Slot Canyon Nsw
Rick Jamieson’s Canyons Near Sydney is the only printed guidebook covering the range of canyons around Sydney, with a particular focus on the sandstone slot canyons of the Blue Mountains. First published in the mid-90s, this is the fifth and final addition produced. Eventually scrambled past a large boulder only to discover the ground had given way, with a deep, dark, winding slot carved through the sandstone in front of us. There was a little bit of pfaffing about as we ensured a good pull down, then it was into the unknown. This canyon isn’t very long, but it is incredibly impressive.
Details
You know it’s a good one when it’s said to take 5 hours to walk only 3.8km. Do not under-estimate this hike. It’s seriously amazing but seriously tough. There are huge ascents and descents and once in the canyon there are no track markers. There is also a danger of flash flooding and the whole area has a rock fall danger associated with the quarry blasting above. This is usually at 3.10pm on weekdays and there are warning sirens which precede the blasting so stay aware.
Start at the William Mitchell car park. The track can be walked both clockwise and anti-clockwise. Although clockwise is recommended, the descent that way round is extremely steep so we chose to take the track anti-clockwise to save our knees. Don’t be fooled – the other descent is still very steep and you will get jelly legs by the bottom. The tracks initial descent is a reasonably defined shale trail. Once reaching the bottom of the canyon turn left and follow the creek along the bank. The bank slowly disappears and the rock hopping begins! There are absolutely no markers from this point so continue following the creek down, and soon you’ll reach some giant limestone boulders. Make your own adventure at this point – there is no right or wrong way – and a lot of trial and error trying to navigate around these boulders. Again, keep straight. It took about an hour for us to make our way through the boulders. And watch out for the giant Goannas which inhabit this area!
Once through the boulders, you reach the Gorge floor, a mix of sand and rocks which have fallen. This is the main quarry blasting area so listen out for the sirens. It is also a popular rock climbing route so be aware of any climbers above you who may dislodge rocks. The gorge continues winding up the valley and gradually gets wider. Look out for the exit, it is only marked by a tiny red square on the left hand side of the rock. If you get to the big knocked over tree trunk and mini cave you’ve gone too far.
This is where the pain starts. The next 45mins are a vertical climb, hands over feet, grabbing onto whatever you can. It was very dry when we were there and the loose dirt did not help with grip. Although the track is infrequently marked here we managed to lose the trail as it is not an obvious one. By scrambling vertically up the cliff face we managed to rejoin it nearly at the top before it meanders its way back to the car park.
Make sure you check out the nearby lookout to appreciate just how far you’ve climbed.
Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park
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Overview
Fire affected area
Some areas of this park were affected by fire in 2019/2020. You’ll notice some changes to the landscape, as well as signs of recovery. Some areas may remain closed for longer to allow habitat to recover or because we’re repairing park infrastructure. Stay safe with these after-fire tips for visitors.
Setting out from Evans lookout near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains, be met with a series of waterfalls, creeks and spectacular views along the challenging Grand Canyon track.
bring
- Check the weather before you set out as the creek can flood after heavy rain.
- Download the free NSW National Parks app to use the park's maps and information without mobile reception.
Arresting sandstone walls, ever-present waterfalls and abundant native plants line the awesome Grand Canyon track near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains. The historic loop track takes you into the heart of this World Heritage-listed landscape. It's an intimate and adventurous track which walkers have trodden since 1907.
Setting out from Evans lookout, the well-shaded track meanders through luscious native vegetation of ferns and golden wattles, and remains close to Greaves Creek, all of which combine to make this a particularly good walk for the summer months. Shorten the loop by leaving a second car at the Evans Lookout Road entrance or spend the day and stop for lunch at the nearby picnic area before returning to the lookout.
Although there are loads of semi-ledges which make up this challenging walk, you don’t need specialist hiking or abseiling equipment, so comfortable walking shoes are all you’ll need to get out there and explore. Still feeling energetic? Try the nearby Cliff Top walking track.
Take a virtual tour of Grand Canyon track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info
Tours and events at this location
International student tour: Grand Canyon
Experience this magnificent rainforest environment in Blue Mountains National Park. Descend into a special slot canyon, past creeks and waterfalls, and learn about local wildlife along the way.
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The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.
Slot Canyon Nevada
Google Street View Trekker
Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.
General enquiries
- National Parks Contact Centre
- 7am to 7pm daily
- 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
Operated by
- Blue Mountains Heritage Centre and Blackheath office
- 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 270 Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath NSW 2785
Park info
- in the Blackheath area of Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Blackheath area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.