Shrub-lined sandstone ridges fold away to the horizon. Wild creeks spill through winding crags to empty their cold mountain water over sheer cliffs. At the bottom lays the beautiful and historic Blue Gum Forest, where ancient giants tower over shaded woodlands and protect the peaceful run of the river. The Grose Valley is a wild and spectacular place that offers an amazing Blue Mountains experience.

Mt. Banks

It’s distinctive shape makes Mt Banks one of the stand-out peaks along Bells Lin e of Road. While trees obscure the summit, views of the Grose Valley can be seen on the climb up the mountain or from the surrounding cliff-top walks.

Walls Lookout and Rigby Hill

Some of the best and most expansive views of the Upper Grose Valley can be seen from this short walk. An excellent option for group ‘adventure’ activity.

Victoria Falls

Pearched near the top of the Grose Valley, Victoria Falls is a spectacular waterfall with interesting erosion features. The track can be found from leaving Victoria Falls Lookout – accessable via Victoria Falls Road off the Great Western Highway. Drive all the way to the end and enjoy the views over the upper Grose before descending this sometimes slippery track down to the falls. For more enthusiastic walkers a day trip is possible to reach the junction with the Grose River at Burra Korain Flats. A much longer overnight walk continues downstream from here to the popular Blue Gum Forest.

Blue Gum Forest

Often described as the ‘cradle of conservation’ in NSW, Blue Gum Forest is well known for the campaign that saved it in the 1930s. The closest route into the forest from Wollemi House is Pierce’s Pass. The track drops steeply before following the Grose River down-stream until it reaches the junction with Govetts Creek. Here, giant Blue Gums extend beyond the river banks into cool shaded woodlands. The lazy, serene atmosphere of this historic place makes for a tranquil spot for lunch or even a dip in the river.

A return trip from Peirce’s Pass carpark will take approximately 6-7hrs with a 500m climb. This is a hard walk and should only be attempted by fit and experienced walkers with appropriate navigational and safety equipment.

Blackheath

From Blackheath there are various lookouts, trails and access points down into the Grose Valley. Popular lookouts such as Govett’s Leap and Evan’s Lookout provide great views out over the southern branch of the Upper Grose. A spectacular cliff top walk trail links these two vantage points and is well worth the short return walk.

Suggested reading: Back From the Brink, Blue Gum Forest and the Grose Wilderness by Andy McQueen, a book that details the intriguing history of the Grose Valley and how it was saved.

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