UBMBC | Past Activities

Activities from Earlier Programs

Sat - 31-Aug-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Winburndale Nature Reserve
Another venture to Winburndale this time around McCanns Gully on the western side of the reserve. Winburndale Nature Reserve is a very large reserve that has interesting conglomerate out crops, valleys and lovely streams
Map: Meadow Flat
Mon - 26-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Flying Fox access, base of Leura Falls
On Monday 12 August we walked the area to base of Leura Falls but missed the illusive access back to the top of the cliff line. We will now call that walk a recee, as we know now where to turn off and hopefully ascend.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 25-Aug-2024 5 H - Creek: Mill Creek Cancelled
A walk down Mill Creek and scramble up onto Haystack Neck, for lunch and views. Off track, scrambling, exposure, wet feet in places & a tape will be used on some of the steep sections. For experienced and fit walkers only, with a rockclimbing/mountaineering style helmet & grippy protective footwear.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 24-Aug-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Lion's Head Track
Approx. 7km pleasant walk along the edge of the Tablelands escarpment and back. There will be great views of the Kedumba Valley, which will be even better if it's a misty day!
Map: Jamison
Mon - 19-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Check out and photograph cliff collapse Newnes Plateau
Drive to and park at the barrier eastern end of Waratah Ridge Road, walk old track for 300m and turn right (south) onto Zig zag Spur and follow for about 1.6km to above Bungleboori Creek.
Map: Wollangambe
Sun - 18-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Asgard Head-Mt Victoria Cancelled
Asgard Swamp-Thor Head-Asgard-Mine-Asgard Head-Asgard Ride-Valhalla Head track-Victoria Falls Road. Great views at Thor&Asgard Heads. Bring head torch for inspection of Asgard mine. Explore a line of pagodas. Open offtrack along Asgard Ridge.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 17-Aug-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Parkes Pass Mt Piddington to Cox's Cave
Cars at Mt Piddington then to Horne Point and down under the cliff line to Parkes Pass which goes around to Fairy Bower. There is no formal path but a way under the cliffs with superb views over the valley.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 17-Aug-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Ravines and Cliffs of Long Ridge West
Private property access has been arranged. Park at GR 783 984 on Long Ridge Trail. Explore the gullies north west of spot height 538 m, then walk to GR 767 983 and descend north under the cliffs. Traverse clockwise to GR 771 979, the gully that contains Boulder Glade. Ascend the gully and walk back to the cars. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 12-Aug-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Find and explore an old access track to base of Leura Falls
Between Flying Fox and Bridal Veil View Lookout, I am led to believe existed and old access track, remains of steps and cable. Checking out the old Flying Fox Lookout sire and the new enhanced Bridal Veil View Lookout.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 11-Aug-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Kangaroo Creek Traverse
Find out for yourself why this unique area, currently under threat, must be better protected. Park the cars near Angus Place. Walk on trail to SH 1127, then off trail north east to SH 1095. Descend into Kangaroo Creek at around GR 329 060, then follow the cliff line and ledges all the way to GR 315 056. Exit to Angus Place Trail and walk back to vehicles. About 12 km. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 10-Aug-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Around Stick Canyon
From the Wollangambe Fire Trail, follow ridges North almost to Bungleboori Creek. Cross over the bottom section of Stick Canyon (a minor canyon that flows North into the Bungleboori) and up unto the next ridge East. Return South along that ridge. All off track, some rock scrambling. Experienced and fit walkers only please.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 10-Aug-2024 3 MX - Rogaine: Lockley Pylon -Dufaur Head
Lockley Track-Lockley Pylon-Dufaur Head. Yardley Cave-The Pinnacles. Sweeping views, wattle in full bloom. Interesting rock formations. Aboriginal grinding grooves up on the Pinnacles, with more great views.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 10-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: South Lawson - Terrace Falls
South Lawson to Terrace Falls via old track, visting Adam LO then down to the falls. Follow the Old Western track exploring the area before climbing up to the Pyramids & return via South Lawson w/falls & see one of the best hanging swamps before returning to the cars.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 07-Aug-2024 5 HX - Creek: Mill Creek Cancelled
A beautiful off track creek walk under rainforest canopy, then a climb up onto the ridge for lunch and views. Scrambling, exposure & wet feet in places. Experienced walkers only, with a rock climbing/mountaineering helmet and grippy protective footwear.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 05-Aug-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Upper Hat Hill Creelk
Upper Hat Hill Creek is a short, 5 km walk close to the village of Blackheath. The area contains rugged pagoda country, fern covered creeks and a large cavern. We cross the creek several times ascending the spurs on the N side then return to the creek. The climbs are quite steep, up to 90m vertical. The views are spectacular .
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 04-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Katoomba-Devils Hole Circuit
Stuarts Road-Therabulat Lookout-Nellies Glen-Bonnie Doon Falls-Six Foot Track-Devils Hole Board Head&Cahill's Lookouts. Stunning views, variety of lookouts. Some unnamed, rarely visited. Overhangs, waterfalls. Steep (scrambly in places) ascent from Megalong Valley-Devils Hole exit. ( 400 metre ascent) Suitable fit walkers.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 04-Aug-2024 5 H - Day Walk: The Flying Carpet
The Flying Carpet is a horizontal projection of rock from the Carne Creek cliffs. it is accessed from the Glow Worm Tunnel Road which has recently been graded. The walk is about 7 km and involves excellent views of Carne Creek. Members must be confident with cliff top walking and exposed ledges. We his the Koan cave (named by Yuri after his grandson). The climb on to the carpet is optional. A rope will be used for members who need it. This walk is suitable for experienced bushwalkers. No booking will be accepted before 29 July, 2024
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 03-Aug-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Battleship Tops, Harris Hill Kings Tableland Cancelled
(Previously scheduled for 29 June, moved to 3 August.) Exploration of Battleship Tops and Harris Hill on Kings Tableland. Should be great views. Short walk for a short day
Map: Jamison
Mon - 29-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Horse Track and Ripple Falls, Blackheath
From Evans Lookout, walk down the revamped Horse Track to Govetts Creek up stream to Greaves Creek to find Ripple Falls and return.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 29-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Old Bells Line of Road & Tomah Cliffs
Walk a section of the original bells line of road below the Mount Tomah cutting, then explore above and below a nearby cliff line with great views towards Mt Irvine & Mt Banks.Part off track & part exploratory to the leader. Scrub, possible scrambling & mild exposure. approx 3.5km.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 27-Jul-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Beecroft (Clerestory) Pagodas
Another exploration of the "fingers' of this incredible pagoda complex Useful to have a 4WD to save walking up the hill!
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 27-Jul-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Holly Lodge (Bell) - Watertrough Hill - Flagstaff Hill - Holly Lodge (easy day walk)
Holly Lodge Bell to water trough, visiting via old Bells road Water Trough Hill & an old quarry site for the construction of the original road. Then walk to Flagstaff Hill & caves, return to Holly Lodge.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 24-Jul-2024 5 HX - Creek: Mill Creek Deferred
A beautiful creek walk under rain forest canopy, with some rock scrambling and shallow wades. The water is very cold now, so it is important to wear neoprene socks to keep your feet warm. If there is time, we'll climb up to the ridge for lunch & views. It is steep, slippery and loose in places, pushing through thick scrub with some exposure. Experienced walkers only, with a rock climbing/mountaineering helmet and grippy protective footwear. Off track and part exploratory to the leader.
Map: Mt Wilson
Tue - 23-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Station Rock and Gaping Gill
Experience the interesting diversity of flora & geological features in the carmarthen area. From lush basalt rainforest to large gumtrees and small gums on the dry sandstone ridge on this challenging walk that involves pushing through some thick scrub & scrambling in steep terrain with some exposure. From station rock we descend to explore the rainforest gully Gaping Gill. An early start from the bells line of rd & possibly a long day that is part off track and part exploratory to the leader. Fit walkers please.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 22-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Gospers Creek-Part 3
Park one car at GR 848 969 and another one at GR 868 976 on Mountain Lagoon Trail. From the first car, descend into Gospers Creek and explore it as far as time and interest will take us. Exit near the second car and drive back. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 22-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Little Zig Zag, (Kanimbla Pass) Mount Victoria
An old established track the Little Zig Zag, (Kanimbla Pass) at Mount Victoria. I have walked down this track as far as Bushrangers Cave, but never walked further. We will decide on the day whether to walk a side track and back up slightly different way, or to return same way. Constructed in 1875-1876. It was mentioned by surveyor John Deering on 20 July 1876, in a letter to Surveyor General that Kanimbla Pass was being constructed by the Roads Department at a cost of £200 and being 46 chains in length, (925m).
Map: Hartley
Sun - 21-Jul-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Redledge to Rockpile pass Cancelled
From the Narrow Neck gate, walk along the fire trail for approx 2km. Head west down a track to Corral creek. Cross over the creek and follow Red Ledge around to Rock Pile pass. Climb up the pass, (tape to assist) around the gully and east up the hill toward Narrow Neck road. Then back to the cars. A shorter day, but with great views, Some exposure and a 4mtre climb involving tape usage at rockpile pass.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 21-Jul-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Wheeny Gap and Lagoon Creek walk
This can be a challenging walk and requires a 4wd to get to the trail head. Although the walk distance is quite short, only about 5 kilometers, the descent and ascent is the challenge. Starting on a 4wd fire trail, we walk to the trail head, then we go steeply down through a rocky and bushy track, it can have a lot of leaf litter as well. It is steep and slippery. Near the bottom the bush turns into a rainforest then we walk along the dry creek bed to a huge sandstone cliff wall, and not far beyond here are the Lagoon Creek Falls. Depending on time we will venture down further to Wheeny Gap Falls. Afterwards if interested, we can continue onto the Bilpin brewery for a sip of local cider and wood fired pizzas.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 20-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Blackmans Crown
Lots of great views and interesting rock formations at the top
Map: Capertee
Wed - 17-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Gullies South of Bowen Hill
Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail and walk 0.5 km on the trail till GR 694 968. Descend into a gully to the east and explore it all the way down to Blacksmiths Creek. Return via a tributary of the same gully to the north. Exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Tue - 16-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Station Rock Deferred
Experience the interesting diversity of flora & geological features in the carmarthen area. From lush basalt rainforest to large gumtrees and small gums on the dry somewhat exposed sandstone ridge on this challenging walk that involves pushing through some thick scrub & scrambling in steep terrain with some exposure. If there is time we may descend from station rock to explore the lower levels of the banks wall sandstone layer and approaching the burra-moko head sandstone layer. An early start from the bells line of rd & possibly a long day that is part off track and part exploratory to the leader. Fit walkers please.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 15-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Old little used tracks northern part of Wentworth Falls.
Very old chiselled stone steps and pathways, small cliff lines, fire trails and adventure.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 14-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Narrowneck Castle Head Circuit
Locked gate Narrowneck-Castle Head Circuit. Various Lookouts, including Cahill's-Boars Head and Devils Hole Lookouts. Nice winter walk with great views overlooking Mt Solitary-Cedar creek, Jamison, Megalong Valleys. Short section open offtrack.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 13-Jul-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Mount Solitary - Kedumba Valley
From the locked gate on Kings Tableland take the track down to the River and half way up Mt Solitary then cross to track down to the Kedumba Crossing. Explore the valley and walk back up the road to the locked gate. Great valley views
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 08-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Terrace Falls Loop, Hazelbrook
Starting at the end of Terrace Falls Road, walk to Victor and Terrace Falls, old side track to Picnic Point. Bedford Pool and many historical points between, continue loop track back to cars.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 07-Jul-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Gospers Creek-Part 2
Park one car at GR 852 972 and another one at GR 829 965 on Mountain Lagoon Trail. From the first car, descend into Gospers Creek and explore it as far as time and interest will take us. Exit near the second car and drive back. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 06-Jul-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Blackheath to Govetts Leap LO via Popes Glen, return
Memorial Park Blackheath to Govetts Leap LO via Popes Glen walk & Pulpit Rock track, checking out old tracks & waterfall on the way. Returning via old track to Popes Glen walk to Park. A good walk for new members.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-Jul-2024 4 MH - Pack Walk: Kanangra to 100man Cave
This is a classic, mild walk for Kanangra. We will walk from the car park to Cloudmaker, down to Ti-Willa plateau and appropriately navigate to the Cave nearby. This is a very popular walk because the walk in/out is spectacular, the distance not long (~12km?), generally undulating and the cave is sooooo cozy and weatherproof. Most likely, because it is winter, we will be the only group there. The fire is a welcome addition to yarns and chit-chat on a cold winter night. NOTE: it is winter. Kanangra can be very cold. Much colder than UBMountains. You will need warm clothes. If in doubt what clothes to take, contact me. You will also need some scrub gloves/clothes. The last time I went there was in 2022 and the usually great trail was becoming overgrown. I expect, because Covid is over, people are walking the trail again. It takes a bit over half a day to get to the Cave. Ti-Willa may be overgrown (the trails there are not so popular) and you may need protection from the occasional tight vegetation. Please register by Tuesday 2 Jul 19:00hrs. This will give me time to organise the planning and logistics Just because it is winter is not an excuse to have a heavy pack. Mine I expect to be ~11kg. With some shrewd packing yours can be light as well to enjoy the walk rather than endure the walk. Water is available nearby. Given it is a superb cave, there is no need for a tent. I will carry a large lightweight tarpaulin in case there is a problem along the way. Maximum size of the group is 5.
Map: Kanangra
Sat - 06-Jul-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Pagodas North of upper Yarramun Creek
From the end of the Wollangambe Fire Trail, follow ridges East. Explore pagodas on the North side of upper Yarramun Creek. Either return by the same route or cross the creek and follow ridges almost back to the Wollangambe River before returning to cars. All off-track. The middle third of the walk will be exploratory for the leader. Fit experienced walkers only please.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 01-Jul-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Lawson Cave Falls
The Nepean Times, 7 September 1912, p. 6 records, “The Lawson Tourist Association…conducted a party of tourists to Lawson Cave Falls. This waterfall took me a long time to track down, it is in Bullaburra. Bullaburra was not named in 1912.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 30-Jun-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Spectacular Pagodas, Cliffs and Ravines of Mount Airly South
Find out for yourself why this unique area, currently under threat, must be better protected. Park the vehicles at Airly Gap. Walk south west following the alignment of the former tramway to the transfer station site and the double track skip haulage to the high level tunnel through the south west end of Mount Airly. Climb the incredible pagoda spur to the top of the south west corner of Mount Airly, then traverse eastwards on the top/southern edge of the mountain, full of spectacular cliffs, overhangs and caves. Head north to descend into a rainforest tributary of Gap Creek. Scrambling and exposure. About 8 km.
Map: Glen Alice
Sat - 29-Jun-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Du Faur Creek ridges
This walk replaces the walk to Lagoon Creek Falls which was cancelled because of illness. The trip is therefore already full, so please don't apply to come on this walk. Starting at the Bogey Holes trail near Mount Wilson we will follow ridges on the East and West sides of Du Faur Creek.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 29-Jun-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Lagoon Creek Falls and Wheeny Gap Falls Cancelled
This can be a challenging walk and requires a 4wd to get to the trail head. Although the walk distance is quite short, only about 5 kilometers, the descent and ascent is the challenge. Starting on a 4wd fire trail, we drive to the start of the walk if conditions permit, otherwise it could result in a few kilometers walking. From the trail head we go steeply down through a rocky and bushy track, it can have a lot of leaf litter as well. It is steep and slippery. Near the bottom the bush turns into a rainforest then we walk along the dry creek bed to a huge sandstone cliff wall, and not far beyond here are the Lagoon Creek Falls. Depending on time we will venture down further to Wheeny Gap Falls. Same route back. Afterwards if interested, we can continue onto the Bilpin brewery for a sip of local cider and wood fired pizzas.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 29-Jun-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Lockleys Pylon, Yardleys cave
Classic walk with spectacular views over Grose valley. Side trip to Yardleys cave, good for overnighting.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 29-Jun-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Wandering around Lockleys BlueGum Perry and return to Pinnacles
This is one of my perennial favourite. It has it all. Great scenery. Great trail. No nonsense up/down instead of meandering zig-zags. Magnificent trees in BlueGum forest and not a pushy day. We will progress at a "mellow chit-chat" pace to Lockley, down to BlueGum. At BlueGum there is an optional extra for some participants to zip up/down Perry for extra altitude training (max 2.5hrs return) whilst the others stop for a very relaxed lunch/coffee/chatting/photos. June has short days. The trip is very feasible to complete during daylight hours however a head-torch is de-rigueur. Other equipment to ensure safety will be in the Wed evening planning email. Please email by Wed 26 Jun 19:00hrs in order to allow time to plan the logistics and email them that evening. If Sat is inclement weather it may be changed to Sun if possible. NOTE: when registering, please send the following information. This is essential to ensure the trip is within your capacity as well as facilitate S&Rescue if there is a problem/delay. NAME + phone number + emergency contact/phone number + Car/brand/model/rego +1) some trips in the last two years that indicate you have enough experience for this trip +2) suitable trips in the last three months to indicate recency and fitness. I have done it many times and always a great day trip.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 24-Jun-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Down the Wire, Paterson Hill, Cabbage Tree Creek
A chance to do an attractive walk in the Lower Blue Mountains. We meet at the entrance to the Vale of Avoca Recreation Centre at 09:00 on Monday 24th June. At the traffic lights in North Richmond you head left along Grose Vale Road for 7 km then turn left along Cabbage Tree Road for a further 3 km. (Map attached). For the walk itself we head “Down the Wire”, a steep descent to the Grose River. Then we make our way upstream to the junction of Burralow Creek with the Grose River and climb up the slope to Paterson Hill. We will have an early lunch and marvel at the giant stone men before descending to the junction of Burralow Creek and Cabbage Tree Creek. From there we head back up Cabbage Tree Creek to the cars. Estimated time 4 to 5 hrs. Most of this walk is off track and there is a steep descent and ascent. As always in such situations care needs to be taken but there is no exposure or technical difficulty. I will take a tape in case.
Map: Kurrajong
Mon - 24-Jun-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Gospers Creek
Park one car at GR 810 967 and another one at GR 840 967 on Mountain Lagoon Trail. From the first car, descend into Gospers Creek and explore it as far as time and interest will take us. Come out to the second car and drive back. About 7 km. Possible scrambling and exposure. Exploratory. 5M, S223E
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 22-Jun-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Mount Banks and the Explorers Range Deferred
Meet at the lower car park for Mt Banks. Follow the fire trail around Mt Banks to Frank Hurley Head (spectacular views if not misty) and on to David's Crevasse. From here the fire trail deteriorates markedly, continue on the trail along the Explorers Range towards Zobel Gully. If time, interest, and opportunity permit there is an old mining adit in Zobel Gully to inspect. Return the way you came. From David Crevasse new to leader.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 19-Jun-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Hydro Tracks
Discover the historic network of tracks behind the Hydro Majestic dating back the late 1800s. About 12-15klms, mostly on track (some muddy/wet sections) with elevation gains of about 400m and great views of the Megalong. The day also includes a short history tour of the property, with insights into its creator, the colourful Mark Foy.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 17-Jun-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: The Brothers
The Brothers is a rock formation on Kings Tableland, know doubt to complement The Three Sisters. Also explore the cliff line.
Map: Jamison
Sun - 16-Jun-2024 2 EM - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes Abseiling Skills Development
Fun with Ropes is a skills development program for members who have qualified for the UBMBC abseiling program. The venue is Mt York near Mt Victoria. The emphasis will be on self rescue and prussiking. These are important skills that all canyoners should practise. Canyon leaders will be present to supervise prussiking.
Map: Hartley
Sat - 15-Jun-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Mount Solitary - Kenimbla Valley
From the locked gate on Kings Tableland take the track down to the River and half way up Mt Solitary then cross to track down to the Kedumba Crossing. Explore the valley and walk back up the road to the locked gate. Great valley views
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 13-Jun-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Navigation with Map and Compass Deferred
This is a practice day for members who are experienced in navigating with map and compass. Nicole Bordes has created an excellent area for navigation training on Kings Tableland at Wentworth Falls. Members will practice their navigation skills by locating grid references on a map then finding markers in the bush. You will need a compass. Maps will be supplied. The day has a late start and an early finish and is dependent upon fine weather. No bookings until Monday 10 June, please.
Map: Jamison
Mon - 10-Jun-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: West of Bowen Hill
Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail. Head north on an old fire trail till GR 684 986. Continue north west and descend into a gully till GR 681 989. Traverse west, then south under the cliffs until GR 684 976. Exit back to the old trail and walk to the cars. Mostly exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 09-Jun-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Dunns Leap Mt Victoria
Over 100 years ago a boy fell 60m from the cliffs at Mt Victoria. Miraculously he survived! This walk visits the site of the "leap". The walk is mainly on track, although some of the tracks are in creek beds. There is a ladder and some exposed ledges to be negotiated. We also visit Fairy Bower, Cox's Cave and Ferris Cave. We will draw on the research of Brian Fox and Keith Painter to learn about Dunn's Leap.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 08-Jun-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Victoria, fairy dell and caves
Walking the tracks around Mt Piddington overlooking Kanimbla Valley, encompassing Horne Point, various caves and Fairy Dell. All on track but involves some steep slippery steps.
Map: Mt Wilson
Tue - 04-Jun-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Flat Rock Creek
Park at the locked gate on Wheeny Gap North Trail. Walk on trail to GR 772 930, then continue east off track on a spur. Descend into Flat Rock Creek at around GR 781 931. Walk counterclockwise under cliffs all the way to Flat Rock Creek South Falls. Climb above the falls and exit back to the vehicles. Mainly exploratory. About 12 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 03-Jun-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Base of Mount York
This walk had to be postponed from 20 May. From top of Mount York, walk down a slot to the base of the cliff line and circumnavigate the nose, continue till intersect with old Coxs Road and return to top.
Map: Hartley
Sat - 01-Jun-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Dumbano ridges circuit
We will park on one of the side-branches of the Wollangambe Fire Trail and follow ridges ENE nearly as far as Cesspit Canyon. Then, after crossing Dumbano Creek, we will follow ridges NW and then SW, crossing back over Dumbano Creek East of the Dumbano Tunnels. All off-track. Some rock scrambling. Sections of this walk will be exploratory for the leader. Fit, experienced walkers only please.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 01-Jun-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Springwood Loop via Magdala and Sassafras Gullies. Cancelled - Weather
Starting from Fairy Dell at Springwood, we walk on tracks via Magdala Gully, Batman Track, Burns Rd, Martins Lookout, Victory Track along Glenbrook Creek and Sassafras Gully before exiting via the Wiggins Track. Here there will be the option of street walking back to the start or continuing via the Yondell Track to Magdala Gully and walking back to the start via the gully. Should be plenty of fungi still and the walk is about 13.8km and 6-7hrs. Public Transport friendly and would like to start walking at 08:30
Map: Springwood
Mon - 27-May-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Sharks Head Cave - Lost World LO - St Helena Spur
Martins LO – Glenbrook Creek - ascent/clamber/climbing Sharks Head Cave - Lost World LO - St Helena Spur – Bull Ant Track – Pippas Pass
Map: Springwood
Sat - 25-May-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: West of Bowen Hill
Only a couple of spots left. Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail, GR 689 967. Head north on an old fire trail till GR 688 992. Walk south west under cliffs till GR 682 988. Climb on the ridge, retrace to GR 685 985, the descend into a gully to the north, north east. Explore under cliffs till GR 690 989, then climb on the ridge and return to cars. Exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 25-May-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Winburndale Nature Reserve
A trip back to Winburndale which has good vistas and interesting rock formations. We will re-acquaint ourselves with Winburndale Brook and surrounding ridges. Winburndale is about an hours drive from Mount Victoria towards Bathurst.
