UBMBC | Past Activities

Activities from Earlier Programs

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
Sat - 17-Dec-2022 2 EM - Day Walk: Fortress Ridge Trail and Fortress Rock Lookout
Starting at the Fortress Ridge carpark we will make our along the Fortress Ridge walking track. On the return, we will take the side track out to Fortress Rock Lookout. The walk offers panoramic views of Blue Mountains valleys with plenty of photo opportunities.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 17-Dec-2022 4 MH - Creek: Upper Upper Wollangambe
A swim, wade down the upper reaches of the Wollangambe. Some longish swims through canyon sections..Wet suits are compulsory. A great summers day out.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 16-Dec-2022 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. Wetsuits and abseiling gear is needed for this trip. 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.
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 15-Dec-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Range Creek Canyon (Hobnail Canyon)
Range Creek Canyon (Hobnail canyon) is entered by walking downhill from the intersection of Bells Line of Roads and Range Hill Fire Trail. The two abseils are suitable for less experienced canyoners, though I should point out that this is my first time leading for UBMBC (I have led lots of canyons in the past). It will take one day. The creek is scrubby for the first 300 metres but walking soon becomes easier. The canyoning section involves lots of creek walking including rock scrambling and the occasional short swim. Near the exit there is a stunning gorge and a nice swimming hole (if time permits). The exit has a short scramble at the start (this can be belayed, if required), with the remaining exit a walk up a steep but moderately defined track that leads back to the fire trail.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 14-Dec-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Watertrough Hill to December Creek Wed Dec 14th 2022
The walk starts at Watertrough Hill and heads east for 1 km, then north, crossing Bell Creek and December Creek just before it joins Wollangambe River. We then climb “Harold’s Hill” and do a small circular route with magnificent views over the rivers and an intricate (but straightforward) descent back to December Creek. We ascend a different side creek to our earlier descent to December Creek, rejoin our original route and return to Watertrough Hill. The walk follows attractive ridges and has interesting creek crossings. Just before we reach December Creek there is a small hanging swamp where we saw a mass mating of Giant Dragonflies two years ago (on Dec 2nd). The best advice of the UBMBC Entomologist is that such a mating is likely to be delayed this year, and we have our fingers crossed for a repeat occurrence. Walk length is 11km with 700 m of ascent. Estimated walk time approx. 7 to 8 hrs.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 12-Dec-2022 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 specific details of this historic tramway as it existed below the western entrance to the Narrow Neck tunnel.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 11-Dec-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Martin's Lookout-Shark head Cave Circuit. Springwood.
Martin's Lookout-Glenbrook creek-Shark head cave-Lost World & Bunyan Lookouts-Glenbrook creek-Martin's Lookout. Classic lower Blue Mountains walk. Stunning views, interesting rock formations, overhangs, pagodas. Some easy rock scrambling. Lunch- cooling swim beautiful rockpool along Glenbrook creek. 2 steep ascents-180 metres. Distance 10 km. Fit agile walkers.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 10-Dec-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Bungonia Creek Canyon
Bungonia Creek is more of a gorge with a lot of creek walking between, over and under large boulders. There are about 4 abseils (35m, 12m, 60m, 45m). There are a few swims, up to 30 metres in length. There is a very steep climb out at the end of the canyon. This trip will involve a long day, and an early start. Camping fees apply for the campground. Park entry also applies for vehicles.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 10-Dec-2022 4 MHX - 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
Sat - 10-Dec-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Koombandah Canyon
Koombanda is a short canyon starting near Bell. There are two or three abseils, the longest 15m. Two swims and a wade so wetsuit or thermal a good idea. We will exit via Kamarah Gully and on the way out will explore the canyon section in Kamarah Gully (no abseils). The temperature forecast is 6 to 18 degrees and no rain. This canyon is a good one for new canyoners.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 10-Dec-2022 4 MHX - Creek: Little River Hampden State Forest
A wander, wade down Little River in the Hampton State Forest, very picturesque a bit of a climb out at the end
Map: Hampton
Fri - 09-Dec-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Boronia Point - Zircon Creek - Fields Selection
Mt Wilson - Boronia Point - Zircon Creek - Fields Selection - 9km Depart Mt Irvine Road on firetrail to Boronia Point, views over Wollangambe Labyrinth. Return to Farrer Road up and over the top into the headwaters of Zircon Creek (off track steep rainforest). we follow the creek down till it crosses Mt Irvine road, then following a pleasant trail out to Fields selection, to a lookout, then a steeper trail to cross Zircon Creek before climbing back to Mt Irvine Road. Mix of Rainforest and Eucalyptus forests.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 05-Dec-2022 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
The final walk in this series will traverse the section of tramway in the Jamison, visiting the two little known tunnels and seeking the site of a water supply used for tunnel construction. Distance to be walked will be no more than 8km.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 04-Dec-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Brooklyn Circuit via Peak Hill
Brooklyn-Deadhorse Bay-Sandy Bay-Peak Hill-Porto Ridge-Brooklyn Dam-Brooklyn. Great views, interesting terrain, rock overhangs. Visit 'Aboriginal' art cave, rock engravings. Some easy rock scrambling-offtrack. Fit agile bushwalkers. 1 steep ascent 200 metres
Map: Not Specified
Sun - 04-Dec-2022 1 E - Meeting: Club Christmas Party
Come and join us for the Club Christmas Party and get together. It is great to have this event back on the program after several years of being unable to, due to Covid restrictions. Don and Karin have once again offered their wonderful home at Blackheath to host this get together. Bring a plate, bring yourselves and have a great social time! please email the secretary for address and start time, and to confirm your attendance. There will be a short local walk in the afternoon for those interested.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 04-Dec-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Empress Falls
Short canyon at Wentworth Falls ending in a spectacular 30m abseil down the waterfall. Aiming to fit this in early before the Xmas party. Must be able to swim, wetsuits recommended.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 04-Dec-2022 5 H - Day Walk: T3 Trail to Colo River via Tootie Creek
Early start. The walk starts at the car park at the top of the T3 track near Mountain Lagoon. We head west along a rocky ridge, then north west to an unnamed peak that has great views over D’Arcy Range and Colo River. Next, we head north east, following a ridge down to Tootie Creek, joining it by some excellent rock platforms and pools. We follow Tootie Creek down to the junction with Colo River. This alternates between open rocky platforms and bush bashing. On arriving at the Colo, we return up the T3 track to the car park. Around 8 hrs. Bring 2 litres of water/electrolyte.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 03-Dec-2022 4 MH - Creek: Dalpura Creek
A wade /walk and one good swim down Dalpura Creek. No abseils and exit up to Dalpura Head . Hopefully the weather will be warm. There is one pool where one has to swim but otherwise just a wade. Wet suits not mandatory but have warm gear with you. A lovely Creek with great views of the Grose at the end.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 03-Dec-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Fortress Canyon
Fortress Canyon is a good canyon, with some nice canyon sections lower down. But the highlight is at the end of the canyon and then the walk back. It is not only a good canyon but is also a great bushwalk. It is a fairly easy canyon with only one abseil, so it is good for those new to canyoning. It is also wet with a number of swims and a good jump into a deep pool so wetsuits are needed as is abseiling gear.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 03-Dec-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Great West Walk Springwood Station to Woodford Station CANCELLED Cancelled
The next section on the crossing of the Blue Mountains https://greatwestwalk.com.au/. Quite a bit of road walking or we may take the steeper section at Linden and use fire trails - which will upgrade the walk to 4. This walk will continue on the summer program as tracks open up and possibly into Autumn. There really is no reason to stop in Katoomba - can easily plot out a walk completing at Hartley as a full crossing of the Blue Mountains - stay tuned!
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 03-Dec-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Hat Hill and Bald Head CANCELLED Cancelled
A pleasant half day walk commencing Hat Hill car park over Hat Hill and beyond to Bald Head via Bennett's lookout. Return same route but with slight variations to take in the varied terrain and wildflowers behind Hat Hill. Total about 7 km with 300 m ascent/ descent in total. Suitable for new walkers and wanderers as we will be checking out flowers at a photographers pace. Some off track.
Map: Mt Wilson
Tue - 29-Nov-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Canyon Upper Bowens Creek Sth Branch
Bowens Creek Sth Branch is located on the Bells Line of Road. The four abseils are suitable for less experienced canyoners. It is a long day including three abseils in the upper constriction, a detour to explore part of Corkscrew Canyon, some excellent creek walking and a long constricted dark section. If we a lucky we will experience beams of light. There are some swims (30m) in the dark, deep wades and scrambling over slippery rocks. There is a steep climb out and a 2km walk on a fire trail.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 28-Nov-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.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 27-Nov-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Long Ridge Trail to Spot Height 538 and Beyond
Private property access has been arranged. Park at GR 783 984 on Long Ridge Trail. Walk west and descend a gully at GR 775 985; exit it after about 600 m and walk to the cliff edge at GR 766 985. Find a way down and then continue traversing underneath in a clockwise direction till GR 781 990. Cross a gully to the east, then climb out all the way to Long Ridge and the cars. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 26-Nov-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Ben Bullen State Forest/Gardens of Stone SCA: The Northern Valleys
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. 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. About 8k. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 26-Nov-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: The Upper Bungleboori from Old Bells Line of Road
We will park on Old Bells Line of Road before or at the sandmine. We will head NNE to enter Upper Bungleboori Ck where we will walk downstream and exit on the south side to for a 2k walk back to Bells Line of Road. No booking or expressions of interest accepted until Ist November
Map: Lithgow
Tue - 22-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Back Creek walk
This is a walk in the area opposite Megalong Tea Rooms, in Megalong Reserve. It will explore areas surrounding the creek and visit two water falls. If it is a nice day, a dip may be available. It is an easier walk but does involve a small section of off track/scramble. not a long day.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 21-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Psalm Rock - Lost World LO – St Helena Spur
Psalm Rock - Lost World LO – St Helena Spur – Bull Ant Tk – Glenbrook Creek – Pippas Pass
Map: Springwood
Mon - 21-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
This third walk in the series will focus on a significant turn point in the tramway as it leaves the Megalong. Records indicate there was quite a structure at this point. All visible traces of this have been lost, mainly through fire, but there remain some to be found! Distance to be walked will be no more than 8km.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 20-Nov-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Circuit via Gorge-Portal Lookout
Glenbrook-Jellybean Gorge-Nepean River-Portal & Tunnel View Lookouts-Glenbrook. Magnificent gorge so near to Sydney. Rock hop along Glenbrook creek through Glenbrook Gorge to Nepean River. Steep scrambly log and rope assisted ascent to Portal Lookout. Stunning escarpment views. Involves rock hopping, scrambling, minor exposure. Some offtrack. Fit agile walkers. Distance 11 kilometres.Total ascents 300 meters.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 19-Nov-2022 5 HX - Creek: Creek walk/canyon - Mt Wilson
Exploratory Creek walk that could involve scrambling, swims, abseils and bush bashing. Creek system near Horseshoe Canyon.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 19-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Great West Walk Glenbrook Station to Springwood Station CANCELLED Cancelled
The next section on the adventure https://greatwestwalk.com.au/. Approximately 15 km via Knapsack Reserve
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 18-Nov-2022 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. Great Views.
Map: Kanangra
Mon - 14-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
In this second in the series of four walks to investigate further this historic tramway, we'll be traversing the Megalong incline in detail and recoding elements of its interchange with the tramway. Distance to be walked will be no more than 5km.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 12-Nov-2022 2 EM - Canyon: Hat Hill Canyon
Hat Hill canyon at Blackheath is an ideal canyon for beginners. There are no abseils. The canyon follows Hat Hill Creek with creek walking, small jumps and some short swims. When the canyon narrows there are steep canyon walls. Just before the creek plunges into the Grose Valley there are "spa" pools to enjoy. The climb out is along a pleasant ridge returning over Hat Hill. Members must be able to swim short distances. A wet suit is recommended. This canyon will be conducted at leisurely pace.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 09-Nov-2022 4 MH - Pack Walk: Overland Track Tasmania Full
The Overland Track in Tasmania is Australia's premier alpine walk. We will start at Cradle Mountain visitor centre, finish at Narcissus Hut and catch the ferry to Lake St Clair. Minimum distance is about 65klms over 6 days but with optional side trips we could hike an average of 15klms per day. Participants need to be experienced in multi-day hikes, capable of carrying a pack weight of 15-20kgs and be prepared for hiking in variable weather conditions. Please refer to the Parks Tasmania website for more information and/or feel free to contact me regarding any of the specifics. Numbers are limited and spots won't last so if you are interested the first step is email me for approval. Once approved, you need to go online and make a booking, and from there we will work through the logistics.
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 07-Nov-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Ravines West of Mount Tootie
Park at GR 680 930 on Mount Tootie Road and descend into a gully to the west. Follow it to the cliff line above Bowens Creek, then traverse northwards, checking the next several ravines, as long as the time allows. Exit towards spot height 673 m and walk cross-country back to the vehicles. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Exploratory.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 07-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: The Glen Tramway
The first in a series of four walks to investigate and record further details of the historic tramway that linked the Glen shale mines with what is now the Scenic Railway. The walk will visit the mining adits and bench, and follow the incline and tramway to the entrance of the first of the four tunnels.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 06-Nov-2022 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 31st Oct.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 06-Nov-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Narrow Ridge Bell Creek Circuit Sun 6th November 2022
This walk starts and ends at Watertrough Hill on BLOR. The trace of a similar walk is given in the links section below (photos). It follows some attractive ridges which are not frequently visited. The first part of the walk heads NE then north down Narrow Ridge – called this because, well, it’s narrow. It crosses Bells Creek by route which looks more and more unpromising as you approach the creek but is surprisingly straightforward. Having said that, a tape will be used to ascend the gully after the creek. We then head north up the ridge and return down the parallel ridge to the west. Again, the crossing of Bells Creek involves a sort of “Secret Seven” descent. Then it’s a pleasant ridge walk back to Watertrough Hill. Estimated time 5 to 6 hrs.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Clerestory (Beecroft ) Pagodas
A magnificent panorama of pagodas and just at Lidsdale. Definitely worth exploring again before summer kicks in (?)
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Great West Walk Penrith Station to Glenbrook Station CANCELLED Cancelled
Great West Walk Section 2 - A shorter section this time. We estimate about 15 km street walking via Emu Plains. Details of highlight and a map at https://greatwestwalk.com.au/.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Ikara Head loop via Girraween Cave
A revised walk after Great west walk section cancellation. Start at Vic fall Rd walk to ikara head for morning tea then return via Girraween Cave where we will cross the creek and return via the fire trail. A small section of off track. Approx 8 km half day walk with beautiful wildflowers in abundance.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Pipeline Canyon - Wolgan Valley CANCELLED Cancelled
Pipeline Canyon is at Newnes in the Wolgan Valley. It is suitable for less experienced canyoners. There is a steep climb up the Pipeline Track. The canyon has about 9 abseils, ranging from 5 metres to 22 metres. At the end of the canyon, we have an additional abseil which is 38 metres. We then follow the Pipeline Track back to the cars. Wetsuits may be required for a few short swims and deep wades. Abseils are suitable for all members who have done the training sessions. An early start will be required.
