During our four days in the Blue Mountains, we made it a goal to do two walks each day—one in the morning and another after lunch—trying to fit in as many as possible. The South Lawson Waterfall Loop Track was the second-to-last walk of our trip.
On the 27th of November 2023 we did the Valley of the Waters walk in the morning at 8:46am and were heading back to the car at 10:17am, then went back to our accommodation for lunch and then arrived at Evan’s Lookout which is where the Grand Canyon walk starts. Most people just do the Evan’s Lookout, I was very surprised that most of the people on this walk were aussies and everyone always say hi when walking past and are super friendly.
Exploring the Grand Canyon Walk, Blue Mountains: A Journey Through Ancient Beauty
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains, the Grand Canyon Walk is a stunning loop trail that offers an immersive experience into the region’s dramatic landscapes and lush rainforests. One of the Blue Mountains’ most iconic hikes, this 6.3-kilometre trail provides a journey through ancient sandstone cliffs, shaded fern-filled gullies, and tranquil creeks that wind through the canyon.
A Walk Through History and Nature
The Grand Canyon Walk, constructed in 1907, is one of the oldest walking tracks in the Blue Mountains. Starting at the Evans Lookout car park, the trail begins with a steep descent, immediately enveloping you in the cool, moist air of the rainforest. The further you walk, the more the modern world fades away, replaced by towering cliffs, the sound of birdsong, and the trickling of creeks.
The sandstone walls that surround you have been carved by water over millions of years, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring environment. This hike is a living snapshot of the natural history of the region, allowing you to witness the forces of erosion and weathering that have shaped these ancient formations.
Evans’ Lookout
Evans Lookout in the Blue Mountains offers breathtaking panoramic views over the dramatic Grose Valley, making it one of the most popular vantage points in the region. Located near the start of the Grand Canyon Track, this lookout provides visitors with sweeping vistas of rugged sandstone cliffs, dense eucalyptus forests, and the vast wilderness of the Blue Mountains National Park. It’s an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the landscape is bathed in soft light. Evans Lookout also serves as a great starting or finishing point for several nearby bushwalks, including the challenging yet rewarding Grand Canyon Walk.
The photos below are of Evan’s Lookout,
What to Expect
The Grand Canyon Walk is classified as a moderate to hard trail, largely due to the steep descent and ascent that bookend the loop. While the trail is well-marked and well-maintained, be prepared for a decent workout, especially on the return climb. The walk takes about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views (which will be often!).
One of the highlights of this trail is the diversity of its landscape. As you descend into the canyon, you’ll encounter everything from lush rainforests to dry eucalypt woodlands. Crossing small creeks and navigating rock steps, you’ll pass towering tree ferns and come across the cool, sheltered gorges that are home to unique native plants. The atmosphere within the canyon is serene and otherworldly, making it easy to forget you’re just a few hours from Sydney.
We had already the Valley of the Waters walk in the morning so I wasn’t as keen to do this walk in the afternoon as I knew it was longer walk. But I am so glad we did do it, as it was totally different to the waterfall walks we had done and worth doing. I highly recommend doing the walk as you will regret not doing it.
I recommend carrying a light jumper or rain jacket as it is a lot cooler as the sun doesn’t reach all the way down into the valley. The photos below are of the track going up the other hill of the loop track that leads back up to the road.
This is the track at the end of the walk and path back to the carpark.
Points of Interest
- Evans Lookout: Begin your walk here, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Grose Valley, giving you a taste of the stunning scenery to come.
- Grand Canyon Gorge: As you walk deeper into the canyon, the trail narrows and follows the creek closely, taking you past rocky overhangs and vibrant ferns that thrive in the cool, shaded environment.
- Creek Crossings and Caves: The trail winds through narrow gullies and crosses babbling creeks, with a few small waterfalls along the way. There are also sections where you’ll pass under enormous rock overhangs and into small caves, providing a dramatic contrast to the towering cliffs above.
Prepare for Your Adventure
Before setting off, make sure you’re well-prepared for the trek. Good hiking shoes are a must, as the track can be steep and uneven in parts. Bring plenty of water, as there are no refill points along the trail, and pack some snacks or a light lunch to enjoy during one of your rest stops in the heart of the canyon. While the walk is shaded for much of the way, sunscreen and a hat are still important for the more exposed sections.