Map: Meadow Flat
Mon - 20-May-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Exploring the cliff line at the base of Mount York
Last Mondays walk we found a pass from the top cliff line to the base. We will descend and explore the base of the cliff line around the end of Mount York and ascend the old original Coxs Road.
Map: Hartley
Mon - 20-May-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Falls
Check out Victoria Falls and Silver Cascades after the recent rain
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 19-May-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Poseidon Arena: Poseidon and Hades Ridges
Find out why this spectacular area must be better protected for future generations. Park at GR 284 190 on Moffitt Trail. Walk south and explore Poseidon Ridge and its remarkable rock formations. Descend from the end of the ridge and climb Lower Hades, the southern end of Hades Ridge; then ascend Hades Ridge and follow it northwards, enjoying its pagodas and rock sculptures. At around GR 289 192, walk down to Moffitt Trail and back to cars. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6k.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 18-May-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Deans Creek Falls
Deans Creek Falls are situated near the Galah Mt road on the Newnes Plateau. The walk is 6 km off track and features pagodas, ledges and overhangs. The falls are in a highly dissected area with huge cliffs. I expect the regrowth to be thick and slow going. Bookings open on Monday 13 May. No bookngs before then, please.
Map: Rock Hill
Fri - 17-May-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Glow Worm Tunnel - Wolgan View / The Dry Canyon
Subject to NPWS finishing work and opening area. (Alternative walk Deep Pass & Natural Bridge) Explore the recently revamped Glow Worm Tunnel walk, return via Tunnel Creek (Approx 3.1km) & visit Wolgan View / The Dry Canyon walk through dry canyon with great views over the Wolgan Valley(Approx 3km)
Map: Lithgow
Thu - 16-May-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Wirralie Ridge
I’ve only recently discovered this area and it has become one of my happy places! There are expansive upland swamps fringed by woodlands of spreading Scribbly Gums, babbling brooks, waterfalls and evidence of aboriginal occupation.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 13-May-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Exploring around Mount York
Checking out view points on the western side of Mount York, and at least one old off track lookout, now called Stirrup Lookout.
Map: Hartley
Mon - 13-May-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Flat Rock creek
Park on Wheeny Gap North Trail at GR 769 931. Descend north under cliffs and follow them generally eastwards for as long as interest and time allow. Exit back on the trail and walk back to the vehicles. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 11-May-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Miners Track Mount Solitary
The Miners Track was used by miners coming off Mount Solitary to the Kedumba Valley. We park at the locked gate . Cross the Kedumba River and up to the Solitary Coll, which is very steep. Go along Mount Solitary and find the way down to the Kedumba River via the route of the Miners Track and then up the fire trail back to the cars. 600 metres ascent /descent
Map: Jamison
Fri - 10-May-2024 5 HX - Pack Walk: Yodellers Range South Adventures
Co-leader Kevin Songberg. One two-day overnight walk and one one-day walk from a base camp exploring the southern part of the Yodellers Range. The plan for each walk is to be advised, and our progress will depend on the terrain and availability of water. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km every day.
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 06-May-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Hanging Rock and above Crayfish Creek, Blackheath
Third exploration of Crayfish Creek, Blackheath. This walk will start at the end of Ridgewell Road to Hanging Rock and explore the area back from the cliff line.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 04-May-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Watertrough Hill to upper Du Faur Creek (changed from "Little Crater Ridge")
This walk was previously advertised as "Little Crater Ridge", but has been changed because of park closures. The ridges and creeks in this area north of the Bells Line of Road are a great place to explore. Come and see for yourself! Off track but not overly scrubby.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 29-Apr-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Second explorative of Crayfish Creek, Blackheath.
This walk will start where we finished last Monday from Burramoko Hill to Crayfish Creek, working our way upstream.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 29-Apr-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Skylight Cave and More
Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail, GR 689 967. Head north on an old fire trail, then continue on the ridge till GR 682 987. Descend northwards under the cliffs and traverse north east till GR 690 993. Turn south and scramble to Skylight Cave and then two more caves above. From here, traverse north east and investigate a few cliff lines along the way. Climb out on the main ridge and walk back to cars. Mainly exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Wed - 24-Apr-2024 4 MH - Pack Walk: Splendour Rock - Anzac Day Service
Pack Walk - Wednesday 24th April to Thursday 25th April. The walk will start at Carlons Farm, in the Megalong Valley and out to Splendour Rock and return.14 klm walking each day. It will be a 5.30 am rise on Anzac Day for dawn service at 6.00 am. This site is the bushwalkers memorial site where a plaque was placed in 1948 and the services commenced from that date. The walk is along recent tree-fall damaged tracks, all the way with a couple of steep climbs. Water is not available at the campsite and needs to be carried about 2 klm. Tent and cooking equipment required.
Map: Jenolan
Mon - 22-Apr-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore Crayfish Creek near Burramoko Head, Blackheath.
We will be looking for something specific in our exploration, to be revealed at the start of the walk.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 20-Apr-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: MugiiMurum-ban SCA The Towers
The Towers are a group of pagodas, waiting to be explored, off the way to the volcanic plug. A long walk in about 6 kilometres past the old Airlie Village ruins and return. For those that haven't been to Airlie a look into the past.
Map: Glen Alice
Fri - 19-Apr-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Asgard Swamp, Victoria Falls Road, Mt Victoria - visit Asgard Historic Mine & Kiln, Asgard Head
Visit Asgard Historic Mine & Kiln, Asgard Head, Thor Head Approx 10km. Historic Sites and high points overlooking the Upper Grose Valley. - Great Views.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 17-Apr-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Nature Connection Walk - Fungi in the forest
Nature connection walks are short walks of grade 3 maximum, which are conducted at quieter slow pace to allow time for photography or other place sharing. We stop for an hour or so for morning tea to have our own nature connection activity - whatever that is. I usually bring along reference material (birds, maps, history etc. of the area) for interest also. My activity is nature journaling so I will sit and paint/ write for the hour. This walk will either be at Mermaids Cave Reserve or Centennial Glen Reserve near Blackheath depending on which has the best fungi options. In either case the walk may involve ascents/descents of less than 100m on tracks and be less than 8km and be a half day only. Walk is cancelled in bad weather. I will confirm the location one week before based on weather forecast and my fungi reccy.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 15-Apr-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Neates Glen, Blackheath and old tracks
11 March we walked to Walls Cave, and I was going to do 2nd part, but we found so many interesting old tracks we ran out of time. So, this Monday the old tracks off Neates Glen, there are a few to explore.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 14-Apr-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Wentworth Falls-Waterfall Circuit
Wentworth Falls Station-Darwins Walk-Lincolns Rock-The Wentworth Falls- Under cliff Track-Empress Falls-Nature- Wentworth Falls. Beautiful waterfalls, stunning views, variety of tracks, including recently reopened Charles Darwin's walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 13-Apr-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Bungleboori ridges
Park at the Waratah Ridge car park. Explore the spectacular ridges to the south and southeast. All off-track, some rock scrambling.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 12-Apr-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: T3 to Tootie Cascades
Park on T3 Trail at GR 812 013 and proceed west for a few hundred metres to GR 811 012. Descend into the gully to the north and walk all the way to Tootie Cascades. Swimming opportunities. From here, return via the gully rising towards the south east towards T3 Track. Re-connect with the vehicles. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 08-Apr-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Three Brothers, Kedumba Walls Cancelled - Weather
Along the cliff line on Kedumba Walls are orphan rock pinnacles. Known as, Three Brothers as early as 1909. Time to investigate them.
Map: Jamison
Sun - 07-Apr-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Pagoda Heaven and South East Genowlan Mountain
This unique area, part of the Gardens of Stone region, has an active coal mine underneath it. Find out why it must be better protected for future generations. Park vehicles on top of the escarpment above Airly Mountain and follow the Genowlan Mountain Trail as far as GR 266 330. Climb north north east to the tops, then explore Pagoda Heaven, a highly dissected, pagoda-studded area to the east and south. Descend underneath the cliff line in a southwesterly direction to GR 266 327. From here, climb a narrow south trending ridge. Continue to the top of the escarpment and follow it south west all the way to Genowlan Trig. Take the fire trail from there to reconnect with the vehicles. About 10 km. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Glen Alice
Sun - 07-Apr-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Wentworth Falls-Waterfall Circuit Deferred
POSTPONED TO 14 APRIL DUE TO BAD WEATHER AND TRACK CLOSURES. Wentworth Falls Station-Darwins Walk-Lincolns Rock-The Wentworth Falls- Under cliff Track-Empress Falls-Nature- Wentworth Falls. Beautiful waterfalls, stunning views, variety of tracks, including recently reopened Charles Darwin's walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-Apr-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Harmil Ledge and Dumphy's Pass Cancelled
Harmil Ledge and Dunphy's Pass The walk is on Narrow Neck at Katoomba. It is graded 4 and is suitable for less experienced walkers who like a challenge. Harmil Ledge is newer pass of Narrow Neck, discovered by George Harley and Geoffrey Milton in the 1950s. (See M Keats and B Fox, The Passes of Narrow Neck). This walk links Harmil Ledge to Dunphys Pass (1926). We begin at the locked gate on Narrow Neck and follow the access road to the Fire Tower. (6 km) The road is undulating and offers great views of the Megalong and Jamison Valleys. Just past the fire tower we descend to Harmil Ledge. After signing the visitors' book, we follow Harmil Ledge for 900m. The ledge is quite wide and there are excellent views across the Wild Dogs Mountains all the way to Kanangra Walls. The descent of Glenraphael Head is achieved through a cleft on the sheltered side. A rope will be set for those who need it. Once below the cliff line we follow a well worn track under the cliff line to the climb to Dunphys Pass. We pick up the ledge leading to the exit, a steep climb through the cliffs to Glenraphael Swamp. A track crosses the swamp and brings us to the road that takes us to the Fire Tower then the locked gate. Reference: The Passes of Narrow Neck, Michael Keats and Brian Fox, 1st Ed, ISBN 978064648112-8 (pbk)
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-Apr-2024 2 EM - Day Walk: Popes Glen and braeside
Meet at the duck pond. After viewing the upgraded toilets and duck pond walk down popes Glen to govetts leap then down to the braeside and up the braeside track - half day walk. Bring morning tea
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 06-Apr-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Spurs of Upper Hat Hill Creek Cancelled - Weather
Hat Hill Creek is only two km from the village of Blackheath. The walk begins in bush above Hat Hill creek and follows a rough track down to the creek. We encounter some spectacular pagoda country and climb onto several spurs above the creek. The walking is steep and off track so there will be plenty of opportunities to rest and take photos. Highlights of the walk include lovey creek sections, a magnificent hanging swamp and a great overhang cave. The exit involves an easy climb through the cliffs where fixed ropes are in place. There are some creek crossings so wet feet are possible. The total distance is around 6 Km.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 03-Apr-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Dicksonia Ravine
We visit 4 spectacular gorges, including Dicksonia Ravine, on this walk. We take the Deep Pass road, which has been upgraded to 2wd standard, east of the Glowworm Tunnel road, in Wollemi NP. The descent into Dicksonia Ravine is a bit steep. There are almost no well defined tracks, but the terrain is not difficult.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 31-Mar-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Nellie's Glen-Devils Hole Circuit
Katoomba-Therabulat Lookout-Nellies Glen-Bonnie Doon Falls-Devils Lookout-Cahill's Lookout Katoomba visit 5 lookouts with stunning views. Rainforest, waterfalls. Explore Overhangs, ledges, waterfall below Devils Hole. Some easy offtrack, scrambling.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 30-Mar-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Kamarah Ridge, Junguburra Ledges and Wilkinson Hill
Kamarah Ridge, Jungaburra Ledges, Wilkinson Hill. The walk starts on the Bells Line of Road about 1.5 km east of Bell It heads down Kamarah Ridge and cuts south towards Jungaburra Brook. We join a climbers’ ledge half-way down the cliff line, follow this on the northern side of Jungaburra Brook, then cross over the brook and continue along the southern side of the brook. We climb up onto the western end of Wilkinson Hill and may visit some great viewpoints – Kestrel Lookout, Corkscrew Rock. We then head north and follow the ridge back to Bells Line of Road. Half of the walk is off track through open bush. Limited exposure. Map: Mt Wilson
Map: Wollangambe
Tue - 26-Mar-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Valley of the Dinosaurs
The Valley of the Dinosaurs is a spectacular gorge in Mugii Murum Ban SCA, near Capertee. We will view the gorge from above, then descend into it via an easy slot, and pass through it to the entrance. Then visit the Ultimate Slot, nearby. If the gate on the 4WD trail is open, we will drive to the top in my 4WD (in 2 trips if no other 4WD is available). Otherwise theres a 1.8 km each way walk from the bottom. The walk is partially off-track with a MH grade. There are no difficult parts.
Map: Glen Alice
Sun - 24-Mar-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Leura-Copland Pass-Circuit
Leura station-Leura Cascades-Lindeman Pass- Copeland Pass-Sublime Point-Cliff Track-Leura. Waterfalls, rainforest, great views. Historic rough track along Lindeman Pass then steep ascent via Copeland Pass to Sublime Point. Some scrambling- exposure. Fit agile, adventurous, experienced bushwalkers
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 23-Mar-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Tributary of Bungleboorie Creek
Walk along ridge with great pagoda views then drop down to walk and wade along lovely creek. Great way to finish off the summer season.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 22-Mar-2024 4 MHX - Pack Walk: Mount Coricudgy
This is a research trip for a new book about the Australian Army activities in the area during the 1960s. Final details will depend on the state of the road, but the plan is to drive as far as possible, hopefully to the intersection at GR 522 627, establish a camp there and take day trips to the top of the mountain. Combination of trail and off-trail walking. Exploratory. Distances unknown, likely 12-15 km every day. Likely scrambling and exposure.
Map: Not Specified
Wed - 20-Mar-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Nature Connection Walk - Pagodas, rocks and views
Nature connection walks are short walks of grade 3 maximum, which are conducted at quieter slow pace to allow time for photography or other place sharing. We stop for an hour or so for morning tea to have our own nature connection activity - whatever that is. I usually bring along reference material (birds, maps, history etc. of the area) for interest also. My activity is nature journaling so I will sit and paint/ write for the hour. This walk will either be amongst the Pagodas on the Eastern side of Hassans Walls Reserve in Lithgow (if shade or inclement weather) or at Castle Head on Narrow Neck Plateau Katoomba (if the weather is mild enough to sit in the open). In either case the walk will involve ascents of less than 100m on tracks and be less than 8km and be a half day only. Walk is cancelled in bad weather. I will confirmthe location one week before based on weather forecast
Map: Lithgow
Mon - 18-Mar-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Erskine Creek
Pisgah Rock - Lincoln Creek - Erskine Creek, downstream – Jack Evans Track
Map: Penrith
Sun - 17-Mar-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Dalpura Creek - Bells Line of Road
A wade /walk down Dalpura Creek. There are several waist deep wades through the creek. A lovely Creek with great views of the Grose at the end.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 16-Mar-2024 4 MH - Creek: Birrabang Brook
Birrabang Brook is a beautiful creek off the Bells Line of Road. We approach and exit from Dalpura Ridge. Wet feet but not much more there is a path most of the way.. Some rock scrambling. Enjoy the Creek before the cold weather sets in
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 15-Mar-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Asgard Swamp, Victoria Falls Road, Mt Victoria - visit Asgard Historic Mine & Kiln, Asgard Head, Thor Head
Asgard Swamp, Victoria Falls Road, Mt Victoria - visit Asgard Historic Mine & Kiln, Asgard Head, Thor Head Approx 10km. Historic Sites and high points overlooking the Upper Grose Valley. - Great Views.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 13-Mar-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Recce Valley of the Dinosaurs Mugii Murum-ban SCA
I haven't done this walk before, and I will be following gps traces and maps from various sources. I plan to visit Ultimate Slot and Valley of the Dinosaurs from the main (north) entrances. If we can find a non-difficult route up out of the gorge at the end, we will take it, otherwise, we will return the way we came. Then view the slot and gorge from above, via the firetrail. If the gate is open we will drive to the top of the Genowlan Trail in my 4WD, otherwise there's a 1.5 km each way walk from the bottom.
Map: Glen Alice
Mon - 11-Mar-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Old tracks Walls Cave and Neates Glen, Blackheath
Rediscover and walk some old tracks now bypassed at and near Walls Cave and Neates Glen, Blackheath.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 10-Mar-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Pisgah Rock-Erskine Creek
Monkey Ropes-Lincoln & Erskine Creeks-Dadder Cave-Blands Pool.Return via Pisgah Rock. Lunch & a swim at Blands Pool, one of the best rockpools in the Blue Mountains Walk involves scrambling- rockhopping-possible-wet feet. Great views, rock overhangs, rockpools. Carpool from Glenbrook railway station.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 09-Mar-2024 3 M - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes
Fun with Ropes is a great opportunity to extend your canyoning skills. Every canyoner should be able to prussik and self rescue. The venue is Yellow Rock Reserve at Winmalee. Skills covered could be knots, anchors, self rescue, haul systems, releasable anchors, prussiking and self rescue. Ropes will be supplied. Bring your own rope if you like. This day is for experienced canyoners and mmebers who have completed the club training course.
Map: Springwood
Fri - 08-Mar-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Ivy League Pass and Unnamed Pass To The Colo
Park at the locked gate at the start of Gospers Ridge Trail. Walk on the trail and then use Ivy League Pass to descend to the Colo River near the end of Mount Townsend spur. Make our way back to Gospers Ridge Trail via the unnamed pass pioneered by the bushwalker Geoff Goodyear. About 13 km. Scrambling and exposure. Exploratory for the leader.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 04-Mar-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Wentworth Creek
Starting at the corner of Lamartine Ave and View Road, Wentworth Falls walk out the end of the spur overlooking Wentworth Creek. (we walked there on the 11 December and turned back due to the extreme heat). Then down to Wentworth Creek (or just above it is depending on accessibility) walk up the creek until we cross part of Bruces Walk below the 66kV transmission line and back up the fire trail to Evans Street. Car shuffle needed.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 03-Mar-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Bell to Wollangambe Crater
Bell station-Perimeter trail-Centre of Universe pagoda-Wollangambe River&Crater. Good intro walking in pagoda country. Great views, camp cave, overhangs
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 02-Mar-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Blair/Athol Mine historic site, Ikara Ridge, Giraween Cave
Blair/Athol Mine historic site ,Ikara Ridge,Giraween Cave. Walk through shale mine 300metres underground, in and out. Walk Ikara ridge F/T rtn via Giraween Cave up to ridge and F/ T back to parked cars
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 26-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Lower Porters Pass
This track has virtually disappeared it starts at the base of Porters Pass down into the valley and returns at the base of Centennial Pass, Blackheath.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 25-Feb-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: The Middle Valleys
Gardens of Stone SCA/Ben Bullen State Forest west of the Great Dividing Range encapsulates, in a relatively small area, everything that is exciting and interesting about bushwalking – incredible rock sculptures, tall pagodas, narrow slot canyons, magnificent caves, verdant forests and more. This unique area is currently under serious threat from mining. Find out why this area must be protected for future generations. About 8k. All off track, some rock scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 24-Feb-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Arthurs Creek catchment
In December we did a day walk to the catchment of Arthurs Canyon, South of Bungleboori Creek. We found a very direct route to the North side of the catchment. This walk will revisit the area using the same route out and back, exploring whatever looks interesting as we go. There is likely to be some rock scrambling and some scrub. Experienced walkers only please.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 23-Feb-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Wheeny Gap Passes from the South
Park at the corner of Old Coach House Road and Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Heights. Walk north on the ridge on the fire trail to its end, then find a way down to Wheeny Gap at around GR 802 923. Visit the pool and find another way up to the east. Return to the cars. Exploratory. 13-15 km, some on trail. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 19-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Empire Pass and surprises, Lawson
John Dando will be showing us some rarely used side tracks off Empire Pass, North Lawson.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 18-Feb-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Katoomba to Leura
Katoomba station-Prince Henry Cliff Walk Sphinx-Echo Point-Giants Stairs-Dardanelles Pass-Leura Forest-Leura Cascades-Leura station
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 18-Feb-2024 3 M - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon - Mt Wilson
The canyon has up to 6 abseils, the longest 18 metres. There is one 6 metre water jump for the keen. Most abseils are fairly straight forward, but at least one has an awkward start. With a bit of flow from recent rains we can expect to get wet in the waterfalls and swims. Some of the swims are long so good floatation is required. There is a pleasant creek walk for 45mins in the middle section of the canyon. The canyon finishes at the Wollangambe River where we scramble along ledges 100m to the exit point. This canyon is suitable for beginners, but you must be able to swim and be comfortable abseiling in the waterfall.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 17-Feb-2024 5 D - Canyon: Canyoning/Mountain Bike Ride - Greenup and Midwinter Canyons
An overnight bike ride to visit a couple of more remote canyons in the Wollemi NP. I plan to camp nearby at Ganguddy (Dunns Swamp) on the Friday night beforehand. Then in the morning of Saturday 17/2 the plan is to ride bikes from a locked gate at the junction of Army Road and Coricudgy Road at the Coricudgy State Forest boundary. This bike ride is along a fire trail (part of the Bicentennial Trail) into Wollemi NP to near the start of Midwinter Canyon, about 10km. Then do Greenup and Midwinter Canyon on 17/2. Greenup Canyon, 3 short abseils, and exit up Midwinter Canyon, no abseils. Camp nearby that evening. Do a short canyon Sunday 18/2 and then ride bikes back to the gate.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 17-Feb-2024 4 MH - Creek: DuFaurs Creek
The annual wade/swim down Du Faurs Creek starting at October Creek then Du Faurs Canyon and the Creek. Exit up the hill to the car park rather than Joes. Some lengthy swims, wet suits essential.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 16-Feb-2024 5 HX - Pack Walk: Colo Gorge, Boorai Creek and Barakee Pass
A 3-day adventure. Day 1 – From Culoul Range Trail, descend to the Colo River. Establish a base camp. Day 2 – A recce day to explore a route up through the cliffs on the western side, and beyond for a future trip (around Barakee Pass). Day 3 – Walk up Boorai Creek to about GR 737 220 and then climb back to the ridge and the cars. About 20 km total. Great swimming in between walking. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Colo Heights
Fri - 16-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore Birrabang Ridge - out to Liversidge Hill Exit Via Birrabang Brook
Explore Birrabang Ridge - Head out to Liversidge Hill then back onto Birrabang Ridge to the end then pass into Birrabang Brook (Wet Feet) exit via creek back to Bells Line of Road.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 16-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: High Plains Kosciuszko National Park Trip
This long weekend is all about getting away from the pressures of life. It will be a cruisy weekend exploring Clark Gorge, Nichols Gorge and the caves, the Blue waterholes and the Coolamine Homestead. Clarke Gorge walking track, Overview: As you hike through the narrow gorge cut by Cave Creek, spectacular limestone cliffs, and cave formations on either side, you’ll never imagine that Clarke Gorge walking track could get any better. But it does, finishing at the top of Cave Creek Falls . There’s a 15 metre drop of water as well as views down Wilkinsons Gorge. Nichols Gorge walking track, Overview: You won’t be very far into this challenging seven kilometre walk – just 500 metres or so – before you’ll come across the opening of Cooleman Cave. Make sure you’ve got a torch with you so that you can explore inside. Back out in the sunshine, follow the often dry Cave Creek. Don’t move too quickly across the surface because you can find ancient fossilised shells of brachipods and sea lilies on its bed. There are some unique longer views of the limestone gorge and on to the snow grass plains surrounded by the wooded slopes of Gurrangorambla Range and Tom O’Rourkes Peak. Both walks are well marked and easy to navigate but make sure you have appropriate safety gear Coolamine Homestead ’s collection of buildings showcase different building styles from the late 1800s. Discover Snowy Mountains’ high country heritage and get a taste of what life was like in this remote environment. The walls of the main residence, Campbell House, are lined with old newspapers. Take your time to read the news stories from the early to mid 1900s. Driving down Thursday night and camping till Sunday. Blue waterholes campground provides Picnic tables, barbecue facilities, carpark, toilets No Park pass needed for High Plains area Make sure you carry your own water and firewood with you
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 16-Feb-2024 5 D - Canyon: Whirlpool Canyon
Whirlpool is a less often visited canyon on the north side of the Wollangambe. Why less visited? Perhaps the 3 descents and 3 ascents have something to do with it. It will be a 9-10 hour day, 15 km with ~700 m elevation, so an early start is needed. We will meet at Mt Wilson fire shed at 7.45 am so we can be walking by 8.00 am. After descending the Wollangambe 1 entrance track to the horseshoe bend, we take the Geronimo track up the other side, descend again to the start of Geronimo, then ascend the ridge and bush bash 1 km further west to the start. There are about 5 abseils up to 15 m, a few short narrow sections and a long swim back along the Wollangambe with a few boulder fields to negotiate. Flotation for the Wollangambe is recommended and some extra snacks. Limited to a small group of 4 to stay mobile. Must be fit enough for a long, strenuous day.