Map: Mt Morgan
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 1 E - Meeting: Snake Bite Treatment First Aid Course
Pulse First Aid at Hazelbrook will conduct a Snake bite Treatment course on Sat 5 Nov, 2pm to 4pm. The cost is $30 and includes a snake bandage for each person. The course begins with a presentation from one of Australia’s most respected herpetologists, Neville Burns. Neville lives in the blue mountains and is an expert on local snakes. He is a most entertaining speaker and had the audience enthralled with his snake encounters, hospital experiences and depth of knowledge. There will be plenty of time for questions. The session concludes with Frances Davidson from Pulse First Aid, demonstrating the correct application of a pressure bandage.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 05-Nov-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Terrace Falls
A short morning walk in Terrace Falls Reserve, Hazelbrook. This walk will finish by lunch time to enable participants to attend the Snake Bite Treatment Course at Hazelbrook in the afternoon. Beginning at Lake St we visit Adams LO then descend to the main track which takes us to Victor Falls and Terrace Falls then returns to the car park. Walk distance around 3 km all on track. Steps and climbing are involved.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 31-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Grose Head South
Blue Gum Swamp - Beehive Hill - Springwood Ridge - Grose Head South trig - Fox Ledge (return) Mostly on fire trail and tracks - small section of scrambling
Map: Springwood
Sun - 30-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Katoomba To Castle Head.
Katoomba-Furber Steps-Federal Pass-Landslide-Golden Stairs-Narrowneck-Castle head-Katoomba. Classic Blue Mountains walk. Magnificent waterfalls, rainforest. Stunning views along Castle Head ridgeline-narrow-neck. Landslide track passes by huge boulders, great views of sheered cliff faces and out past ruined castle. A walk well worth doing.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 30-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Kings Tableland/McMahons Lookout Rd to Kedumba Campground and return.
This is an out and back walk via Lions Head, Lions Pass and the old Kedumba Trail to Kedumba Slab Hut (restored) and Kedumba Campground in the lee of Mt. Solitary. There is an elevation change of 500m but you really only notice the 150m of the Pass. Cars are needed but leader may be able to arrange transport. May be cancelled at short notice if it looks like being a rainy day. About 6-7hours and 11km.
Map: Jamison
Sat - 29-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Goochs Crater
We enter via Dargan's Arch and a short dry walk-through canyon and exit via Newnes Junction so a car shuffle will be required. Almost all off-track but scrub should be limited because of the bushfires of a few years back. There should be plenty of water in the crater following the recent rain & hopefully the waratahs will be in bloom. A joint trip with CBC.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 29-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Maiyingu Marrigu ( Blackfellows Hand ) to Angus Place Mine
A through walk from Maiyingu Marrigu to Angus Place Mine. We will leave cars at Angus Place, Lidsdale and then head to Maiyingi Marrigu. We head south from MM, cross Lambs Creek and then ascending the interfluve between Lambs and Kangaroo Ck. By lunchtime we should reach the top of the Twin Heads. We then descend towards the SW, cross Kangaroo Creek and return to the Cars at Angus Place by the fire trail. No bookings until the 1st October.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 29-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Mugii Murum-ban SCA: Lyrebird Defile, Double Decker Slot and Labyrinth Gorge
Park near Airly Mountain and walk up to the plateau. Walk down Genowlan Mountain Trail to about GR 255 329 and find a way up a north-south running defile. Check the pagodas around GR 255 332 and to the south of there. From here, check the ravine and slots to the north west, then walk out on the spur to the south at GR 2525 3300. Now, use the next defile to the west to descend and eventually return to the cars. About 8 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Glen Alice
Fri - 28-Oct-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Great West Walk Penrith to Parramatta Sections
The first of a very long walk - which Ross and I are hoping to complete over any and all of our free weekends over the next 6 months or so. Join us for a section or the whole lot. Some will be short some long, some roadway, some tracks - we are just curious to do it. Full details at https://greatwestwalk.com.au/. In this section we will start at Penrith Station and walk to Rooty Hill Station on Friday stay at the Rooty Hill Novotel then start again the next day from Rooty Hill station onwards to Parramatta finishing Parramatta station Saturday night before training home. We will be doing all sections by public transport. Each day will be approximately 30 km but there is very little elevation so so we estimate about 7 hrs walking each day.
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 28-Oct-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Long Ridge East including Long Ridge Point
Private property access has been arranged. Park at GR 790 997 on Long Ridge Trail and descend into a gully to the east. Leave the gully at around GR 797 998 and traverse counter clockwise to a spectacular Long Ridge Point. Next, climb out to the tip of Long Ridge East and then walk back to the vehicles. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 28-Oct-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon - at night - Mt Wilson
Serendipity Canyon is a great trip at night to see many glow worms. This trip will involve only one easy 15 metre abseil. The creek is then scrambled and walked along, until we exit before the final abseils. The water level in the creek should be no more than waist deep in a few spots, unless you fall in. Good torches and spare batteries required. Wetsuits optional. The trip will start about 1845 and take about 4 hours.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 24-Oct-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore headwaters of Victoria Creek
From Ridgewell Road, Blackheath follow the 132kV transmission line up and down towards Victoria Creek. Then downstream on Victoria Creek to 484 784 and climb out onto a track back to Ridgewell Road. Hopefully plenty of wildflowers
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 22-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Bushwalk Rock Island Deferred
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 open. You are invited to explore this fascinating area. Bookings open on15 Sept.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sat - 22-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Mt Hay, Venus Tor and Boorong Crags
This is a replacement walk for Rock Island which has been postponed due to NPWS road closures. The walk begins at Mt Hay car park and follows a walking track to over Mt Hay to Venus Tor. From here it is off track walking to Boorong Crags. There are great views of the Grose Valley along the way. There is a steep descent to the cliffs above the Grose. Here is the exposed lookout that features on the cover of Andy McQueen's book, " Back from the Brink". We retrace our route back to the Mt Hay car park. total distance is around 8 km with some steep off track climbing.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 21-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Irvine - The Runners Track / Danes Way / Scrivener Pass / Picnic Point
Mt Irvine - The Runners Track / Danes Way / Scrivener Pass / Picnic 12km On track, explore from Farrer Road East out to Danes Way Mt Irvine, return mainly by a different route, part of the Mt Wilson to Bilpin Bush Run event 1995 - 2012, taking in a mix of landscapes, soil and vegetation types, views to Berambing and Mt Tomah.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 17-Oct-2022 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. This course will be repeated on 8 Nov.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 17-Oct-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Kamarah Ridge, Jungaburra Ledges, Wilkinson Hill
Kamarah Ridge, Jungaburra Ledges, Jungaburra Brook, Wilkinson Hill, Jinki Ridge (about 5 - 6 hours)
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 16-Oct-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Dalpura Canyon
A beautiful short canyon on the northern side of the Grose Valley. A wetsuit is recommended however usually it is possible to stay dry above waist height unless you fall in or decide to abseil in the waterfalls. Abseil a 6m waterfall or 8m from the side then an optional 16m waterfall. Suitable for those who have completed the clubs abseil training course.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 16-Oct-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Flagstaff Hil, DuFaur Ridges, Watertrough Hill
This walk will start at Flagstaff Hill and follow the ridge to the east. There are some great cliffs at the end, where we'll stop for morning tea. Then we'll head south to the creek, which is a tributary of Du Faur, and follow it down stream for a bit before cutting back up a spur to the west. This will take us to the cliffs directly opposite our morning tea spot, where we will take our lunch. Then we'll head back to Watertrough Hill. This walk may involve a little light scrambling, and a tape will be taken Should last around 5 hrs.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 15-Oct-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Around Bell Creek
This will be an exploratory walk. We will start at Watertrough Hill, head North-East, and try to cross Bell Creek near 509896. If we can cross Bell Creek we will head up to the magnificent Barnacles and the Ridges of Dunn – a focus of walks led by Bill and Kate in recent months. I’m not sure if we will be able to cross Bell Creek so we will make up the route as we go along. If you’re interested give me a call on 0422202300 before 8:00 pm on 14/10. Leave a message if I don’t answer. Experienced walkers only please.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 15-Oct-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: The Towers Mt Airly
Walk past Airlie Village to the top ridge from here a short walk to The Towers a magnificent group of pagodas. Explore these in detail and return. Approx. 15 kms return. A bit of a slog along the fire trail but the pagodas should be worth it
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 15-Oct-2022 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek Short Notice
This is a really impressive canyon and although wet (wetsuits are necessary), it has no abseils. We will enter via Twister Canyon with a couple of fun water jumps and slides before entering the magnificent Rocky Creek Canyon itself. We follow the canyon down to Budgary Creek before returning back up Rocky and a short climb back to the cars. The walks in and out are short the total round trip is only about 4 km. I tried putting this on a couple of times last year but the weather had other ideas, so let's hope the weather holds out this time!
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 10-Oct-2022 3 MX - Pack Walk: Bell To Wollangambe Crater. Monday 10 Oct-Wednesday' 12th October Cancelled - Weather
Bell-'Centre of The Universe Pagoda-Wollangambe River-Wollangambe Crater. Great introduction walking and camping in pagoda country. Drop our packs on the walk-in exploring pagodas along the way. Camp at the crater.2 nights. Explore nearby ridges, pagodas. Wollangambe river Heaps of wildflowers, including waratahs in bloom. Beautiful rockpools, canyon sections, camp cave.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 10-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Florabella Pass
Florabella Pass – Pippas Pass The wild flowers are spectacular this time of the year
Map: Springwood
Sun - 09-Oct-2022 4 MD - 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 - 08-Oct-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point Abseil Trip Deferred
A shortish day with 6 abseils up to 40m. Great views. A joint trip with CBC.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 08-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Victoria
Fairy Bower- Hourne Point- Pulpit Rock Circuit. Approx 10 km walk along the southern side of Mt Victoria enjoying ferny grotto, caves and great views of the Kanimbla Valley. Walk is mostly on track, but will be uneven and near high edges at times.
Map: Hartley
Thu - 06-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Navigation Practice at Kings Tableland Cancelled - Weather
This day is a repeat of the navigation day on 21 July, which was cancelled due to weather. It is for members who have completed the club navigation course or members who are experienced in navigation with a map and compass. Nicole Bordes and Bernard Pailthorpe have prepared a navigation course near the Queen Victoria hospital site on Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls. The course has 20 points that will test your navigation skills. It usually takes half a day and there are options not to complete the full course. GPS and phone navigation are not included in this course. Participants need their own compass. maps will be provided.
Map: Jamison
Mon - 03-Oct-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Porters Pass northwest cliff line
From Burton Street, Blackheath walk out to Porters Pass and follow the top of the cliff line explore and checking for any access to base of cliff line. Return via spur line back towards top of Porters Pass. Half day walk.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 02-Oct-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Megalong Ledges
As referenced in Jim Smith’s “How to see the Blue Mountains” 2nd edition, walk No. 83 on page 44. A series of ledges with some scrubby sections between. No real exposure and no rock climbing involved. We start at Medlow Bath behind the Hydro-Majestic and finish a bit earlier then usual via a rock climbers track past the Grotto.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 01-Oct-2022 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 - 01-Oct-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Megalong Road to Bowtells Swingbridge and back with a stop at Dryridge winery Cancelled - Weather
Starting at the megalong car park (megalong cemetery ) We’ll walk on the six foot track to the Bowtell swinging bridge, have a rest and some lunch and then return on the same track to finish at Dryridge estate for a vino and some cheese. Its is a 12.6km return walk of approx. 5h with approx. 700 metres elevation gain.
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 29-Sep-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon Cancelled - Weather
This is a fairly short canyon on the south side of the Wollangambe at Mt Wilson. There are 6 abseils up to about 20m, one with a slightly awkward start. It is a wet canyon with some swims, an optional jump, and some small waterfalls to negotiate. So you must be able to swim and be comfortable abseiling in a waterfall. We end up in the Wollangambe where a short wade up stream or scramble on the bank takes us to the exit track. Wetsuits required.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 26-Sep-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Blacks Ladder and explore northeast base of cliff line.
Walk out onto the northwest side of Ngula Bulgarabang Regional Park within Radiata Plateau, Katoomba. Walk out and down to Blacks Ladder (first mapped in 1832). Follow the base of the cliff line in a northeast direction until we find an easy pass back to the top via Back Creek and eastern end of Radiata Plateau to vehicles.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 25-Sep-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Gladstone Pass to Sublime Point.
Fairmont-Gladstone Pass-Lindeman Pass-Copeland Pass-Sublime Point-Fairmont. Combines three 'rugged terrain' historic passes. Steep scrambly rope assisted ascents/descents. Rough track, pads, scrubby sections. Beautiful rainforest, stunning views, interesting terrain- old landslides. Fit agile experienced walkers who enjoy a challenge. .
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 25-Sep-2022 3 MX - Bike Ride: McMahons Point Spring Flowers Mountain Bike Ride Deferred
Looking for a challenge with a sweet reward? This medium difficulty mountain bike trail affords sweeping views of Lake Burragorang and the Blue Mountains wilderness in full Spring abundance.This unsealed 4WD and cycle trail follows Kings Tableland Road from Wentworth Falls to scenic McMahons Point lookout. We meet at 8am at the V-junction with Kedumba Valley Road and Kings Tablelands Road, behind Old Queen Victoria Hospital. 7.5km from WWFalls Station. We will then move on to our starting point at Andersons Trail from which is a 28km return trip.On the way we will visit the unique rock formations and heritage-listed Kings Tableland Aboriginal Place. At McMahons point Lookouts we will crack out our Byo breakfast and coffee over Lake Burragorang. On the return trip we can take our time to enjoy the abundance of Spring Wildflowers that change with the terrain. There are lots of undulations and we will take our time. This is meant to be a leisurely ride. Hoping to be a half day activity.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 24-Sep-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Jinki ridge and Wilkinson Hill wildflower walk
We will explore some ridges on the northern side of the Grose Valley. There are always spectacular views over the Grose , interesting pagodas and hopefully a wonderful wildflower display.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 24-Sep-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Jugglers Canyon (in the wet)
Jugglers is a short but pleasant canyon accessed via Mellow Bath. There are 6 abseils which range from a few meters to 20m. We normally do this as a training canyon when it is dry, but the canyon is heaps of fun with some water flowing through it. So be prepared to get wet ! The walks in and out are fairly short. Swimming is not necessary, but participants should be confident in abseiling in waterfalls. See attached video.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 24-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Nobles (Dry) Canyon plus north and west clifflines.
Nobles Canyon also known as Dry or Wolgan View Canyon is an impressive, easy to negotiate canyon with impressive walls, constricted passages and light beams pouring in from the top at certain times of the day. After a walk through, the plan is to climb out and up to visit the top of the canyon and the clifflines, slots and pagodas directly to the north and west. Some rock scrambling and off-track walking. About 7.5km. Ride sharing may be possible. 8am start at Mt Victoria Station.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 19-Sep-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Dalpura Head North to Jinki Ridge
Dalpura Ridge - great views of Grose Valley – cliff line – waterfall - Jinki Ridge (about 5 - 6 hours)
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 18-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Glenbrook-Kanuka Brook-Crayfish Pool.
Glenbrook station-Glenbrook Creek-Kanuka Brook-Crayfish Pool-Red Hands Cave-Jellybean Pool-Glenbrook. Pleasant walking, including following creeks, exploring interesting rock formations, rock overhangs. Lunch at a beautiful waterfall at Crayfish Pool.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 17-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Bennett LO
Bennett LO is on the cliffs above the Grose Valley, near Hat Hill Creek. The walk begins at Anvil Rock and follows the cliff line along Blackheath Walls to Bennett LO, a rocky outcrop with excellent views. From here we continue below Bennett LO to Browns Pass, a lesser known route into the Grose. We return and follow Bald Head Ridge S turning onto a gentle ridge that leads into Hat Hill Creek. We may decide to explore part of the creek. We return via Hat Hill. Some rock scrambling and exposure is involved.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 17-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper Breakfast Creek Deferred
Starting & finishing at Dunphy's Campground. A great walk in upper Breakfast Creek going upstream from the junction with Carlon's Creek. Largely off-track with some scrambles with exposure to get around waterfalls. Hopefully we will escape with dry feet, but the leader hasnt done it for some years. so no guarantees. A joint walk with CBC.
