This trail has a bit of everything, history, valley views, and that feeling of being a little off the usual path. If you're after a quieter track that still delivers on scenery, the Asgard Swamp to Thor Head hike is a solid option. It’s roughly 8 to 9 km return with around 400 m elevation gain, and it took us about 3 to 4 hours with breaks.
The Hike
The walk starts from Victoria Falls Road in Mount Victoria, just past a locked gate on the fire trail. There’s no official signage, but you’ll see a small spot on the side of the road where a few cars can park. The first part of the trail is a wide and easy-to-follow fire trail, gently heading downhill.
After about a kilometre, you’ll cross Asgard Brook and arrive at Asgard Swamp, a wide open clearing surrounded by bush. This is the first major landmark on the hike, and you’ll spot the prominent rock formation often called Pagoda or Pyramid Rock just beside it. It’s a great little detour for views over the swamp.
Back on the main trail, you’ll come to a signposted turn-off to the Asgard Mine and Kiln. The mine is dark and damp, so bring a torch if you want to go inside. Just past the mine, over some rocks and a small creek, is the kiln, which is still surprisingly well preserved. It’s wild to see such old industrial structures sitting in such a remote, peaceful setting.
After the mine, you can continue on to Asgard Head. This final viewpoint gives you one of the best panoramas in the area, with views down into the Grose Valley, across to Burra Korain Head, and even toward Victoria Falls. The trail here is less distinct but still manageable, with a little bit of light clambering in places.
On the way back, you'll come across a well-worn but unmarked side path leading out to Thor Head. While the turn-off actually appears earlier on the hike, we saved this detour for last to catch the sunset — and it absolutely delivered. The first rocky platform gives you sweeping views over the Grose Valley. You can stop there or continue uphill to reach the top of the outcrop. If you keep going, you’ll also get views back over the Asgard Plateau and swamp. There’s no official track to the very top, and it gets a bit loose underfoot, so only go further if you’re confident with footing and happy with a bit of scrambling. Either way, the views are incredible. And you can absolutely do this route in any order.
Fun fact: The names Asgard Head and Thor Head were given by Myles Dunphy, an early conservationist who mapped this area and often named features after Norse mythology.
Final Thoughts
This hike has a great mix of history, solitude, and epic views. It’s not as trafficked as other Blue Mountains trails, which makes it perfect if you want a bit of peace and quiet. You’ll get a taste of wild landscapes, industrial relics, and big Grose Valley lookouts all in one trip.