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 14-Feb-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Nature Connection Walk - Wentworth Falls loop
A walk with a slower, quieter pace to take in the surroundings and consider where we are. These walks have an hour morning tea break in which you can undertake your own nature connection activity. Mine is nature journaling, but you are welcome to explore, photograph, read, meditate, chill out, and connect in what ever way suits you. We will start at the Conservation Hut, then take the Undercliff Path to Wentworth Falls, stopping off at Den Fenella Glen along the way. Return via Weeping Rock and short cut track. Total about 7 km some stairs - all on track - and ascent/descent less than 100 m total for the day. We usually finish these walks by 1 pm. I will be staying for lunch/ coffee at the Conservation Hut picnic area after. Walks are cancelled/deferred in unfavourable weather. Bookings by email traciephone@gmail.com
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 12-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Porter's Pass, Collier's Causeway, The Grotto,Walls Ledge, Fort Rock and Gateway.
Marcia Kaye will lead this Monday walk. She will show us some of the sandstone caves mentioned in the book, Sandstone Caves of Blackheath.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 11-Feb-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Mt Hay-Venus Tor
Mt Hay carpark-Mt Hay-Venus Tor. Superb views starting at the carpark and along the ascent to Mt Hay Trig. More great views along escarpment all the way to Boorong crags-our lunch spot. Return to Mt Hay carpark via the Monolith circuit track. Short walk out along the pinnacles to inspect Aboriginal grinding grooves. Walk involves some scrambling, rough tracks.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 10-Feb-2024 4 MD - Abseiling: Horseshoe Canyon
This isn't a particularly long canyon but the last chamber with its waterfall is really attractive and impressive. Because it is fairly short this canyon is trecked less often but it is well worth a visit. Usual canyoning gear: harness, helmet, wetsuit, etc.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 09-Feb-2024 5 D - Abseiling: Claustral Canyon
Claustral canyon is a deep, dark wet canyon in the Mt Tomah area, that includes 3 - 4 abseils and a lot of scrambling. This is a long day with a 4hr walk out. Fit and experienced canyoners only considered for this trip.
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 09-Feb-2024 5 H - Pack Walk: Grose Valley 2 day overnight
Route to be determined by Track openings and will be advertised 2 weeks before. NPWS have indicated Horse Track and Junction Rock to Acacia Flat may be open early in new year. Commence Fri afternoon 09/2. Descent Vic Falls, camp Burra Kurrain Night 1, Day 2 Walk to Acacia Flat and set up camp for Night 2. Day walk Short Ridge to DuFaurs Head and return. Day 3 Exit via Pierces Pass (Hungerford Track).
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 08-Feb-2024 3 M - Canyon: Afternoon Empress
Leaving 4:30pm from Conservation Hut, Wentworth Falls. This is an after work run through Empress Canyon and then pizza at the Station Bar, Katoomba. The canyon involves jumps into water, short swims, and a 30m abseil down a slipery waterfall into a deep pool to end it off.
Map: Katoomba
Tue - 06-Feb-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Recce. Valley of the Dinosaurs Mugii Murrum-ban SCA Cancelled - Weather
I haven't done this walk before, and I will be following gps traces and maps from various sources. I plan to visit Ultimate Slot and Valley of the Dinosaurs from the main (north) (lower) entrances. If we can find a non-difficult route up out of the gorge at the end, we will take it, otherwise, we will return the way we came. Then view the slot and gorge from above, via the firetrail. If the gate is open we will drive to the top of the Genowlan Trail in my 4WD, otherwise there's a 1.5 km each way walk from the bottom.
Map: Glen Alice
Mon - 05-Feb-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Some Features of the Bungleboori
A visit to the Ali Baba cave, and an opportunity to check out some of the relics of the early water supply.
Map: Lithgow
Mon - 05-Feb-2024 5 HX - Day Walk: Wheeny Gap from the South
Park at GR 792 887 on Bells Line of Road, climb onto the ridge to the north and continue to GR 800 906, where the ridge splits. Take the left branch and find a way down via this narrow spur to Wheeny Creek at around GR 798 921. Walk to Wheeny Gap, stop for a swim. Find a way up to the east of Wheeny Gap – there are currently two options that can be investigated. Both these options lead back to the ridge, from where we will walk to the cars. Exploratory. 10-13 km, depending which option goes. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 04-Feb-2024 2 EM - Canyon: Dargans Canyon
Description Dargans is a short canyon with no abseils. It is located off Bells Line of Road at Dargan. The walk in is less than 1 Km and the side entrance avoids the scrubby creek upstream. There is some wading and some short swims. Wet suits should be worn if you feel the cold. The exit involves a climb on a tree with metal spikes embedded for hand and foot holds. After we finish Dargans Canyon we have lunch then drive a short distance for an optional walk to Dargans Arch, distance 2 Km return.
Map: Hartley
Sat - 03-Feb-2024 4 MH - Pack Walk: Ingar Campground and Murphys Glen overnight
Beginning on Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls. Fire trail walking with overnight packs, Camp night 1 Ingar Campground, Walk to Murphys Glen Day 2. Finish Woodford Station.
Map: Jamison
Sat - 03-Feb-2024 4 MH - Creek: Upper Bell Creek
Time for the annual swim/wade down Bell Creek. magnificent scenery, some longish swims and clambering over rocks. Wet suits essential
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 03-Feb-2024 4 MD - Canyon: Wollangambe Seven
The next instalment of our Wollangambe exploration. Limited numbers. Park one car at GR 652 942 near Tessellate Hill access track and another one on Danes Way, Mount Irvine. Walk/swim/boulder/scramble down the gorge to the planned exit point at GR 646 967 (new to the leader). Climb towards Tessellate Hill, visit the Tessellated Pavements and the area around it, then walk back to the vehicles. Bring helmet (mandatory) and dry bags. Wet suit strongly recommended. Lilo optional. Must be able to swim well. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 8 km.
Map: Wollangambe
Thu - 01-Feb-2024 2 EM - Canyon: Wollangambe Two
Limited numbers. Swim/float/walk/scramble down the gorge. Side forays into Serendipity and Whungee Wheengee Canyons. Must be able to swim well. Lilo/flotation device and helmet are mandatory. Bring dry bags. Wet suit recommended. About 10 km.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 29-Jan-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Natural Bridge, YAH Hut
A further walk to check out the YAH hut site. This is a revisit following the curtailment of the two previous attempts.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 28-Jan-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: East Creek Galleries
This spectacular part of the Gardens of Stone SCA must be better protected for the future generations. Park near spot height 1057 at GR 427 060. The walk will start by coming down into East Creek Galleries, then visiting a spectacular side ravine. We will move on to the West Side Falls and West Side Chamber; continue to East Creek Falls; then exit on the eastern side to visit the top of the falls. About 8k.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sun - 28-Jan-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Gorge Circuit
Glenbrook station-Glenbrook Gorge-Nepean river Portal lookout-Tunnel View lookout-Goat track-Glenbrook Creek. Beautiful rugged Gorge yet so neat to Sydney. Rockhop along Glenbrook Creek through the gorge to the Nepean River. Steep rough ascent to the Portal Lookout via old log, fixed rope, steel ladder. Then mainly open offtrack to Tunnel view lookout with great views overlooking Glenbrook Gorge. Descent to Glenrook Creek via steep rough Goat track. Suitable fit, agile experienced bushwalkers.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 27-Jan-2024 5 H - Day Walk: Tootie Creek Loop
Start from Hanlons Road North and walk down the Back Creek, all the way to Tootie Creek at GR 708 928. There are caves and waterfalls to keep us occupied. Walk upstream along Tootie Creek till Front Creek at GR 698 927. Climb through a cliff line using a slot, then follow the creek back to Hanlons Road North. There are several points of interest along the way. A short day (about 4-5 hours). Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 26-Jan-2024 5 D - Canyon: Canyoning - Crikey and Bjelke's Mind Canyons
This will be a three day trip (camping gear for two nights required) to visit several of the more remote Bungleboori Creek canyons over the Australia Day Long Weekend. The plan is to at least visit Crikey and Bjelke's Mind Canyons. The Waratah Ridge Road has now reopened so this once again provides access to a range of canyons out that way. I will be away from early to mid January, so no bookings before 20 January 2024. But if you are really keen no objection if you drop me an email beforehand, so I can gauge the level of interest in this sort of trip, (assists with planning) but I will not be taking actual bookings before 20 January 2024.
Map: Rock Hill
Thu - 25-Jan-2024 2 EM - Canyon: Hat Hill Canyon
No abseils but plenty of rock hopping and scrambling. A few short swims, so you need to be a competent swimmer. Meet at Hat Hill car park on Hat Hill Road and drive some cars to Godson Ave. Follow the track down to Hat Hill Creek. Put on wetsuits. Continue downstream to where Hat Hill Creek plunges into the Grose. Retrace upstream to the exit point. Change into dry clothes for the walk out. If we have time, we will visit the Aboriginal engravings and grinding grooves near the car park. Drive to the start of the walk to collect vehicles. Helmets are mandatory. Bring dry bags. Wetsuit or thermals depending on how you handle cold water. We will be in and out of the creek most of the day. About 8 km. Canyon Grade 2. Bushwalk Grade 5, S223E.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 24-Jan-2024 2 EM - Day Walk: Nature Connection Walk. The wonderland track and Mark’s Tomb
(Note that the route for this walk has been changed because of the weather.) Starting at Belgravia St. This is a very short walk and will be conducted at a quieter slow pace to allow time and space to take in the surroundings. We will stop at Mark’s Tomb for an hour and you can choose to explore nature in your way. Mine is nature journaling, others might choose photography, plant or bird ID, sound recording or just laying back and doze. The goal is to listen and focus on the place quietly. We will then pack up and continue to join Station St and return to cars. There are some short descents on track which require care.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 22-Jan-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Natural Bridge, YAH Hut
A walk to check out the YAH hut site. This is a revisit following the curtailment of last week's attempt.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 21-Jan-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Mt Victoria-Asgard Head
Mt Victoria-Asgard Head. 'Playground of the Vikings' Exceptional views, interesting rock formations. We also visit Valhalla and Ikara Heads, Girraween cave. Includes some offtrack, easy scrambling.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 21-Jan-2024 4 MHX - Day Walk: Wild Gorge, Dome Cave and Cosmic Cave
Find out why this spectacular area must be better protected for future generations. Park on a fire trail off Sunnyside Ridge Road and walk east to the head of a tributary of Wild Gorge. Descend it, visiting Dome Cave and Pinch Point Circle along the way. Climb Split Rock, then move south east and out towards Carne Creek. Climb out on a tributary and visit Cosmic Cave. Exit via Split Rock Point and Pass. Re-connect with the cars. About 8k. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 20-Jan-2024 5 HX - Creek: Upper Upper Wollangambe
Our annual visit to the Upper Upper Wollangambe. Wet suits essential for this wade/swim down the river. See parts of the river not accessible on foot.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 20-Jan-2024 5 D - Abseiling: Whungee Wheengee Canyon
This is one of the best canyons in the Wollangambe area, it is long and sustained with a very impressive deep straight crack leading out to the Wollangambe River. This canyon is quite challenging in terms of being a longish day out, the canyon section itself is long with half a dozen abseils, quite a few scrambles, a few duck unders and some nice dark sections as well as a number of swims, there is then almost a kilometre swim along the Wollangambe River to the exit. So, a reasonable level of fitness is required, but it is worth the effort as it is a great canyon. The usual canyoning gear is needed: harness, helmet, wetsuit etc. You also need a waterproof head touch and some buoyancy for the swim down the Wollangambe (my favourite is a partially inflated beach ball in my back pack).
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 19-Jan-2024 3 M - Day Walk: Wollangambe River Via DuFaurs Rocks
Bushwalk to the Wollangambe River Via DuFaurs Rocks 10km - Depart Mt Wilson Fire Station Explore DuFaurs Rocks and Chainman's Hat before heading off track on a good ridge, explore around Joes Canyon before joining the Wollangambe track to the Horseshoe Bend explore / swim and lunch, look up into the Wollangambe canyon upstream, before heading back to Mt Wilson on the Wollangambe walking track (steep uphill many steps). Map: Wollangambe
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 15-Jan-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: Yah Hut, Natural Bridge.
Since the road is so good to Wollemi /Gardens of Stone SCA, let's make the most of it. Yah Hut was constructed by the Catholic Bushwalking Club in 1967. We will check out the remains and see if the log book still exists.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 14-Jan-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Bell-Wollangambe Walkabout
Bell station-Perimeter Trail-Centre of Universe Pagoda-Wollangambe Crater Trail. Good introduction walking in pagoda country. Explore lines of interesting rock pagodas. Sweeping views. Some scrambling-offtrack. Walk starts and finishes at Bell station.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 13-Jan-2024 Meeting: Great North Walk Expression of Interest Meeting
1. Joint walk for Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club Inc (UBMBC) & Springwood Bushwalkers Club (SBC) 2. Co- leaders: Tracie McMahon (UBMBC) & Wendy Woolley (SBC) 3. Will be attempted in five stages of varying lengths with breaks in between to avoid peak times, allow a restock/wash and the leaders to fit their work schedules in. 4. Anticipated Dates& Stages: a. 9/3 – 13/3, (Saturday to Wednesday) Sydney to Brooklyn (65 km) b. 19/3 - 20/3, (Tuesday – Wednesday) Brooklyn to Mooney Mooney Bridge (31.9 km) c. 23/3 – 25/3 (Saturday – Monday ) Mooney Mooney to Greta Road (37.1 Km) d. 6/4 -10/4, (Saturday to Wednesday) Greta Rd to Watagans HQ (Watagans Section) ( 72.5) km e. 20 - 23/4 (Saturday to Tuesday) Watagans HQ to Queens Wharf Newcastle (52.9) km – Stay over Newcastle last night possible – NB 25/4 Anzac Day. 5. Car shuffles will be needed on all sections except Section 1 which can be navigated by train. Participants will be limited by numbers. If there are only 2 cars (the leaders) participants will be limited to 3. 6. 3 * training walks to be held as follows 3/2 – 5/2: (Saturday to Monday) Ingar campground and Murphy’s Glen 10/2 – 12/2: (Saturday to Monday) to Grose Valley – Route to be determined by Track openings. And will be advertised 2 weeks before) NPWS have indicated Horse Track and Junction Rock to Acacia Flat may be open early in new year. Otherwise Pierces Pass, Acacia Flat, Burra Korrain, Victoria Falls 24/2 – 27/2: (Saturday to Tuesday) Jamison Traverse -Route to be determined by Track access and days as both Narrow Neck and Kedumba Pass have weekend only access. These walks will be put on the program and will be open to clubs but first preference to those joining the GNW attempt. 7. This is all weather camping and walking. Cancellation if access/ transport makes impractical . 8. 6 -8 walkers on each stage only with preference to those wanting to do whole walk. 9. No preference given to either club. 10. If there are not enough End to end or stage walkers, day walkers, car campers etc are welcome and will be advertised as short notice walks two weeks before, with 11. Expressions of interest meeting 13 Jan 9 am location TBA, followed by a half day walk. 12. Questions: call Wendy on 0434 006 188 or email woollshed@bigpond.com. Do not call Thursday or Friday due to work commitments .
Sat - 13-Jan-2024 4 MH - Day Walk: Ida Falls and surrounding highlights
The walk takes in sights along Chifley road with an off-track section to visit Ida falls finishing off by walking down Ida Falls gully to Lithgow. It involves setting up a car shuffle. Listed as grade 4 MH as there may be some re-growth to deal with.
Map: Lithgow
Fri - 12-Jan-2024 3 M - Creek: Hat Hill Creek
Hat Hill Creek at Blackheath is a great Summer trip. The creek has little waterfalls short swims, wading, open creek sections and constrictions with beautiful mossy walls. Just before the creek plunges into the Grose Valley there are pools to relax in while enjoying panoramic views. Members must be confident swimmers. Wet suits are recommended. Helmets are required and I have some for members to use. There are no abseils.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 08-Jan-2024 3 MX - Day Walk: River Caves
Located on the boundary of Gardens of Stone SCA and Wollemi National Park in Budgary Creek. I did a recce on Sunday, I could not believe how good the road is, any 2WD can drive there. Wet feet up to knees.
Map: Rock Hill
Sat - 06-Jan-2024 4 MHX - Creek: Dumbano CreekTunnels
Explore the canyon section of Dumbano Creek known as the "tunnels" A walk through, water not much more than knee deep. A lovely cool spot on a hot day, access is by the Wollangambe Fire Trail which can be rough. Last time we did this we visited Gooch's Crater on the way back
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 30-Dec-2023 5 H - Day Walk: The Rain Cave and Pyramid Rock
The Rain Cave is just off the Glowworm Tunnel Road in the cliffs above Carne Creek. Pyramid Rock is in the valley below. The walk visits several caves in the cliffs, the Governors Pagoda, Miracle Pass and Pyramid Rock. Walkers must be comfortable with walking along ledges and a steep climb from the valley back through the cliffs.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 29-Dec-2023 3 M - Day Walk: The River Caves
The River Caves is a short but spectacular walk-through canyon in the upper reaches of Budgary Creek in Wollemi National Park. It is probably the best of the walk-through canyons and there are no abseil or tape sections. The water is knee deep at worst with a lot being ankle deep. There is one waist deep section which can be avoided. Walking distance from the carpark is 1.75km each way. Like nearby Deep Pass, the road in has been recently upgraded and we can now drive to Natural Bridge parking area again. Nominated as a wilderness area so group size limited to eight.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 25-Dec-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Wentworth Falls-Lincolns Rock-Circuit
Wentworth Falls station-Lincolns Rock-Rocket Point-Undercliff Track-Empress Falls-Nature Track Conservation Hut-Wentworth Falls Enjoy Xmas day with a scenic walk including beautiful waterfalls, and great views
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 23-Dec-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Blue Gum Swamp
Blue Gum swamp is situated at Winmalee in the lower Blue Mountains. The walk begins at the locked gate at the end of White Cross Rd and follows a well defined walking track to the Blue Gum Swamp. From here there is a steep climb to Bees Nest Hill and on to Grose Mountain lookout for expansive views. A further climb on a rough track brings us to Grose Head South. We retrace our steps and return to the Blue Gum Swamp and back to the car park. The walk is around 10 km total and is suitable for less experienced walkers.
Map: Springwood
Mon - 18-Dec-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Katoomba lookouts and view points over Pitts Amphitheatre
Three lookout areas between Glenraphael Drive and Malatita Point, Katoomba, two are unnamed. Than to private lookout.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 17-Dec-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Springwood-Sharkhead Cave-Circuit
Springwood station-Magdala Gully-Glenbrook creek Sharkhead cave-Lost World&Bunyan Lookouts-Glenbrook creek-Perch Ponds-Magdala Gully-Springwood. Rainforest, great views, rock overhangs, camp cave. Steep scrambly ascent up the spur to Sharkhead cave- Lost World Lookout. Reasonable fitness, and agility required Distance 18 km. Total ascents 550 metres -
Map: Springwood
Sat - 16-Dec-2023 5 HX - Creek: Beefsteak Creek Hampden Forest Cancelled
A delightful creek to paddle in or walk along its banks in the Hampden Forest. Steep down to the creek from Black Range Road and steep 200 metre climb back up to Black Range Road. An area not often visited by the Club 4WD's preferable .