Map: Jenolan
Fri - 16-Sep-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Dark Wall, Spaniel Rock and Hokusai Rock
This walk starts at GR 738 983 on D’Arcy Trail. Descend into a gully to the south east, continue under the cliffs to visit Dark Wall and then another beautiful overhang lower down. Climb to the top of the cliffs and follow the ridge north east to the spectacular pass down towards Tootie Creek Trail via Spaniel Rock, GR 758 983. Follow the trail for about one kilometre, then climb the gully at GR 750 992 and walk up it to visit Hokusai Rock further upstream. Re-connect with the vehicles. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Fri - 16-Sep-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Hollow Rock and Crawford Lookout overlooking Wollemi Creek / Colo River Junction
Hollow Rock and Crawford's Lookout overlooking Wollemi Creek / Colo River Junction 7km walk Drive out from Putty Road on Cudoul Range about 13km - 4WD preferred/ required depending on road conditions. Some post fire regrowth, track somewhat overgrown, excellent views from Crawfords lookout into the Colo River.
Map: Colo Heights
Sun - 11-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Megalong Head
Great views over the Megalong Valley and blooming wildflowers. Nellies Glen-Bonnie Doon Track-Stuarts Road-Devils Hole-Megalong Head-Nellies Glen. The spur leading up to the head will be scrubby and the climb up Esgate Pass has spikes, chains and exposure. Suitable for fit walkers who have completed similar walks with exposure. Distance 10km. Ascent 540m.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 10-Sep-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Traverse of the Ridges of Dunn (Barnacles)
Start out on track to Wollangambe Crater from Sandham Road, head east after the first creek then south up the Ridge of Dunn. Explore a couple of ridges to the east then head back south to the Bells Line of Road next to the heavy vehicle inspection. This is an excellent series of ridges/ pagodas which can be approached from either the south or north. This particular ridge is best explored from the south where it is ascended like a staircase, progressively revealing the other ridges. After a tantalisingly brief exploration of the other ridges leaving you - hopefully - wishing for more, we will plod our weary way back to BLOR. A couple of pics of the rides attached, with a map showing a route not dissimilar to the one we will follow on the day.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 10-Sep-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Waterfall of Moss Canyon - Mt Wilson
This canyon involves 8 abseils, with the longest about 20 metres. Some of the abseils have tricky starts and involve overhangs. There is only two pools of water about knee deep in the canyon. On the way to the canyon a short swim is required to cross the Wollangambe and then a 4 metre rope climb. At the end of the canyon there is a 200m stretch on the Wollangambe that requires walking, wading and swimming.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 10-Sep-2022 5 HX - Pack Walk: Wollemi National Park: Mt Canobla and Gundangaroo Traverse to St Johns Point
A 2-day pack walk. Numbers are strictly limited. Private property access is required. Day 1 - Park near Canobla Gap and ascend Mount Canobla on a razor blade spur. Continue to Mt Gundangaroo and camp near the trig. Water was found before in a nearby gully, however this is not guaranteed. Day 2 – Walk to St Johns Point and back, then descend to Canobla Gap Trail and walk back to the cars. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 10 km.
Map: Glen Alice
Mon - 05-Sep-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Carne Wall
A half day with views of a hanging swamp, Wildflowers and Govetts Gorge. Following an old overgrown firetrail & then some off track. Distance 3.5km. Ascent 40m.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 05-Sep-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Dalpura Head North to Jinki Ridge
Dalpura Ridge - great views of Grose Valley – cliff line – waterfall - Jinki Ridge (about 5 - 6 hours)
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 03-Sep-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Lost City
A look at the Lost City pagodas highlighted in the Gardens of Stone submission as an activity hub. Consider whether activities proposed could be damaging to them . We will enter from the State Forest . Going down into the Valley below the pagodas where the dams are, via an old mine "slag" heap. A look at the dams and then up onto the Lost City pagodas and return
Map: Lithgow
Fri - 02-Sep-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Hole in the Rock Canyon - Friday 2nd September.
Hole in the Rock canyon is in the Wolgan Valley. There are 5 abseils, the first one is through a tight hole and the third through a hole into a cave. The trip may have one chest deep short wade. The day finishes with a 40 metre abseil through the cliffs and a short walk back to the vehicles.
Map: Ben Bullen
Thu - 01-Sep-2022 2 EM - Day Walk: Lockley Pylon & Flat Top
A sunset walk with great views towards Sydney, Govetts Gorge, Grose Valley and blooming wildflowers. We return in the fading light so a torch will be needed. Distance 8.5km. Ascent 50m.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 29-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Asgard Head and more
Views of Victoria Falls from Asgard Head and more top spots in the area
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 27-Aug-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Angus Place Pagodas
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. 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.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Wed - 24-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Creek – Tunnel View – Mt Portal
Glenbrook Creek – spur track - Tunnel View – bush route - Mt Portal – further exploring
Map: Penrith
Sat - 20-Aug-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Advanced Abseiling Training
A 2 day structured training session held over two consecutive days in the Blue Mountains, probably at Yellow Rock, Winmalee. This will be for members who have some experience but would like to improve their skills so they can confidently set up abseils and anchors, ascend using prussik knots, and have the skills to self rescue.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 20-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Walls Lookout, climbers ledge, Wongara ridge
We walk to Walls Lookout along a track giving us wonderful views of the Grose Valley. We will then head into a gully to a climbers track before scrambling back up towards Wongara ridge and beyond. The last part is mainly off track but relatively easy.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 19-Aug-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Dargans Arch and Goochs crater
Dargans Arch and Goochs crater - Unique rock features in the upper Wollangambe area out from Dargan - Newnes Junction. Mostly off track 12.5km
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 19-Aug-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Windows Canyon
Windows is situated in the Wolgan Valley near Newnes. There are 6 abseils suitable for less experienced canyoners. After crossing the Wolgan River we climb Penrose Gully with great views once we are through the cliffs. Windows is a dry canyon except for one knee deep pool. This canyon will be conducted at a slower place with plenty of time for photography and admiring the views.
Map: Ben Bullen
Wed - 17-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Duck Hole, Saint Helena Ridge, Lost World LO
Duck Hole – Saint Helena Ridge – Bunyan LO Trail – Lost World Lookout – Saint Helena Spur – Bull Ant Track
Map: Penrith
Mon - 15-Aug-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Bowens Creek Tributaries
Set up a car shuffle. Park at the barrier at the national park boundary on Mount Irvine Road. Descend into a large tributary of Bowens Creek to the north and follow it downstream exploring side creeks as far as the time allows, then find a way up to Mount Tootie Road. About 6 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 14-Aug-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Bundeena to Wattamolla Beach (Return)
Due to closures of some sections of the coast track, the amended route finishes at Wattamolla beach, then returns to Bundeena. This 20k walk still captures the rugged beauty, the ocean and amazing scenery. "Enjoy cliff-top views, numerous valleys and inlets, some beach walking and who knows, it's whale season!. Some undulations but mostly on track, no car shuffle needed.
Map: Not Specified
Sun - 14-Aug-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Empire Pass
An historic loop walk at Lawson on a well defined track. 7 km return. Easy walking on a track beside the creek. We visit Frederica Falls, Dantes Glen and Echo Bluff. There is a steep climb out of the creek.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 13-Aug-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Dalpura Head North to Jinki Ridge, Sat 13th Aug 2022
Start on Bells Line of Road (BLOR) approx. 1.5 km south of Flagstaff Hill, by the junction with Dalpura Ridge. Follow Dalpura Ridge towards Dalpura Head. At the spot height 979, head north west to Dalpura Head North. Have elevenses whilst admiring the beauty of the Jinki Ridges to the north. Descend into Dalpura Creek and follow the creek north along the side of Jinki Ridge. Then head along Jinki Ridge to the south and have lunch whilst admiring the beauty of Dalpura Head North. to the south. Follow Jinki Ridge back north to BLOR, rejoining it 0.5 km to the south of Flagstaff Hill. Approx. 4 hrs.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 13-Aug-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Wolgan Falls abseil
There are four abseils 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
Tue - 09-Aug-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Abseiling Fun with Anchors
This a follow up from our Advanced Abseiling weekend. It is open to all experienced canyoners from UBMBC. It is a half day afternoon training session involving setting up anchors using stein knot, alpine butterfly. We will build releasable anchors using gigi, ATC guide and figure 8 block. Top belay and Z haul will be demonstrated and practised.
Map: Hartley
Mon - 08-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Erskine Creek, Lincoln Creek, Monkey Ropes Creek
Pisgah Rock – descend via Tierneys Trail (five climbing sections) – Erskine Creek, Lincoln Creek, Monkey Ropes Creek – ascend with some clambers up nameless creek
Map: Penrith
Sun - 07-Aug-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Martin's Lookout-Sharkhead Cave Circuit
Martin's Lookout-Glenbrook Creek-Sharkhead Cave. Lost World&Bunyan Lookouts. Martin's Lookout. Adventurous walk with stunning views, beautiful rock formations, overhangs.Some scrambling requiring agility. Suitable experienced bushwalkers
Map: Springwood
Sat - 06-Aug-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Mount Airly Volcanic Vent
A good walk on the fire trail past Airly Village up onto the ridge and onto the Volcanic Vent. Great views and interesting history. Return the same way
Map: Ben Bullen
Mon - 01-Aug-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Part 3 cliff walk, Bonnie Doon complex, Katoomba
Following on from last two Mondays walks along the cliff top, we continue towards the Bonnie Doon area of Katoomba. It is here that 1894 maps show the old walking tracks that are now forgotten and bypassed.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 31-Jul-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Faulconbridge to Springwood via Numantia Falls.
Faulconbridge-Numantia Falls-Sassafras Ridge&Creek-Glenbrook Creek-Springwood. Beautiful rainforest walk. Interesting rock overhangs-'Aboriginal' rock engravings. Art caves. Some easy off-track following creeks. 2 steep ascents
Map: Springwood
Sat - 30-Jul-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Interesting Canyon - Wolgan Valley
Interesting Canyon has about 8 abseils ranging from 10 metres to 33 metres. There is one small pool of water where you may get wet up to the waist. The walk starts from the Newnes campground.
Map: Ben Bullen
Fri - 29-Jul-2022 5 HX - Pack Walk: Lost Chord Crater, Lee Castle and Labyrinth Peak
A 3-day pack walk. Day 1: Park at Benjang Gap, GR 300 930. Walk to Lee Creek and then upstream to GR 328 904. Take water for the day (or carry from home). Climb to Lost Chord Crater, continue to Lost Chord Saddle, then climb south west on Tal Tal Ridge to about GR 339 890. Descend into a tributary of Lee Creek at about GR 330 884. Take water for high camp and next morning, climb westwards and camp at around GR 324 885. If time permits, explore high cliffs to the south east (we may even camp there). About 12 km. Day 2: Spend the morning exploring Lee Castle immediately to the north west, then descend into Lee Creek, take water for the high camp and the next day and climb to Labyrinth Saddle (eastern end) at GR 315 903. Then climb Labyrinth Peak, GR 311 901, to camp. About 6 km. Day 3: Return to the Labyrinth Saddle. Explore around to the north and north east. If possible, descend into a tributary of Lee Creek at around GR 316 909; otherwise return to the saddle and use a known descent route to the north. Walk back to the cars. About 8 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Not Specified
Thu - 28-Jul-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Advanced Abseiling Training
A 2 day structured training session held over two consecutive days in the Blue Mountains, probably Mt York. This will be for members who have some experience but would like to improve their skills so they can confidently set up abseils and anchors, ascend using prussik knots, and have the skills to self rescue.
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 25-Jul-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Cahills to Therabulat Lookout via cliff line
This walk will be part 2. As we continue to walk and explore the top (or there abouts) cliff line and rocky areas between Cahills Lookout to Therabulat Lookout, Katoomba. plenty of history in this area.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 25-Jul-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Ravines and Cliffs South of Bowens Creek
Park at the barrier at the national park boundary on Mount Irvine Road. Climb onto the tops to the south west and explore a ravine to the west. Descend into a major tributary of Bowens Creek and follow it north to near the junction with Bowens Creek. Climb out towards a cliff line to the south east and follow it until it runs out. Reconnect with the cars via a wonderful lookout platform visited on the last walk to this area. About 6 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 24-Jul-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook Ledges
Replacing the previously advertised Wolgan escarpment walk. Starting from Mt Boyce, walking the high ground between Victoria Brook and Victoria Creek. There are great views of the valley and we will make the occasional off track excursion.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 23-Jul-2022 5 H - Day Walk: The Great Wall of China and Torbane Balcony
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. Park at Airly Gap. Walk on Airly Mountain Trail to the top of the mountain. Make our way to its northwestern corner and descend under the first cliff line. Continue south through the spectacular pagoda area known as The Great Wall of China, then locate a ledge (Torbane Balcony) and follow it till GR 221 330. Climb up via a known slot and walk east, returning to Airly Gap via a ridge. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Glen Alice
Fri - 22-Jul-2022 3 M - Day Walk: The Pavements - Mt Irvine
The Pavements - Mt Irvine - Interesting rock formation Tessellated Pavements out on the ridge from Mt Irvine between the Wollangambe and Bowens Creek about 5km - Plus 2.5 optional explore out on ridge to Wallangambe. Relaxed walk with campfire and billy for lunch.
Map: Wollangambe
Thu - 21-Jul-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Navigation Practice Kings Tableland Cancelled - Weather
This day is for members who have completed the club navigation course and for members who are experienced in navigation with a map and compass. Nicole Bordes and Bernard Pailthorpe have prepared a navigation course near the Queen Victoria hospital site on Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls. The course has 20 points that will test your navigation skills. It usually takes half a day and there are options not to complete the full course. GPS and phone navigation are not included in this course. Participants need their own compass. maps will be provided
Map: Jamison
Mon - 18-Jul-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Northern end of Narrow Neck
Check out the new track extension from Narrow Neck Lookout, than see the extant of the land slip on Glenraphael Drive. Then walk the top of the cliff line towards the top of Devils Hole and Boars Head Rock.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 16-Jul-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Kamarah Ridge, Jungaburra Ledges, Wilkinson Hill, Sat 16th July 2022
The walk starts on the Bells Line of Road (BLOR) about 1.5 km east of Bell (See attached GPS trace.) It heads down Kamarah Ridge and cuts south towards Jungaburra Brook (JB). We join a climbers’ ledge half-way down the cliff line, follow this east on the northern side of JB, cross over the brook and continue west along the southern side of JB. We climb up onto the western end of Wilkinson Hill (WH) and visit some great viewpoints on the west and south of WH – Kestrel Lookout, Corkscrew Rock (not shown on this trace). We head north off WH and follow the ridge back to BLOR. Total time approx. 6hrs. Walk half off track through open bush. Limited exposure.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 16-Jul-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Malaita Wall - Multi -pitch abseil - Katoomba
Malaita Wall is a multi-pitch abseil trip with 5 abseils, the longest being 45 metres. It is similar to the Malaita Point abseil trip but the abseils are longer and the first one of 45 metres is more exposed with a tricky start. At the end of the abseils we will walk up Furber Steps.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 13-Jul-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Lions Head Track
Walk from Kings Tableland Road to Lions Head and back. This is a shorter, pleasant walk along the edge of the tablelands escarpment, with great views of Kedumba and Kanangra area.
Map: Jamison
Sun - 10-Jul-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Cox's & Lockyers Road Circuit
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 all along the track. The track has beautiful views over the Hartley Valley and some nice pagoda formations. We will start from the Historic Wells on Mount York Road and then decent down Cox's road to the start of Lockyer's Road trail. From there we head up Lockyer's Road with a quick side trip to look for a historic mine along the way. This is a easy - medium half days walk including lunch. A few steeper uphill sections, and a quick off track scramble to look for the mine, but most of it on a clearly defined track.
