2018 01 (24) 25-28 Caves and Canyons of the Blue Mountains
Post date: Nov 15, 2017 4:39:11 AM
Day 1: Ikara, Thor and Asgard Heads, BMNP (M/M 13km & 700m ascent) These 3 heads offer breathtaking views of the upper Grose valley. We will also do a side trip to visit Girraween Cave and the remnants of Mackenzie’s Mine and kiln.
Day 2: Bell Ck Canyon BMNP (M/R/W 12km & 800m ascent) This is an outstanding, dark and narrow canyon. We will do the lower section of the canyon, entering via DuFaur Ck and Little Bell Canyon, which requires a tricky descent down a log with the aid of a rope. We will exit near the Wollangambee River junction, walking up to the Mt Wilson Fire Shed. A number of long compulsory swims are required, and participants should be confident in water over their heads. A wetsuit, helmet, cotton covered li-lo and slip resistant shoes are required.
Day 3: Fortress Canyon and Darks Cave BMNP (S/M/W 10km & 550m ascent). We will travel to the end of the Fortress ridge track, descending off track to the Fortress Canyon exit which has a large waterfall and spectacular views of Govetts valley. We will then walk upstream to visit the lower reaches of the canyon, no abseil required. There are a few compulsory swims and participants should be confident in water over their heads. A helmet, wetsuit and slip resistant shoes are required. On the return, we will do a short side trip to Darks Cave, named after Dr Dark who lived there with his wife Eleanor during WWII. Eleanor wrote the Australian classic “The Timeless Land”.
Day 4: Devils Throat & Camp Creek, Newnes Plateau(M/M/R/W 10km off track & 400m ascent) We’ll walk around and under this unique formation which forms the base of Alacatraz Canyon. On return, we’ll do a short detour to capture some unique views of the pagodas along Carne Creek.
Maps: Mount Wilson, Wollangambe, Katoomba, Cullen Bullen