Map: Hampton
Fri - 15-Dec-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Abseil Training For Beginners
The training day at Mt York is intended for members who walk with UBMBC and who have not abseiled previously. It will cover ropes, anchors and equipment, safety checks, personal anchors, abseiling technique and belay. The venue at Mt York, has three progressively steeper cliff faces that are ideal for training. Following the training we drive to Medlow Bath where we put skills into practice in Juggler Canyon – which has 6 abseils. The day ends with a lovely walk through part of the Grand Canyon. Members who complete the training successfully will be approved to attend easier canyons on the UBMBC program. You will need a helmet, harness, carabiner and descender. Equipment must be approved to European or North American safety standards. Bicycle helmets and helmets from other sports are not acceptable. Do not buy new equipment until after the course. Borrow equipment for the training day or I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Walkers and Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least three bushwalks with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek) When you apply for the training day please mention the walks you have completed with our club and the non-abseil canyon you have done. Email applications are preferred. Canyoning involves carrying wet suits, ropes and equipment as well as scrambling over slippery rocks and climbing in steep, rugged country. A suitable level of fitness and agility is required.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 15-Dec-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Christmas Lights - Grand Canyon by night
Grand Canyon at night sparkles with glow worms! If you haven't done it by night it is worth stumbling over a few rocks in the dark to see them. The trip is also good for those new to canyoning as there is only one 17m abseil at the start after that it is a lot of wading, scrambling and a few swims. And for those that have done it, it is always a great trip. Wetsuits and abseiling gear is needed for this trip. Despite being summer it is quite cold at night in the canyon. We will start a bit before sunset meeting around 7:00 pm but won't be back at the cars until late, probably around 11:00 pm. Like last year, we will bring a bit of Christmas fare along and have a late night Christmas feast before returning to the cars.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 15-Dec-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Smith Hill Circuit – Zircon Creek - Fields Selection – Picnic Point and the Runners Track
Mt Wilson - Smith Hill Circuit – Zircon Creek - Fields Selection – Picnic Point and the Runners Track - 10km Good mix of landscapes, rainforest, treeferns, mountain ash, most of the walking is on good open trails, one section off track exploring headwaters of Zircon Creek. Views over Wollangambe and Bowens creek catchments. Mid way between Mt Wilson and Mt Irvine.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 13-Dec-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Nature Connection Walk - Ikara Head Loop
Nature Connection Walks are taken at a slower and quieter pace to focus on being in the bush. The walk will commence at Vic Falls Road and take the walking trail to Ikara Head. If the weather is nice we will spend an hour or so at the head, where you can engage in a connection activity of your choice. Mine is nature journaling. I'll add a photo when I put the google group add out. Photography, plant ID, birdwatching, writing, or just daydreaming might be yours. If weather not so great or it's hot, we will journal in Girraween Cave. We then cross over the creek from Girraween and take a short steep climb to the firetrail (climbers track) to Ikara Head and return on the fire trail. About 7 km total and a half day.
Map: Mt Wilson
Tue - 12-Dec-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Angus Place Pagodas
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. We visit spectacular cliffs, overhangs, and pagodas, and there is even a tunnel with a micro-waterfall at the end of it (not flowing). We park at the bottom of Angus Place Trail and follow it for about 1 km. Then descend into a gully to the south west and traverse the extremely dissected pagoda terrain, generally following the cliff line, both below and above. Then exit to Angus Place Trail and walk back to the vehicles. About 7 km. Scrambling, exposure and a section of thick regrowth. It is slow through here, but not difficult, as the saplings are easily moved aside.
Map: Lithgow
Mon - 11-Dec-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Exploring the upper part of Wentworth Creek at Wentworth Falls
Starting near the intersection of Lamartine Avenue and View Road, off Blaxland Road, Wentworth Falls we will follow a spur line down towards Wentworth Creek from there we will explore the surrounding area.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 09-Dec-2023 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek
Rocky Creek is a really impressive deep canyon in the Newnes Plateau area. The slanting rays on a sunny day in Rocky can be spectacular. It has no abseils but it is a wet canyon with a few swims of up to about 50m and so you need bring a wetsuit. Twister is a tributary that leads into Rocky Creek, it isn't so impressive but has a number of fun jumps and also no abseils. Like Rocky it is wet and even in December still cold! Although there are no abseils there are quite a few jumps and some scambles, so you need to be comfortable with this.
Map: Rock Hill
Fri - 08-Dec-2023 2 EM - Day Walk: Glenbrook to Portal Lookout Cancelled - Weather
Walking from Glenbrook Station along road, fire trails and tourist track to Tunnel View lookout and Portal lookout. Great Views. 14klm trip.
Map: Penrith
Wed - 06-Dec-2023 3 M - Canyon: Bells Corner & Ranon Brook
Bells Corner is a great quality short canyon close to the Bells Line of Road. It has two short abseils and an exciting 25m abseil down a curving chute. Two of the abseils have somewhat tricky starts from tree anchors on the edge. After completing Bells Corner, we walk across the road & do Ranon Brook. This canyon has five short abseils. Some are into pools that involve a short swim. The forecast temperature is 30 degrees. The exit is up Mistake Ravine where we climb three waterfalls. This trip is a full day of canyoning & for experienced canyoners. Ranon Brook requires a short car shuffle & is a new canyon to the leader.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 04-Dec-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Old link track Blackheath
The Mountaineer Blackheath 1899 map and the Barrows 1908 map show a link track between Govetts Leap Road to Hat Hill Road. We will walk the Popes Glen Track to Govetts Leap and see if anything remains.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 02-Dec-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Across Dumbano and Bungleboori Creeks
From the Wollangambe Fire Trail (AKA Dumbano Fire Trail) we will walk generally North, crossing Dumbano Creek, the headwaters of Arthurs Canyon, and Bungleboori Creek, ending up at the Waratah Ridge car park. The leader has walked the first and last thirds, but the middle third will be exploratory - it looks interesting on the satellite maps! This walk is for experienced walkers only. There will be a long car shuttle. So far we have two 4WD vehicles and 4 walkers, so there is room for one more walker. We could take up to four more walkers if at least one has a vehicle they are prepared to drive to Waratah Ridge and another has a (4WD) vehicle they can drive down the Wollangambe Fire Trail.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 02-Dec-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Pagoda Maze
Find out why this spectacular area must be better protected for future generations. Park the cars at GR 276 193 on Moffits Trail. Climb north and explore several pagoda ridges, before crossing into Gardens of Stone NP to visit Palatine Rock and Tarpeian Rock with their spectacular views. Then on to the amazing Pagoda Maze, best part of which is located in the Gardens of Stone SCA and is therefore not properly protected. Scrambling and exposure. About 8km.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 02-Dec-2023 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek Canyons Cancelled
No bookings until Monday 27 November. Geoff is putting this trip on Friday, but for those of us that are working on Friday, I'm also putting it on Saturday. Rocky Creek is a really impressive deep canyon in the Newnes Plateau area. The slanting rays on a sunny day in Rocky can be spectacular. It has no abseils but it is a wet canyon with a few swims of up to about 50m and so you need bring a wetsuit. Twister is a tributary that leads into Rocky Creek, it isn't so impressive but has a number of fun jumps and also no abseils. Like Rocky it is wet and even in early December still cold! Although there are no abseils there are quite a few jumps and some scambles, so you need to be comfortable with this.
Map: Rock Hill
Fri - 01-Dec-2023 3 M - Creek: Twister and Rocky Creek
No bookings until Monday 27 November. Rocky Creek is a magnificent creek off the Galah Mt road on the Newnes Plateau. We begin with Twister (aka Sheep Dip) a short creek with pools, slides and jumps that are so much fun. A delightful walk through rainforest brings us to Rocky Creek. The creek has towering walls above a narrow channel which involves swims up to 50m. It is quite cold, even on a hot day so wet suits are recommended. The "washing machine" is a fun challenge then the creek opens for a slide down a waterfall. A dark extended section follows with some long swims. This area is a photographer's delight with spectacular light effects. We have lunch on the side of the creek then reverse the creek. The day ends with a pleasant walk through rain forest to the car park. Participants must be confident with jumping into pools, negotiating slippery rocks in running water, a swimming in dark channels.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 27-Nov-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Hassans Walls Lithgow undercliff walks
Last August we checked out all the top lookouts, this second part of exploring Hassans Walls is to walk the Undercliff walks. The author of the book Hassans Walls will accompany us.
Map: Hartley
Sun - 26-Nov-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Chasing Waterfalls: Wentworth Falls
Wentworth Falls station-The Wentworth Falls Undercliff track-Den Fenella-Empress Falls Sylvia Falls-Nature Track-Edinburgh Rock Conservation Hut-Wentworth Falls station. With showers forecast through the week the waterfalls will be pumping on Sunday.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 26-Nov-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Devils Hole
Although it's not a long distance (about 7km's) there is a 300m ascent at the end, with a bit of scrambling up Devils Hole. The walk is worth it though, with great variety, from cliff top views to creeks & rainforest in Nellies Glen, some easy walking on the Six Foot Track then the interesting climb out. There are a few small creek crossings, which are usually managed without wet feet. The walk begins on the cliff track off Farnells Rd, Katoomba. The track winds around the cliff line with a couple of good lookouts on the way. This part of the walk is undulating track, crossing creeks a few times over bridges. The track then joins the Six Foot Track which narrows for the steep descent into Nellies Glen. There are many steps & it's quite slippery. The track levels out below Bonnie Doon Falls; eventually the track widens to the easy walking section (about 2km's) of the Six Foot Track. We then follow the Water Board Road to the start of the Devils Hole track. This scenic section of track climbs gradually to the Devils Hole exit. The track is unclear just before Devils Hole but it's not hard to follow the cairns. Devils Hole is a steep climb for about 5-10 minutes. There's no track, you scramble up the rocks, which are usually wet. It's not particulary difficult or dangerous but does take a bit of effort. At the top there are great views to Narrow Neck & it's not far to Cliff Drive & the end of the walk. Map: Katoomba
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 26-Nov-2023 Meeting: Remote Area First Aid Course 2nd Course Full
UBMBC has run successful RAFA courses in the past. It is really good to see so many members gaining these qualifications at the RAFA course. HLTAID005 - Provide first aid in remote situations HLTAID001 - Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation HLTAID002 - Provide basic emergency life support HLTAID003 - Provide first aid The course is one day at Pulse First Aid, Hazelbrook. It focuses on first aid in the bush. Members must complete a series of on-line modules prior to the course.
Sun - 26-Nov-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Upper Tootie Creek
Park one car at Bilpin Community Hall and another one on Hanlons Road North. From the second car, walk to West Ridge and then descend towards Tootie Creek at GR 694 9250. Walk westwards, above and roughly parallel to Tootie Creek, exploring tributary gullies. Exit near the second car. Mainly exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 25-Nov-2023 3 M - Canyon: Midwinter and Greenup Canyons Cancelled
This is a joint trip with Springwood Bushwalking Club and chance to visit some remote rarely visited canyons. There are 4 spots for UBMBC canyoning members. The plan is on Saturday 25/11 to drive to a locked gate at the junction of Army Road and Coricudgy Road at the Coricudgy State Forest boundary. This is not far from Dunns Swamp in Wollemi NP. From the gate ride bikes along a fire trail (part of the Bicentennial Trail) into Wollemi NP to near the start of Midwinter Canyon, about 10km. Camp in Wollemi NP on evening of 25 /11. The camp site may not have water so each would need to carry about 6 litres of water. On Sunday 26/11 go down Greenup Canyon, 3 short abseils, and exit up Midwinter Canyon, no abseils. Then ride bikes back to the gate.
Map: Not Specified
Tue - 21-Nov-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Abseiling Galong Creek Falls
No bookings until 16 November. Experience the excitement of abseiling pink granite waterfalls. Galong Creek begins at the end of the Megalong Valley. We follow the creek for less than 1 km to two delightful abseils in pink granite. Depending on water levels there are some thigh deep wades. Spikes on the side wall make scrambling easier. The pool below the falls makes a pleasant place for a break. We continue further down to more pink granite pools and waterfalls that can be scrambled. A steep climb out on Butterknife Ridge takes us high above Galong Creek. We descend into the creek and follow it back to our vehicles.
Map: Jenolan
Mon - 20-Nov-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Mount Boyce
Circumnavigate Mount Boyce and check the surrounding cliff line.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 18-Nov-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Wolgan Loops and Point Green
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone region must be better protected for future generations. Park one car on FT No.5 off Sunnyside Ridge Road and the other car near FT 8. From the first car, walk above the Wolgan Loops, then make our way to Point Green and the second car. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 17-Nov-2023 3 M - Canyon: Hand over hand, south Bowens, Cork screw reverse
3 wow canyons in one circuit (hand over hand, then reverse south Bowens and Corkscrew). About 6 hours in canyons with fairly straight forward entry and exit. One abseil and one "hand over hand", a few scrambles up.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 17-Nov-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Kanangra Walls – Plateau Walk / Cottage Rock
Kanangra Walls – Plateau Walk / Cottage Rock 9km Walk Kanangra Walls Plateau out to Cottage Rock return by the same route. Open Plateau Walk - Great Views.
Map: Kanangra
Tue - 14-Nov-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Two Days Canyoning at Kanangra Full
No bookings until 1 November. Abseiling with overnight car camp at Boyds Crossing Kanangra Boyd National Park on 14 and 15 Nov. . Day 1 Box Creek Falls. Eight abseils in or next to Box Creek Falls. Short walk in and out. Grade 3. Camp overnight at Boyds Crossing. Day 2 Arabanoo Canyon, a long day. Commencing at the Dance Floor cave we descend into Arabanoo Creek. 6 abseils. It is possible to stay fairly dry, depending on water levels. The exit involves a steep climb to Bullhead Ridge. Grade 5.
Map: Yerranderie
Mon - 13-Nov-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Mt Blackheath revisited
Exploration around Mt Blackheath continues. We'll be completing the undercliff walk circuit.
Map: Hampton
Sat - 11-Nov-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Mount Victoria - Kanimbla Valley Traverse
From Bushrangers Cave cross valley to the Mount Victoria ,. Down the knife edge to Kanimbla Valley and return by the Bushrangers Cave.. Magnificent valley views from the knife edge track. Mostly on bush track
Map: Hartley
Mon - 06-Nov-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Mt Blackheath
An exploration around Mt Blackheath, both above and below the cliff line.
Map: Hampton
Sun - 05-Nov-2023 Meeting: Remote Area First Aid Full
UBMBC has run successful RAFA courses in the past. It is really good to see so many members gaining these qualifications at the RAFA course. HLTAID005 - Provide first aid in remote situations HLTAID001 - Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation HLTAID002 - Provide basic emergency life support HLTAID003 - Provide first aid The course is one day at Pulse First Aid, Hazelbrook. It focuses on first aid in the bush. Members must complete a series of on-line modules prior to the course.
Sat - 04-Nov-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Devils Hole
Although it's not a long distance (about 7km's) there is a 300m ascent at the end, with a bit of scrambling up Devils Hole. The walk is worth it though, with great variety, from cliff top views to creeks & rainforest in Nellies Glen, some easy walking on the Six Foot Track then the interesting climb out. There are a few small creek crossings, which are usually managed without wet feet. The walk begins on the cliff track off Farnells Rd, Katoomba. The track winds around the cliff line with a couple of good lookouts on the way. This part of the walk is undulating track, crossing creeks a few times over bridges. The track then joins the Six Foot Track which narrows for the steep descent into Nellies Glen. There are many steps & it's quite slippery. The track levels out below Bonnie Doon Falls; eventually the track widens to the easy walking section (about 2km's) of the Six Foot Track. We then follow the Water Board Road to the start of the Devils Hole track. This scenic section of track climbs gradually to the Devils Hole exit. The track is unclear just before Devils Hole but it's not hard to follow the cairns. Devils Hole is a steep climb for about 5-10 minutes. There's no track, you scramble up the rocks, which are usually wet. It's not particulary difficult or dangerous but does take a bit of effort. At the top there are great views to Narrow Neck & it's not far to Cliff Drive & the end of the walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 04-Nov-2023 5 D - Canyon: Galah Canyon
No bookings before 24 October 2023 please. Galah Canyon is an excellent canyon in the Newnes Forest (Galah Mountain Rd) area. It has between 4-8 abseils depending on the rigging choices we make. The longest abseil is about 30m. It will involve some short, but likely chilly wades, that may be chest deep. Wet suits are advisable. It has a rock scramble of about 6m, involving a handline, to exit.
Map: Rock Hill
Sat - 04-Nov-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: The Upper Bungleboori from Old Bells Line of Road
*No bookings accepted until the 16th October*. This walk to the Upper Bungleboori was a success last year but I've rescheduled it for a couple of weeks earlier in the hope that a large patch of Waratahs will be in bloom. We will vary the walk this year. We will walk in on the fire trail from the sandmine, head down to the Bungleboori and then up along the ridge. Morning tea will be above a canyon section.late November 2022. We will contine up the ridge until we descend to Bungleboori Arch. From here we will follow the Bungleboori via a diversion into Paddy's Creek. Continuing down the Bungleboori we will exit and visit FM lookout before returning to the start. No significant exposure but wading to waist/chest depth will probably be necessary for short distances.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 03-Nov-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Long Ridge North Traverse including Exploding Star Chamber
Private property access has been arranged. Park at GR 790 997 on Long Ridge Trail and descend into a gully to the north west. Leave the gully when it turns north and traverse under the cliffs, generally north east. There are great views and caves to see, including the amazing Exploding Star Chamber. Continue up the Long Ridge Knife-edge spur, with more spectacular views along the way. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Thu - 02-Nov-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Clean Up Marijuana Canyon
Earlier this year our attempt to remove rubbish from Marijuana Canyon was postponed due to weather. Years ago, there was a marijuana plantation in the upper canyon. Plastic sheeting has broken down and is contaminating the canyon all the way down to and into Bowens Creek S branch. There is wire netting, plastic and other rubbish to be removed. Marijuana Canyon is near Mt Charles on Bells Line of Road.. There is a 1 km walk along a fire trail then a steep climb to the canyon. The rubbish will be carried back up to the fire trail then to Bells Line of Road. Mark Brown will dispose of the rubbish. Bushwalkers and canyoners are invited to help with the clean up. After the clean up canyoners are invited to do Marijana Canyon. When booking please advise whether you will do the clean up only or the clean and the canyon.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 30-Oct-2023 2 EM - Day Walk: Base scenic railway exploration
With Phil Hammon owner of Scenic World we will explore some old infrastructure
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 30-Oct-2023 2 EM - Canyon: Dalpura Canyon
Dalpura is a short canyon with 1-3 abseils and only 200m elevation. Suitable for beginners. We will meet on Bells Line of Road at 9 am.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 28-Oct-2023 Meeting: Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The club AGM is open to all members to attend. The meeting will be held at 10:30 am at the usual venue of Karin and Dons residence at Blackheath. Please advise secretary of your attendance.
Sat - 28-Oct-2023 2 EM - Day Walk: Galong Creek Walk
Following the club AGM, I will lead a short walk along Galong Creek in the Megalong Valley. A 30 minute drive from Blackheath takes us to the start of the walk which is 1 km down to the falls and 1 km return. The walk will be conducted at a slow pace, allowing lots of time for photos. The time is around two hours return. The unique pink granite creek is well worth seeing. Some scrambling is involved and wet feet could happen. Usually the whole trip is dry. Bookings and transport will be arranged at the AGM.
Map: Jenolan
Mon - 23-Oct-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Link track Tableland Road to Ingar Fire Trail, Wentworth Fall
This link track crosses the headwaters of Queen Victoria Creek, plus exploring the Aboriginal sites off Ingar Fire Trail.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 21-Oct-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Mount Irvine
Walk to Tesselate Hill and explore and then follow ridge to Wollangambe River, return the same way. Interesting terrain. Hopefully this time we will not be blown off the hill.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 21-Oct-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Water Dragon Canyon
This canyon has a long and impressive constriction that is places is very dark. It also has some great abseils. Despite the canyon's alternative name of Kelvinator, the swims are fairly short. However, there is a longish swim down the Wollangambe after exiting Water Dragon, so in October a good wetsuit is recommended!
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 20-Oct-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Waterfall Creek and Southern Firetrail
Mt Wilson - Waterfall Creek and Southern Firetrail - Follow the waterfall walk into the rainforest, then onto old bullock logging along waterfall creek before joining the Southern Fire trail, returning to Mt Wilson via Daintree Road. approx. 8km
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 18-Oct-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Bondi to Manly walk
BONDI TO MANLY WALK. 80kms over 5 days - itinerary set in advance so people can sign up for all or part of the walk. DAY 1: Bondi Beach to Watson Bay Wharf (13.4km). DAY 2: Watsons Bay Wharf to Circular Quay (20.1km). DAY 3: Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo (14.5km). DAY 4: Taronga Zoo to Manly Wharf (21.8km). DAY 5: Manly Wharf to Manly Beach (10.2km). Mostly on track, some steep sections, some sections with steps. More information available at https://www.bonditomanly.com/5-days-option-1 Grade: 2,3 (Mod) (grading varies between sections) Leader: Clare Sutton - 0435 740 654 or acs245@googlemail.com
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 16-Oct-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Blackheath Glen Reserve cliff line
Our walk will start and finish at Blackheath Glen Reserve off Megalong Road, originally the site of a sawmill. We will climb up and find a way to the top of the cliff line onto a protruding spur and follow to Double Echo Point and return.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 14-Oct-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Gorge circuit
We will walk from the entrance station at Glenbrook through Glenbrook Gorge, then up to Mt Portal lookout, Tunnel View lookout and back to the start end of the gorge via the Goat Track. Steep climb up to Mt Portal that includes a knotted rope section up a 2m cliff that requires agility. About 7.7km so a reasonably early finish expected.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 14-Oct-2023 4 MH - Bike Ride: Lockley Pylon Sunrise Cancelled
This is a mountain bike and hike/run activity. Start 4:30 am. Ride from Leura Station to Lockleys Pylon trailhead (10.5 km, 43 mins) with head torches. Hike or run to Lockleys Pylon (3.4 km, 48 mins) for a sunrise cuppa at around 6:20 am. Enjoy the outstanding views along Lockleys Pylon Track, passing the Pinnacles, and reaching the Pylon for panoramic views. Return via the same route, with a more uphill ride (10.4 km, 51 mins). Bike and hike fit essential.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 13-Oct-2023 5 HX - Pack Walk: Labyrinth Peak and Around
Co-leader Kevin Songberg. A 3-day pack trip to Bylong Labyrinth. Day 1. Park an Benjang Gap and proceed up Lee Creek to GR 317 890. Establish camp. With day packs only, walk up the gully to the north and explore the area to the north of the camp. About 10 km. Day 2. We may find water higher up on the previous day, but it is very likely that it will need to be collected in Lee Creek and carried for the rest of the trip (Days 2 and 3). Break the camp and find a way up to the eastern end of Labyrinth Saddle, GR 315 903. Explore the area to the north before proceeding to Labyrinth Peak for overnight camp. About 10 km. Day 3. Descend from Labyrinth Peak, walk east then north, following the ridge to around GR 312 920 for the final descent towards Lee Creek. Walk back to Benjang Gap. About 8 km. Mostly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Not Specified
Thu - 12-Oct-2023 5 D - Canyon: Thunder Canyon
New date for this postponed trip. This is a reasonably long day with a sustained creek walk and several abseils. Many would be familiar with parts of this canyon from visits to the nearby more highly trafficked Claustral Canyon, however Thunder Canyon is worth visiting in its own right. Please only consider this trip if you are a reasonably experienced canyoner and confident you can move through the canyon efficiently. Need to be able to swim 50m.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 09-Oct-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Lions Head Ridge 2nd exploration
Our 2nd exploration of Lions Head Ridge will take us to the end of Lions Head with a few offshoots on the way. We can only hope to find similar finds as the first part.
