Goochs Crater overnight hike - 17km Medium

Goochs Crater, Camping Cave and Billabong Canyon.

Starting at Bell Station we will make our way along Sandham Gravel road before turning down the forest trail which is located near the Gardens of Stone State Conservation Area.
The trail descends through to Wollangambe river past some interesting rock formations and then heads upwards after we cross the river.
After the river we will make our way along an open plateau and then through a canyon to the camping cave which features aboriginal rock art and is surrounded by some impressive rock formations.
After setting up camp we can explore Billiabong canyon and take a swim to cool off and we can also climb the impressive rock towers overlooking Goochs crater and explore the floor of the crater.

Distance/Grade
17km (approximately 8km each way) MEDIUM

Transport
Bell station can be accessed by car, with plenty of parking near the station or by train from Central Station with a train leaving central at 7:24am and arriving at Bell Station at 9:59am.

You will need lunch and dinner on the Friday when we walk into the camping cave, breakfast and lunch for day 2 when we are walking out and plenty of snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Please make sure you have 2 litres of water or more and electrolyte tablets or powder as we are walking during a sydney summer.
You will also need to have the ability to filter or purify water as this is a completely self-sustained 2 day hike.

Please note

• This is a full backpack hike, you should have all your own gear and be a competent hiker, prepared to stay overnight in the blue mountains.
• Weather can be much colder in the blue mountains, even in summer so come prepared for the forecast temperatures, knowing it can sometimes be cooler than expected.
• We will be walking along trails that are not well marked in places, so ensure you stay together with the group and be aware of any unprotected edges when climbing rock formations.

Payment is required at time of RSVP $40 fee applies to this event payable at time of RSVP PayID is 0432232143 Damon Bailey or BSB 182182 account 011554425 ref: Your meetup profile name.
All times and distances are approx for transport info please visit
http://www.transportnsw.info/
Please arrive prepared with Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, snacks, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing such as a rain jacket if the weather forecast is for rain and everything required for an overnight stay in the Blue Mountains.
RSVP to this meetup you agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of Aussie Explorers which can be found here: https://www.meetup.com/Aussie-Explorers/
Aussie Explorers its organisers and leaders accept no liability during this meetup, leaders try to ensure the safety and well-being of members at all times however as this is a weekend away travelling, exploring different areas and hiking in the great outdoors accidents happen, please take responsibility for your own safety and your belongings.