The Blue Mountains have much to offer in terms of natural beauty and they keep getting better. Glow-in-the-dark waterfalls, the world’s steepest railway and dreamy hidden swimming spots are just the tip of the iceberg. The World Heritage region is also home to over 900 slot canyons — the largest known area of slot canyons in Australia. These are carved over millions of years by water relentlessly running through sandstone. It should be noted that you can explore and actually go into only a few of these canyons. While each canyon is unique, most are deep, dark and so narrow that one can barely get through.
Blue Mountains Canyons
Sydneysiders eager to experience canyoning can find plenty of adventure out in the Blue Mountains. These canyons go through rainforests, swirling walls, waterfalls and stunning views. But it’s important to remember that these canyons can also be dangerous places. It is advised never to enter one without proper equipment or an experienced canyoning guide. Some places that come highly recommended based on reviews are High and Wild who are experts in abseiling and canyoning and the Blue Mountains Adventure Company who also specialise in bushwalking, canyoning and walking adventures.
Canyoning in the Blue Mountains
The canyons you can visit include Wollangambe Canyon and Rocky Creek Canyon, a spectacular canyon in the South Wolgan area, and often considered one of the easiest and most scenic in the Blue Mountains.
The short but stunning River Caves Canyon, located north of Newnes plateau and south of the Wollemi National Park is well worth the long drive out of Sydney. If you don’t want to get your feet too wet, the Dry Canyon, as the name suggests, presents one of the easier canyon walks in the Blue Mountains and a great first canyon to discover for beginners since it does not require swimming or abseiling. Another beginner friendly canyon is Sheep Dip which doesn’t require any abseiling or technical experience either.
Finally, perhaps the most popular one to visit is the Grand Canyon Walk set amongst waterfalls, creeks and stunning views. The 6.3km loop takes you into the heart of the Blue Mountains and has delighted bushwalkers for over a century. It’s one of the more challenging tracks to cover so go prepared. Find more info about it here.
Keen to get exploring? Read more about the fascinating canyons of the Blue Mountains here.