The Grand Canyon Walk is also suitable for most weather conditions, although it’s best to avoid it after heavy rainfall, as the trail can become slippery. Always check weather forecasts and local park alerts before you head out.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Grand Canyon Walk
The Grand Canyon Walk in the Blue Mountains is more than just a hike—it’s an opportunity to step back in time and connect with nature in one of the most beautiful and untouched parts of Australia. The diverse landscapes, the sense of peace within the canyon, and the breath-taking views at Evans Lookout make this one of the most rewarding walks in the region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for an unforgettable day out in nature, the Grand Canyon Walk is an experience not to be missed.
So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to be amazed by the natural beauty and tranquility of the Grand Canyon Walk—a hidden gem in the heart of the Blue Mountains.
Ultimate Packing List
Follow this link to view my packing list
Tours and Activities:
- Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour from Sydney
- Blue Mountains Private Tour From Sydney, & Featherdale Aussie Animal Park Option
- Small-Group Blue Mountains Tour with Bush Walks and Featherdale Wildlife Park
- Blue Mountains Day Tour from Sydney
- Private Blue Mountains Escape The Crowds SUV Tour
- Blue Mountains Hop On Hop Off Tour
- Blue Mountains Vintage Cadillac Tour with Local Guide
- PRIVATE Blue Mountains Day Tour from Sydney with Wildlife Park and River Cruise
- Blue Mountains 1-Hour Trike Tour of Three Sisters
- Stargazing with an Astronomer in the Blue Mountains
- Blue Mountains Full Day Guided Tour
- Half-Day Abseiling Adventure in Blue Mountains National Park
- Full-Day Canyoning Experience at Stunning Empress Canyon
- Army Truck Adventures – 3 Hour Guided Tour
- The Ultimate Sydney Attractions Pass
- Blue Mountains BarNSW Local Produce Tasting Experience
- Private 1 Day full Blue Mountains Tour Koalas Cruise return
- Blue Labyrinth PRIVATE Tour: Sydney Blue Mountains by E-Bike
- Canyoning at Twister and Rocky Creek: Two Canyons In One Day
- Juggler Canyon and Abseiling Adventure Blue Mountains
- E-bike (electric) – Blue Mountains – Hanging Rock – SELF-GUIDED Hire Service
- sydney underwater scooter tours
- Small-Group Weekend Rock Climbing Adventure from Katoomba
- Limoroo, Luxe Private Transfers to The Blue Mountains Australia
- Small-Group Full-Day Rock Climbing Adventure from Katoomba
- Glow Worm Tunnel Hike
- Truffle Hunt and Taste Experience in Oberon, NSW Australia
- Army Truck Adventures – 90 Minute Guided Tour
- Blue Mountains Limousine Airport to Blue Mountains transfer
- Private Ultimate Sydney & Blue Mountains 2-Day Bespoke Adventure
- Private Blue Mountains Rainforest and Waterfalls Bespoke SUV Tour
- Private Blue Mountains & Sydney in a Day Flexible Tour
- 4Hrs at Wolgan Valley Birdwatching Experience
- Non Swimmers Discovery Tour ocean
- Sydney City and Blue Mountains in One Day Private Tour
- Sunset Phone Photography, Coogee Beach
- Murder Mystery Killer Fun
Places To Get Food
- Mélange Bilpin
- Ziggyz Cafe and Collectables
- Hungry Jack’s Burgers Lithgow
- The Fast Fox
- McDonald’s Lithgow
- Tastify North Richmond
- Subway
- KFC Lithgow
- Lochiel House
- Mountain Grill
- Tastify Richmond
- Macquarie Town Food Express
- The Village Kitchen Kurrajong
- Niccolo’s restaurant
- Londonderry Takeaway Food
- Victory Cafe
- Blackheath Fish and Chip Shop
- The Lithgow Tin Shed
- Red Rooster Lithgow
- Noi’s Thai Restaurant
- Schembrae’s at Kurrajong
- Pitt Lane Bistro
- Kurrajong’s Numero Uno Pizzeria & Pasta Bar
- Blackheath Kebab House
- Hometown Cafe Lithgow
- Mountain Palace
- Gather – Casual Fare
- Allrich Food Bar
- Riverfront Seafoods
- Riverstone Hot Food and Cafe
