opportunity for a peaceful, magical experience.  

Allow your eyes to adjust fully to the darkness, stay quiet, and soon you'll witness a captivating scene as the glow worms’ bioluminescent bodies begin to twinkle – a natural adaptation used to attract prey such as moths and flies. 

4. Crystal Showers, Dorrigo 

Secreted within the lush Gondwana rainforests of Dorrigo National Park near Coffs Harbour, Crystal Shower Falls walk is a picturesque and relatively easy 3.2km return journey along a paved path. 

Graded as a comfortable Grade 2 hike, this loop typically takes visitors between 60 and 90 minutes to complete. Along the trail, visitors are treated to a vibrant rainforest landscape filled with ancient trees, lush ferns, and abundant wildlife. 

The striking Crystal Shower Falls are of course a highlight. Visitors can walk across a suspension bridge to view the falls, which cascade down a rockface into a beautiful pool below. 

Perhaps the most spectacular view, however, is from behind the cascading water – accessed via a path that leads into a natural cavern in the rockface. This unique vantage point makes it one of the park's most captivating features, but the real surprise comes at night, when the glow worms light up behind the waterfall. 

As with any night-time walk, torches are recommended for safety – but remember to turn them off as you approach and keep quiet to see the glow worms in all their glory.  

Dress accordingly, too, as weather in Dorrigo National Park can change rapidly – checking forecast conditions before heading out is essential. Appropriate footwear and gear will help you fully enjoy this beautiful rainforest experience. 

5. Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park 

Okay, it’s just across the border in Queensland, but we had to include Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park. It offers a unique natural spectacle and is worth the short journey from Murwillumbah. This intriguing geological feature showcases a waterfall cascading through an erosion-formed hole into a basalt cave below, creating an enchanting environment. 

The easy 1.1km paved loop track to Natural Bridge takes around 20 minutes and winds gently through lush subtropical rainforest dotted with towering hoop pines. The cave itself is home to an impressive colony of glow worms, making it especially popular at night when visitors can marvel at the glittering blue-green glow on the cavern walls. 

Arriving after dusk and observing silence inside the cave enhances the experience and allows everyone to appreciate the magical glow worm display. 

Reminder: this is a restricted access area due to the fragile nature of the local ecosystem, and visitors are asked to refrain from wearing bug repellent and sunscreen. Swimming in the creek is also prohibited. 

Tips for Viewing Glow Worms 

1. When exploring glow worm tunnels, safety should always come first. Be cautious as these areas can be completely dark with slippery, uneven ground. 
2. Once you've entered, turn off your torch and allow your eyes ample time to adjust to the darkness – only then will you and others be able to fully appreciate the glow worms' gentle luminescence. Remember, glow worms are sensitive to sound, so keep conversations quiet (or, ideally, remain silent). 
3. If you must use a torch, shine it downwards or use one equipped with a red-light setting or red cellophane over the top, as red light is the least disruptive to these delicate creatures.