Map: Hartley
Sun - 10-Jul-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Faulconbridge to Springwood via Numantia Falls.
Faulconbridge-Numantia Falls-Sassafras Ridge-Glenbrook creek-Sassafras Gully-Springwood. Beautiful rainforest walk following streams. Some ridge walking.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 09-Jul-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Plataeu west of Victoria Creek
This area is surrounded by Victoria creek, Victoria Brook and the highway. The walk will start at the rear of the truck checking station west of Blackheath, we'll explore along the top of the cliff lines. Exploratory.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 04-Jul-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Erskine Creek, Lincoln Creek, Monkey Ropes Creek
Pisgah Rock – descend via Tierneys Trail (five climbing sections) – Erskine Creek, Lincoln Creek, Monkey Ropes Creek – ascend with some clambers up nameless creek
Map: Penrith
Sun - 03-Jul-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Donkey Mountain Deferred
Donkey Mt is in the Wolgan Valley North of Lithgow. A steep climb through two cliff lines is required to reach the NW end. From here we explore a fascinating maze of passages, tunnels, mini canyons and pagodas as we make our way towards the SE end. (about 2km) There are excellent views of the Wolgan Valley and surrounding cliffs. This walk is for experienced bushwalkers who must be prepared to squeeze through narrow cracks and scramble over rocks.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sun - 03-Jul-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Gooch's Crater & Dargan's Arch
Dargans Arch and Goochs Crater. 10km, mostly off track, hopefully not too much scrub. Great pagodas and opportunity to explore both Gooch's Crater and the very short canyon (no abseiling). We will do a car shuffle to reduce road walking. A joint walk with CBC.
Map: Wollangambe
Sun - 03-Jul-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Martin's Lookout-Sharkhead Cave Circuit Cancelled - Weather
Martin's Lookout-Glenbrook creek-Sharkhead cave-Lost World Lookout-Bunyan Lookout. Beautiful views, interesting rock formations, overhangs. Some rock scrambling. Suitable experienced agile bush walkers. 2 steep ascents.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 02-Jul-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Clerestory Pagodas (off Beecroft Fire Trail)
Magnificent Pagodas near Lidsdale. A few kilometres walk along a fire trail in but worth it.
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 02-Jul-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba Cancelled - Weather
Malaita Point is a multi-pitch abseil trip which involves 7 abseils down into the valley. Longest abseil is 40 metres. Exit is via Furber Steps. Not a long day.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 27-Jun-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook spurs, Mount Victoria
Victoria Brook is a heavily dissected creek system of rugged beauty. Last February we walked in this area, and I had put on the program a return walk. But, what with the heavy rain and NPWS road and park closures it was cancelled twice. This next section is to check out some adjoining spurs, views, and some historic graffiti.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 26-Jun-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Megalong to cox’s river return
This medium level day walk will start in the Megalong Valley near the old cemetery and finish at the Cox's River Reserve, via Bowtel's bridge and the lodge. We will meander through rolling hills, past the winery, traversing the valleys and crossing the impressive Cox's River. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river before returning by the same route. With so little activities available at the moment, this is an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful section of the 6 foot track. An option at the end of the walk would be to pass by Dryridge Estate and enjoy a platter and a glass of wine!
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 25-Jun-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Kamarah Ridge, Kamarah Brook, old Canyon Colliery
Start on Bells Line of Road (BLOR), head down Kamarah Ridge to the Bluffs, cut back and drop down into Kamarah Brook, walk, upstream to final abseil in the canyon, follow creek down to old Canyon Colliery and head up the old colliery road to Darling Causeway. Car swap will be necessary. Est 5 to 6 hrs.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 22-Jun-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Upper Grose walk
Walk the old Engineers Track from the Darling Causeway Road to Ikara Head, then back to Victoria Falls road. From the causeway, there is a faint pad to the upper Grose River, then there is no track till accessing the pass up to Ikara ridge. This section of terrain is full of weeds, some fallen trees and is sloping. But still able to be crossed with some effort.. Walk back to Victoria Falls road along Ikara Ridge. Car shuffle required. This walk maybe deferred if National parks are not opened.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 20-Jun-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Above eastern side of Fairy Bower Creek, Mount Victoria
From Fairy Bower picnic area we will walk along the railway access road and check out a few areas above the eastern side and above the cliff line of Fairy Bower Creek. Parts are rock climbers tracks.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 18-Jun-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Boars Head Multi-pitch Abseil - Katoomba
Five pitch, dry abseil trip with spectacular views and an exciting 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 - 18-Jun-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Western Escarpment of Wolgan Valley
Find out why this area must be better protected for future generations. After placing vehicles at each end of the walk, leave from near Wolgan Gap Trig, walk to the top of the cliff line, then follow the ins and outs of the cliff line for about 7km. Stunning views. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Fri - 17-Jun-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Asgard Swamp Thor Head / Asgard Head
Asgard swamp Thor Head / Asgard Head - Depart Victoria Falls Road, Asgard Swamp, Historic Mine and Kiln, Asgard and Thor heads Approx 10km
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 17-Jun-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Wollemi NP: Timbergetters Ravine and Boulder Glade
Park at GR 776 963 on Mountain Lagoon Road and descend into Timbergetters Ravine. Walk down this rainforest-clad watercourse up to a tributary at GR 771 979. Ascend through the cliff line to the beautiful Boulder Glade, then continue up towards spot height 538. Descend into a gully to the south east, walk through its canyon-like section, then climb out on the other side and walk back to Mountain Lagoon Road. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Tue - 14-Jun-2022 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
Sun - 12-Jun-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Hydro Tracks
An exploration of the unique and historic network of tracks behind the Hydro Majestic hotel, built by master stonemason Murdo McClennan. We follow the tracks down to the valley and back, across a boulder field, negotiate steps, ladders (broken) etc and the views are not too shabby. The day includes a short history tour of the property with insight into the it's founder, the eccentric Sydney retailer Mark Foy. About 12klms, up to 400m ascent/decent, rock scrambling, mostly on track. A reasonable level of fitness and agility required.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 11-Jun-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: The Ridges of Dunn
Replacement for the original Balcony Point walk. A circular walk starting form Watertrough Hill and finishing at the Weighing Station. This walk was pioneered by Bill Beck and Joe Dunn and takes us through some great pagoda country. There is a crossing of Bell Creek so might get wet feet.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 05-Jun-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Koombanda ridge and surrounds
This is a ridge off Bells line of road going towards the Grose Valley, where there will be views of Ikara Head and the colliery Rd. All off track but very easy so good introduction, not much ascent/descent . May go down to small canyon depending on group.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 04-Jun-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Long Gully Canyon - Bungonia
Long Gully is a multi pitch abseil trip down a gorge and is a dry trip. There is one 60 metre abseil and about 8 other smaller abseils. It is quite exposed and has a very steep climb out from the Shoalhaven River. A long day.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 04-Jun-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Ridges above Du Faur Creek
From the Bells Line of Road, follow a ridge down to the Western branch of Du Faur Creek. Return by the ridge that is between the Western and Eastern branches of Du Faur Creek.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 30-May-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Springwood, Lisa and Shelleys Creeks, Springwood
Meet at the corner of Chapman Parade and Lindsay Road, Springwood. Have one car parked at Tom Hunter Park. Since we now know the easy track from the end of Lindsay Road follow that track back down to Springwood Creek and follow upstream noting the engraved rock signage of Lisa Creek and than Shelleys Creek and up to the car at Tom Hunter Park. Note this walk was going to be last Monday but changed at the last moment due to new walk information.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 28-May-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Galong Creek Pink Granite
Galong Creek is situated in the Megalong Valley. It begins near Carlons Farm and descends through spectacular pink granite country to the Cox's River. This is a short walk, 5km,exploring the upper section of the creek and returning the same way. The walk follows the creek with rock hopping and scrambling. In some places shin deep water may be encountered. Ropes will be used for some short drops in the creek. We turn around where the creek drops steeply. We should finish quite early and may explore options such as afternoon tea at the Megalong Tea rooms or another short walk in the area.
Map: Jenolan
Thu - 26-May-2022 4 MH - Bike Ride: Bike Ride Maiyingu Marrague Fire Trail
Bungleboori camping ground on the Newnes plateau to Birds Rock. Approximate distance is 16 km. From Birds Rock we may continue to Pleasant View Canyon (no abseils) or return to Bungleboori. The road is rough in parts so mountain bikes are recommended.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Sun - 22-May-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Iconic 6 foot track
Revised activity from the originally advertised 2 day pack walk as the 6-foot track is currently closed between Nellies Glen and the Megalong Valley. This medium level day walk will now start in the Megalong Valley near the old cemetery and finish at the Cox's River Reserve, via Bowtel's bridge and the lodge. We will meander through rolling hills, past the winery, traversing the valleys and crossing the impressive Cox's River. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the river before returning by the same route. The walk can be extended beyond the river if there is consensus in the group. With so few activities available at the moment, this is an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful section of the 6 foot track and whet the appetite for when we do the full 2 day walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 21-May-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Dicksonia re-discovered
A return to the fabulous rain forest of Dicksonia Ravine. Depending on the day we may also rediscover "Upper Blueys Pass" on the other side of the valley and have a look back at Baroque Point
Map: Rock Hill
Sat - 21-May-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Interesting Canyon - Wolgan Valley
Interesting Canyon has about 8 abseils ranging from 10 metres to 33 metres. There is one small pool of water where you may get wet up to the waist. The walk starts from the Newnes campground.
Map: Ben Bullen
Fri - 20-May-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Happy Valley, Cathedral Creek, Lambs Hill
Cathedral Reserve to Cathedral Creek, Happy Valley and return via Lambs Hill. Rainforest and moist basalt cap forest, hidden gem of Mt Wilson. Approx 6km, steep into and out of Happy Valley.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 16-May-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Birdwood Gully Springwood Creek
Last Monday a section of Springwood Creek was walked and the chiselled signage by Percy Thomas a Springwood honorary council ranger in 1988 was noted. This Monday we will check out three more of his chiselled place names, including two for his grandchildren and walk along the creek to complete where we started last week.
Map: Springwood
Sun - 15-May-2022 5 H - Bike Ride: Andersons and Oaks Fire Trails
2 classic mountain bike trails in one. Starting at Wentworth Falls Station, we will head out along the GWH and Kings Tablelands Road and ride the Andersons Trail to Woodford Station (35kms). We will then join the Oaks fire trail finishing at Glenbrook Station (27kms). OPTION 1: Meet at the Old Victoria Hospital on Kings Table Land Rd to avoid the highway. OPTION 2: Join the ride at Woodford Station to do just the Oaks trail. NPWS website rates the Andersons as Hard - an adrenaline-filled mountain bike adventure for experienced riders that has ultra-steep sections, loose gravel, and obstacles. The Oaks is rated Medium. Maps: Jamison, Katoomba, Springwood, Penrith
Map: Penrith
Sun - 15-May-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Megalong Ledges Deferred
A walk referenced in Jim Smith's book ''How to see the Blue Mountains'' that transverses a series of ledges above the Megalong Valley. We start near the old ''Flying Fox'' at Medlow bath and finish at Radiata Plateau. Nice views, some scrubby sections but not much exposure. A car pool will be required.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 09-May-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Cherubs Pool
Cherubs Pool is the name given to a swimming hole by the student priests of St Columba’s Seminary prior to the site becoming a high school. Located in Springwood Creek. The walk will be to try to identify where it is, I only have very approx location so it will be exploratory walk. Springwood Creek is not an easy creek to walk along.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 07-May-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Honeycomb Canyon - Wolgan Valley
Honeycomb canyon is a mainly dry trip, with one knee deep pool. There are 5 or 6 abseils from 10 metres to an impressive 62 metre abseil looking down over the Wolgan Resort and Donkey Mountain.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 07-May-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Wild Dogs Circuit
Let's hope the regrowth isn't too limiting. Propose to go down Ironmonger to the Cox's then up to Knights Deck, Cattle Dog Ridge to Breakfast Creek and return up Hobbles Spur. A long day, good hill walkers and stamina required
Map: Jamison
Mon - 02-May-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Sugarloaf Mountain, Mount Victoria
Walk up Mount Victoria (the hill) along the ridge line and to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Great views. Return similar way.
Map: Hartley
Sun - 01-May-2022 4 MH - Pack Walk: The COMPLETE Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia
THIS WALK WILL TAKE 50 DAYS- please ignore the 14 days which is the limit on the activity submission form. The Bibbulmun Track is one of the world's great long distance walk trails, stretching 1000km from Kalamunda, a suburb in the hills on the outskirts of Perth, to the historic town of Albany on the south coast. It passes through the heart of the scenic south west of Western Australia. The Track takes walkers through towering karri and tingle forests, down mist-shrouded valleys, over giant granite boulders and along breathtaking coastal heathlands. It passes through many of the most beautiful national parks of the south west forests and coastline.We will take about 50 days to complete the walk. We will camp at the designated Bibbulmun campsites which have a shelter, table and benches, water tank and drop toilet - luxury! Weekly stopovers in a town for a shower and re-stock of food supplies. Contact the leader for more details.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 30-Apr-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Guzzlers Arch
Guzzlers arch is a Natural Arch located somewhere between Deep Pass and the River Caves. We aim to go down a ridge to it from the track that goes between Deep Pass and River Caves .From here we will go upstream to Guzzlers Hut and then return to Deep Pass. This is an exploratory walk, nothing guaranteed but should be interesting.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 30-Apr-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Ridges and slots between Dumbano Creek and Boiler Ridge
Leave cars S of Dumbano Tunnels (Suboir Canyon), walk NE along the ridge and cross Dumbano Creek. Ascend an interesting (and, in places, scrubby) slot up to Boiler Ridge and then return by an equally interesting spur. Maximum 5 walkers or 8 if there is another 4WD vehicle.
