Creekside Chronicles
Vicki takes a serene stroll along the Farmers Creek Shared Pathway
Are you after a peaceful, easy, accessible walk packed with scenery, wildlife, and some great local history?
Then pop on your walking shoes, or jump on your pushbike and head to the Farmers Creek Shared Pathway in Lithgow !
This sealed path is also dog friendly.
Just under 6km one way, depending on your starting point, the walk stretches all the way from Pillans Lake Wetlands Estate to Chivers Close in Bowenfels, and is the perfect way to experience autumn in all its glory – vibrant foliage, crisp air, and that satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot.
I think it’s a great walk at any time of the year !
If you’re short on time, you can choose from multiple access points.
There are plenty of points to either exit or join the walk – especially handy if you would like to enjoy refreshments at one of the welcoming cafes in Lithgow.
Nestled quietly on the eastern edge of Lithgow, Pillans Lake is where this scenic stroll begins. In autumn, the trees surrounding the lake light up in warm hues – gold, red, and amber and reflections dance on the water’s surface. It’s a favourite spot for ducks, dragonflies, bower birds and water hens !
The Path and the Creek’s Story
Following the creek, the path meanders through pockets of native bush, open grassy areas, and quiet residential backdrops. Farmers Creek itself has a long history—once heavily used during Lithgow’s industrial days, it’s now experiencing a revival thanks to the hard work of Lithgow Oberon Landcare, Lithgow City Council and local volunteers.
These legends have spent years replanting native vegetation, removing invasive species, and helping the creek return to a thriving ecosystem.
As you walk, you’ll notice new growth, wildflowers, and birdlife returning in force – everything from rosellas, wrens, Gang gang cockatoos, wombats and kangaroos and wallabies hopping by.
Wildlife Encounters
Bring your binoculars!
On a recent late afternoon walk, I spotted a mob of kangaroos grazing near the open areas, while sulphur-crested cockatoos put on a loud show overhead. There’s something magical about seeing nature reclaim a space, especially when you know the effort behind it.
Listen for the ‘bock bock ‘calls of the frogs who make their home along the creek, and the raucous laugh of kookaburras.
Grab your Lake Pillans Turtle Tour brochure from the Seven Valleys Visitor Centre and get involved !
The Turtle Tour is a self-paced initiative by the 1 Million Turtles Community. Download the turtleSAT app and record your observations !
Check out the website for more turtle information: https://www.turtlesat.org.au/turtlesat/
By becoming a citizen scientist, you can contribute to turtle research and conservation efforts.
Lake Pillans Wetland is an excellent location to observe freshwater turtles and other aquatic wildlife.
I found a turtle !
All my ducks in a row !
After around an hour of relaxed walking (longer if you stop for all the birds and photo ops, which you definitely should), the path finishes up at Chivers Close, where you can loop back or continue exploring Lithgow.
You are welcome to call in to the Seven Valleys Visitor Centre for a quick cuppa before looping back.
Know Before You Go:
• Distance: ~Under 6km (one way)
• Grade: Easy
• Time: ~1–1.5 hours
• Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)
• Facilities: Benches, signage, and nearby parking