Map: Jamison
Sat - 07-Oct-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: East of October Creek
October Creek is not named on the Mount Wilson topographic map, but you can easily find it: it is the creek that runs North into Du Faurs Creek. This walk will start at the Southern end of the Bogey Holes Track and will follow some of the open ridges on the Eastern side of October Creek. It should be a fairly short day, and is mostly delightful walking in open grassy forest, but has been graded 4 because it is almost all off track, there are some short scrambling sections, and there will be about a 20 minute push through thick scrub.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 07-Oct-2023 5 D - Canyon: Thunder Canyon Cancelled - Weather
This is a reasonably long day with a sustained creek walk before the constriction involving abseils is reached. Many would be familiar with parts of this canyon from visits to the nearby more highly trafficked Claustral Canyon, however Thunder Canyon is worth visiting in its own right. Please only consider this trip if you are a reasonably experienced canyoner and confident you can move through the canyon efficiently.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 01-Oct-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Katoomba-Castle Head Circuit
Katoomba Falls Reserve-Narrowneck-Castle Head Golden Stairs-Federal Pass-Landslide-Furber Steps-Katoomba some off-track near Castle Head visiting lookouts with stunning views. Spectacular terrain along Landslide track. Waratahs wildflowers, rainforest, waterfalls. Classic Blue Mountains walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 01-Oct-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Lions Head Kedumba Valley and the Goat Track
No bookings until 25 Sep. This walk is at the Kings Tableland Wentworth Falls. After placing vehicles at the locked gate on the Kedumba Valley Rd, the walk begins with a climb to Double Hill. We follow the Roger Clark track along the cliff tops to Lions Head with views of the Jamison Valley all the way. The descent of Lions Head Pass brings us to the Kedumba Valley, where we will visit the farm house owned by the Maxwell family, the first settlers in this area. Easy walking on Kedumba Valley Rd brings us to the Goat Track, a steep climb to the locked gate. On the way we will visit the Cleary memorial. Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/6upn3ipwz9st55q/AAB-PSaqmG3KflQpKyJZQDBVa?dl=0 Reference : The Blue Plateau by Mark Tredinnick, ISBN 9780702237102 traces the history of the Maxwell family
Map: Jamison
Sun - 01-Oct-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Temple Creek, Holy Grail Ravine and Last Crusade Point
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone region must be better protected for future generations. Park vehicles on the Blackfellows Hand Trail at GR 327 090. Walk north down into Temple Creek, then turn west and walk along the base of the cliffs to Last Crusade Point and Ravine. Climb to the tops, then descend into Holy Grail Ravine. Walk to the end, then climb out on the eastern side and return to the vehicles. Scrambling and exposure. About 9 km.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 30-Sep-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Kamarah and Koombanda ridges explore
Walking in via the Jungaburra track off the Bells line of road we'll explore the knife edge that juts out east of Kamarah ridge before walking around and out to Kamarah Bluffs, then dropping down to look at the interesting bit of Kamarah gully before climbing up to Koombanda ridge and back to the cars. We'll explore the area around the descent into Kamarah gully as well looking for other entry points.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 29-Sep-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Revelations Ridge and Around
Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail, GR 689 967. Head west across a deep gully, then continue along Revelations Ridge. Find a way down the cliffs to visit Revelations Chamber, and from there, descend underneath the next cliff line. Traverse north to GR 679 980 or even further, to GR 681 981, depending on what we will find, then climb above both cliff lines and walk south west to visit Dragon Teeth Rocks. Now, head to the top of the ridge and retrace our steps of this morning to the cars. Partly exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Thu - 28-Sep-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Deep Throat Canyon Full
Mick Battam is leading an exploratory trip into Deep Throat Canyon on Waratah ridge. No one in our group has done this canyon previously. After taking the alternate way into Waratah Ridge car park, we walk along the ridge to the canyon. Our exit is down the Bungleboori. We climb out near the Arch canyon exit.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 25-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Tarros Ladders and Duncans Pass, Narrow Neck
From Dunphys Camping Area, Megalong Valley. Walk to Medlow Gap, side trip to Sessions Hut and Lake Birrell. Up Tarros Ladder, down Duncans Pass and return via transmission track to Medlow Gap Management Trail and back to Dunphys Camping Area.
Map: Jamison
Sun - 24-Sep-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Tiger Snake Canyon
Tiger Snake is a great winter canyon, with only a knee deep wade. The road to it has been closed for some time but is is scheduled to reopen on 23 Sept. The canyon has 2 sections with the lower being particularly impressive - deep, dark and narrow. This is a good canyon for those new to canyoning.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 23-Sep-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Beecroft (Clerestory) Pagodas
Return to explore these fabulous pagodas, fingers 6 and 7 this time Need 4WD to access the Beecroft Fire Trail.
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 23-Sep-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Blacks Ladder and Esgate Pass
No bookings until 18 September, please. Blacks Ladder and Esgate Pass are situated in the Ngula Bulgambang Regional Park, near Katoomba. This area was previously called Radiata Plateau. The walk begins on a fire trail and descends to the cliffs above the Megalong Valley. Here we drop onto ledges via Blacks Ladder, a route used by first nation people. The ledges are easy to negotiate but there is some scrambling. There are excellent view of the Megalong Valley. At Megalong Head there are footholds and ledges to scramble up a cliff face. To assist the ascent, a chain was installed by Ben Esgate many years ago. Members must be confident in negotiating exposed ledges. The walk ends with a 2 km stroll through the forest on a fire trail.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 22-Sep-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: West of Bowen Hill
Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail, GR 689 967. Head north on an old fire trail, then continue on the ridge, all the way to the end at GR 695 000. Descend under the cliffs and traverse counterclockwise to around GR 690 993. Climb up a gully back to the ridge and walk to the cars. Exploratory. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Tue - 19-Sep-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Great Uncle George Canyon
Great Uncle George canyon is in Bedford Creek off Kings Tableland Road at Wenworth Falls. There are 5 abseils, deep wades and some short swims. Wetsuits are recommended. The upper section of Bedford Creek has lovely creek walking with ferns and moss covered rocks. There is a steep climb out then a gentle ridge takes us to the Ingar Fire Trail and back to our vehicles.
Map: Jamison
Mon - 18-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Lions Head Ridge and Double Hill, Kings Tableland
From Tableland Road walk the Lions Head Ridge track (for those long in the club will remember Roger Clarke took on the task of clearing this track) Great views as we explore along any side paths.
Map: Jamison
Sun - 17-Sep-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Jugglers Canyon
This is a short trip but with some nice abseils and is good for early spring as it is a dry canyon and so wetsuits aren't needed. It is a good trip for those new to canyoning.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 16-Sep-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Jurassic Gorge
This unique area, part of the Gardens of Stone region, has an active coal mine underneath it. Find out why it must be better protected for future generations. Park near Airly Mountain and walk up to the plateau. Walk on the loop access trail and visit Mine in the Sky. Continue to spot height 1031 m, visiting Ladders Defile on the way. Next, visit pagoda lookouts to the east before descending into Jurassic Gorge. Walk down to an area known as Jurassic Park, eventually linking with Genowlan Mountain Trail at about GR 257 331. On the way back, visit The Grotto and, if time permits, Ultimate Slot. Scrambling and exposure. About 13 km.
Map: Glen Alice
Fri - 15-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Bungleboori Creek South Crossing
Bungleboori Creek South Crossing - From Dumbano Firetrail across Bungleboori South picking up an old logging track on the south side back to Waratah Ridge Approx. 10km great pogoda country, partly off track and on overgrown trails. (This walk is subject to road conditions on Dumbano and Waratah ridges) Alternative walk is Deep Pass and River Caves.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 11-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Anvil Rock to Bennett Lookout, Blackheath
A car shuffle from Hat Hill carpark. Commence walking from Anvil Rock down into Bennett Gully and up to Bennett Lookout, back along Bald Head Ridge to Hat Hill car park.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 09-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Exploring Dalpura
We will explore the ridges and gullies of Dalpura. There should be some wildflowers and magnificent views. Some off track scrambling.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 09-Sep-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Navigation with map and compass
This course is an introduction to navigating in the bush using map and compass. It is suitable for members who walk regularly with UBMBC and want to extend their navigation skills. The course covers topographic map symbols, terrain features, scale, grid lines, contour lines, magnetic declination, bearings and estimating distance. Participants will practise these skills in a suburban park at Blackheath before venturing into the bush at Hat Hill to attempt a navigation course. The course includes wonderful scenery, historic artefacts, and cryptic clues. Maps will be provided. Members will need their own compass. A Silva Ranger M5 is recommended. GPS and phone navigating are not part of this course.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 08-Sep-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Better Offer Canyon Full
Better Offer is a short canyon off the Bells Line of Road. We walk in along Dalpura Ridge. There are six abseils - 17m, 15m, 5m, 5m, 32m and 3m. The canyon is mainly dry. The third abseil is into a waist deep pool but you are soon out again. The canyon is dry after abseil 4. We will be exploring an alternate exit to Birranbang Brook.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 04-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Anvil Rock to top of Perrys via cliff line
Explore the rocky outcrop around Anvil Rock, Blackheath and where possible follow the cliff top to Perrys Lookdown
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 02-Sep-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Ikara, Thor and Asgard Heads circuit at Mt. Victoria.
This walk takes in the best of the heads circuit and includes a visit to Asgard mine and kiln. Have left out a visit to Valhalla Head and our route does not include Girraween Cave. There is a mix of fire trail, foot pad and off-track walking and total distance is about 12km. The off-track sections are about 300m, 500m and 1km. The post fire re-growth is not a problem. Will meet at Mt. Victoria Station and hope to leave there by 8:45.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 01-Sep-2023 5 HX - Pack Walk: Pomany Range Adventure
Co-leader Kevin Songberg. Strictly limited numbers. One two-day overnight walk and two one-day walks from a base camp exploring the Pomany Range (south east of the Yodellers Range). The plan for each walk is to be advised, and our progress will depend on the terrain and availability of water. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km every day.
Map: Not Specified
Thu - 31-Aug-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Boars Head Abseil
Boars head abseil follows a series of gullies and ledges below the Boars Head rock formation at Katoomba. There are 5 abseils mostly in the 25m range, including a somewhat exposed abseil from a slot (which will have a safety line rigged). The longest final abseil is about 50m but in a couple of stages. We return up Devils Hole. This abseil trip is suitable for people with a moderate level of experience and with a tolerance for exposure.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 28-Aug-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Dunns Steam Sawmill site
An easy late start and early finish for an exploratory walk to see what we can find of the remains of the early 1920s steam sawmill site at Glenbrook.
Map: Penrith
Sun - 27-Aug-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Gorge Circuit
Glenbrook station-Glenbrook Gorge-Portal Lookout-Tunnel View Lookout-Glenbrook Creek. Rockhop-scramble our way along Glenbrook Creek through Rugged Glenbrook Gorge. Steep scrambly to Portal Lookout via old log- fixed rope-ladder. Great views along ridge top Return Glenbrook Gorge via Goat Track Suit fit agile adventurous bushwalkers.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 26-Aug-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Guzzlers Arch near Deep Pass
Find this mysterious arch situated on the Creek between Deep Pass and River Caves. Drive to Deep Pass along the rehabilitated road, down to Deep Pass and from there explore to discover this Arch. If time rediscover the hut upstream.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 25-Aug-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: West of Little Tootie
Park at GR 681 953 on Mount Tootie Road and descend into the gully to the west. Follow it down till around GR 674 958, then traverse under cliffs counterclockwise for as long as the time and interest allow, probably till around GR 667 950. Walk back to the car. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Thu - 24-Aug-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Abseil Training for Beginners
The training day at Mt York is intended for members who walk with UBMBC and who have not abseiled previously. It will cover ropes, anchors and equipment, safety checks, personal anchors, abseiling technique and belay. The venue at Mt York, has three progressively steeper cliff faces that are ideal for training. Following the training we drive to Medlow Bath where we put skills into practice in Juggler Canyon – which has 6 abseils. The day ends with a lovely walk through part of the Grand Canyon. Members who complete the training successfully will be approved to attend easier canyons on the UBMBC program. You will need a helmet, harness, carabiner and descender. Equipment must be approved to European or North American safety standards. Bicycle helmets and helmets from other sports are not acceptable. Do not buy new equipment until after the course. Borrow equipment for the training day or I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Walkers and Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least three bushwalks with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek ) When you apply for the training day please mention the walks you have completed with our club and the non-abseil canyon you have done. Email applications are preferred. Canyoning involves carrying wet suits, ropes and equipment as well as scrambling over slippery rocks and climbing in steep, rugged country. A suitable level of fitness and agility is required.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 21-Aug-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Blue Gum Forest
From Hat Hill Road, Blackheath and Perrys Lookdown we will walk down to the Blue Gum Forest and the junctions of the Grose River and Govetts Creek and return same way.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 20-Aug-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: North of Little Tootie
Previous attempt was aborted due to bad weather. Park at the locked gate on Bowen Hill Trail, GR 689 967. Head west, across a deep gully, then descend under the cliff line at around GR 675 969. Continue under the cliffs clockwise till about GR 682 973. Climb on the ridge to the east, then make our way back to the car. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 20-Aug-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Springwood-Sharkhead Cave-Circuit
Springwood station-Sassafras Gully-Perch Ponds. Glenbrook Creek-Sharkhead Cave- Lost World Lookout-Bunyan Lookout-Glenbrook Creek-Martins Lookout Circuit-Magdala Gully-Springwood. Several steep scrambly ascents/descents. Magnificent views, interesting rock formations. Beautiful rainforest. Suited to fit, agile adventurous walkers . Total ascents 800 metres. Distance 17km
Map: Springwood
Sat - 19-Aug-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Mt Banks walkabout
We begin at Mt Banks picnic area and head up along the fire trail to find the onion rings. Then we alternate with fire trails, tourist trails and off track sections to arrive at three lookouts with outstanding views. This is a circuit walk.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 19-Aug-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: North of Dumbano Creek
This walk will visit the North side of Dumbano Creek. About half of the walk will be new to the leader, so it will be largely exploratory. It could be quite a challenging walk, so experienced walkers only please.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 18-Aug-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Cabbage Tree Creek
A short day. Park on T3 Trail at the junction with Cabbage Tree Creek Trail, GR 808 979. Walk on the trail till 806 984, then drop into a tributary, which may contain a giant Turpentine tree. Continue down to Cabbage Tree Creek and walk upstream for as long as our interest takes us. Exit to T3 Trail and walk back to the cars. If we finish too early, we might do another short trip in that area. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. 5M. S323E
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 18-Aug-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Tootie Creek Mountain Lagoon
Tootie Creek Mountain Lagoon - Starting at Mountain Lagoon follow the Tootie Creek Fire Trail into the beautiful Tootie Creek - Approx.8km
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Thu - 17-Aug-2023 3 M - Abseiling: David Crevasse
David Crevasse is a short canyon in the Grose Valley about 4 km from the Mt Banks picnic area. There are six abseils, longest 20m, in a lovely green, rainforest gully. The exit is a steep climb up a gully. The is a 12m vertical rock face involving prussiking on a fixed rope. Canyoners must be able to prussik. To make the trip more enjoyable bikes can be ridden on the fire trail or members may walk, starting 30 minutes before the bike riders. Please advise if you are riding a bike.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 14-Aug-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Ruined Castle mine flying fox
On the bushwalk 20 March we found the top point near Castle Head where materials were lowered for the Ruined Castle Mines. This walk will be to check the bottom point and see if any evidence can be found. Access via Golden Stairs Narrow Neck.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 12-Aug-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Dione Dell canyon - Kanangra Walls
This is a mainly dry canyon trip, near Kanangra Walls, that involves 5 abseils, with the longest being 32 metres. You may get your feet wet in one or two sections and there is a short thigh deep traverse. All abseils have easy starts. Trip will take between 7 and 9 hours.
Map: Kanangra
Sat - 12-Aug-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt York - Lockyer’s & Cox's Road Circuit Walk
This historic walking track circuit follows one of the original roads used to descend into Hartley Vale. Hand built by convicts, remnants of their handiwork can still be seen along the track. This walk has beautiful views across Hartley Valley and nice pagoda formations. Some steep uphill sections, mostly on a clearly defined track. Approx. 10km.
Map: Hartley
Sat - 12-Aug-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Winburndale Nature Reserve
Another visit to WInburndale an area which always has surprises. WInburndale Nature Reserve is situated off the Bathurst Road about an hours drive from Mt Victoria. You can guarantee views , interesting rock formations and steep hills. Access is on forestry roads so 4WD's welcome.
Map: Meadow Flat
Mon - 07-Aug-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Hassans Walls, Lithgow
I have organised with the author of the book, ‘Hassans Walls' to guide us as we check out the many named lookouts, caves, steps and other place names at and around Hassans Wall, Lithgow. We start with the boardwalk to Padleys Pedestral Trig Station and go on from there.
Map: Hartley
Sun - 06-Aug-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Dargans Arch and Goochs Crater
This 8 km walk is to Dargans Arch and Goochs Crater. We park off Sandham Rd, Bell, then a short walk takes us to Dargans Arch, a remarkable rock formation. Walking N along an open ridge brings to the Upper Wollangambe River. In the past there has been a log crossing, however, there are several crossing points. We continue to a high pagoda for great views then on to hte camping cave next to Goochs Crater. We can spend time exploring the upper rim of the crater as well as the lower area. Billabong canyon is nearby. It has a waist deep pool so we will just look without entering the canyon. Our return walk takes us behind the quarry and along Sandham Road back to our vehicles. This walk is suitable for less experienced walkers. About 40% is on track.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 05-Aug-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Horseshoe Falls Reserve & Nearby - North Hazelbrook
Partly exploratory walk following a locally hand drawn map. The walk will take in a number of waterfalls, creeks and stunnning trees. Mainly on track. Approx. 100m ascent / descent, around 10 km’s, track in poor condition in places.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 05-Aug-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Temple of Doom, Lost Ark Point and Indiana Gorge
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. Drive or walk to GR 332 088 on Blackfellows Hand Trail. Walk north through the magnificent Temple of Doom and then continue exploring the pagodas on the east side of the ridge, heading north. Arrive at the high cliffs above Wolgan Valley and then walk to Lost Arc Point. After enjoying the stunning views, proceed under the cliffs and into Indiana Gorge. Check out the amazing Indiana Slot and the rest of this scenic hidden valley. Exit the gorge at the south end and make our way back to the cars. 8-12 km, depending on the road access. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Thu - 03-Aug-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Ikara head loop via girraween cave
A walk to check out the flowers blooming in this unseasonably warm weather. The walk is suitable for new walkers. Start Vic falls road and walk to ikara head. Crossover creek at Girraween cave on return then some light scrambling up the hill to join the fire trail track to and return to Vic Falls Rd. Less than 10k and approx 150 m ascent descent.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 31-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Boyce Gully, Mount Victoria
From the old GWH at Soldiers Pinch walk along a spur, down and up Boyce Gully and up onto one of the finger spurs above Victoria Brook.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 31-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Fun with Ropes Mt Boyce
This is a good opportunity to practise abseiling skills. The venue is Mt Boyce, between Blackheath and Mt Victoria. The area is bolted and has several rockfaces. Drop in during the day, do your own thing or learn from others. Ropes will be in place, but you can bring your own ropes and carabiners. Activities will include, tie offs, prussiking, self rescue and haul systems. Email bookings please foxes9@westnet.com.au
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 30-Jul-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Mt Wilson to Yarramun Creek return
Starting from the Mt WIlson fire shed we head down the Wollangambe 1 entrance track, cross the river at the horseshoe bend (knee deep) and head up the steep slope on to the north side, following the ridge northwards to Yarramun Ck. It's a big day, some 16 km and 700m elevation.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 29-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon - Mt Wilson
Serendipity offers some good canyon sections, and we will only do the first 3 abseils and exit before the swims. The water where we wade will be about calf deep in a few places. Suitable for less experienced canyoners.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 29-Jul-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: West Lost City
Explore this ridge which is west of the Lost City and has some interesting pagoda formations. Enjoy a view of the Lost City from a different perspective. Probably a short day.
Map: Lithgow
Fri - 28-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Burra Korain Head
This walk goes along Burra Korain ridge towards the Grose valley. Great views, interesting rock formations. Mostly on track but with some easy rock scrambles.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 24-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Above Arethusa Falls
Fortress Ridge off Mount Hay Road has some spectacular scenery, one side spur leads to the top of the cliff line with views directly down Govetts Creek and above Arethusa Falls.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 22-Jul-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Bushwalk Linden to Springwood
Not a hard walk and public transport friendly. We initially visit the historical Lady Martin's Bath at Linden before making our way along the Sassafras Ridge Fire Trail for about 2.5 km. After branching off, we follow a faint footpad to an aboriginal engraving site and eventually end up in the rainforest beside Sassafras Creek. We then follow the well-known Victory Track through the rainforest beside the creeks before branching off onto Magdala Gully track and following it back to Springwood shops. Walk will start from the platform at Linden Station.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 22-Jul-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Castle Head multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba
A 6 abseil trip along a narrow ridge with spectacular views down Cedar Valley and Jamison Valley. Longest abseil 45m, some exposure in places, between abseils and some serious scrambling to get to some of the abseils. It is a 5klm walk from Narrow Neck Lookout, where we start and finish the walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 22-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: John's loop/circuit walk Nth Wentworth Falls to Nth Bullaburra & visit "Big Blue".