Map: Wollangambe
Fri - 29-Apr-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Brendon Trail and Claw Cave
Park on Mountain Lagoon Road near Brendon Trail. Walk on the trail till GR 762 973 and descend north west under the cliffs, then traverse underneath the cliffs to GR 763 983. Climb to the top and walk south till GR 760 971, then descend into a south-west trending gully, all the way down to a bigger creek. Visit Claw Cave. Ascend another gully, trending south east, back to Brendon Trail and walk to the vehicles. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 24-Apr-2022 4 MH - Pack Walk: Splendour Rock - Anzac Day Service
Pack Walk - Sunday 24th April to Monday 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: Jamison
Sat - 23-Apr-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Mugii Murum-ban SCA: The Fort and Torbane Blade
Find out for yourself why this unique area must be better protected for future generations. Park one car at Airly Gap and drive another one to GR 215 306 on Glen Davis Road. From the second car, ascend a ridge to the north, visiting The Fort, and continue to the end of a promontory at around GR 213 330. Descend underneath the cliff line and follow it around via Torbane Blade till about GR 219 338, then make our way up above the cliffs and eventually to the top of Mount Airly. Use Airly Connector Slot to connect to the first car. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Glen Alice
Sun - 17-Apr-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper Hat Hill Creek
On Sunday 17 April, our walk begins on the S side of Hat Hill Creek and takes us on a pleasant walk through bushland to upper Hat Hill Creek. Following a rough track, we descend to the creek then begin climbing in and out of the spurs that extend from Burromoko Ridge. This is rugged pagoda country only 2km from Blackheath. The weathering of ironstone and sandstone, plus a little imagination has produced a giant armchair, three little sisters and a top hat carved out of rock. The scenery is weathered sandstone at its best. The walk ends with a magnificent hanging swamp waterfall and a huge cave. There is a rope assisted climb of a rock face to complete the walk. The total distance travelled is around 6 km. Scrambling up rocks and descending steep ridges is involved. Previous trips have been dry all the way but there may be some wet patches. This walk is in a Blue Mountains City Council reserve which is not closed. Repairs to the bridge at Mt Victoria have improved the traffic flow but the Sunday afternoon traffic from Blackheath is usually congested.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 15-Apr-2022 5 HX - Pack Walk: Wollangambe River, Bowens Creek and Colo River Junction Adventure
(Replacement walk to previously advertised) Park near Bowen Hill, then walk Bowen Hill Trail to a base camp at around GR 731 039, above the junction of Wollangambe River, Bowens Creek and Colo River. From here, explore the nearby area on day walks. Details of each day to be advised. Expect plenty of challenges and amazing scenery. About 40 km (4 days). Scrambling and exposure. Numbers are limited. Mostly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 11-Apr-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Dalpura Canyon Cancelled - Weather
This canyon will be done without abseiling. There are a couple of short deep pools, so bring your dry bags and also, if you wish, some change. Park at GR 511 862 on Bells Line of Road and make our way down into Dalpura Creek. Follow it through the canyon section. Climb out to the north west and visit the Jinki Ridge, then descend back and climb out to the south east and walk to Dalpura Head. Make our way back to the cars. Some exposure and scrambling. About 6km.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 11-Apr-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook spurs Cancelled - Weather
Looks like Victoria Brook Spurs will remain an aspiration. Due to the BM National Parks being closed our alternative walk will be on the other (Council controlled) side of Mount Vic, commencing ar Fairy Bower Reserve and exploring the Mt Piddington area.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 10-Apr-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Burra Korain Head
(Subject to the BM National Parks being re-opened) We walk along Ridgewell Rd before turning off to Burra Korain ridge which we follow towards the Grose Valley. After a short detour to get a good view of hanging rock, we continue to the cliff edge. Wonderful views and interesting rock formations.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 09-Apr-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Honeycomb Canyon - Wolgan Valley Cancelled - Weather
Honeycomb canyon is a mainly dry trip, with one knee deep pool. There are 5 or 6 abseils from 10 metres to an impressive 62 metre abseil looking down over the Wolgan Resort and Donkey Mountain.
Map: Ben Bullen
Sat - 09-Apr-2022 2 EM - Day Walk: Nellies Glen to Megalong Valley - Dry Ridge Winery Cancelled - Weather
This leasurely walk heads down into the stunning Megalong Valley via the Six Foot Track. We will meet at Nellies Glen (Explorers Tree Car Park) at 10am and head down into the valley via the fire trail. We will finish the walk at the beautiful Dry Ridge Estate where you can enjoy a vino and cheese platter. I will book a VW van from 'Captain Combi' who will take us back up to Katoomba. The return trip via VW Combi will be $20pp, alternatively organise your own transport back. This is a 10km easy-medium grade walk and we should return by 3/4pm.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 09-Apr-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Pisgah Rock to Bland Pool Cancelled - Weather
Drive to Pisgah Rock carpark, follow Pisgah Rock trail down to Eskine Creek and then walk to Blands Pool where we will have lunch and swim and then retur4n to cars via Monkey Ropes Creek
Map: Penrith
Sat - 09-Apr-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Wolgan Falls Abseil
An alternative to Honeycomb Canyon. There are four abseils up to 30 metres and one 35 metre abseil. This is a dry trip down the side of the waterfall. We will be WALKING the 5 klm dirt road to the start of the trip.
Map: Lithgow
Fri - 08-Apr-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Haystack ridge - Off Bells Line of Road Cancelled - Weather
Walk Haystack Ridge - Off Bells Line of Road, Approx 8km, some off track. Follow the narrow Haystack ridge out between Mt Wilson and Mt Tomah, good views.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 04-Apr-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Little Blue Gum Forest – Meeks Falls
Peggy's Pool - Freezing Hole - Little Blue Gum Forest - Meeks Falls
Map: Springwood
Mon - 04-Apr-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Wollemi NP: Dog Rock and Ravines Near Spot Height 558 m
Park on D’Arcy Trail at GR 717 960 and descend into a gully to the east. Continue for about 800 m, then turn south and traverse under cliffs till GR 717 952. Continue up the gully for a short distance, then traverse above the cliffs to the first gully to the east. From here, walk back to the trail, visiting Dog Rock along the way. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Mostly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sun - 03-Apr-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Along Narrow Neck Peninsula
Because Narrowneck is closed this is an alternate walk, Kedumba Valley Road to Jamison Creek return. It’s a trail walk with lovely views and a decent elevation. The distance is roughly about 16 kms return.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 02-Apr-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Winburndale Nature Reserve Horseshoe Falls
Park on Eskdale Road along Palmers Oaky Ridge down to Horseshoe Falls. Return along creek if possible. Winburndale has never disappointed expect some rugged country and interesting terrain
Map: Portland
Sat - 02-Apr-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Wolgan Falls Abseil
This trip is to celebrate the life of Laurie. There are four abseils up to 30 metres and one 35 metre abseil. This is a dry trip down the side of the waterfall. The 5 klm dirt road drive to the start requires 4wd with a bit of clearance.
Map: Lithgow
Thu - 31-Mar-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Navigation Practice Kings Tableland
This day is for members who have completed the club navigation course and for members who are experienced in navigation with a map and compass. Nicole Bordes and Bernard Pailthorpe have prepared a navigation course near the Queen Victoria hospital site on Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls. The course has 20 points that will test your navigation skills. It usually takes half a day and there are options not to complete the full course. GPS and phone navigation are not included in this course. Participants need their own compass.
Map: Jamison
Mon - 28-Mar-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook spurs
Victoria Brook spurs was so stunning in its rugged beauty I am going back to check out the spur and surrounding area to the west. Access will be via Victoria Falls Road, Mount Victoria. Note this second walk was advertised on the 7 March but changed due to the weather. Again if weather or NPWS have closure to road than a plan B will be in place.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 27-Mar-2022 2 EM - Abseiling: Horseshoe Canyon - Mt Wilson
Horseshoe Canyon has about 3 abseils, with the longest being 20 metres. There may be a few wades and short swims. This canyon is graded as easy.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 26-Mar-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Lower Bowen Creek North
This is a very pretty canyon with a couple of fun abseils, although not particularly long it has some great sections of canyon. The walk in and out are fairly short (total return distance of about 8 km). There is a bit of swimming and wading so wetsuits are necessary. This was originally planned for late Feb but was postponed due to rain. Hopefully by late March the weather will be more favourable!
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 21-Mar-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Numantia Falls and Sassafras Ridge
Sassafras Gully Track - Victory Track - Numantia Falls - Sassafras Ridge - spur
Map: Springwood
Sun - 20-Mar-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Abseiling Practice Day
This training session is for members who have recently completed the UBMBC abseiling program and members who who would like to practise their skills. We will concentrate on tie offs, prussiking and self rescue. The venue is Mt Boyce, next to the railway line between Mt Victoria and Blackheath. It is an afternoon session ending at 3 pm so you may avoid some of the afternoon traffic. This is not a beginner training day.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 20-Mar-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Blue Mountains Classic Walk: Terrace Falls Loop
Lovely half-day walk on the south side of Hazelbrook: rainforest, waterfalls, waterholes, and a lookout. We will take it easy and have a leisurely break at one of the waterholes, with a possibility of swimming. The track is muddy and/or eroded in places. Possibility of one or two wet feet (several creek crossings) UNHURRIED pace, about 6 km, all on track, 150 m mostly gradual climb - grade 3 If you are new to the club and bushwalking, this is a good easy introductory walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 20-Mar-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Coachwood Canyon Cancelled - Weather
Coachwood Canyon is on the Newnes Plateau near Galah Mt. It has five abseils and is suitable for beginners. The Glowworm Tunnel road is badly eroded so 4WD vehicles will be used. Some of the abseils are in waterfalls and the exit involves a wade down Rocky Creek. Raincoats or wet suits are recommended.
Map: Rock Hill
Sun - 20-Mar-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Long Ridge Knife-edge, Tootie Arch, Middle Creek and Long Wall
Private property access has been arranged. Park at GR 790 997 on Long Ridge Trail. Walk north west and descend Long Ridge Knife-edge to Tootie Arch and Sombrero Hat Cave, and then to the Middle Creek junction. Continue up Middle Creek for about a kilometre, then walk up a saddle to the south and descend back into Tootie Creek. From here, head up south west to visit Long Wall and finally back to the vehicles. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 19-Mar-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Lockleys Pylon, Yardleys cave
This walk starts on the Mt Hay Rd. We walk past the Pinnacles towards the Grose Valley along a well formed track to Lockleys Pylon, which affords spectacular views into the Grose Valley. We then proceed down towards the cliff edge to Du Faurs Head from where you could descend into the valley. We briefly retrace our steps before skirting a gully to Yardleys cave. Then uphill, back to the main track and return to the cars.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 19-Mar-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Popeye Canyon Cancelled - Weather
Walk along ridge with great pagodas, then drop down to walk along lovely fern lined creek with water fall. No abseils
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 19-Mar-2022 4 MH - 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. Move south east and out towards Carne Creek, then 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
Fri - 18-Mar-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Wilson - Sunday Walk Spur / Old Mt Wilson Road
DuFaurs Rocks Lookout, then follow the firetrail around the back of Breenhold Gardens and down Sunday Walk Spur to the Bogey Holes. Return through scribbly gum country close to Mt Wilson Road and using the old Zig Zag alignment through the rainforest to climb back onto Mt Wilson, final leg along the Avenue. Approx 8km
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 17-Mar-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Upper Bowens Creek South Branch Cancelled - Weather
Bowens Creek South Branch is on the Bells Line of Road near Mt Charles. There are four short abseils with easy starts. The lower canyon is dark and constricted with swims and pools. The canyon formation is outstanding. If we are lucky we will see beams of light. The sloping log has been replaced by a short abseil. Between the canyon sections there is a pleasant creek walk. Wet suits are highly recommended. It is a long day.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 13-Mar-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Gooches Crater, Billabong Canyon Cancelled - Weather
Re-scheduled from 6th March. Easy trip out to Gooches Crater, via the Wollengambe and Dumbano FT. Meet at Zigzag Clarence Station Carpark, to car pool. We will need a couple of 4WDs as the track is a bit rough. It’s a 15min walk down from where we park, to Gooches. Where we will explore the crater and then around the back to Billabong Canyon (no abseils) possibility of a swim.
Map: Wollangambe
Sun - 13-Mar-2022 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, cryptic clues and prizes. 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
Sat - 12-Mar-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Pagodas South of Mount Norris
Leave car(s) at the Northern car park for Deep Pass. From the Deep Pass camp ground, ascend Mount Norris, head South, and then drop into a gully on the Southeastern side of Mount Norris. Explore the pagodas on a short rocky peninsula that sticks out above the Deep Pass creek just South of Mount Norris. Return by a similar route. A little bit of agility is required for the short scramble up onto Mount Norris in the morning and back down at the end of the day - tape assistance available if required. Maximum 5 walkers or 8 if there is a second 4WD vehicle.
Map: Rock Hill
Fri - 11-Mar-2022 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek Cancelled - Weather
This is a re-run of the trip planned for 21 Jan that was washed out by cold, windy and wet weather. This is a really impressive canyon and although wet has no abseils. The entry is down Twister Canyon with a couple of fun water jumps and slides before entering the magnificent Rocky Creek Canyon itself. We follow the canyon down to Budgary Creek before returning back up Rocky and a short climb back to the cars. The walks in and out are short the total round trip is only about 4 km. I have put this on a Friday as it is a popular canyon and can be quite busy on the weekend. Wetsuits are needed as it is a wet canyon as are approved climbing/rock sport helmets.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 07-Mar-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook spurs part 2
As our walk last Monday of one of the Victoria Brook spurs was so stunning in its rugged beauty I am going back to check out the spur and surrounding area to the west. Access will be via Victoria Falls Road, Mount Victoria.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 06-Mar-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Glenbrook Circuit Via Gorge-Portal Lookout Cancelled - Weather
Glenbrook Station-Glenbrook Creek-Blue Pool-Jellybean Pool-Gorge-Nepean River-Portal & Tunnel View Lookouts-Glenbrook Creek-Station. Not the standard Glenbrook Gorge walk. Adventurous walk, partly exploratory. Rock-hopping along Glenbrook creek. Steep scrambly rope assisted ascent to Portal Lookout. Some off-track. Several steep ascents/descents Beautiful rockpools, interesting rock formations, great views. Suitable fit agile experienced bushwalkers who enjoy a challenge. Joint activity Bush Club
Map: Penrith
Fri - 04-Mar-2022 5 D - Abseiling: Claustral Canyon Cancelled - Weather
Claustral canyon is one of the most impressive canyons in the Blue Mountains. The dark Black Hole of Calcutta drops down a waterfall in three abseils, and is then followed by 700m of deep spectacular canyon. There are a number of sections requiring scrambling down obstacles often with flowing water, and some cold swims. The walk out also takes up to 4 hours. This is a long and committing canyon, and we need to move efficiently. It is suitable for fit and experienced canyoners who can swim and are comfortable abseiling on a single 8mm rope in a waterfall.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 28-Feb-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Starlight Cancelled - Weather
A longish walk in. Two or may be more abseils as we might try an alternative approach. The tunnel is wet, so wetsuits might be needed. A stunning canyon.
Map: Mt Morgan
Mon - 28-Feb-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Victoria Brook spurs
Victoria Brook is a heavily dissected creek system. Rugged beauty. We will walk out to one of the rocky spurs above Victoria Brook and take it from there as to what else we will see and do. Access will be via Victoria Falls Road, Mount Victoria.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 27-Feb-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Lower Bowens Creek North Cancelled - Weather
This is a very pretty canyon with a couple of fun abseils, although not particularly long it has some great sections of canyon. The walk in and out are fairly short (total return distance of about 8 km). There is a bit of swimming and wading so wetsuits are necessary.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 26-Feb-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes Abseiling Skills Development Cancelled - Weather
Fun with Ropes is a great opportunity to extend your abseiling skills. The venue is Yellow Rock Reserve at Winmalee. The day will be led by Guy Wittig and myself. Much of the learning is from each other with experienced canyoners on hand to demonstrate and help. Beginners can learn to prussik and self-rescue. Skills covered could be knots, prussiking, tie offs, abseiling on a Munter hitch, self-rescue, haul systems, top belay, releasable anchors and fiddlesticks. You will be able to try some different descenders and a VT prussik. Hand ascenders will be available for you to climb ropes. Guy will demonstrate rescue by hauling people up a vertical cliff face. We will have fun with ropes. There will be ropes and anchors set up for you. You can ,”do your own thing” with your own ropes if you prefer. Just drop in at any time to abseil or prussik. This day is for experienced canyoners or members who have completed the club training program. Please book in.
Map: Penrith
Sat - 26-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Mid Hat Hill Ck (Western Side)
We will descend to Hat Hill Ck via the ropes and and cross the creek and then ascend to Top Hat Spur. Walking up the spur we will cross the main ridge line and then descend on the other side to the large western tributary of the Hat Hill Ck. We will follow this tributary downstream through canyon sections until almost rejoining Hat Hill Ck. We will follow the cliff line to the south until we reach a spur above Hat Hill Canyon. We will descend on the side of a gully to hat Hill Ck which we will cross near the canyoners change area and then return via the canyoners track to our starting point at the sharp bend in Godson Avenue.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 25-Feb-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Pilcher(Jugglers)/Grand Canyon day&night Cancelled - Weather
'Juggler/Pilcher and Grand Canyon' is a popular combination of 2 easy canyons. If we start late afternoon we might just time it right to do Grand Canyon in the dark and still get to bed at a reasonable time. Very good light needed.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 21-Feb-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Serendipity at night
Starting late evening. Short canyon. 6abseils. Walk out on ledges. Glow-worms almost guaranteed. Good torch light needed.
