This walk is great for fit people getting into overnight walking with its fantastic scenery and nostalgia as a classic overnighter. The change from being on the plateau to in the valley is a dramatic one as the track passes through the bush canyon and rainforest. Staying the night near Blue Gum Forest in Acacia Flats also adds to the experience. With the public transport options access to this walk is made easier.
Download maps and tracknotes for Blackheath to Blue Gum loop hiking track from wildwalks.com.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Blue Mountains National Park.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Bullaburra, Hazelbrook, Katoomba, Lawson, Leura, Lithgow, Mount Victoria, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Woodford
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Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
6 Reviews on “Blackheath to Blue Gum Loop Hike (24.1km)”
Note that all tracks into Govetts Creek gorge from the Blackheath side are closed except for Perry’s Look down. You cannot walk to Junction Rick except via Lockleys Pylon, Pierce’s Pass, Victoria Falls, or Perry’s Lookdown. Rodriguez Pass and the track to Junction Rock from Govetts Leap are closed. The road to Perry’s is now tarmac nearly all the way through.
We made it to the bottom of the Grand Canyon stairs before finding out that the pass was closed due to landslides. I’m not sure how long it’s been closed for but I didn’t see anywhere that it was closed on this site or any other sites I looked at before going.
Anna
Richard Halvorson
Could this be done in 1 day if needed?
Did we?
It would be a long day but certainly possible when you have enough daylight hours. Ie. not winter.
Remember? We did this one 🙂
With Adam. There was a huge climbing up. I thought I will stay overnight 😉