This is a classic walk which passes along a ridge before descending down to cross Blue Mountains creek before ascending up via a beautiful Glen to Kent St. Then we return via the historic Bruces walk, going off track to visit "Big Blue" which is a magnificent Mountain Ash tree of the Eucalyptus Deanii species. Next we rejoin the track to visit several old work camp sites going off track once again before returning via Podgers & Burgess Glens & Wilson's Rest to Nth Wentworth Falls.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 21-Jul-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: East of Cabbage Tree Creek
Park on T3 Trail at around GR 812 003. Walk north west and descend into the gully to the south. Follow it westward, then traverse under the cliffs clockwise till about GR 809 011. Depending on the time available, we will continue westwards or exit to the east onto the T3 Trail and back to the vehicles. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 21-Jul-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Irvine - Explore Kookootonga Trail to the Historic Bowens Creek Road
Mt Irvine - Explore Kookootonga Trail to the Historic Bowens Creek Road - Starting on the Kookootonga Trail at Mt Irvine, follow old turpentine logging tracks to join with Bowens Creek Road. Bowens Creek Road was built during the great depression as a works project to provide employment and link Mt Irvine to Bilpin. Historic markings, stone drainage and drill marks, camp and quarry locations along the route, the remains of the old timber bridge crossing Bowens Creek. Return to the top partly by the same route and different route above Kookootonga creek. Approx. 10.5km mainly on fire trail and old road alignment
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 17-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Darks Cave loop
Fortress Ridge off Mount Hay Road has some spectacular scenery, one side track to view the waterfalls in Govetts Creek, then onto Darks Cave and continue on and up to join the Fortress Ridge Track and return.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 16-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Bushwalk Rock Island
Rock Island is an isolated plateau surrounded Deans Creek to the North and deep gullies on the other sides. it is a fascinating area with pagodas, valleys and slots to explore. It is accessed from the Tiger Snake Car park on the Old Coach Road. Recent regrowth means that 1km of thick bush must be negotiated to reach Rock Is. We encounter the bush again to return to our vehicles. It is a long day. Please note that Sunday is the last day of the NSW school holidays so traffic delays on the GWH from Mt Victoria are to be expected.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 16-Jul-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: North of Little Tootie
Park on Bowen Hill Trail at around GR 688 967. Descend into the gully to the north west. Continue under the cliffs counterclockwise till about GR 677 970. Climb on the ridge to the east, then make our way back to the car. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 15-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba
Malaita Point, Katoomba, is a multi-pitch abseil which involves 7 abseils down into the valley. Longest abseil 40 metres. Most of the abseils are straight forward and would be good for members who have done the clubs abseil training, and an introduction to multi-pitch abseil trips. Exit will be via the Golden Stairs and Narrow Neck.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 15-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Mount Solitary and Ruined Castle via the Golden Stairs
There and back from the new Narrow Neck track, down Golden Stairs along the rainforest up to Ruined Castle down and to the top of Mount Solitary. A good walk for stretching the legs plus some fabulous views
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 15-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: The Caves above Carne Creek
Above Carne Creek not far fro the Glow Worm Tunnel Rd. are a number of spectacular cave-like overhangs of enormous size including Weather, Rain, Michelangelo, Gemini and Twin Arch Caves. Intention is to visit all of these and maybe a couple of others. This walk is usually done in conjunction with a walk out to Pyramid Rock in the creek valley, but we are not doing that on this walk. We do, however, ascend to the tops via the aptly named Miracle Slot. I have graded this walk as 4MH even though it is mostly off-track, but it does however, follow a known route and is not particularly hard or exposed. Only about 4.5 km so it will be a leisurely pace with plenty of time for enjoying the views and photography. This will be the third attempt at doing this walk in recent months after previous walks were cancelled because of flooding or road closure. The Glow Worm Rd is open for the school hols which has provided a window of opportunity to do the walk.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 14-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Tiger Snake and Penrose Canyons
The Glow Worm Tunnel Road is open for the school holidays then closed on Sunday 16 July. This is a good opportunity to visit two canyons. The road may be closed for some time. There will be an early start. Tiger Snake is a popular short canyon with four abseils suitable for beginners. The walk in is all on track. The final abseil is into a dark chamber. If time allows we can visit Penrose Canyon after Tiger Snake. It is a short, tightly constricted canyon with 3 abseils. Abseil 2 is very tight and is not for large people.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 14-Jul-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Vic falls to Pierce's Pass
Classic Grose Valley walk 9 km on track. 400 m descent, 500 m ascent . River crossing required rock hop or wet feet and expect a bit of a scramble in places as I expect the track is degraded in places due to flood events. Easy pace but a good level of fitness is required.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 10-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Franki Creek, Wentworth Falls
This walk in the headwaters Franki Creek, Wentworth Falls in which we will check out an old mining site. Permission has been granted to enter private property. Note very strict numbers and already booked out.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 09-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Cracks of Doom Abseil i
The Cracks of Doom are situated off Sunnyside Ridge on the Newnes Plateau. The road is in very bad condition with numerous potholes. Heavy duty 4WD vehicles are required. This adventure involves abseiling and squeezing through narrow cracks. The cracks are only a short walk from the vehicles. We abseil into the Diamond Cavern then use a rope to climb out of Crack of Doom Two. A walk along the cliff top brings us to Crack of Doom 1, a very tight squeeze. An alternative is a 25 m abseil. We return to the vehicles by a pleasant exit gully. Hazards include cliff edges and squeezing through narrow cracks. Bookings open on 3 July. No bookings before this date please.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 08-Jul-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Cabbage Tree Creek Tributaries
Park one car on T3 Trail at GR 811 986 and drive another one to GR 812 001. Descend into the gully to the west. Continue to or near Cabbage Tree Creek, then traverse south under the cliffs to a tributary at GR 801 990. Explore that gully upstream and exit near the first car at T3. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 08-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Mount Irvine
Walk to Tesselate Hill and then follow ridge down towards Wollangambe River. Wonderful area with interesting rock formations and great views.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 07-Jul-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Pierces Pass (Hungerfords Track) to Blue Gum Forest and return
14 km walking with a river crossing (rock hopping or cold feet - your choice). 500m descent and ascent. On-track. Lunch in the Blue Gum Forest and return via the same track. I am keen to see what is flowering at this time of year in the valley so will be moving at a leisurely pace.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 05-Jul-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes Abseiling Skills Development
Fun with Ropes will be conducted at the Mt Boyce training area. There are several bolted rock faces to practise abseiling and develop skills. This is a good opportunity to learn or practise tie offs, prussiking, self rescue, anchors and knots. Hauls systems and rescue will be demonstrated. If weather is favourable we may do Juggler Canyon in the afternoon.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 03-Jul-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Old Bonnie Doon Track, Katoomba
In March this year I led a series of cliff line walks at Katoomba, owing to the Six Foot Trackhead closed we could not complete them. The Boonie Doon Track of 1893, which has been overlooked for decades, still as sections of old stone steps and iron work. We will also check out Ethel Falls and the rare dwarf Blue Mountain pine.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 02-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Mt Hay-Venus Tor
Mt Hay carpark-Mt Hay-Escarpment-Venus Tor Remarkable views-interesting rock formations Rough tracks-pads. Steep scrambly ascent/descent.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 01-Jul-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Cathedral Cave and Diamond Cavern
Find out for yourself why this unique area must be better protected for future generations. We will visit two stunning locations – Cathedral Cave and Diamond Cavern, starting and finishing on a firetrail off Sunnyside Ridge Road. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 01-Jul-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Clerestory Pagodas (off Beecroft Fire Trail) Pagodas 7 and 8
These Pagodas are stunning they consist of a number of "fingers" . They are situated just past Lidsdale off the Beecroft Fire Trail. A The Trail is in good condition so the pagodas can be accessed from the fire trail. It is hoped that we can explore Pgodas 7 and 8. Reasonable ability in climbing up the ledges and a good head for heights
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 01-Jul-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Coinslot Canyon
Coinslot Canyon is right next to the camping ground at Glen Davis. The walk in and out is around 1 km and the canyon is quite short. The climb through the cliffs is challenging with some exposed ledges to negotiate. The scenery including Mt Canoble and Mt Gundunaroo is spectacular. The canyon has five abseils including the "coinslot" a narrow vertical crack with a 30m drop. This trip is suitable for experienced canyoners.
Map: Glen Alice
Sat - 01-Jul-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Devils Playground Abseil - Katoomba
The Devils Playground is several abseils around the Devils Hole area at Katoomba. Our trip begins with Whores Bed, two short abseils followed by a 30m abseil down the cliff face. We exit part way up Devils Hole and climb out to abseil Africa Wall, 40m, and then 20m down Out of Africa into Devils Hole. Again, we exit part way up Devils Hole and climb onto the chockstone for a spectacular 30m abseil.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 01-Jul-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper/Mid Hat Hill Ck
We will meet somewhere along Hat Hill Road and head down the canyoners track to Hat Hill Ck. We will cross the creek and walk in a large triangle: down the side of Hat Hill Ck, up the side creek and then back over the intervening ridge to Top Hat Spur. We will cross the creek again and ascend the opposite side using the climbers ropes to return to our starting point. This climb up is the only significant exposure on the whole trip. The standing rope makes it manageable. About 8k
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 26-Jun-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: The Barnacles
Walk from Bell, off the Bells Line of Road, in a northerly direction to The Barnacles. So named as the studded line of pagodas resemble barnacles on the side of a ship. Explore the area and return on a circuit walk back to the cars.
Map: Wollangambe
Sun - 25-Jun-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Narrowneck Lookout To Mt Solitary
Narrowneck Lookout-Golden Stairs-Ruined Castle-Mt Solitary-Chinamans Gully-Melville Lookout Classic Blue Mountains walk. Stunning views, beautiful rainforest. Recently reopened Mt Solitary track detours via ruined Castle adding approx' 300 metres to ascents. Total ascents approx' 1000 metres. Distance 19km. Some rough track, scrambling Fit experienced bushwalkers.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 24-Jun-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Beecroft "Clerestory" Pagodas
These fascinating pagodas are so close to Lithgow, this time we will be exploring fingers 4 and 5. The advantage is that the Beecroft Trail is accessible to 4WD's from the road to the Wolgan Valley.
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 24-Jun-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Wolgan Falls Abseil
There are 5 abseils, four up to 30 metres and one 35 metre abseil. This is a dry trip down the side of this thunderous waterfall. There is a 5klm walk on a fire trail to the start of the trip.
Map: Lithgow
Mon - 19-Jun-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Fortress Ridge, spurs
Explore some of the spur lines off Fortress Ridge, Mount Hay Road, Leura.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 17-Jun-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Circuit from Bells Line of Road via Jinki and Kamarah Ridges
From Bells Line Of Road near Bell, we follow Jinki Ridge before descending to Jungaburra Brook which is crossed a few times before ascending to Jungaburra Ridge followed by Kamarah Ridge and then returning to Bells Line Of Road. This is a spectacular area containing pagodas, gullies, cliffs and views of the Grose Gorge. Tracks, off-track, ascent of a 5m rockface using climbers' fixed steel rungs and fixed rope, scrambling and creek crossings. Off-track slip and trip hazards and the slight chance of wet feet on creek crossings. Must be agile enough to climb fixed steel rungs on a rockface. Will be meeting at Mt Victoria Station which I hope to leave by 0830.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 17-Jun-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: The Caves above Carne Creek CANCELLED DUE TO ROAD CLOSURE Cancelled
Above Carne Creek in the G.O.S. Nat Park are a number of spectacular cave-like overhangs of enormous size including Weather, Rain, Michelangelo, Gemini and Twin Arch Caves. I intend to visit all of these and maybe a couple of others. This walk is usually done in conjunction with a visit to Pyramid Rock in the creek valley but we are not doing that on this walk. We do however, climb back to the top of the escarpment via the aptly named miracle slot. I have graded this walk as 4MH even though it is mostly off-track, but it does follow a well-travelled route and is not hard in any way. Only about 3-4km so it will be a liesurely pace with plenty of picture taking opportunities and an early arrival back at the cars. Access is off the Gloworm Tunnel Rd. via a short drive along Firetrail No 7.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 16-Jun-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Hollow Rock and Crawford Lookout overlooking Wollemi Creek / Colo River Junction
Drive out on the Culoul Range from the Putty Road - walk to Hollow Rock and Crawford Lookout overlooking Wollemi Creek / Colo River Junction. Great views of the upper colo and the junction of Wollemi Creek joining the Colo. Walk is about 7km mostly on foot pad. Plan would be to carpool to get to Putty Road and preface is to only take 2 or 3 high clearance or 4WD in on the Culoul Range trail, lovely trail into the Wollemi.
Map: Six Brothers
Mon - 12-Jun-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Lycon Plateau
Our fourth exploration along the Lockley Pylon Track to explore the Lycon Plateau last Monday was cut short as the gate on Mount Hay Road was closed, there was a sign saying open for next weekend. So, we will try again.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 11-Jun-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Spiral
Spiral Canyon is located off the Deans Creek Trail on the Newnes Plateau. There a four abseils. The walk in and out is five km fire trail and one km through thick bush. Spiral is a short canyon, good in Winter because it is dry. The exit along Deans Creek is pleasant walking. The return to the fire trail involves a scramble up a rock face then one km through thick regrowth Map: Mt Morgan
Map: Mt Morgan
Sat - 10-Jun-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Castle Head multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba
A 6 abseil trip along a narrow ridge with spectacular views down Cedar Valley and Jamison Valley. Longest abseil 45m, some exposure in places, between abseils and some serious scrambling to get to some of the abseils. It is a 5klm walk from Narrow Neck Lookout, where we start and finish the walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 10-Jun-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Discover the Miners Route to the Golden Stairway
Discover the Miners Route to the Golden Stairs Starting at Furbers Steps,the Miners Route, return by the Federal Pass. The route starts just before the landslide is very overgrown and indistinct a lot of the time but worth discovering again. A nice easy walk back along the Federal Pass and return by Furbers Steps
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 05-Jun-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Lycon Plateau
This will be our fourth exploration along the Lockley Pylon Track. This walk will explore the Lycon Plateau area.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 03-Jun-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Bushwalk Anvil Rock, Bennett LO and Hat Hill Creek
This is an exploratory walk around the cliffs of Hat Hill Creek, taking in some little known passes. A car shuffle will be set up between Hat Hill car park and Anvil Rock. Beginning at Anvil Rock we follow the cliff line NW to Bennett LO then descend part way down Brownes Path above the Grose Valley. There are some exposed sections. Returning to the cliff top we walk S on Bald Head Ridge then follow a track SW on a ridge leading to the end of Hat Hill Creek. There is some scrambling to reach the creek and a rope may be used. Below is a lovely waterfall through circular holes in the rock above. We continue a short distance along Hat hill Creek then return to the ridge that takes us to Hat Hill and our vehicles.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 03-Jun-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba
Malaita Point, Katoomba, is a multi-pitch abseil which involves 7 abseils down into the valley. Longest abseil 40 metres. Most of the abseils are straight forward and would be good for newer members who have done the clubs abseil training, and an introduction to multi-pitch abseil trips. Exit is via Furber Steps. Not a long day.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 29-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Wilkinson Hill
Walkout along Jinki Ridge and walk the permitter of Wilkinson Hill and enjoy the views over the Grose Valley. A half day walk
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 27-May-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Boars Head Multi-pitch Abseil - Katoomba
Five pitch, dry abseil trip with spectacular views and an exciting, exposed traverse along the "slot". Longest abseil 50m. Some exposure, especially in the "slot". A safety rope will be in place for the slot. The trip ends with a walk out up Devil's Hole. Trip requires a head for heights.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 27-May-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Nature Trail and Caroline Pool at Wentworth Falls/Leura
This walk was originally posted as “The 3 passes at South Leura”. Please note the change regarding this walk. Last Monday while walking nearby I noticed on the Parks signs that this area had been closed. This walk has been changed as the National Parks have closed these passes due to rock falls on Lindemans/Roberts. Thanks also to Mike C for his input regarding the track closures. The revised walk (grade 3) will follow the Nature Trail & visit an historic track to Caroline Pool at Wentworth Falls/Leura.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 27-May-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: : Terraced Gully, Blacksmiths Amphitheatre and Long Gully
The walk starts at GR 744 018 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk on D’Arcy Range to Perforated Rock, then use Terraced Gully to descend into Blacksmiths Creek. Walk upstream, visit Blacksmiths Amphitheatre and take Long Gully back to the range. Partly exploratory. About 11 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 27-May-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Zorro and Pleasant View Canyons
Zorro Canyon is situated on the Birds Rock Fire Trail, off Sunnyside Ridge on the Newnes Plateau. Sunnyside Ridge Road has many pot holes and puddles. The fire trail to the canyon is eroded in parts. 4WD vehicles are required so let me know if you have a 4WD or need a lift when you apply to join. . NPWS has closed the fire trail to vehicles about 500m from Zorro canyon so extra walking is necessary. Zorro is an ideal slot canyon for beginners. It has 4 abseils and some narrow dark sections. The short walk in and out through thick regrowth allows time to visit Pleasant View Canyon on the opposite side of the ridge. Pleasant View is an enjoyable walk through canyon (no abseil). I expect we will push through thick bush to reach the canyon.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 22-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Mount Haystack
This is an exploratory walk from Bells Line of Road, along Haystack Ridge.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 21-May-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Blacksmiths Creek Pools and More
The walk starts on D’Arcy Trail at GR 744 018. Walk north on the ridge to about GR 748 032 and descend under cliffs, then traverse to GR 746 037. Follow the gully down to Blacksmiths Creek. Continue downstream to GR 757 038 or GR 761 036, if time allows. Climb back on the ridge and walk back to the start. Partly exploratory. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 21-May-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Faulconbridge To Springwood Via Numantia Falls
Faulconbridge-Numantia creek-Numantia Falls- Sassafras Ridge-Sassafras creek-Glenbrook creek-Perch Ponds-Magdala Gully -Springwood. Beautiful rainforest, Aboriginal engravings, art caves. Some easy scrambling. Short section offtrack. Mainly good Bush tracks
Map: Springwood
Sat - 20-May-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Jamison Valley Traverse CANCELLED Cancelled
Classical walk about 20 km, from Kedumba Pass across Mt Solitary to the Golden Stairs. At least 500 metres very steep up to Mt Solitary knoll. Crossing of the Kedumba River before Mt Solitary climb. and climbing up the Golden Stairs just to finish. Fit walkers only please
Map: Jamison
Sat - 20-May-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: North of Wollangambe Crater
We will park at the gate at the end of the Wollangambe Fire Trail (498952). From there a walking track leads SSE to the Wollangambe River. Instead of following that track, we will follow a parallel ridge, slightly to the E, until it meets the cliffs that form the Northern edge of Wollangambe Crater. Then we will traverse West and South, perhaps as far as 508925, before returning along the track to the car.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 19-May-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Canyon Rescue Training
Canyon / abseil rescue training is oriented towards members leading canyon / abseil activities and covers procedures to rescue abseilers from above either by lowering, hauling or pickoff. We will also discuss and demonstrate methods of rigging to facilitate rescue like releasable anchors . This training will be conducted at either Yellow Rock (Winmalee) or Mt York pending NSWNP permission. This training is designed for leaders or members with advanced abseil skills so we reserve the right to give priority to those members.
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 19-May-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Victoria Falls Road - Ikara Head Valhalla Head
Park on Victoria Falls Road - Walk a circuit out to Ikara Head then onto Valhalla Head. Mostly track or footpad. Great views into the Upper Grose. Approx. 10km
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 17-May-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Teetering Cliffs and Maelstrom Caves
The walk starts on D’Arcy Trail at GR 742 016. Descend into a gully to the west, then make our way to the start of Teetering Cliffs at GR 737 027. Traverse north to Maelstrom Caves. Exit on the ridge and walk back to the start. Partly exploratory. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 15-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Jacktrackers Cave, Flagstaff Hill, Bell
Walk the original road behind Watertrough Hill and check out the old dated watertrough than to Flagstaff Hill to check out Jacktrackers Cave and its tunnel and surrounds.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 14-May-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Two Tributaries of Blacksmiths Creek
Probably a short day. The walk starts at GR 694 965 on Bowen Hill Trail. Drop into a gully to the south east at around GR 701 966 and follow it to Blacksmiths Creek, turn right and then walk up the gully, turning right at the fork at GR 706 958. Walk back to Bowen Hill Trail. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 14-May-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper Wollangambe
We meet at the start of the Wollagambe Crater track on Sandham Road, just over 1 km down from the junction with Bells Line of Road. (Sandham Road is 200m east of the junction of BLOR with Darling Causeway). We follow the Wollangambe Crater track for the first 3 km to Submarine Rock, then head NWN to the Wollangambe. Crossing over involves taking your boots off, or getting your feet wet, so a hand towel is useful. There is a dramatic but entirely safe ascent up a pass discovered by Rob and Lisa which leads to a great “flying carpet” point for morning break. We will follow the ridge NW, an attractive stroll past the pagodas (23 of them, I know because last time I climbed them all). Then we drop down SW to Wollangambe River, and head up to the Goochs Crater track and Sandham Road. Est 6 hrs.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 13-May-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Exploring South Lawson & Hazelbrook
A large circuit walk starting at South Lawson via the old track to South Hazelbrook. Then visit Terrace Falls & explore the old Western Track that I found in 1972 & cleared. Then visit the original site of Picnic Point, not the one shown on the map. Then we go off track & via the beautiful gorge & rainforest of Lawson ck to visit the rarely seen Leslie Falls & then climb up to join the track to visit Federal,Junction & Adelina Falls with its beautiful hanging swamp at South Lawson.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 12-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Lockleys pylon, Du Faurs head, Yardleys cave
Very scenic walk along ridge towards Grose Valley, before crossing gully to cave. Some scrambling, but not much ascent/descent.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 08-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Armchair Spur, Blackheath
A number of small spur lines radiate of Burramoko Ridge, Ridgwell Road, Blackheath. One of which is Armchair Spur. We will check out the general area. A short walk and early finish.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 07-May-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Clean Up Marijuana Canyon
Marijuana Canyon is a short, not often visited canyon, situated off the Bells Line of Road near Mt Charles. It was the site of an extensive marijuana "plantation" many years ago. Plastic sheeting has broken down and fragments can be found further downstream in Bowens Creek. The plan is to remove plastic sheeting, plastic pipes, wire netting, other rubbish and carry it out in garbage bags. Gloves will be required. There is short but steep walk into the canyon and out again. No abseils are involved. Bushwalkers and canyoners are very welcome. The operation should take half a day.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 07-May-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Leura to Wentworth Falls via Gladstone Pass
Leura station-Leura Cascades-Lindeman Pass Gladstone Pass-Conservation Hut-Wentworth Falls station. Stunning views, waterfalls, rainforest, rugged terrain. Pass through old landslides. Some rough track, scrambling. Adventurous day out.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-May-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Constance Point Cancelled
From the Tiger Snake Canyon car park, we will walk North to Constance Point, exploring pagodas and slots on the way. If time and energy permits, on the return journey, we will cross Bells Folly and climb the first pagoda stack to the North of Tiger Snake Canyon.
Map: Mt Morgan
Sat - 06-May-2023 2 EM - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes Abseiling Skills Development
Fun With Ropes days are a good opportunity to practise and learn abseiling skills. Saturday's session is intended for people new to abseiling and will focus on abseiling technique, tie offs and prussiking. Members with be able to try VT prussiks and a range of descenders. The venue is Mt Boyce near Blackheath. Experienced canyoners may drop in at any time during the day and can use this session to practise rope skills and learn from each other.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-May-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: See the Lost City before....
See the Lost City before the adventure precinct opens! https://www.sydneytimes.net.au/gardens-of-stone-and-the-lost-city-adventures/ We will approach the Lost City from the south along one of the long ridges from the south. The hillside is the closest I've seen in the Blue Mountains to an English moorland! We will climb up to the Lost City before returning to the cars via another magnificent open spur. Hopefully the cabins will not have been built on the spur nor will the zipline obstruct our view!
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 06-May-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Witches Watch, Hecates Cauldron and Tara Point
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone must be better protected for the future generations. Park the vehicles at around GR 306 175 on the branch road off the Bicentennial National Trail. Follow the Great Dividing Range north to Gordian Knot and then to Witches Watch, a spectacular lookout above Hecates Cauldron. From here, descend into the Cauldron and explore it underneath the cliff lines and also above, amidst “the bubbles”. Visit the Tower of Hope and other features. Descend into the headwaters of Baal Bone Creek, cross the valley and climb up through Tara Slot onto Tara Point. More amazing views. From here, move up to the ridge and re-connect with the vehicles. Scrambling and exposure. About 10 km.
