My oh my! I've been to the Grand Canyon in the USA and now in the Blue Mountains and I have to say that they are equally deserving to be called the Grand Canyon.
It is hard for the pictures and a review to do this justice. My travel buddy and I spent 2 weeks in Sydney, Brisbane, and went to New Zealand and this was my favorite moment of it all.
If you go to see parts of the trail, you will be happy but the magic is completing the full loop. Leisurely, we spent almost 4 hours on the trail that starts at 3200 feet and dips down 2600 feet to go back up to 3300 feet. I believe the track, if you just went the course is about a 4 mile loop. However, we walked around, explored extra, and walked nearly 6 miles.
I recommend parking at the Grand Canyon car park or the Evan's lookout car park. Then, walk away from going into the canyon and go South to the Neates Glen parking area and start the loop there. The reason is that there is a much steeper climb coming out at Neates Glen than there is at Evans Lookout. Also, you start the hike with more energy. Who doesn't want to end a 700ft climb and finish near their vehicle?
With respect to the trail, my hats off to the NSW Parks and Wildlife. The trail is well maintained. It is so much fun to hike. The trail does an amazing job immersing you into the landscape. It helps you feel and be a part of what makes it so gorgeous. The waterfalls are nice. They are not the best thing you are going to see but they are pretty. I just could go in and on with this review and it still wouldn't do it justice.
Here is what I will say. If you are in the area of Sydney, take a day trip and do this hike. You will not go away disappointed.
On a side note, there is rappelling or abseiling into the canyon where you get to walk the river that created the canyon. If I get the chance to visit this beautiful place again, I will 100% do that experience. It must be an amazing...
Read moreThe Grand Canyon Track in Blackheath, part of Australia's Blue Mountains National Park, is one of the region's most iconic walks, offering an extraordinary bushwalking experience. Known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning natural beauty, the track provides an opportunity to explore deep gorges, creek crossings, and lush rainforest environments.
The trail is about 6.3 km long and is categorized as a moderate hike, but the varying terrains can make it challenging in parts. Expect to encounter steep staircases, narrow ledges, and uneven ground, so it's essential to wear sturdy hiking boots and be relatively fit to enjoy the trek.
One of the track's standout features is the intricate network of creeks and streams that you'll cross, framed by lush ferns and towering sandstone walls. It's not uncommon to see native wildlife, including various bird species and the occasional wallaby.
Waterfalls and natural pools appear along the track, offering ideal spots for rest and photography. The fern-lined walls and natural rock formations are particularly photogenic, making this a favorite trail for photographers.
Amenities are limited along the track, so it's advisable to carry essentials like water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit. Always check weather conditions before embarking, as the trail can become slippery and more challenging after rainfall.
Overall, the Grand Canyon Track is a rewarding experience for those who appreciate the intricacies of Australia's natural landscape. Its combination of awe-inspiring vistas and physical challenge makes it a must-visit for any...
Read moreI did the Grand Canyon Walk in the Blue Mountains with a couple of friends and it was our third time doing it. We parked at Evan’s Point Lookout and started from there which makes for a really nice beginning to the track. The initial downhill walk is amazing because you are surrounded by incredible views and slowly make your way into the canyon. Once you are down in the rainforest it feels like a completely different world. The air is cool and fresh, the sound of the water running through the creeks is calming, and walking under the tall trees is simply blissful. It is one of those parts of the Blue Mountains that makes you appreciate just how special this area is.
You can take your time to enjoy the scenery. There are plenty of beautiful spots to pause, look around, and take photos. The rainforest section is my favourite part because you get to experience a mix of shade, greenery, and natural rock formations that feel untouched. However, the last 40 minutes of the track are quite tough as it is mostly uphill and can really test your fitness. It is important to be prepared for that section because it feels quite different from the rest of the walk.
If you are planning to do this for the first time, I would recommend carrying enough water and a few snacks to keep your energy up. Choose a sunny day if you can because the light makes the rainforest even more beautiful and it is nice to have clear conditions when you are walking. Take your time, enjoy the views, and do not hesitate to stop for breaks...
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