Map: Wollangambe
Mon - 21-Feb-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Valley Heights Fire Trail
Valley Heights Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade initiated, surveyed and constructed the Valley Heights Fire Trail between the years 1970 to 1975. Unfortunately, now it is in disrepair and not drivable but great to walk. It follows 2 creeks and has had 10 named place name features along its 5m length in which we will try to identify. Note this was cancelled last week due to close covid contact and is back on the agenda.
Map: Springwood
Sun - 20-Feb-2022 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. I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least one bushwalk with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek ) 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
Sun - 20-Feb-2022 3 M - Canyon: Dalpura & Kamarah Canyons
Two beautiful short canyons on the north side of the Grose Valley with nicely flowing waterfalls, clear pools, mossy walled canyon sections & views looking out over the valley. Some chest deep wades and maybe a short swim. Off track walking at Kamarah and we will need to take off packs to pass under a log jam. Dalpura: Abseil a 6m waterfall or 8m from the side then an optional 16m waterfall. Kamarah: Hand over hand 4m and a 6m abseil with abit of overhang. Suitable for those who have completed the abseil training course but you should be comfortable with offtrack walking, negotiating slippery rocks and hand over hand down climbing.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 20-Feb-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Skull Rock, Lace Wall, Alabaster Cave and Striped Wall
Walk 1: Park at GR 722 965 on D’Arcy Trail and descend south west into a gully. Visit Skull Rock and walk up a tributary gully for a few hundred metres, then back down to another creek at GR 722 962. Continue down the creek, then turn west up the bigger gully. Ascend back to the trail. Walk 2: Park at GR 737 996 on D’Arcy Trail and descend west into a gully; follow it for about 800 m, then walk up the creek to the south. Visit Lace Wall, Alabaster Cave, then Striped Wall, before reconnecting with the vehicles. Partly exploratory. About 6 km (both walks). Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 19-Feb-2022 3 MX - Pack Walk: Bell To Wallangambe Crater Pack Hike
Bell station-Centre of Universe Pagoda-Walangambe River-Crater-Return Bell. Leisurely paced hike to campsite exploring rock pagodas on the way. Great views. Visit a nice camp cave. Swim at a beautiful rock pool on the Wallangambe river.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 19-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Hydro Tracks
Alternative to Hat Hill Creek, which I have deferred. An exploration of the network of tracks behind the Hydro Majestic hotel, built by master stonemason Murdo McClennan. The day includes a short history tour of the property with insight into the it's founder, the eccentric Sydney retailer Mark Foy. About 12klms, up to 400m ascent/decent, rock scrambling, mostly on track. A reasonable level of fitness and agility required.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 19-Feb-2022 4 MHX - Creek: King Georges Brook
The Brook is located East of Mt Banks and contains deep wades and short swims as well as normal creek walking. There is a short fire trail section then off-track down to the brook. We stop at the top of the waterfall for lunch before the steep exit which involves some rock scrambling then a walk up a ridge back to the cars. Not visited since the fires and flooding of 2019 so there may be some blockages to negotiate.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 19-Feb-2022 4 MH - Creek: Upper Hat Hill Creek Deferred
This beautiful creek in Blackheath is a grade 4 creek walk of about 3 kms. We begin on a well-formed bush track that takes us to cliffs above Hat Hill Creek. Once we descend into in the creek, we look around the amphitheatre then make our way upstream to Robb Ave. On the way there is some very pleasant creek walking with cliffs, pagodas, pools and small waterfalls. There are some rough sections and we cross the creek several times. A car shuffle will be required. Map: Mt Wilson
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 18-Feb-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Banks - Banks Walls, Frank Hurley Head, Mt Banks Summit
Mt Banks Carpark out to Banks Walls and Frank Hurley Head, return via Mt Banks Summit. Great views into the Grose Valley.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 18-Feb-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Views and vistas of Mt Wilson
Come and enjoy a walk taking in the varied and quite special scenes Mt Wilson has to offer. This will include Du Faurs lookout, Pheasants Cave and Waterfall Circuit. It’s approximately 8km in length, with approx. 150m ascent/descent. One section of steep, uneven steps without handrail.
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 17-Feb-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Serendipity Canyon
Serendipity Canyon, also known as Why Don't We Do It in The Road Canyon, is a relatively short canyon on the south side of the Wollangambe. Starting from the Fire Station at Mt Wilson a fairly short walk takes us to the canyon. The canyon has 6 abseils up to 20m. 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. There is a pleasant creek walk for 45mins in the middle section of the canyon. The canyon finishes at the Wollangambe, and depending on the flow we wade upstream for 100m to the exit track, or we avoid the Wollangambe by climbing along ledges. This canyon is suitable for beginners, but you must be able to swim and be comfortable abseiling in the waterfall.
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 16-Feb-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Empress Canyon
A short but lovely canyon ending with a great 20m abseil down Empress Falls. Swims and jumps so wetsuit, dry bag and the usual canyoning & safety gear required. Weather forecast is good - 23 & possible storm in the afternoon, so the trip will be in the morning.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 16-Feb-2022 3 M - 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 the track in 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
Tue - 15-Feb-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Macquarie Pass
Macquarie Rivulet is near Albion Park on NSW South Coast. The rivulet is accessed by a steep climb (on track) There are nine abseils next to or in waterfalls as well as wading, slides and jumps. Confidence abseiling in waterfalls and swimming in deep pools is required. After the abseils there is a 2 km creek scramble to the base of Macquarie Pass. This activity is suitable for experienced canyoners.
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 14-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Grand Canyon Walk in Walk out
This walk takes you into the spectacular grand canyon, off the Grand Canyon Circuit Walk. No abseil required as we will walk in and walk out. The activity involves swimming, scrambling over slippery rocks and wading so an approved helmet is required. A wetsuit, thermal top and dry bag (which can also be used to assist floation) are advisable. This walk is physically demanding and requires walkers to be fit and capable of swimming up to 30meters. About 6km return.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 14-Feb-2022 5 HX - Day Walk: Ravines and Spurs North of Itchenstoke Creek
Park one car at GR 701 951 and another one at GR 709 954 on D’Arcy Trail. From the second car, descend a south east trending spur to a lookout point at the end, then continue down to a gully to the south. Walk up the gully, then make our way to a tributary, visiting waterfalls and caves along the way. Descend towards Tootie Creek and enter its tributary at GR 713 944. Climb up all the way to D’Arcy Trail and the first car. About 8 km. Scrambling and exposure. Partly exploratory.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 14-Feb-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Valley Heights Fire Trail
Valley Heights Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade initiated, surveyed and constructed the Valley Heights Fire Trail between the years 1969 to 1975. Unfortunately, now it is in disrepair and not drivable but great to walk. It follows 2 creeks and has had 10 named place name features along its 5m length in which we will try to identify.
Map: Springwood
Sun - 13-Feb-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Lion’s head
We walk out on Kings Tableland. Wonderful views and flowers.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 13-Feb-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Numantia Falls Circuit
A shaded walk down Sassafras creek, explore for caves and interesting rock formations, up a ridge and cool down in the clean waters of Numantia Falls.
Map: Springwood
Sat - 12-Feb-2022 3 M - Canyon: Du Faur Creek Canyon
Du Faur (or Clatterteeth Canyon) has no abseils, it is divided into a number of canyon sections some with long pools so warm wetsuits are essential and liios or good flotation is also necessary. It has the advantage of being less visited than the main Wollangambe Canyons. It is about a 12 km round trip.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 12-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Newnes State Forest: Howling Arch, the Pool of Diana and the Pool of Aphrodite
Find out for yourself why this unique area, currently under threat, must be protected, now. Drive to approximately GR 468 058 on the Deep Pass Trail. Head down a spur and visit Howling Arch, an amazing natural feature. Enter Dingo Creek and progress downstream for about 1.3km, visiting the scenic Pool of Diana on the way, continue underneath high cliffs to GR 476 048, the start of a north, north west trending ravine. Follow the ravine up, visiting the spectacular Pool of Aphrodite along the way, to eventually reconnect with the trail and the vehicles. About 6km. All off track, some rock scrambling and exposure.
Map: Rock Hill
Wed - 09-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Wentworth, Hippocrene and Vera Falls
A lovely challenging walk commencing at Wentworth Falls picnic area. It could be a long day including 650 meters descent and ascent. Avery beautiful shaded old track once down on the valley floor with lots of opportunities to rest and swim in the hot weather as we reach the waterfalls.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 07-Feb-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Views down Katoomba Creek towards Arethusa Falls
We will follow a disused trail and pad that leads from a spur off Mount Hay Road towards and above the junction of Katoomba and Lerida Creeks. From a rocky outcrop, hoping we have views directly down Katoomba Creek towards the top of Arethusa Falls. Half day walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 05-Feb-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Pisgah Rock and Erskine Creek
Drive to Pisgah Rock carpark, follow Pisgah Rock trail down to Eskine Creek and then walk to Blands Pool where we will have a relaxing lunch and swim (dependent on weather) and return to cars via Monkey Ropes Creek
Map: Penrith
Fri - 04-Feb-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Devils Hole to Nellies Glen
A fairly steep, rocky walk with dramatic and rewarding views. Starting the walk at Cliff Drive Katoomba, we will head down through 'devils hole' into the Megalong Valley before turning onto the six foot track and heading back up the escarpment to Nellies Glen. Car shuffle required. This trip will be subject to NSW COVID regulations that are in force at the time of the walk and is limited to fully vaccinated participants.
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 03-Feb-2022 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. I have equipment for loan. Before booking in for this program please read Guidelines for Canyoners on the UBMBC website. Members must have done at least one bushwalk with UBMBC and have completed a non-abseil canyon (eg Grand Canyon, Du Faurs, Rocky Creek ) 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
Wed - 02-Feb-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Evans Crown
Explore Evans Crown. We follow the track to the crown, explore around the climbing areas and follow the ridge across and down to the fish river.
Map: Tarana
Tue - 01-Feb-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Ranon Brook
Ranon Brook is a short canyon near Mt Bell on Bells Line of Road. It is not Ranon Canyon. The canyon has four short abseils an is suitable for less experienced canyoners. There are wades and some deep pools so wet suits are recommended. The exit is up Mistake Ravine where we climb around three waterfalls. I will be using a different way in to the usual route
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 29-Jan-2022 3 M - Day Walk: North Lawson Falls
Empire Pass to visit Nth Lawson Falls & return via the original Echo Pt. (which actually has a good echo)
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 28-Jan-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Grand Canyon at NIGHT
The Grand Canyon is a beautiful canyon, with a long, sustained constrictions. It is very popular because of its easy access. We will be adding an extra dimension as we will do it in the dark. We will meet at Neates Glen car park along Evans Rd Blackheath at 8.00pm and commence the walk in (about 35 minutes) Have a head torch ready as we pass through a short dark tunnel along the way. Grand Canyon is one of the best night canyoning options in the Blue Mountains. The walls are lined with stunning glowworms and the fact that most of the canyon is quite flat allows sections of it to be completed with head torches turned off. Bring Headtorch, wetsuit, dry bag, change of clothes, some snacks. This trip will take us at least 4-5 hours as we will stop along the way, switch off our headlights and enjoy the glowworms. We should be back at cars around mid night.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 28-Jan-2022 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, cryptic clues and prizes. 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 - 28-Jan-2022 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek Short Notice
This is a very short notice reschedule for the Twister and Rocky Creek trip that was postponed last week due to bad weather. The weather for the rest of the week is looking reasonable but next week not so good. Those that were already on the list for the trip last week will be given first preference for a place but everyone is welcome. Let's hope the weather gods are on our side this time. This is a really great canyon with no abseils but it has a few fun jumps, slides and swims. A wetsuit is needed as is an approved climbing/rock sport helmet. As this is such short notice we will also try and schedule it again in Feb/March for those that can't make it this week.
Map: Rock Hill
Thu - 27-Jan-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Hole in the Wall
several short abseils up to 13m. several short swims. TORCH needed
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 26-Jan-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Lesser known Katoomba Lookouts - a day of views
A wander along the clifflines and paths on some of the less visited lookouts of Katoomba starting at Katoomba falls and walking westerly to finish at Radiata Plateau. Return via the cycle track and streetscape, unless you can organise a shuffle between a few of you. A sketch map of the main lookouts and some photos of past trips are attached. One way walk on the cliffline is approximately 10 km with some ascent and descent to lookouts. Bring morning tea and lunch.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 26-Jan-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Tiger snake/Penrose
1) four or more abseils up to 30m. No swims but wet feet. Bring a torch if you like to explore a little 'cave' section (not compulsory). 2) three abseils up to 30m. Wet feet, very narrow. Stay on for Hole in the Wall on the following day if you wish
Map: Mt Morgan
Tue - 25-Jan-2022 3 M - Canyon: Bowens Creek North Canyon Upper Section
You need to be vaccinated. 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
Mon - 24-Jan-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Check out the slot and base of cliff line below Mitchells Ridge, Mount Victoria
I have yet to walk down the slot at Mitchells Ridge at the top of Victoria Pass. So I am interested in checking it out and to see if any large overhangs at the base. Half day walk.
Map: Hartley
Sun - 23-Jan-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Water Dragon Canyon - Mt Wilson
Water Dragon, aka Kelvinator, is a very good canyon with a couple of interesting abseils, longest being 15 metres. There are only a couple of short swims in the canyon, but some very long ones down the Wollangambe to get back to the exit. Wetsuits and floatation recommended.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 22-Jan-2022 4 MHX - Day Walk: Jinki and Dalphura ridges
An explore around Jinki and Dalphura ridges, all off track. (This walk is a replacement for King Georges Brook which has been postponed due to weather)
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 22-Jan-2022 4 MHX - Creek: King Georges Brook Cancelled - Weather
The Brook is located East of Mt Banks and contains deep wades and short swims as well as normal creek walking. There is a short fire trail section then off-track down to the brook. We stop at the top of the waterfall for lunch before the steep exit which involves some rock scrambling then a walk up a ridge back to the cars. Not visited since the fires and flooding of 2019 so there may be some blockages to negotiate.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 22-Jan-2022 3 M - Day Walk: Wentworth Pass
Start at wentworth falls picnic area and walk down the grand staircase and the slack stairs to get to the bottom of Wentworth falls. Opportunity for a dip before heading along the pass and up towards empress falls and then to the conservation hut. Take the shortcut track to get back to cars. Lovely loop.
Map: Not Specified
Fri - 21-Jan-2022 3 M - Canyon: Twister and Rocky Creek
This is a really impressive canyon and although wet (wetsuits are necessary) has no abseils. The entry is down Twister Canyon with a couple of fun water jumps and slides before entering the magnificent Rocky Creek Canyon itself. We follow the canyon down to Budgary Creek before returning back up Rocky and a short climb back to the cars. The walks in and out are short the total round trip is only about 4 km. I have put this on a Friday as it is a popular canyon and can be quite busy on the weekend.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 17-Jan-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Blair Athol ventilation shaft and upper reaches of Victoria Brook
Blair Athol Coal Mine at Mount Victoria has been well explored but the ventilation shaft is rarely seen. No attempt will be made to go to close. We will also check out the surrounding area of the upper reaches of Victoria Brook.This will be a half day trip.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 16-Jan-2022 5 H - Day Walk: Wild Gorge, Dome Cave and Cosmic Cave
Rescheduled from 08/01/22 Find out why this spectacular and threatened area must be 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 along the way, then explore both branches of the gorge, including Pinch Point Circle. Move south east and out towards Carne Creek, then climb out 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 - 15-Jan-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Death Trap Canyon
Despite its name, Death Trap is a beautiful, fun canyon on the Newnes Plateau, in upper Rocky Creek It is not Twister Canyon. The canyon has one 20m abseil down a sloping waterfall. There are pools, slides and jumps which are a lot of fun. The walk in and out is only 3 km each way, with great scenery and huge boulders. Wet suits are recommended. This canyon is suitable for less experienced canyoners.