Map: Ben Bullen
Mon - 01-May-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Gladstone Coal Mine infrastructure walk No. 3
This time we will walk down Roberts Pass (which we have obtained permission from NPWS) to the mine adits. We hope to find the large sheave (wheel) that was part of the endless cable way and anything else related to the mine. When there we will decide whether to return back via Roberts Pass of via Gladstone Pass.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 29-Apr-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Boars Head Multi-pitch Abseil - Katoomba
Five pitch, dry abseil trip with spectacular views and an exciting, exposed traverse along the "slot". Longest abseil 50m. Some exposure, especially in the "slot". A safety rope will be in place for the slot. The trip ends with a walk out up Devil's Hole. Trip requires a head for heights.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 29-Apr-2023 4 MH - Pack Walk: Kedumba River Valley Camp
Kedumba Road Locked Gate-Kedumba River Valley Campsite. Wide, open grassy campsite. An abundance of kangaroos, wallabies, wombats. Ample time to explore historic ruins, streams, some old tracks. Stunning views of surrounding escarpment from valley. Return similar route to locked gate on Sunday.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 29-Apr-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Ridge and ledges East of Crayfish Creek
From Crayfish Creek, the ridges and ledges to the East look to be worth a bit of an explore. We will follow one of the ridges from Burramoko Hill down to the creek, then traverse around the ledges for a short distance before crossing the creek and returning via Burra Korain Ridge. The middle third of the walk will be off-track and exploratory for the leader. There may be some rock scrambling but it should be a fairly short, fairly easy walk.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 29-Apr-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: The Caves above Carne Creek
Above Carne Creek are a number of spectacular cave-like overhangs of enormous size including Weather, Rain, Michelangelo, Gemini and Twin Arch Caves. Intend to visit all of these and maybe a couple of others. This walk is usually done in conjunction with a visit to Pyramid Rock in the creek valley but we are not doing that on this walk. We do however ascend to the tops via the aptly named Miracle Slot. Have graded the walk as 4MH even though it is off track but as it follows a known route and is not particularly hard in any way I feel it doesn't warrant a 5. Only about 3-4km so it will be a leisurely pace with an early finish.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 24-Apr-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Gladstone Coal Mine infrastructure walk No. 2
After successfully finding the location of the Dam and the Tension Pit. In Walk 2 we follow the aerial ropeway to the Winder Foundations and thence to the top of the cliff line to see what remains of the supports for the ladders which gave access to the mine below in 1885.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 24-Apr-2023 4 MH - Pack Walk: Splendour Rock - Anzac Day Service
Pack Walk - Monday 24th April to Tuesday 25th April. The walk will start at Carlons Farm, in the Megalong Valley and out to Splendour Rock and return.14 klm walking each day. It will be a 5.30 am rise on Anzac Day for dawn service at 6.00 am. This site is the bushwalkers memorial site where a plaque was placed in 1948 and the services commenced from that date. The walk is along tracks all the way with a couple of steep climbs. Water is not available at the campsite and needs to be carried about 2 klm. Tent and cooking equipment required.
Map: Jenolan
Sun - 23-Apr-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Glenbrook-Kanuka Brook Circuit
Glenbrook creek-Kanuka Brook-Crayfish Pool- Redhands Cave-Jellybean Pool-Glenbrook. Scenic walk following several creeks. Three interesting passes. Explore some beautiful rock overhangs. Aboriginal art.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 22-Apr-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Abseil Training for Beginners
The training day at Mt York is intended for members who walk with UBMBC and who have not abseiled previously. It will cover ropes, anchors and equipment, safety checks, personal anchors, abseiling technique and belay. The venue at Mt York, has three progressively steeper cliff faces that are ideal for training. Following the training we drive to Medlow Bath where we put skills into practice in Juggler Canyon – which has 6 abseils. The day ends with a lovely walk through part of the Grand Canyon. Members who complete the training successfully will be approved to attend easier canyons on the UBMBC program. You will need a helmet, harness, carabiner and descender. Equipment must be approved to European or North American safety standards. Bicycle helmets and helmets from other sports are not acceptable. Do not buy new equipment until after the course. Borrow equipment for the training day or I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Walkers and Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least three bushwalks with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek ) When you apply for the training day please mention the walks you have completed with our club and the non-abseil canyon you have done. Canyoning involves carrying wet suits, ropes and equipment as well as scrambling over slippery rocks and climbing in steep, rugged country. A suitable level of fitness and agility is required. Bookings open on 17 April, 2022. Enquiries are welcome but no bookings before 17 April.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 22-Apr-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Blackfellows Hand Cave and surrounds
Explore interesting pagodas, caves and slots in the area with great views of Wolgan Valley. Possible wet feet.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 22-Apr-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Porters Pass - Centennial Glen - Porters Pass
A circuit walk via Porters Pass to beautiful Centennial Glen & down the old valley track & return via Porters Pass, Blackheath. This track was once used to access Kanimbla Valley from 1830 to 1920. Mostly on track with some off track & is suitable for all, especially new members.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 21-Apr-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson Road Area - Lambertia ridge back to Bogey Holes then up Old Mt Wilson Road to Mt Wilson.
Starting at Red Hill on Mt Wilson Road, walk Lambertia ridge to west of Road, back to Bogey Holes then up Old Mt Wilson Road to Mt Wilson. Section on Lambertia Ridge is off track, rest of walk is on track or firetrail. Views open heath, scribbly gum, rainforest. Approx. 9km
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 19-Apr-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Cliffs and Ravines West of Spot Height 673 m
The walk starts at Bowen Hill Trail, GR 708 991. Walk to spot height 673 m, then north west and descend into a gully. Continue clockwise around the cliffs till about GR 702 005. Climb to the ridge and walk back to the start of the walk. Exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 17-Apr-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Gladstone coal mine. Dam and Tension Pit
In 1885 Gladstone Coal Mine hauled the coal from the valley to near the GWH via a wire tramway. We will check the remains of the dam used for the steam engine and the Tension Pit for the cableway. Maybe wet feet.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 16-Apr-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Ravine East of Bowen Hill
The walk starts at Bowen Hill Trail, GR 703 977. Walk east then north on a ridge and descend into a gully at about GR 712 982. Continue down the watercourse and then clockwise around the cliffs till about GR 979 990. Climb to the ridge and walk back to the cars. Exploratory. About 11 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 15-Apr-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point multi-pitch abseil
Malaita Point, Katoomba, is a multi-pitch abseil which involves 7 abseils down into the valley. Longest abseil 40 metres. Most of the abseils are straight forward and would be good for members who have done the clubs abseil training, and an introduction to multi-pitch abseil trips. Exit is via Furber Steps. Not a long day.
Map: Katoomba
Tue - 11-Apr-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Cliffs North West of Spot Height 634 m
Rescheduled from 04/04/23. The walk starts at Bowen Hill. Walk north from there to Spot Height 634. Turn west and descend under cliffs at around GR 706 018. Follow the cliff line clockwise, exploring for caves and other features. Exit at GR 713 023 and walk back to the start of the walk. Exploratory. About 12 km. Scrambling and exposure. 5M. M333E
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 09-Apr-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Wentworth Falls Scenic Circuit.
Wentworth Falls station-Nature Track-Empress Falls-Undercliff Track-Lincoln Rock-Overcliff Track-Wentworth Falls Visit the main waterfalls-Valley of the Waters-linked by Scenic Undercliff track.Superb views at Lincoln Rock. Check out some rough historic tracks from Lincoln Rock to Rocket Point. Walk has a lot of variety with great views-beautiful waterfalls.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 08-Apr-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Dicksonia Ravine
Time to revisit Dicksonia a beautiful rainforest gully and its twin. Near Deep pass and the road in is evidently in good repair. If time and scrub permit might rediscover "Upper Bluey's pass" which has great views over the pagoda maze
Map: Rock Hill
Sat - 08-Apr-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Pink Star Cave and More
Early start. The walk starts at GR 744 018 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk north, then north east on a ridge and descend into Blacksmiths Creek at GR 761 036. Climb north up the ridge to the cliff line and follow it around to Pink Star Cave. Descend to Blacksmiths Creek via a gully to the south. To make the ascent, take either a gully to the west, or Long Gully to the south east. Walk back to the start. Partly exploratory. About 12 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 07-Apr-2023 4 MH - Pack Walk: Kosciuscko National Park 3 day hike - Australia’s 11 highest peaks
Australia’s 11 highest peaks , This is a loop walk, we start and finish at Charlottes Pass. Day 1: Charlottes Pass to Cootapatamba Hut. Approx 13km. 1: Mount Stillwell 2054m. Kosciuszko Lookout. 2: North Rams Head 2177m, we can leave our packs here and set up camp for the night, south-east onto the ridge, then go to 3: Rams Head 2190m, and if time we can venture down to Cootapotamba Hut if we are feeling energetic. Or camp near Cootapotamba Hut. Day 2: Camp to Lake Albina. Approx 17km. 4: Etheridge Ridge 2180m. 5: Mount Kosciuszko 2228m. Drop packs off near 6: Muellers peak 2125 and then off to explore 7: Abbott Peak 2145m. 8: Mount Townsend 2209m, 9: Alice Rawson Peak 2160m. Camp near Albina Pass at a flat spot below the ridge, or near Wilkinson creek. Day 3: Camp to Charlottes Pass. Approx 19km. 10: Mount Northcote 2131m. 11: Mt Lee 2105. 12. Carruthers Peak 2145m. 13: Watsons Crags, 2136m, 14: Mount Twynam 2195m. And on the way down off the range we can go check out Blue Lake for a quick dip in the cool alpine water. Contingency plan: If it is blowing a gale and is not safe to walk on the main range we can go in via Guthega Power station (Munyang) to Whites River Hut, Horse Camp Hut, Schlink Hilton Hut or Mawsons Hut. Or in via Round Mountain Hut, Derschko’s Hut and up to Jagungal. Plenty of options available.
Map: Not Specified
Wed - 05-Apr-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: East Creek Glories Part 2
This walk has been postponed twice, due to weather. 3rd time lucky? My previous East Ck walk only covered about half of the full walk. This time we will enter and return via the original exit point, at the southern end of the walk. In my opinion, the southern part of the walk is the more spectacular part. It also means that if the track is too rough or overgrown we can turn back if needed.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Tue - 04-Apr-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Cliffs North West of Spot Height 634 m Deferred
The walk starts at Bowen Hill. Walk north from there to Spot Height 634. Turn west and descend under cliffs at around GR 706 018. Follow the cliff line clockwise, exploring for caves and other features. Exit at GR 713 023 and walk back to the start of the walk. Exploratory. About 12 km. Scrambling and exposure. 5M. M333E
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 03-Apr-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore side spurs off Burramoko Spur, Blackheath.
We will explore some of the side spurs off Burramoko Spur which in turn leads off in a north east direction off Burramoko Ridge, Ridgewell Road, Blackheath. There are 4 named short spurs.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 01-Apr-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Suspended Barbican Traverse
This unique area, part of the Gardens of Stone region, has an active coal mine underneath it. Find out why it must be better protected for future generations. Park cars on the Genowlan Mountain Trail, walk to Genowlan Trig. From there, head south east to the cliff line and follow it north east. Descend at around GR 265 319 below the cliffs, then traverse south west and enter Suspended Barbican from the northeastern side. Walk through Suspended Barbican, descend on the southwestern side and climb through Ultimate Chute to regain the cliff tops. From here, walk back to the cars. Scrambling and exposure. About 10 km.
Map: Glen Alice
Fri - 31-Mar-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Ravines West of Bowen Hill
The walk starts at around GR 694 971 on Bowen Hill Trail. Descend into a ravine to the north and follow it down, exploring for caves and other points of interest. Exit up a gully at GR 700 998. Depending on the available time, a few other gullies may be added to this trip. Exploratory. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Wed - 29-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: East Creek Glories Part 2 Deferred
This walk was previously postponed due to weather. My previous East Ck walk only covered about half of the full walk. This time we will enter and return via the original exit point, at the southern end of the walk. In my opinion, the southern part of the walk is the more spectacular part. It also means that if the track is too rough or overgrown we can turn back if needed.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 27-Mar-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Cliff line exploration along the western side of Narrow Neck
When we could drive along Narrow Neck to the locked gate, we never bothered to see what we might have missed on the way, such as the small side tracks, any Aboriginal sites, trigs etc. Time to explore in detail.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 26-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Rock Island bush walk
Rock Island, on the Newnes Plateau, is surrounded by Deans Creek and its tributaries forming an isolated "island" of pagodas. The walk has great variety with rocky terrain, slots, huge pagodas including "The Tower", overhangs, hidden passes and wild flowers. The Newnes Plateau road is in good condition. This walk will be conducted at a slower pace. You are invited to explore this fascinating area.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 25-Mar-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Leura-Copeland Pass circuit
Leura station- Leura Cascades-Lindeman Pass Copeland Pass-Sublime Point-Clifftop Track Leura. Combines two historic passes. Rough terrain. Superb views, waterfalls, rainforest. Rope assisted steep ascent up Copeland Pass to Sublime Lookout. Agile fit adventurous walkers.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 25-Mar-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt York - Coxs Rd - Lawsons Long Alley Loop
Meet at Lawson Long Alley Car Park (Mt York) walk to Mt York - descend via Coxs Road to Hartley Vale and return via Lawson Long Alley track
Map: Hartley
Sat - 25-Mar-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Pantoneys Crown
An Iconic and challenging walk. We approach via the Northern end through private property (permission has been granted). 12 km total length, ascent/descent 600m. There are 2 rock climbs involved where a tape will be set and a section of very steep ascent/descent over rocky ground. We traverse the entire length and return via the same route. Not walked since 2019 so there may be some thick undergrowth and erosion to deal with.
Map: Ben Bullen
Fri - 24-Mar-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Prussik Practice and Tie offs for Canyoners
This training day near Blackheath will focus on 1 Tying off - hard and soft lock offs on descenders, leg wrap, and bum wrap. 2 Ascending with prussik cords - tying a prussik knot, points of safety, descending, locking off, climbing with prussiks locking off and descending. We intend to finish early afternoon. Participants must be approved for canyoning with UBMBC and have checked the canyoning waiver.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 22-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: East Creek Glories Part 2. 4MH Deferred
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone SCA must be better protected for the future generations. My previous East Ck walk only covered about half of the full walk. This time we will enter and return via the original exit point, at the southern end of the walk. In my opinion, the southern part of the walk is the more spectacular part. It also means that if the track is too rough or overgrown we can turn back if needed.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 20-Mar-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore the location of the Flying Fox on Narrow Neck.
A flying fox was used to transfer materials from the top of Narrow Neck for the construction of the Ruined Castle Mine. We will endeavour to locate the position above the cliff line.
Map: Jamison
Sat - 18-Mar-2023 3 MX - Creek: A circuit walk/swim/float from Mt Wilson Fire Station to Wollangambe 1 entry point via Du Faurs Creek, Bell Creek and the Wollangambe River.
A circuit walk from Mt Wilson Fire station to Du Faurs Creek via Joes Canyon, Bell Creek and the Wollangambe River, exiting at the normal entry point for Wollangambe 1. The whole trip is only about 5.5km but should be ideal on the forecast hot day. Wetsuits optional but I will be wearing one.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 18-Mar-2023 4 MH - Pack Walk: Bell to Wollangambe Crater pack hike
Bell Station-Centre of Universe Pagoda-Wollangambe River-Crater. Good introduction hiking- camping in Pagoda country. Drop our pack exploring pagodas along the way. Great campsite at the Crater. Rock-pools, views, rock overhangs, cave.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 18-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Box Creek and Banksia Falls
Box Creek Falls are situated in Kanangra and are a spectacular pink granite falls. We will enter up stream of the Falls at Banksia Falls. A magnificent area . Be prepared for wet feet but hopefully no more!!
Map: Kanangra
Fri - 17-Mar-2023 3 M - Canyon: Grand Canyon at night
Grand Canyon is a popular and easily accessible canyon that is known for its long constriction, sun beams and beautiful fern lined walls but at night it has stars of its own (glowworms) that sparkle on the walls. We will be using Single Rope Technique for the one and only 17 metre abseil so you would need to be comfortable abseiling on single rope. A rockclimbing helmet, abseiling gear, headtorch (with spare batteries) and a wetsuit is required. In the canyon there is scrambling on slippery rocks and logs, down small waterfalls, some wades and swims. We meet in Medlow Bath at 6:30pm and probably return to the cars around 11pm.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 17-Mar-2023 3 M - Day Walk: South of Bells Line of Road - Jinki Ridge cross Dalpura Creek to Dalpura Head
South of Bells Line of Road - Jinki Ridge cross Dalpura Creek to Dalpura Head - Park on Bells Line walk out Junki Ridge, find a way into Dalpura Creek cross to Dalpura Ridge / Head - walk back to Bells Line - Good views into the Grose some rock scrambling to cross Dalpura Creek.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 13-Mar-2023 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
Another walk with a purpose! This time we're investigating and recording some details of the Glen Tramway within the Jamison Valley, including the twin tunnels and the water supply. A short walk but rich in history.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 12-Mar-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook To Lapstone -Through The Gorge.
Glenbrook station-Glenbrook Creek-Blue Pool Jellybean Pool-Glenbrook Creek-Nepean River-Lapstone. Magnificent wild gorge yet so near to Sydney. Rock hop our way through the gorge following Glenbrook creek all the way to Nepean river. Colourful sheer sided cliffs- interesting rock formations. Beautiful rock pools for a dip or two along the way. Fit agile experienced rock-hoppers..
Map: Penrith
Sun - 12-Mar-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Tiger Snake Canyon
Tiger Snake is situated on the Newnes Plateau near the Old Coach Rd. It is an ideal canyon for less experienced canyoners. The walking through great pagoda country will be at a leisurely pace. There are 4 abseils. The final abseil, 25m, into a dark chamber is spectacular. The walk in and out is 5km each way. Tiger Snake is a dry canyon. There is a knee deep pool at the base of abseil two. After it the canyon is completely dry.
Map: Mt Morgan
Sat - 11-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Glenbrook, Jack Evans Track, No Name Ridge, Erskine Creek
The walk starts at the car park at the top of Jack Evans Track, but we will meet at Glenbrook Park entrance. We head down the JE track to just short of Erskine Creek then turn south up to No Name Ridge. On reaching the summit we head ESE along the ridge. This offers a magnificent view of Erskine Creek on both sides of the ridge, and of the cliffs on Word Cave Hill to the north. The ridge is reasonably straightforward, but there is a little exposure. At a couple of points we have to take a detour to avoid an impasse before returning to the ridge. One such detour will involve the use of a tape. We arrive at Horseshoe Pool, possibly the best swimming pool in the Blue Mountains. Hopefully it will be warm enough for a swim. We then head back up Erskine Creek, west then north, before rejoining JE Track. Est. time 5-6 hrs, 7 km and 400 m ascent.
Map: Penrith
Fri - 10-Mar-2023 5 D - Canyon: Wollangambe 5
Co-leader Simon Wild. Another instalment of our Wollangambe exploration. Limited numbers. Leave some cars at Danes Way, Mount Irvine and drive to Boronia Point Trail, Mount Irvine. Descend to the Wollangambe. Walk/swim/boulder/scramble down the gorge to the planned exit point at GR 629 925. Climb out and reconnect with the vehicles. Bring helmet (mandatory) and dry bags. Wet suit strongly recommended. Lilo optional. Must be able to swim well. Scrambling and exposure. About 9 km.
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 08-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: East Creek glories
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone SCA must be better protected for the future generations. Park near spot height 1057 at GR 427 060. The walk will start by coming down into East Creek Galleries, then visiting a spectacular side ravine. We will move on to the West Side Falls and West Side Chamber; continue to East Creek Falls; then exit on the eastern side to visit the top of the falls. About 8k.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Wed - 08-Mar-2023 2 EM - Canyon: Two un-named canyons and Bowen North upper
Two short un-named canyons that flow into north Bowens (we also do 1 km of this) that Onni and I recently explored. Suitable for less experienced canyoners that have completed the UBMC abseiling training progam. The trip includes 2 or 3 abseils (
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 06-Mar-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Rainbow Cave and Numantia Falls
Faulconbridge and Springwood area - Parkes Gully - Rainbow Cave - Numantia Falls - Sassafras Ridge spur line - Sassafras Gully
Map: Springwood
Sat - 04-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Angus Place pagodas
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. We visit spectacular cliffs, overhangs, and pagodas, and there is even a tunnel with a micro-waterfall at the end of it (not flowing). We park at the bottom of Angus Place Trail and follow it for about 1 km. Then descend into a gully to the south west and traverse the extremely dissected pagoda terrain, generally following the cliff line, both below and above. Then exit to Angus Place Trail and walk back to the vehicles. About 7 km. Scrambling, exposure and a section of thick regrowth. It is slow through here, but not difficult, as the saplings are easily moved aside. As this is my first time leading a 4MH walk, I ask that all member must have done at least a 4MH walk with the club. Please confirm if booking by email. Limit 8.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 04-Mar-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Erskine Creek circuit
Monkey Ropes, Lincoln, and Erskine creeks. Dadder Cave-Blands Pool-Pisgah Rock. Magnificent rock pools, rainforest, views. Rock hopping, scrambling. Fit agile walkers
Map: Penrith
Sat - 04-Mar-2023 4 MH - Creek: Wollangambe 2
An opportunity as Saturday is forecast warm to have a swim/ float down Wollangambe 2.My favourite part of the river. if suitable we might have a look up the exit of Wheengee Whungee. Wet suits compulsory.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 27-Feb-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Upper Katoomba Creek
We will walk down the spur line from North Road, Katoomba and explore the first major bend of Katoomba Creek and area.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 27-Feb-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Wonder Caves and Maybe More
Limited numbers. The walk starts at Bowen Hill. From here, walk north on the ridge until about GR 716 017. Descend to the north east into Bowen Hill Creek, then traverse above the creek and/or walk in the creek upstream, exploring for caves and other features. Continue south as far as the time and energy allows, then climb back on the ridge and walk to the start. Partly exploratory. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 26-Feb-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Katoomba-Ruined Castle-Circuit.
Katoomba -Narrowneck- Lookout-Golden Stairs-Ruined Castle-Landslide-Furber Steps-Katoomba. Classic Blue Mountains walk. Stunning views, beautiful rainforest, waterfalls, interesting rock formations, giant boulders. Lunch atop Ruined Castle with panoramic views. Some rough tracks, easy scrambles. Walk accessible by public transport. (trains}
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 25-Feb-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Box Creek Falls Abseil - Kanangra
Box Creek Falls has about 8 abseils ranging from 8 metres to 65 metres. All these abseils have easy starts and are suitable for newer members. Most abseils are sloping and are next to waterfalls. Two of the abseils go through the waterfalls. Smooth granite walls descend 300 metres down to where we walkout back to the top of the falls.
Map: Kanangra
Sat - 25-Feb-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Crayfish Creek from Blackheath
Crayfish Creek is to be found in the valley that descends towards the Grose between Ridgewell Road and the track to Burra Korain. There will be some definite wades as we progress downstream and then explore a side canyon that comes in from the SE. An exit will be chosen that does not require a demanding scramble or climb.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 25-Feb-2023 2 EM - Canyon: Hat Hill Canyon
Hat Hill Canyon is suitable for those new to canyoning and there are no abseils. There are some short swims (swimming ability & wetsuits required) and a few scrambles. A canyoning helmet should be worn and shoes with good grip are required. The canyon finishes at a waterfall into the Grose Valley offering great views and some excellent swimming holes We will reverse the lower section of the canyon and walk up an easy gully to get to the return track.
