The Grand Canyon: One of the world’s top Heritage-listed walks 🏕🌄🚶🏻‍♀️❤

Sandstone walls, ever-present waterfalls, and abundant ferns line Grand Canyon track near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains. This historic loop track takes you into the heart of a historic like landscape, and is an adventurous and popular track, which walkers have trodden since 1907.

From the start at the Grand Canyon carpark, you will watch the ecosystem around you change from banksia and mountain devil to luscious ferns and rainforest species as you descend into the canyon along this well shaded track which follows Greaves Creek.

This historic loop track dives deep into the looming sandstone walls that have been carved over millions of years by the flow of Greaves Creek and you will be awed by spectacular viewpoints that showcase the impressive terrain and cliffs of the Grose Valley.

Although there are loads of semi-ledges which make up this challenging walk, it is one of the rare locations where you don’t need specialist hiking or abseiling equipment to explore a canyon.
PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU RSVP:

Fitness 🥾🏃🏻‍♀️:

• Moderate difficulty (Grade 3) – 6.3klm loop with a very steep descent and ascent via steps. But the views in the Canyon are worth the anguish of the stairs 😉🧗🏻‍♀️.
• A mix of walkways, creek crossings and there are loads of semi-ledges.
• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots recommended and appropriate clothing for weather.
• Approximately 3 and half to 4 hours.
• We will take our time to enjoy the spectacular scenery. But ask that members be respectful of others and attempt to not wander off and try and keep up with the pace of the group 😊.

Transport:
Via public transport from Central Station🚂:

• 06.24am departing from Central Station, Platform 6 to Blackheath.
• 08.37am arrive at Blackheath Station.
• Parking can be found behind the Ivanhoe Hotel on Govetts Leap Road.

Meeting:

• 09.00am SHARP meet outside the car park next to The Ivanhoe Hotel, Govetts Leap Road, East exit of Blackheath Station.
• 09.15am We will then carpool to the beginning of the track at the Grand Canyon carpark on Evans Lookout Road to start hike at 09.30am SHARP

Route:

• 09.30am we will begin our walk anticlockwise back along Evans Lookout Road to begin the steep descent down many stairs to Neates Glen.
• Once we reach the bottom, we will continue along the grand Canyon Track.
• There will be plenty of opportunities in the canyon to stop for a tea break and snack, and if you’re courageous, have a swim in one of the many pools and waterfalls 😍♒.
• We will then make our way up the very long climb up the steps to Evans Lookout for some spectacular panoramic views.
• A quick walk to Valley View Lookout then proceed back to the car park.
• We will carpool back to Blackheath and for those who would like to stay, we will partake in a late lunch 🥩🍹.

What to bring:

• Good shoes for walking, preferably hiking boots and poles if required.
• BYO lunch / snacks, water, weather-appropriate clothing (and swimsuit if going for a dip 😊).
• There are only bathrooms and bubblers at the carpark at start of the route, so please bring at least 2ltr of water.

Support:

• $10 cash contribution on the day is greatly appreciated! It helps cover my Meetup subscription and group running costs 😊.
• Or via Pay .I.D. on 0405122682.

Contact:

• I will be available for contact on 0405122682 if you have any questions.

IMPORTANT:

• RSVP Responsibly: Your RSVP is a commitment to attend. If your plans change, please update it at least 12-24 hours in advance. This helps the host plan accordingly and allows waitlisted members to join, as spots are often limited for safety and logistical reasons. Frequent last-minute cancellations or no-shows may affect your ability to join future events or result in removal from the group.
• Community Walk: This is a volunteer-led walk with a hiking enthusiast, just as yourselves. Please keep the host within sight throughout the walk. You're welcome to leave at any time if needed, but please let the host know.
• Safety First: Your safety is your responsibility. By attending, you agree to follow all instructions, current rules, and public health orders in our guidelines accessible at:

https://www.meetup.com/womens-hiking-adventures/