Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the captivating charm of the Grand Canyon Walking Track, a 6.5km circuit nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park, just a stone's throw from Blackheath in New South Wales. Starting and ending at the Grand Canyon carpark, this Grade 3 trail immerses hikers in lush rainforest scenes and guides them past cascading waterfalls and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Whether you're savouring the cool shade of ferns and wattles or marvelling at the historic track's ever-present waterfalls and sandstone walls, comfortable shoes are all you need for this moderate, yet rewarding walk. With the vibrant capital city, Sydney, just 115km away, it's an accessible escape for adventurous locals and travellers alike.

Length:

6.5km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 1010m

Min elevation: 803m

Total Ascent: 443m

Start: Grand Canyon carpark

End: Grand Canyon carpark

Blue Mountains National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Blackheath

From state capital: 115km

Latitude: -33.6493752

Longitude: 150.32142691657037

Walk map

Weather

Similar

4,650 views

Safety advice

Check the weather before you set out as the creek can flood after heavy rain.

Hike overview

The Grand Canyon Walking Track commences at the Grand Canyon carpark near Blackheath. Embark on the Grand Canyon Hike Blue Mountains and be met with a series of waterfalls, creeks and spectacular views along the challenging Grand Canyon track in the Blue Mountains.

The Grand Canyon circuit walk offers a variety of trails to explore, winding through lush rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic sandstone cliffs. Sandstone walls, ever-present waterfalls and abundant native plants line Grand Canyon track near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains. The historic loop track takes you into the heart of this World Heritage-listed landscape. It's an intimate, adventurous, and popular track which walkers have trodden since 1907.

Setting out from Grand Canyon carpark this well-shaded track meanders through luscious native vegetation of ferns and golden wattles and remains close to Greaves Creek. All of these things combine to make this a particularly good walk for the summer months.

Although there are loads of semi-ledges which make up this challenging walk, it is one of the rare locations where you don't need specialist hiking or abseiling equipment to explore a canyon. Comfortable walking shoes are all you'll need to get out there and explore. Still feeling energetic? Try the nearby Cliff Top walking track.

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Grand Canyon Track (6.5km)

Total distance: 6119 m
Max elevation: 1010 m
Min elevation: 803 m
Total climbing: 443 m
Total descent: -443 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Bullaburra, Hazelbrook, Katoomba, Lawson, Leura, Lithgow, Mount Victoria, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Woodford

Getting to the trailhead in Blue Mountains National Park.

Grand Canyon track starts at Grand Canyon carpark in Blue Mountains National Park. Parking is available at Grand Canyon carpark. To get there from Blackheath:

Turn off Great Western Highway into Evans Lookout Road
Follow Evans Lookout Road until you reach Grand Canyon carpark

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Blackheath area spoils you with amazing walks, mountain biking and cliff top views in Blue Mountains National Park. Visit Govetts Leap, conquer the Grand Canyon and explore the Grose Wilderness.

Blackheath's natural beauty and activities attract adventurers, families, overseas visitors and Sydneysiders. Govetts Leap and Evans lookout are top of the to do list, boasting some of the best-known views in the park. Gaze across the Grose Valley with its red sandstone cliffs and deep gorges. At 180m Govetts Leap (Bridal Veil) Falls is the tallest single drop waterfall in the Blue Mountains.

Enjoy a picnic with a view or get back to nature along Cliff Top walking track. Pulpit Rock lookout will make you feel like you're on top of the world. The challenging Govetts Leap descent takes you deep into the valley, past hanging swamps and waterfalls. Adventure seekers can get their thrills cycling Burramoko Ridge or explore a canyon without all the gear on Grand Canyon walk.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Blue Mountains National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

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

Reviews

Grand Canyon Track (6.5km)

5 Reviews on “Grand Canyon Track (6.5km)”

Overall rating

Vinesh Thamattoor

The Grand Canyon Walk is a mesmerizing journey through the heart of nature’s grandeur. As you traverse the trail, you are greeted with breathtaking sceneries that captivate your senses and soothe your soul. The lush greenery, the whispering winds, and the melodious symphony of the birds create a peaceful ambiance that is perfect for meditation and contemplation.

Walking here, you feel a profound connection with nature. It’s as if you become one with the surrounding environment, experiencing a sense of tranquility that is truly unparalleled. The trail offers the perfect environment to meditate, to spend some time in quiet contemplation, and to truly appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

The trail does have its challenges, but they only add to the overall experience. Some spots will have you reaching for support, adding a touch of adventure to your journey. For beginners, it’s highly recommended to bring along walking sticks used for trekking. These can provide the necessary support and balance, especially in the more challenging parts of the trail.

Another important recommendation is to wear waterproof shoes. The trail can get a bit muddy and wet in places, and having waterproof shoes can make your walk much more comfortable.

In conclusion, the Grand Canyon Walk is a beautiful and peaceful trail that offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. It’s a journey that leaves you with a sense of peace and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a tranquil escape amidst nature’s beauty.

18/04/2024, 11:08

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Hike at a Glance

Safety advice

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Grand Canyon Track (6.5km)