The Grand Canyon Walking Track is one of the most iconic hikes in the Blue Mountains, featuring lush rainforest scenery, cascading waterfalls, striking cliff formations, and much more.
With its combination of steep staircases, creek crossings, and breathtaking valley views, this moderately challenging trail is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
This guide provides all the essential information and tips to help you plan your day in Blackheath.
| Grand Canyon Walking Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (loop) |
| Time: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard (steep sections) |
| Dogs: | Not allowed |
| Map: |  PDF map |
| Trailhead: | https://maps.app.goo.gl/x6fNGyiMUZ3jC19c6 |
Getting There
The Grand Canyon Walking Track features a purpose-built car park on Evans Lookout Road in Blackheath, located a few hundred metres before Evans Lookout.
This car park provides over 100 parking bays, including spaces for buses and disabled parking, along with toilet facilities. Trail access is located within the car park, and you can choose to begin the walk clockwise or anti-clockwise.
Alternatively, you can park at the Evans Lookout Car Park, which is situated next to the lookout. However, this smaller car park is intended for short-term visitors to the lookout and is not the best option for those doing the hike.
It’s also important to avoid using the Neates Glen Parking Area for the Grand Canyon Walk. This small, council-managed car park fills up quickly and impacts roadside vegetation and nearby residents when it overflows.
Map
Below is a map of the walk with the two parking areas marked:
- Grand Canyon Car Park
- Evans Lookout Car Park
Practical Tips
The Grand Canyon Track is a must-do hike in the Blue Mountains, offering both natural beauty and historical significance. Opened in 1907, it was one of the first marked walking tracks in the region.
While the hike features steep sections at both ends, it’s manageable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
Before you go, here are some practical tips to help you prepare.
1. Where to Start
As a loop trail, the Grand Canyon Walking Track offers multiple starting points, but the most logical place to begin is the Grand Canyon Car Park.
From the car park, you can head southwest along Evans Lookout Road towards the Neates Glen Parking Area, where the trail descends into the bush.
Alternatively, you can start in the opposite direction (clockwise) by heading northeast along the road to Evans Lookout, where a staircase leads down into the canyon.
The map below illustrates these two walking directions.
2. Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise
This is a common question, but ultimately, it doesn’t make much difference whether you go clockwise or anti-clockwise. That said, most visitors tend to walk the track clockwise.
If you’d prefer to follow the crowd, clockwise might be the way to go. However, we have a slight preference for the anti-clockwise direction, as it allows you to finish at Evans Lookout and enjoy the stunning views while recovering from the walk.
Keep in mind that both ends of the track feature a steep descent into the valley. No matter which direction you choose, be sure to save some energy for the final climb out of the canyon.
3. Grade of This Walk
We rate this walk as moderately challenging to hard.
NSW National Parks classifies it as a grade 3 track, meaning it’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels, though some bushwalking experience is recommended. The track includes steep hill sections, a rough surface, and numerous steps.
The toughest part of the Grand Canyon Walk is the climb out of the canyon. Regardless of the direction you take, you’ll face a challenging ascent at some point, and both climbs are equally demanding.
4. Suitable for Kids
Yes, we believe the Grand Canyon Walk is suitable for kids, as the path is well-defined and well-maintained from start to finish. That said, it’s helpful if children already have some bushwalking experience.
The most challenging part for kids will be the climb out of the canyon. However, there’s no need to rush. Take your time, have a few breaks, and they should manage just fine.
5. Best Time to Go
As one of the most popular walks in the Blue Mountains, we recommend starting as early in the morning as possible.
On weekends, especially in good weather, this trail can get quite busy, so an early start will work in your favour. On weekdays, particularly outside school holidays, the track is usually less crowded, giving you more flexibility to start later in the day.
Keep in mind that summer temperatures in the Blue Mountains can get quite warm, providing yet another reason to begin your hike earlier.
6. What to Wear
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential. While the path is well-maintained, some sections can be rough and uneven, and you’ll need to navigate a few creek crossings.
Consider bringing an extra shirt, especially if the weather varies, as the temperature in the canyon is often noticeably cooler than on the escarpment.
7. What to Bring
What you bring will depend on your bushwalking experience and how long you expect to spend on the track.
A full bottle of water is essential to stay hydrated throughout the walk. We also recommend packing a few snacks, such as energy bars or bananas, to keep your energy levels up.
It’s a good idea to carry a small first-aid kit with supplies for treating snake or spider bites. While accidents and snake bites are extremely rare, a first-aid kit is lightweight and can be invaluable in an emergency.
8. Facilities Nearby
Both Evans Lookout and the Grand Canyon Car Park offer facilities such as toilets, picnic tables, and wooden benches for resting.
It’s also worth noting that Evans Lookout is wheelchair-accessible, though you’ll need to park directly at the lookout to take advantage of this.
9. Solo or in a Group
The Grand Canyon Walking Track is well-suited for a solo hike. It’s not a remote or isolated trail, and you’ll likely encounter other hikers along the way.
That said, having some company can make the experience more enjoyable and perhaps a bit safer. If you decide to hike solo, be sure to let someone know your plans before you set out.
For added peace of mind, you can also submit a trip intention form on the NSW National Parks website.
10. Walks and Lookouts Nearby
If you have time, there are several other walks and lookouts nearby that you can include in your day:
- Valley View Lookout:
This lookout can be reached via a signposted side trail from Evans Lookout. It’s only a small lookout, but the views are fantastic. - Cliff Top Track:
This 4.5 km return hike connects Evans Lookout to Govetts Leap Lookout, offering stunning valley and waterfall views. It’s an easier walk compared to the Grand Canyon Walk, so you might be able to tackle both in one day. - Govetts Leap Lookout:
One of the most popular lookouts in the Blue Mountains. You can either drive there via Blackheath or walk there via the Cliff Top Track. - Point Pilcher Lookout:
This quiet lookout is quite close to Evans Lookout, but you’ll need to drive there. It offers breathtaking views, and you’ll often have the place to yourself.
