NSW is packed with a diverse variety of stellar walks, from coastal trails and rainforest hikes to some seriously challenging treks that push you to your limits. If you’re looking for a hike that has it all, the Grand Canyon Track in the Blue Mountains should be at the top of your list. Recently, it was crowned the best spring and summer hike in all of NSW by the experts at AllTrails, and it’s easy to see why. With cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear creeks, towering sandstone cliffs, ancient canyons, and lush rainforest views, it’s hard to believe only 90 minutes lie between Sydney and this wild, almost Jurassic Park-like landscape. Every season brings its own enchantment, but spring and summer are particularly wonderful if you’re looking to explore this famous trail. Here’s your ultimate guide to the Grand Canyon Track.
Grand Canyon Track, Blue Mountains
Winding through an ever-changing landscape of towering cliffs, dense forests, and hidden nooks that feel worlds away from the city, this 6km loop trail delivers surprisingly big rewards in a short 6km distance. As you traverse the path, you’ll pass vibrant moss-covered rocks, catch glimpses of distant valleys and mountains, stumble upon a hidden waterfall or two, and hear the constant murmur of flowing creeks nearby.
Start your hike at Evans Lookout, surrounded by incredible scenery, which is just a preview of the natural beauty ahead. From here, you’ll follow a series of well-kept steps that lead into the Grand Canyon loop. As you wind along Greaves Creek, you’ll find crystal clear rock pools and small swimming holes, ideal for a refreshing dip if you’re visiting on a hot day. The deeper you go, the further you get enveloped in the lush greenery and beauty of the canyon.
Highlights of the Grand Canyon Track
Among the many stunning natural wonders along the trail are canyons carved over millions of years. Thick ferns and moss and occasional mist blanket the landscape, making this one of the most atmospheric hikes close to Sydney. Many casual and seasoned hikers have traversed this century-old path since its opening in 1907.
A little-known secret of the Grand Canyon Track is how it comes alive at night with glow worms. Once dusk settles, look behind the waterfalls and rock chambers, and you might just catch them. Also worth keeping an eye out for is the rich variety of native wildlife that calls this trail home. You might spot lizards basking in the sun, freshwater crayfish, or eastern water dragons lounging by the rocks. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Lyrebird, or hear the distinct call of the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo as you make your way through the rainforest trail. Find more information about the Grand Canyon Track and plan your warm-weather getaway here.
Key features:
Where: Blue Mountains National Park
Distance: 6km loop
Total time: 2.5 hours to 4 hours
Difficulty level: Moderately challenging route
Skill level: Grade 3 or intermediate/ some bushwalking experience recommended
Parking: Available at the Grand Canyon carpark and in Blackheath
How to get there
To get to the Grand Canyon Track, head to Blackheath in the Blue Mountains, about a 1.5-hour drive from Sydney. If you’re taking public transport, you can catch a train from Central Station to Blackheath, which takes around two hours. It’s a relatively easy route to find, but be sure to follow the trail signs as you go. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.