Map: Rock Hill
Sat - 15-Jan-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Holt's Heaven
Leave cars on Wollangambe Fire Trail and walk down a gentle ridge to the Wollongambe. Return via Holt's Heaven, an outcrop of pagodas, exploring slots along the way.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 15-Jan-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Malaita Point multi-pitch abseil - Katoomba
This was Sheila's most popular abseil trip that she loved to lead. Malaita Point is a series of 7 abseils, with the longest being 40 metres. Suitable for all levels of club members who have done the training course.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 14-Jan-2022 3 M - Abseiling: Grand Canyon Cancelled
A relaxed afternoon trip through the famous Grand Canyon. The fun starts with an 18 metre easy overhanging abseil, (which can be walked down) It is suitable for beginners but the way it plunges into a black hole gives it an exciting edge. Then we follow the creek through an obstacle course of scrambling over small boulders and logs interspersed with short swims and wading. This trip is a longer than Empress Falls canyon, the beauty and serenity of this canyon will surprise you, with ferny glades and towering rock walls providing a spectacular setting. Shortly before the end is a 30 meter swim, which is the longest swim in the entire canyon. The water is normally cold so a wetsuit is highly recommended. The whole canyon shouldn't take us more than 3-4 hours to complete. The walk out takes about 45 minutes through temperate rainforest. Getting there: Drive to Blackheath and turn onto Evans Lookout road. Drive most of the way along it until you see a car park on the right hand side of the road called Neates Glen carpark - meet there at 11:30am Bring a head torch as we walk through a short tunnel on way in and just in case we get delayed. Bring a dry bag and change of clothes for end.
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 12-Jan-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Hole in the Wall Canyon Cancelled - Weather
This is a great canyon that split into 2 distinct sections and including a section of tunnel. It finishes on Dingo Creek where we then wade upstream to the exit track through another impressive section of canyon. The abseils are not difficult but it is quite a long day with a 7km walk in and out. Wetsuits are needed as there some fairly long creek sections that need to be swam/waded including the wade back up Dingo Creek.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 10-Jan-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Stonehaven Pass, Wentworth Falls and National Pass gantry
Visit the old gantry which was constructed to supply materials for the construction of the National Pass. The old unique lookouts on the Stonehaven Pass, Wentworth Falls. A walk in a popular area where very few people know about.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 09-Jan-2022 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 - 08-Jan-2022 4 MH - Day Walk: Newnes State Forest: Wild Gorge, Dome Cave and Cosmic Cave Deferred
Find out why this spectacular and threatened area must be 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 along the way, then explore both branches of the gorge, including Pinch Point Circle. Move south east and out towards Carne Creek, then climb out 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 - 08-Jan-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Thor and Asgard heads
We’ll walk down Agard fire trail off Victoria Falls Rd and into Asgard brook before climbing up to Asgard head and then Thor. Wonderful views. Short, leisurely day.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 07-Jan-2022 4 MH - Pack Walk: Australia's 12 Highest Peaks - Kosciuszko National Park
Australia's 12 Highest Peaks is approximately 50km, grade 4 circuit hike, located in the Kosciuszko National Park, NSW. All twelve of the Highest Peaks are within twelve kilometres of each other (at least as the Crow flies). The hike should take 3 days to complete. Day 1: Charlottes Pass to Cootapatamba Hut. Approx 13km. 1: Mount Stillwell 2054m. 2: Rams Head, 2190m, 3: Rams Head North. Camp near Cootapatamba Hut. Day 2: Cootapatamba Hut to Wilkinsons Creek. Approx 17km. 4: Ethridge Ridge 2180m, 2177m, 5: Mount Kosciuszko, 2228m (but be warned, it can be a bit like Pitt St), 6: Abbott Peak, 2145m, 7: Mount Townsend, 2209m, 8: Alice Rawson Peak, 2160m. Camp near Wilkinsons Creek. Day 3: Wilkinsons Creek to Charlottes Pass. Approx 19km. 9: Mount Northcote, 2131m, 10: Carruthers Peak, 2145m, 11: Watsons Crags, 2136m, 12: 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. Option is to stay overnight in Jindabyne or camp at Ngarigo Campground the night before the hike
Map: Not Specified
Mon - 03-Jan-2022 3 MX - Day Walk: Pulpit Rock, Wentworth Falls.
For a long time I only had a verbal account about the feature Pulpit Rock at Wentworth Falls. Only recently did I come across a newspaper reference.Clarence and Richmond Examiner 19 November 1901, p. 2. Hopefully we have enough clues to find this illusive rock feature known as Pulpit Rock. This should be a short easy walk and if hot we are close to water.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 01-Jan-2022 4 MD - Abseiling: Waterfall of Moss Canyon - Mt Wilson
This canyon involves up to 5 abseils, with the longest about 20 metres. Some of the abseils have tricky starts and involve overhangs. We will not be entering the canyon via the most popular entry, but going in via another entry point. There is only two pools of water just above knee deep in the canyon. On the way to the canyon an 8 metre swim is required to cross the Wollangambe and then a 6 metre rope climb. At the end of the canyon there is a 200m stretch on the Wollangambe that requires walking, wading and swimming.
Map: Mt Wilson
Thu - 30-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Grand Canyon
A relaxed afternoon trip through the famous Grand Canyon. The fun starts with an 18 metre easy overhanging abseil, (which can be walked down) It is suitable for beginners but the way it plunges into a black hole gives it an exciting edge. Then we follow the creek through an obstacle course of scrambling over small boulders and logs interspersed with short swims and wading. This trip is a longer than Empress Falls canyon, the beauty and serenity of this canyon will surprise you, with ferny glades and towering rock walls providing a spectacular setting. Shortly before the end is a 30 meter swim, which is the longest swim in the entire canyon. The water is normally cold so a wetsuit is highly recommended. The whole canyon shouldn't take us more than 3-4 hours to complete. The walk out takes about 45 minutes through temperate rainforest. Getting there: Drive to Blackheath and turn onto Evans Lookout road. Drive most of the way along it until you see a car park on the right hand side of the road called Neates Glen carpark - meet there at 11.30am Bring a head torch as we walk through a short tunnel on way in and just in case we get delayed. Bring a dry bag and change of clothes for end.
Map: Not Specified
Thu - 23-Dec-2021 4 MD - Abseiling: Closet Canyon Cancelled - Weather
Closet Canyon is a good canyon in the middle reaches of Rocky Creek. It has two relatively short constrictions, the second starting with an awesome looking Butterbox-style 40m abseil down a waterfall. There are a couple of swims. It ends in Rocky Creek, where a short walk upstream takes us to en exit gully. This canyon involves a 90 min walk in and out so it can be a long day.
Map: Rock Hill
Wed - 22-Dec-2021 5 H - Day Walk: Flat Rock and Around
This walk features exceptional Angophoras, rainforest and rock formations. Park one car on Mountain Lagoon Road at GR 752 941 and another one at GR 759 950. From the first car, walk down into a creek, then make our way towards Flat Rock. After Flat Rock, descend into a gully at around GR 755 952 and follow it downstream, then exit up the gully at GR 750 963. Climb on the ridge and walk to the second car. About 8 km. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 20-Dec-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Donkey Mountain
Donkey Mt is in the Wolgan Valley North of Lithgow. A steep climb through two cliff lines is required to reach the NW end. From here we explore a fascinating maze of passages, tunnels, mini canyons and pagodas as we make our way towards the SE end. (about 2km) There are excellent views of the Wolgan Valley and surrounding cliffs. This walk is for experienced bushwalkers who must be prepared to squeeze through narrow cracks and scramble over rocks. Members must carry proof of full vaccination with them on this trip.
Map: Cullen Bullen
Mon - 20-Dec-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: The newly named Foy Falls within Magdala Creek.
From Picnic Point at the end of Valley Road, Springwood walk the Fairy Dell Track and check out the newly named Foy Falls. Continue down the walking track along Magdala Creek to Magdala Falls, Blue Pool and Martin Falls. Leave the track and climb the spur to join the walking track to Pancake Rocks and Yondell Avenue. Car shuffle some cars at Picnic point and some at the end of Yondell Avenue, Springwood.
Map: Springwood
Sun - 19-Dec-2021 4 MD - Creek: Du Faurs Creek - Bell Creek return
A short introduction to our summer creek swim activity. Wet suit needed. Enter Du Faurs Creek by Joes Canyon down Du Faurs to junction with Bell Creek. Explore up Bell Creek and then either go down the Wollangambe to the first exit or return the way we came. Ability to swim - cold water - lilo if you prefer. I just use the flotation of my wet suit.
Map: Wollangambe
Sun - 19-Dec-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Victoria Falls to Pierces Pass
We will enjoy Victoria Falls and other cascades on our way down into the Grose. The walk out via Pierces Pass is fairly steep, with great views. Full day walk. Car shuffle required.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 18-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: David Crevasse - Mt Banks
An abseil trip, near Mt Banks, through a lush, dry gully. A 90 minute walk along fire trail to the start of the canyon. About 6 abseils, up to 25 metres. Exit is via another gully. This exit involves an 10 metre prussick up a rock wall. You must be able to prussick this distance to do this trip. Once up the rock face it is a 30 minute walk to the top, where we walk 6 klm along fire trail back to the cars.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 18-Dec-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: North Wentworth Falls to Blue Mts Creek
We climb up to Kent road & return to visit a huge blue gum tree named "Big Blue" & (this is bigger than the famous Woodford tree) Then visit Lawson Cave waterfall & 3 other lost camp sites on the Bruce's walk back to Wentworth Falls.
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 16-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Empress Canyon and abseil
Empress canyon is a short and impressive canyon close to the conservation hut in Wentworth Falls. There are several wades and short swims and it can get cold waiting so a wetsuit is highly recommended. The canyon finishes with a spectacularly beautiful 28 meter abseil into a pool below. Meeting at Conservation Hut at 4:00pm afternoon The abseil ends in a deep pool requiring a short 20 paddle to exit. Participants should be comfortable getting off the descender while treading water Map: Katoomba
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 15-Dec-2021 5 D - Canyon: Lower Bell Creek
This is an wonderful non-abseiling canyon at Mt Wilson. Tom Brennan rates it 10/10! We walk in from Watertrough Hill and enter via Belfry Canyon, a short canyon with mossy walls. Bell Creek has many long swim sections through dark tunnels with narrow walls. Rock scrambling over slippery rocks and obstacles is necessary. Canyoning helmets are required and wetsuits are recommended. The scenery is magnificent. We continue up DuFaurs Creek and exit via Joes Canyon to follow the track back to Mt Wilson Fire station. This activity is suitable for strong swimmers and expereinced bushwalkers.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 13-Dec-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Explore the top northern cliff line of Shipley Plateau
From the vicinity of Mount Blackheath Lookout we will walk to the north eastern point of Shipley Plateau and see what we can see. Half day walk. Note high exposure on top of cliff walk.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 11-Dec-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Woodford-Linden Circuit
We visit the old Woodford weir & ruins of pumping station, then make our way to the track to visit Paradise pool at the back of Linden & return up the valley to visit the historic Cox's road.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 10-Dec-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Mt Hay and surrounds
We’ll park at Mt Hay and walk around the cliff line to Butterbox. Lots of flowers, views, interesting rock formations. Maybe even some Christmas bells. Short day. May require 4WD.
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 09-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Empress Canyon and abseil Cancelled - Weather
Empress canyon is a short and impressive canyon close to the conservation hut in Wentworth Falls. There are several wades and short swims and it can get cold waiting so a wetsuit is highly recommended. The canyon finishes with a spectacularly beautiful 28 meter abseil into a pool below. Meeting at Conservation Hut at 4:00pm afternoon The abseil ends in a deep pool requiring a short 20 paddle to exit. Participants should be comfortable getting off the descender while treading water Map: Katoomba
Map: Katoomba
Tue - 07-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Ranon Brook
Ranon Brook is a short canyon off the Bells Line of Road with four abseils. A short car shuffle is required. The exit is by climbing Mistake Ravine. There are some waist deep pools to negotiate. Wet suits are optional. This canyon is suitable for less experienced canyoners. Evidence of full vaccination must be carried with you.
Map: Mt Wilson
Mon - 06-Dec-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Gladstone Coal Mine
To uncover, photograph and document the large wheel which was used to carry the 2km aerial rope way for the Gladstone Coal Mine in 1884. We will walk down Roberts Pass to the Gladstone Coal Mine and return via Gladstone Pass
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 05-Dec-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Oronga Canyon - Mt Banks
The trip will go down the western branch of the creek and come back up the eastern branch. There will be a few short abseils, a few swims and scrambling. Lunch will be on a rock platform overlooking the Grose Valley, where there are 3 more abseils of about 50 metres each, which we won't be doing. (photos attached)
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 04-Dec-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Blue Gum Swamp
The Blue Gum Swamp is a popular bike and walking track at Winmallee. There is a gentle descent to Blue Gum Swamp which features excellent stands of blue gums. We climb Bees Nest Hill for magnificent views of the Grose Valley. Next we descend to the Blue Gum swamp and climb out to the car park. This walk is suitable for new members.
Map: Springwood
Sun - 28-Nov-2021 4 MD - Abseiling: Waterfall of Moss Canyon - Mt Wilson
This canyon involves 8 abseils, with the longest about 20 metres. Some of the abseils have tricky starts and involve overhangs. There is only two pools of water about knee deep in the canyon. On the way to the canyon a 6 metre swim is required to cross the Wollangambe and then a 4 metre rope climb. At the end of the canyon there is a 200m stretch on the Wollangambe that requires walking, wading and swimming.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 27-Nov-2021 5 H - Day Walk: The Old Ropeway
Malaita Point to Ruined Castle follow the trace of the old ropeway, discover discarded memorabilia. All off track and a very steep first slope down. We explore a bit of Causeway Creek before ascending to the Ruined Castle Track, could be scrubby. Should have time to go by Furbers Steps both ways . Fit walkers please.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 22-Nov-2021 3 M - Day Walk: A short walk checking old tracks and lookouts at Mount York.
When you think you have been to an area and seen it all. Only to find there are old tracks, steps and lookouts that are still new to you. Mount York, still full of surprises.
Map: Hartley
Mon - 22-Nov-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: South of Spot Height 575 m
Park at GR 716 959 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk east into a gully, continue for just under a kilometre, then turn north and traverse under the cliffs, possibly till GR 736 967. Exit towards Spot Height 575 m. If time allows, check a couple of gullies to the west before walking back to the car. Exploratory. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 20-Nov-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Hole in the Rock Canyon - Newnes
Hole in the Rock is an nice canyon in the Wolgan Valley. There are 5 abseils, the first one is through a tight hole and the third through a hole into a cave. The trip may have one waist deep short wade. The day finishes with a 40 metre abseil through the cliffs and a short walk back to the vehicles.
Map: Not Specified
Sat - 20-Nov-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Upper Wollongambe circuit
This walk was originally scheduled for July 2021 but was postponed because of covid. It is now open again to covid-vaccinated members. First preference will be given to those who signed up for the walk back in July. The walk follows ridges on the Northern and Southern sides of the Wollongambe River in the area East of Goochs Crater. The walk is graded 4 because most of the walk is off-track walking, but there will be little or no rock scrambling. There will, however, be two knee-deep river crossings. About 10 km. Pagodas guaranteed.
