While the golden-hued autumn foliage in the charming town of Blackheath will soon draw the weekend crowds, those looking for a quieter, more immersive side of the Blue Mountains should head just outside the village to experience a trail that feels far wilder than its short distance suggests. The storied Grand Canyon Track takes hikers deep into a cool, fern-filled gorge that feels entirely untouched by time. The path winds past gushing creeks and weathered rock walls, offering Jurassic-style views of waterfalls tumbling over sandstone ledges.
This atmospheric walk is at its best in the crisp autumn air, minus the summer humidity, creating an almost cinematic landscape just a stone’s throw from Sydney. It is no surprise, then, that the trail is frequently dubbed the most scenic hike in NSW. With the historic loop currently at its seasonal best, here is everything you need to know before visiting.
The Grand Canyon Track In Blackheath
The short but mighty trail begins at Evans Lookout, where the wide-open views across the Grose Valley provide a stark contrast to the enclosed world hikers have been entering since 1907. The track then drops steadily via a series of stone steps carved into the mountainside within minutes transforming the landscape into a cooler, shaded environment enveloped by ancient fern trees and dense pockets of greenery. The trail follows the banks of Greaves Creek, past a number of small waterfalls, moss-covered rocks and serene rock pools. Packed with an incredible amount of scenery and year-round appeal, it’s easy to see why the route has earned its reputation as one of the most rewarding short hikes in the state.
The canyon’s cool, damp conditions also support a surprising amount of wildlife. Walkers might spot eastern water dragons or crayfish in the shallow pools, or hear the distinctive call of the yellow-tailed black cockatoo overhead. The dense canopy is also a hotspot for lyrebirds. After dark, there’s even more to discover, with small colonies of glow worms found behind the falls and clinging to rock walls in the darker sections.
Key features
Where: Blue Mountains National Park (Blackheath area)
Distance: 6km loop walk
Time: Around 3–4 hours depending on pace and stops
Difficulty: Moderately challenging (Grade 3) with long stair sections and uneven terrain
Start point: Evans Lookout or the Grand Canyon carpark near Blackheath
What to bring: Sturdy shoes, water and basic hiking essentials
Seasonal notes: Best visited in autumn, when cooler weather keeps the canyon lush and comfortable for hiking
Read more about the Grand Canyon Track on NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
How to get there
The Grand Canyon Track is located in the Blackheath area of Blue Mountains National Park, around 1.5 hours’ drive from Sydney. The easiest access point is via Evans Lookout Road, where you’ll find parking at either Evans Lookout or the nearby Grand Canyon carpark. If travelling by public transport, catch a train from Central Station to Blackheath, which takes roughly two hours. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.