Grose River at Pierces Pass. The Grose River descends down the valley to the lower reaches of the mountains, and by the time it’s made its way to Faulconbridge Point, it’s sedate and meandering. Here, though, it feels as it is – a mountain river – gurgling, active, and bloody crisp! Swimming here, you’re right in the middle of classic Blue Mountains scenery, and as you gaze up there can be no doubt of where in the world you are! Pierces Pass is well graded and one of the easiest ways to access the Grose Valley. The route has a long history of use, both by local Aboriginals and later as a stock route to the Blue Gum Forest. With wonderful views of the sheer walls of Mount Banks and Mount Hay, it’s also one of the most scenic walks in The Mountains, and while it gets a few visitors, it’s definitely not on the tourist map.
199 Grose River at Pierces Pass
The valley walls are only 1.5km apart, which is actually close enough to really feel their presence – especially considering the almost 500m descent. The river bustles around large boulders, pausing temporarily in sunlit pools, where the pale green water is so fantastically clear that you appear to be levitating as you float. Wollangambe River Canyon One. This is for those that want to shake off the monotony of city life and be an adventurer for a day. This section of canyon on the Wollangambe River is popular, but such is its beauty and otherworldliness that it’s easy to still feel like you’re the first person to ever venture here. With water of changing hues and looming, sculptured canyon walls, the scenery is knockout. Travelling this canyon makes for a challenging day, but the pioneering spirit it arouses can’t be beat!
200 Wollangambe River Canyon One
The pristine waters of the Wollangambe flow through this narrow canyon in the untamed Wollemi Wilderness. The water is chilly, and even in summer you need to wear a wetsuit. The only way to experience this otherwise inaccessible environment is by lilo – simply recline and gently paddle with your hands downriver. It’s a lot of fun and also limits your exposure to the cold. Anytime you want to experience the river by being in it and swimming, just park up your lilo and hop in! Water dragons are very common on the rocks and they often jump in and join you. You travel through changing sections of the canyon – some illuminated with dancing rays of sunshine, where steam
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Great Blue Mountains North