- Kurmond Social
- The Wayzgoose Diner
- Café Leura – Modern Australian Cafe Restaurant
- Jamison’s Restaurant Leura
- Embers Grill Restaurant
- Red Door Cafe
- Lily’s Pad Cafe
- Jamison Views Restaurant
- Madame Wang’s Restaurant
- The Laneway Sandwich & Espresso
- Thai Square – Leura@(Leura Thai House)
- Pizza Sublime
- Jords Sandwich Bar
- Leura Chinese Restaurant
- Polar Bear Of Leura
- The Bunker – Leura
Accommodation
Leisure Inn Spires is where I chose for my stay. Booking.com
- Bethany Manor B&B call them for Guaranteed Cheapest Price
- Leura House
- Leura Gardens Resort
- Lemon Tree Cottage
- Mintie Cottage on Leura Mall
- Little Haven Leura Cottage with Spa Bath and BBQ
- Holley House
- Bryn-y-Mor Cottage Romantic Fireplace Couples
- Haven Hideaway
- La Casétta
- Azalea Cottage, Leura NSW Australia
- Sublime Cedar Lodge Leura
- Rustic Queen of Leura
- Little Pomander
- Mountain Home Leura – Perfect Weekend Escape
- Alleura House
- Brigalow Cottage
- Banksia Tops
- Coolabah House
- Clanalpine Retreat Leura
- Casa Leura
- Midholm Studio
- Ammu Lodge
- Nuach cottage – Beautiful Family home in Leura
- Blue Mountains Rhapsody
- Mountain Nest – LEURA
- Edelweiss Leura
- Elmview House in Leura
- Leura Country Cottage
- Shirri Mirri
- Snow Leopard Lodge
- Sunningdale – Perfect Memories
- Nagual Retreat in Leura with views
- Blue Vista
- Blue Mountains Sweet Retreat
- Twenty 2 Abbey
- Blue Mountains Bliss
- Ellengowan In Leura on 2 acres
- Stonelinks House sleeping 12
- Leura Sublime Sunrise
- Highview
- Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains MGallery by Sofitel
- Hailsham House
- Georgette House in Leura
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Grand Canyon hike to the Blue Mountains?
Length: The main trail is approximately 6 kilometres, but if you park at the car park, the distance between the car and the track will add another 1.5 kilometres.
Duration: Plan for around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. I usually complete it in 3.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for photos.
How hard is Grand Canyon Walk in the Blue Mountains?
Though the trail is challenging and adventurous, no specialized hiking or abseiling gear is required to complete it. However, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. The numerous ledges along the route make navigating the canyon moderately difficult.
What grade is the Grand Canyon in the Blue Mountains?
Quick Overview: The Grand Canyon Track is a 6.5 km, grade 3 hike situated in the Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. It typically takes 2-4 hours to complete.
How many steps are in the Grand Canyon Blue Mountains?
The Grand Canyon hike is relatively easy, with much of the trail following dirt paths or railed walkways. However, be prepared for several long, steep staircases, totaling around 1,000 steps. The hike takes roughly 3 hours to complete.
Are the Blue Mountains older than the Grand Canyon?
The Blue Mountains are approximately 300 million years old, but the rocks beneath them are believed to be around 470 million years old—about ten times older than the Grand Canyon!
How to get to Grand Canyon Walk Blue Mountains public transport?
If you don’t have your own car, you can take Public Bus 698 (Loop Service) from Katoomba. It will take about 15 minutes to Evans Lookout Rd—get off at the stop before Forest Road (GPS -33.649351; 150.301632). From there, it’s a 1.4 km (15-minute) walk to the Neates Glen car park or a 2.7 km (35-minute) walk to Evans Lookout on the other side of the Grand Canyon, where you can also start your round walk.
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Exploring the South Lawson Park Waterfall Loop: A Hidden Gem in the Blue Mountains
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