Map: Wollangambe
Wed - 17-Nov-2021 2 EM - Abseiling: Fun With Ropes at Yellow Rock
Fun with Ropes is an abseiling skills practice day. The day is loosely structured so that members can practice rope skills or more advanced techniques. Drop in and leave when you like. Ropes will be supplied, but you can bring your own if you wish. Activities will include knots, prussiking, tie offs, using different descenders, self rescue, top belay, haul systems, lowering and releasable anchors.
Map: Springwood
Mon - 15-Nov-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Narrow Neck Revisited 6
A walk to the top of the pseudo Rockpile Pass, with a visit to the historic cairn that has created much confusion about the real location of the pass. From the locked gate on Narrow Neck, the walk will follow the original bushwalkers track across Diamond Creek, then across Corral Creek, and will return along the Narrow Neck trail.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 15-Nov-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Blacksmiths Creek South Side Traverse
Park one car at GR 688 953 and another one at GR 718 962 on D’Arcy Trail. From the second car, descend under the cliffs and traverse west above Blacksmiths Creek for as long as the time, energy and interest allow, or until in line with the first car. Climb back to the trail and complete the shuffle. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 13-Nov-2021 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
Tue - 09-Nov-2021 3 M - Abseiling: Tiger Snake Canyon
Tiger Snake canyon is accessed from the Old Coach Road on the Newnes plateau. It is a short canyon with 4 abseils and is suitable for less experienced canyoners. Abseil 3 now has a new anchor and is a little longer. There are some very pleasant canyon sections and a great abseil into a narrow dark crack. Tiger Snake is a dry canyon with one knee deep pool. The weather forecast for Tuesday is good.
Map: Rock Hill
Mon - 08-Nov-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Investigation of rock formations with a tributary of Victoria Creek, Blackheath
Geology lecturer, Dr Peter Rickwood while checking aerial photos has noticed an unusual 'joint controlled blocks' within a creek system and asked me to investigate. A half day bush walk.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sun - 07-Nov-2021 2 EM - Canyon: Fortress Canyon
Fortress Canyon is a nice easy canyon, though not particularly deep or dark. It has one short 5m abseil but is otherwise a walk and swim along Fortress Creek near Leura. At the end of the canyon the lunch spot is a highlight, looking across to Lockley Pylon at the top of the cliffs above Govett Gorge. The walk out also has superb views along Fortress Ridge. This trip will be subject to NSW COVID regulations and will be limited to fully vaccinated participants from LGAs that are not designated as areas of concern.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 06-Nov-2021 4 MHX - Day Walk: Kamarah and Koombanda ridges.
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. No car shuffle involved and parts of the walk are exploratory. This trip will be subject to NSW COVID regulations that are in force at the time of the walk and is limited to fully vaccinated participants.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 03-Nov-2021 5 D - Abseiling: Devils Playground
The Devils Playground is several abseils around the Devils Hole 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, down the cliff face. This is followed by Kilimanjaro 45m from an overhang. Again, we exit part way up Devils Hole and climb onto the chockstone for a spectacular abseil. These abseils are suitable for experienced canyoners. Current CoVid 19 restrictions apply and proof of full vaccination is required for this trip
Map: Katoomba
Wed - 03-Nov-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: North of Spot Height 575 m
Park at GR 736 982 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk on a spur to the south east, then explore the gully to the north. From around GR 750 975, traverse south west, then climb towards spot height 575. Walk down into the gully at GR 732 973, descend to the next major junction, then climb back up to the vehicles. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 01-Nov-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Signature Rock within Alice Louisa Cave, Porters Pass, Blackheath
During lockdown and using only photos I researched the highly ornate graffiti within Porters Pass. Now the travel restrictions have eased I will be able to first hand examine this area with a better historical understanding. Slow and easy half day walk into history. Fully vacced only.
Map: Katoomba
Mon - 01-Nov-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi NP: Cliff Line and Gullies East of Blacksmiths Creek
Park one car at GR 718 962 and another one on GR 734 976 on D’Arcy Trail. From the second car, walk south west down in a gully, then continue under the cliffs for as long as the time, energy and interest allow, or till a spot near the first car. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 30-Oct-2021 3 M - Canyon: Juggler Canyon at Medlow Bath
Juggler Canyon is an easier canyon which is a dry trip. There are about 5 abseils but we will continue down stream and do 2 more 20 metre abseils down Beauchamp Falls. This trip is for all those members inside the ''Greater Sydney Area'' and who are fully vaccinated. Covid rules will apply.
Map: Katoomba
Sat - 30-Oct-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Ridge walk to Mount D'Arcy and Back
Starting from Itchenstoke/ Mount Tootie we drive 11 km to end of D'Arcy Range fire trail and park the cars. Mount D’Arcy is a rarely visited peak and the whole walk is off-track. For the 1st km we head north. At the start the bush is thick and care is needed with navigation. Then we turn east and the vegetation soon opens up with occasional rock platforms. In parts the ridge narrows to approx. 10 m width. There are excellent views to the north with Parr South prominent in the background. To quote from Yuri's walk report: “We now reached a section containing enormous grey boulders separated by a labyrinth of twisting passages and slots. It was mostly possible to advance along the tops and enjoy pleasant views, but at the same time, there were visual delights right under our feet, including beautiful caves adorned with honeycomb tafoni formations.” “Without any doubt, the most outstanding feature here is a dome-shaped cave, the size of a big tent, punctured by a multitude of windows of different shapes and sizes. It is possible to crawl inside and look out through the holes into the open sky, which is the best way to enjoy this wonderful creation of nature. I called it Perforated Rock.” We continue along the ridge now to a final 150 m ascent to the summit. (Mount D’Arcy is actually the same height as where we parked the cars, but the first part of the ridge is a barely discernible descent.) The summit is flat and tree covered with limited views, but offers pleasant shade for lunch. We can decide whether to visit the second lower summit 300 m to the east. This is more summit like and rocky offering glimpses of the Colo, but to quote Yuri “the last 50 m of the ascent was incredibly scrubby, mainly due to the abundant Hardenbergia vine.” From there we return the same way we came. Estimated walking time is 3hrs each way assuming a slowish pace. For those interested in history, the area was surveyed in 1833 by colonial surveyor Frederick D’Arcy (c. 1809-1875).
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Thu - 28-Oct-2021 4 MD - Abseiling: Abseil Training for Beginners
This one day course is a basic introduction to canyoning. A training session at Mt York teaches abseiling technique, teamwork and safety. Members who complete the course successfully then put skills into practice in Juggler Canyon which has six abseils. Please read Guidelines for Canyoners on the club website before applying for this course. Members must have the fitness and agility required for canyoning. The canyon waiver must be completed. Members must have completed walks with UBMBC and have completed a non abseiling canyon. This activity is for fully vaccinated members from the ''Greater Sydney Area''
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 28-Oct-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Lagoon Creek Gold Mine
A half day walk to explore Lagoon Creek Gold Mine, the 1886 lease area, adits, shafts, dam and old boiler steam engine deep in the bush. Open to anyone outside Greater Sydney and who are double vacced.
Map: Portland
Wed - 27-Oct-2021 2 EM - Abseiling: Koombanda Canyon
Koombanda is a short canyon off the Darling Causeway near Bell. There are three abseils, the longest is 15m. Two swims and a wade are required, We will start later in the and still finish mid afternoon. The forecast temperature is 7 to 24 degrees with no rain. The exit is up the old Canyon Colliery road which is badly eroded. There are excellent views of the Grose Valley on the way out. This canyon is a good one for new canyoners. It is open to fully vaccinated members who live in the Greater Sydney Area.
Map: Mt Wilson
Wed - 27-Oct-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Seastorm Caves and Blacksmiths Creek Cliffs
Park at GR 737 987 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk down into a gully and visit Seastorm Cavs. Continue under the cliffs northwards till about GR 732 004. Climb back to D’Arcy Trail and reconnect with the vehicles. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km. For fully vaccinated members who live in the Greater Sydney Area.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Mon - 25-Oct-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Two Gullies and a Spur East of D’Arcy Range
You need to be fully vaccinated and live in the Greater Sydney area. Park at GR 740 008 on D’Arcy Trail. Walk south into a gully, exit it after about a kilometre and climb up on the south east trending spur. Walk to the end, traverse north west under the cliffs, then follow the gully to the vehicles. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 7 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 23-Oct-2021 3 MX - Day Walk: Eusdale Nature Reserve
Eusdale Nature Reserve is between Bathurst and Lithgow. A recce was conducted a couple of weeks back. So this time a circuit walk within the reserve of approx 13km on good bush tracks will be undertaken. The walk includes a section along Eusdale Creek. Note 350 metres descent and ascent. But we will enjoy the journey. (This walk is for fully vaccinated members who live outside the ''Greater Sydney Area'')
Map: Meadow Flat
Sat - 23-Oct-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Jamison Valley Traverse
Walking from Kedumba to the Golden Stairs via Mount Solitary. Long day, probably just over 20 kms.. Very steep and washed out up to Solitary Col but the views are worth it! Crossing Solitary and coming down the nose, scrambling down the rocks. Then the Federal Pass to the Golden Stairs. A bit late in the season for this walk so hope it isn't too hot. This walk is for fully vaccinated members from the ''Greater Sydney Area''
Map: Jamison
Fri - 22-Oct-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Spurs and Pagodas of Hat Hill Creek
This section of Hat Hill Creek is only 2 km from Blackheath. Join me to explore rugged sandstone formations, pagodas, slots and caves. There are short, steep climbs and lots of rock scrambling as we wind our way up and down the spurs. This walk is open to fully vaccinated members who live in the Greater Sydney area.
Map: Mt Wilson
Fri - 22-Oct-2021 5 HX - Day Walk: Wollemi National Park: Undercliff Traverse Above Blacksmiths Creek
You need to be fully vaccinated and live in the Greater Sydney area. Park one car at about GR 736 990 and another one at GR 741 015 on D’Arcy Trail. From the second car, walk west into a gully, descend under the cliffs and follow them south for as far as the time, energy and interest allow. Climb back to D’Arcy Trail and reconnect with one of the vehicles. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 7 km.
Map: Mountain Lagoon
Sat - 16-Oct-2021 3 M - Day Walk: The huge granite tors of Evans Crown
An easy day of exploring Evans Crown at Tarana. Just relax on one of the boulders or check out the many caverns in the area. Early finish. This walk is for fully vaccinated members who live outside the Greater Sydney Area.
Map: Tarana
Sat - 09-Oct-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Ngula Bulgarabang Cliff Top Paths/Central Megalong Ledges ( Radiata Plateau
For double vaccinated, Blue Moutanis LGA members: This is a short circular day walk. We park at the end of Pulpit Hill Rd and walk generally north along clifftop paths towards Medlow Bath. About halfway there we descend to the Megalong Ledges via a steep but safe climbers path. We then walk S along the ledges to the vicinity of Black's Ladder and ascend to our starting point. By the end of the walk, all participants will, of course, be expected to state the name of the new Recreation Area without stumbling over the words!
Map: Katoomba
Thu - 07-Oct-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Eusdale Nature Reserve
Eusdale Nature Reserve is within the Bathurst LGA. We will walk a circuit walk within the reserve of approx 13km on bush tracks. (This walk is for fully vaccinated members only from the Bathurst LGA)
Map: Meadow Flat
Wed - 06-Oct-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Exploring Hat Area at Blackheath
Explore the cliffs N of Hat Hill. The walk begins at Hat Hill and continues to Bennett Look out for great views of the Grose Valley. We descend part way along Brownes Path then return, continuing along the cliffs across Bennett Gully to the Wind Eroded Cave and Anvil Rock. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 02-Oct-2021 2 EM - Day Walk: Wambool Nature Reserve
Wambool Nature Reserve is within the LGA of Bathurst. A small reserve with a distinct vegetation, geology and flora. A short half day walk to explore and photography.
Map: Meadow Flat
Tue - 28-Sep-2021 3 MX - Abseiling: Malaita Point Full
Malaita Point is a dry abseil trip with 6 pitches up to 40m. For those who have completed a club abseil training day and who have the necessary abseiling and safety equipment. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Katoomba
Sun - 26-Sep-2021 4 MH - Creek: Upper Hat Hill Creek Deferred - Lockdown
This beautiful creek in Blackheath is a grade 4 creek walk of about 3 kms. We begin on a well-formed bush track that takes us to cliffs above Hat Hill Creek. Once we descend into in the creek, we look around the amphitheatre then make our way upstream to Robb Ave. On the way there is some very pleasant creek walking with cliffs, pagodas, pools and small waterfalls. There are some rough sections and we cross the creek several times. A car shuffle will be required. Map: Mt Wilson
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 25-Sep-2021 4 MHX - Day Walk: Gooch’s crater Deferred - Lockdown
I am repeating this walk to this wonderful area, because a number of people missed out. The scenery is amazing with distant views, fascinating pagodas and the unusual formation of the crater. Some steep, slippery, off track sections.
Map: Wollangambe
Sat - 25-Sep-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Winburndale Nature Reserve
Want to visit an unusual Aboriginal site? Well you can IF you reside in the Bathurst LGA. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants. Total distance 16km of which 12km is on a relatively flat fire trail.
Map: Portland
Fri - 24-Sep-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Terrace Falls
Terrace Falls reserve has some delightful waterfalls. The walk is all on track and covers around 6 km. We visit Victor Falls, Terrace Falls, Bedford Pool and Willawong Pool. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Katoomba
Fri - 24-Sep-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Sassafras Gully Circuit
The Sassafras Gully loop is an excellent walk near Springwood. The walk uses the gullies to navigate past some wonderful rock features and waterfalls. A nice, cool walk in the shade. All on track. About 10 kms. Early afternoon finish. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Springwood
Wed - 22-Sep-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Galong Creek Full
The Galong Creek walk is grade 4 and involves rock hopping and boulder scrambling to cross creeks. It is around 6 km total distance in very rugged country. There are some 2 -3 m rope assisted drops and very steep ridges to climb and descend. The pink granite, boulders, creek bed and waterfalls are spectacular. There may be a thigh deep wade around the edge of a pool. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Jenolan
Sun - 19-Sep-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: The Northern Spurs of Upper Hat Hill Creek Full
Over recent weeks Geoff and I have been exploring the spurs on the Northern side of Upper Hat Hill Ck. We'd done Upper Hat Hill several times before but have been surprised to discover features we refer to as the Giant's armchair, Blackheath's answer to the Three Sisters and the Top Hats. This walk is intended to share some of the highlights. Ridges studded with Pagodas will be zig zagged along. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Mt Wilson
Sat - 18-Sep-2021 4 MHX - Day Walk: Lost City Deferred - Lockdown
Incredible pagodas but last time we did this incredible wattle. Let's hope the fires haven't destroyed it. We might this time do a more extensive walk coming at the State Forest to the dams at the bottom and then up to Lost City and return
Map: Lithgow
Sat - 18-Sep-2021 3 M - Day Walk: Mount Ovens within the Winbourne Nature Reserve
A visit to Mount Ovens Trig station & some of the best views westward towards Bathurst.This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Bathurst LGA
Map: Meadow Flat
Fri - 17-Sep-2021 4 MH - Day Walk: Galong Creek Full
The Galong Creek walk is grade 4 and involves rock hopping and boulder scrambling to cross creeks. It is around 6 km total distance in very rugged country. There are some 2 -3 m rope assisted drops and very steep ridges to climb and descend. The pink granite, boulders, creek bed and waterfalls are spectacular. There may be a thigh deep wade around the edge of a pool. This activity is for fully vaccinated members only and is limited to 5 participants from the Blue Mountains LGA.
Map: Jenolan
Sat - 11-Sep-2021 4 MHX - Day Walk: Noble Canyon and surrounds Deferred - Lockdown
Walk through Noble canyon and explore interesting slots and pagodas with great views as a bonus
Map: Cullen Bullen

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club

Activities from Earlier Programs