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 23-Feb-2023 5 H - Day Walk: Recce. Angus Place Pagodas
Angus Place Pagodas was last walked by the club on 24 Aug 2022. It was graded 5H then. I havent done the walk before, so I plan to do a recce, following a gps trace kindly provided by Yuri. He said any difficult parts can probably be bypassed. I'm hoping to find a route that isnt difficult. If the recce is successful, I will lead the walk shortly afterwards. It would be much appreciated if up to 3 experienced offtrack walker would accompany me on the recce. Angus Place is near Lidsdale. We park at the bottom of Angus Place Trail and follow it till about GR 312 052. Descend into a gully to the south west and traverse the extremely dissected pagoda terrain, generally following the cliff line, for as long as the time allows. Exit to Angus Place Trail and walk back to the vehicles. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure. Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 20-Feb-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: The Pinnacles
This will be our third exploration off Mount Hay Road checking for natural and cultural sites.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 19-Feb-2023 2 EM - Abseiling: Better Offer Canyon
Better Offer is a short canyon off the Bells Line of Road. We walk in along Dalpura Ridge. There are six abseils - 17m, 15m, 5m, 5m, 32m and 3m. The canyon is mainly dry. The third abseil is into a chest deep pool but you are soon out again. The canyon is dry after the pool. The exit is under massive cliff walls above the Grose Valley. The rough track joins Birrabang Brook where we exit up a steep creek for excellent views from the pagoda above. The walk in and out is around 1 Km. This is a really good canyon for beginners.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 19-Feb-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollangambe Six
Co-leader Damon da Costa. The next instalment of our Wollangambe exploration. Limited numbers. Park on Danes Way, Mount Wilson and walk/scramble down to the exit of Wollangambe 5 at around GR 628 924. Walk/swim/boulder/scramble down the gorge for as long as the time and energy allow. Find an exit (a number of potential spots have been identified) and re-connect with the vehicles. Bring helmet (mandatory) and dry bags. Wet suit strongly recommended. Lilo optional. Must be able to swim well. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 10 km.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 18-Feb-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Gang Gang Canyon, Tunnels and Falls
Find out why this part of the Gardens of Stone SCA must be better protected for the future generations. Park at GR 398 038. Descend into Gang Gang Canyon and walk all the way through to Gang Gang Tunnels, visiting the cave at about GR 309 400, as well as the cave at GR 405 043. After exploring the Gang Gang Tunnels, turn south and walk to the falls at GR 407 045, whilst inspecting the caves along the way. Continue south to visit Lots Wife and the adjacent cave. Find a way out to the western side and re-connect with the cars. About 6km. All off track, some rock scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 17-Feb-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Wollangambe River Via DuFaurs Rocks
Bushwalk to the Wollangambe River Via DuFaurs Rocks 10km - Depart Mt Wilson Fire Station Explore DuFaurs Rocks and Pheasants Cave before heading off track on a good ridge, explore around Joes Canyon before joining the Wollangambe track to the Horseshoe Bend explore and lunch before heading back to Mt Wilson on the Wollangambe walking track (steep uphill many steps).
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 15-Feb-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Ikara Head loop via Girraween Cave
We start at Victoria Falls Rd and walk to Ikara Head on a good track for morning tea. Then return via Girraween Cave where we will cross the creek and return via the fire trail. There's a small section of easy off track. Approx 7 km half day walk with good views of the Grose Valley and Kamarah Bluff. About 170m total elevation gain and 3 hours walking time.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 13-Feb-2023 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
The investigation and recording of the Glen Tramway continues! This walk is essentially similar to the previous one to collect further evidence and data. It is a short walk from Nellies Glen Road in the Megalong Valley with time to check out some more specific details of this historic tramway as it existed below the western entrance to the Narrow Neck tunnel.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 12-Feb-2023 5 D - Canyon: Bowens Creek North Canyon Upper Section
No abseils but plenty of scrambling (use of rope), rock hopping, and short swims. We will do the extended version, starting at Mount Wilson Road and exiting at the entrance to the Bowens Creek North Lower (abseiling) section. Helmets are compulsory. Bring dry bags. Wetsuits recommended. About 8 km. Canyon Grade 3.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 12-Feb-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Faulconbridge Station-Numantia Creek-Numantia Falls-Sassafras Ridge-Glenbrook Creek-Victory Track-Faulconbridge
Faulconbridge Station-Numantia Creek-Numantia Falls-Sassafras Ridge-Glenbrook Creek-Victory Track-Faulconbridge. Nice summer walk with extended sections through cool rainforest. Short section offtrack with some easy scrambling down a neat creek. Interesting terrain. Rock overhangs, art cave, beautiful waterfall, aboriginal rock engravings, grinding grooves.Great rockpools for a cooling dip. 2 steep ascents each approx' 180 metres. Distance 11km.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 11-Feb-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Birrabang Brook
Birrabang Brook is situated off the Bells Line of Road. An attractive Brook where we will walk and wade down to where it goes down to the Grose Valley. No wet suits needed but maybe wading up to the knees. We will either retrace our steps or come out on Dalpura Ridge. A good summer activity
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 11-Feb-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Whungee Wheengee Canyon - Mt Wilson
Whungee Wheenge Canyon - Mt Wilson. Spectacular deep dark Canyon in the Wollangambe area. A sustained and tricky canyon with several tricky abseils and a fair bit of difficult scrambling. A bit of dark, cold swimming in the canyon and a lot more in the Wollangambe. There are dark and difficult duck unders if the water level is high. A long day involved. Good working torches required. Early start.
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 09-Feb-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Glen Davis Canyons
Glen Davis camping area is a base for some spectacular canyons. We will choose two from Freshwater Creek, Coinslot, Wowsers and Bullant (Doomsday) canyons. The two day trip, 9 and 10 February, involves camping overnight at the Glen Davis camping ground. The canyons are reached by climbing through the cliffs. Many technical abseils are involved. These are long days. This trip is for experienced canyoners. Bookings open with Geoff Fox on 6 February. no booking before that date please.
Map: Glen Alice
Wed - 08-Feb-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Hay and Venus Tor
The walk begins at Mt Hay car park and follows a walking track to the top of Mt Hay. Then down the other side, along a ridge and beside cliffs to Venus Tor. There are great views of the Grose Valley along the way. There is a moderately steep descent on the east side of Mt Hay. The route to access the top of Venus Tor is optional, and involves a short moderately exposed scramble with good footholds up to a ledge, which is initially narrow, but widens. After lunch, and enjoying the views, we retrace our route back to the Mt Hay car park. Total distance is around 6.5 km with about 350 m total elevation gain, and 4 - 5 hours walking time.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 06-Feb-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Cascades Peak to Tootie Cascades via Upper Tootie Cascades
Park on T3 Trail at GR 812 011 and proceed west to Cascades Peak. Descend from here to Upper Tootie Cascades and walk along the Creek to Tootie Cascades. Swimming opportunities. From here, my preference is to return via the gully rising towards the south east, but several other options exist, depending on the time available. Re-connect with the vehicles. Partly exploratory. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 06-Feb-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Flat Top, and surrounding area.
We will explore the natural and cultural features around Flat Top off Mount Hay Road, Leura.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 04-Feb-2023 4 MD - Canyon: Corkscrew and Bowens Creek South Canyons
Two beautiful canyons. No abseils. Plenty of rock hopping, scrambling and some narrow and slippery ledges to negotiate. Several swims. Helmets are mandatory. Bring dry bags. Wetsuits strongly recommended. Canyon Grade 2.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 04-Feb-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Lockley's Pylon and the Pinnacles
Walk to Lockley's to take in the view and deFaurs head if the group are interested. In the return we will check out the rock formations an archaeology of the Pinnacles. Some off track. Estimate about 10 km with deviations and around 200 m ascent/ descent. Suitable for new walkers and wanderers.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 04-Feb-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Perrys Lookdown - Du Faur Head - Lockley Pylon - Mount Hay Rd
To coincide with Tracie McMahon's Lockley Pylon walk on Saturday 4 February, I am planning a walk from Perrys Lookdown to join Tracie's group at Lockley Pylon. It is a rare opportunity to walk across the Grose Valley from Blackheath without the need for a long car shuffle. The walk is only approx. 10 km's, however, has a 600m descent / ascent, a river crossing, some mild exposure and some scrambling. We will also need to maintain a medium walking pace to meet Tracie's group at Lockley Pylon for morning tea. It will be a small group walk (up to 4 people including the leader) as we will need to fit all walkers into Tracie's vehicle for the return journey from Mt Hay Rd to Perrys Lookdown. The walk is programmed on the basis of the current favourable weather forecast.
Map: Mt Wilson
Tue - 31-Jan-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls is situated at the base of Macquarie Pass near Albion Park. The seven waterfalls are a short walk from the car park and are close together. The maximum forecast temperature is 28 degrees. Most of the abseils are in waterfalls or into pools so you are certain to get wet.
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 30-Jan-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Exploring for Aboriginal Sites at Flat Top off Mount Hay Road.
After the successful finds of Aboriginal sites off Rocklily Ridge last Monday we will explore and examine the Aboriginal sites around Flat Top off Mount Hay Road, Leura.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 29-Jan-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Nellies Glen-Devils Hole Circuit-Katoomba
Stuarts Road-Norths Lookout-Nellies-Bonnie Doon Falls- Six Foot Track-Devils Hole-Cahills Lookout. Stunning views from numerous lookouts along the walk. Waterfalls, rock overhangs. Beautiful rainforest ascent Devils Hole. .
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 28-Jan-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Dunns Swamp (Ganguddy) pagodas
It's about a 2 hour drive from Mount Victoria to Dunns Swamp (Ganguddy) but the amazing rock pagodas in this area make the long drive worthwhile. We will spend the day exploring a cluster of pagodas south of the Coricudgy Road. There will probably be quite a bit of rock scrambling involved.
Map: Olinda
Sat - 28-Jan-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Geronimo Canyon - Mt Wilson
Geronimo is a nice canyon with about 5 abseils, some with tricky starts. The longest abseil is 15 metres. There are a few wades and swims involved.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 28-Jan-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Grand Canyon Abseil
A very pretty canyon suitable for beginners. One 16m abseil, some swims so wetsuit &/or thermals recommended. Short day with an easy walk in and out on the tourist track. Helmet & abseil gear essential.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 25-Jan-2023 5 D - Abseiling: Claustral Canyon
Claustral is one of the best canyons in NSW, with the iconic abseil through the Black Hole of Calcutta, followed by 700m of epic canyon. This is a committing canyon with a long walk out so is only for fit and experienced canyoners.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 23-Jan-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Abseil Training for Beginners
The training day at Mt York is intended for members who walk with UBMBC and who have not abseiled previously. It will cover ropes, anchors and equipment, safety checks, personal anchors, abseiling technique and belay. The venue at Mt York, has three progressively steeper cliff faces that are ideal for training. The instructors are Anna Ossig and myself. Following the training we drive to Medlow Bath where we put skills into practice in Juggler Canyon – which has 6 abseils. The day ends with a lovely walk through part of the Grand Canyon. Members who complete the training successfully will be approved to attend easier canyons on the UBMBC program. You will need a helmet, harness, carabiner and descender. Equipment must be approved to European or North American safety standards. Bicycle helmets and helmets from other sports are not acceptable. Do not buy new equipment until after the course. Borrow equipment for the training day or I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Walkers and Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least three bushwalks with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek ) When you apply for the training day please mention the walks you have completed with our club and the non-abseil canyon you have done. Canyoning involves carrying wet suits, ropes and equipment as well as scrambling over slippery rocks and climbing in steep, rugged country. A suitable level of fitness and agility is required. Bookings open on 16 January, 2022. Enquiries are welcome but no bookings before 16 January.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 23-Jan-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Rocklily Ridge, Mount Hay
We will be exploring the rocky platforms and overhangs and top of the creeks near the western end of Rocklily Ridge. ie those areas within one kilometer of Mount Hay Road. Early finish.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 21-Jan-2023 4 MHX - Day Walk: Megalong ledges explore
Coming in from the Black's ladder end we'll explore along back towards Medlow bath.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 21-Jan-2023 4 MH - Creek: Upper Upper Bell Creek
Walk in from Watertrough Hill into Bell Creek and exit at the bottom of the long ridge back. A beautiful Creek with some long swims plus scrambling over rocks etc. Wet suits a must.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 20-Jan-2023 5 HX - Pack Walk: Pass 30a to the Colo and Knife-Edge North of Blacksmiths Creek
A 3-day adventure. Day 1 – Drive to Drip Rock Trail and leave vehicles there. Descend to the Colo via Pass 30a. Establish a base camp. Day 2 – Explore the knife-blade spur north of Blacksmiths Creek. Probably return via Blacksmiths Creek. Day 3 – Exit via Pass 30. About 20 km total. Brilliant swimming in between of walking. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Colo Heights
Fri - 20-Jan-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Sugar Loaf Mt to Mt Vic Pass via Little Hartley
Short half day walk via private access trail to Sugar loaf Mountain. Amazing views from a small slot cave to top over looking Kanimbla Valley. Rtn back along ridge and descend gully to zig zag along perimeter of Little Hartley farm and old Quarry to arrive at Bottom truck safety ramp on GWH
Map: Hartley
Tue - 17-Jan-2023 4 MH - Day Walk: Wheeny Gap and Waterfalls
Drive to the end of North Wheeny Gap Trail. Walk down to Lagoon Falls. Spend some time there, then continue to Wheeny Gap, with its magnificent pool and waterfall. Spend sone time there, then, scramble up the spur to the west and climb back to the cars. A half a day adventure. Scrambling, exposure, swimming. About 4 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 16-Jan-2023 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Creek
From Ridgewell Road, Blackheath we will follow the 132KV to the headwaters of Victoria Creek and follow downstream for about one kilometre and return back in a loop track. Hopefully wet to keep cool and an early finish before it gets too hot.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 14-Jan-2023 2 EM - Abseiling: Box Creek Abseil - Kanangra
Box Creek Falls has about 8 abseils ranging from 8 metres to 65 metres. All these abseils are suitable for newer members. Most abseils are sloping and are next to or in the water flow. Smooth granite walls descend 300 metres down to where we walkout back to the top of the falls. 4WDs required to reach the walking track to the falls.
Map: Kanangra
Sat - 14-Jan-2023 4 MHX - Canyon: To the Centre of the Universe and beyond - Bell to Mt Wilson via Wollangambe Canyon CANCELLED Cancelled
The plan is to go in via Bell, then down to Wollangambe Creator and then on down the Wollangambe River. I understand the first part of the river is a scramble and fairly slow but after that we get into the canyon proper with some long swims/wades/floats. Finally exiting via the Geronimo entry/exit track up to Mt Wilson Fire Station. For me this is an exploratory trip because I haven't done it before, although it is a known route. It is only 18km but some of it will be slow going so the plan is to do it as an overnight canyon trip. There are no abseils but there are some long water swims. So as well as wetsuits some sort of floatation is needed (lilos are not ideal as there is a fair bit of rock scrambling between swims). We will also need camping gear, food and suitable dry bags to keep sleeping bag etc dry. By the way we will visit the Center of the Universe on the way!
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 13-Jan-2023 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Softwood Logging Trails Explore - Waterfall Creek - The Throne - Daintree Road
Mt Wilson - Softwood Logging Trails Explore - Waterfall Creek - The Throne - Daintree Road - 6 7 km - Starting at Waterfall Reserve, visit the two WaterFalls, then explore old bullock trails deep in the rainforest, used to drag softwood timber to the mill, mill ruins then out to rocky outcrop called The Throne, good views over Bowens Creek, before exiting via Daintree Road, view over Mill Paddock and the area of steep rainforest on the south of Mt Wilson.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 11-Jan-2023 4 MD - Abseiling: Breakfast Creek Canyon
Breakfast Creek canyon is a short but spectacular canyon leading into Rocky Creek near Galah Mountain on the Newnes Plateau. There are several abseils up to 27m and then a creek walk back up Rocky Creek to the exit gully. The exit includes a scramble up a slightly exposed pagoda (see photos), but we can provide a belay if you want .
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 09-Jan-2023 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
The investigation and recording of the Glen Tramway continues! This is a short walk from Nellies Glen Road in the Megalong Valley with time to check out some further specific details of this historic tramway as it existed below the western entrance to the Narrow Neck tunnel. We'll be seeking out artefacts and recording the terrain.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 08-Jan-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Tootie Cascades via Long Ridge
Early start. Swimming opportunities along the way. Private property access has been arranged. Leave a few cars at GR 813 011 on T3 Trail and drive to the near end of Long Ridge Trail, GR 790 996. Walk north west and descend Long Ridge Knife-edge to Tootie Creek via Tootie Arch and Sombrero Hat Cave. Follow Tootie Creek downstream for about 4 km, until Tootie Cascades. Take the ridge to the south east to join with T3 walking track and from there, with the cars. About 9 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 07-Jan-2023 5 HX - Day Walk: Bowen Hill Creek
The walk starts at Bowen Hill. From here, walk north on the ridge until about GR 710 020. Descend to the north east into Bowen Hill Creek, then traverse above the creek and/or walk in the creek upstream, exploring for caves and other features. Continue south as far as the time and energy allows, then climb back on the ridge and walk to the start. Mostly exploratory. About 11 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 07-Jan-2023 4 MH - Creek: Du Faurs and October Creeks
A wade, swim down October Creek to Du Faurs then Clatter Teeth Canyon and Du Faurs to exit via Joes Canyon. A long day but a memorable one. Wet suits compulsory. Du Faurs is one of the most beautiful creeks. A real summer activity.
Map: Wollangambe
Thu - 05-Jan-2023 3 M - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon
A relatively short canyon on the south side of the Wollangambe accessed from Mt Wilson, Serendipity offers some good canyon sections and up to 6 abseils. It ends in the Wollangambe river where we wade back upstream to the exit. Suitable for less experienced canyoners. You must be able to swim to do this canyon.
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 29-Dec-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Hydro Tracks
Come and explore the historic network of tracks behind the Hydro Majestic Hotel created by master stonemason Murdo McLennan. The walk includes a brief tour of the hotel with insights into it's creator, the flamboyant and eccentric Mark Foy. We cross a boulder field so some rock scrambling is required. About 400m acent/decent.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 28-Dec-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Death Trap Canyon
Death Trap Canyon is a short canyon on the Newnes plateau near the Galah Mt turn off. Despite its name, Death Trap is so much fun! There are jumps, slides and one abseil (16m) in a waterfall. A short rainforest section leads to the “Death Trap”, a narrow crack which is the only way out. A huge overhang cave provides a pleasant setting for lunch then we exit past a great waterfall into a narrow slot. The canyon is only two km from where we park the cars. This canyon is suitable for less experienced canyoners. You must be a competent creek swimmer and confident with jumps and slides. The biggest jump is only 3 m. Death Trap canyon is also called “Sheep Dip”. To avoid confusion, I refer to this canyon as Death Trap. It is not the short canyon that joins Rocky Creek. An excellent video by Grant Elliot is included with the photos. The Bureau of Meteorology forecast for Newnes Plateau, Wed 28 Jan is : Temperature 10 to 26 degrees, no rain max wind speed 6 km/hr
Map: Cullen Bullen
Wed - 28-Dec-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper December Creek
From Bell we will follow a gentle ridge North to December Creek and return either along a grassy gully or the adjacent ridge. It should be a short and easy day, but has been assigned a grade 4 because it will be mostly off-track, there may be some short scrubby sections, and there will be some easy rock scrambling (no exposure).
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 24-Dec-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Hat Hill and Bald Head
A pleasant half day walk suitable for new walkers and wanderers - as my focus for these walks tends to be the flowers :). 7 km and a total of 300 m ascent/ descent. Some off track. Start Hat Hill carpark then out to Bald Hill via Bennett's LO. Retrace tour and return around back of Hat Hill to take in the varied environment.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 23-Dec-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Terraced Gully, Blacksmiths Amphitheatre and Long Gully
The walk starts at GR 744 018 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk on D’Arcy Range to Perforated Rock, then use Terraced Gully to descend into Blacksmiths Creek. Walk upstream, visit Blacksmiths Amphitheatre and take Long Gully back to the range. Partly exploratory. About 11 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Wed - 21-Dec-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Carmathen Ridge Yerra Crags 21st Dec 2022
The walk starts on the Mount Banks Road just a few hundred meters off Bells Line of Road. We head east along Carmathen Ridge to Yerra Crags. Distance 15 km, estimated walk time 8hrs, very much off track. The view to the south of Mount Dixon, Strzelecki and Mount Caley is the high point of the walk. We also pass south of the exit from Claustral Canyon. I suspect the full ridge is rarely walked. I last did it this walk with Peter Medbury in 2011. This is a hard walk along a ridge that is overgrown. We will be starting at 8 am. If progress is slow, we will head along the side ridge beforehand see attached map. This ridge has some aboriginal carvings. Peter Medbury calls it Stapleton Crag, after Granville Stapleton who spent several weeks measuring the ridges in the early 1800s.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 19-Dec-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Lockley Pylon and Yardley Cave
From Mount Hay Road walk out to Lockley Pylon and towards DuFaur Head and check out Yardley Cave and enjoy the views over the Grose. (This walk is rescheduled from the 28 November as the Mount Hay Road was closed).
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 18-Dec-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Mount Banks Three Lookouts Walk
This walk takes you to 3 of the less commonly visited lookouts on Mount Banks. The walk starts at the Mount Banks Picnic Ground with a 1 hr stroll along the fire trail to the south. We then follow a gentle ridge through a small cliff line to the Onion Rings. This is one of the best examples of this type of feature in the Blue Mountains. The lookout has a lovely view of the fire trail as it continues its diminishing way to David Crevasse, Zobel Gully and Explorers Range. We now cut across to Mount Banks Walls to the site of the famous 500m (or possibly 400m) abseil. This is a stunning lookout over the Grose Valley. Next we head up an overgrown ridge to Mount Banks trig point, and down to 270 Degree Panorama Point. This has a lookout back from the 500 m abseil all the way down and up the Grose Valley. Finally we head back to the tourist path and return to Picnic Point. Estimated time around 5 hrs.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 17-Dec-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Fortress Canyon
A nice, but not particularly deep canyon. A number of swims, 2 jumps into deep water and a 6m abseil ending in deep water (where you need to disconnect from the rope while treading water). Wetsuit recommended. The canyon section finishes at an 80m waterfall where we have lunch with spectacular views down the Grose Valley and (subject to temperature) a chance for a dip in one of the rock pools at the top of the waterfall. The exit track is along Fortress Ridge and again offers spectacular views down Govett Gorge and the Grose Valley. Suitable for new canyoners.
Map: Katoomba

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Activities from Earlier Programs