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Govetts Leap descent

Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Overview

A challenging walk from Govetts Leap lookout, Govetts Leap descent will delight hikers who enjoy a harder walking track, with scenic waterfall views across Grose Valley in Blue Mountains National Park.

Where
Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park in Sydney and surrounds, Country NSW
Distance
1.8km return
Time suggested
1 - 2hrs
Grade
Grade 4
Trip Intention Form

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.

Personal Locator Beacon

Hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for free at Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Blackheath.

What to
bring
Hat, sunscreen, drinking water, compass, gps, topographic map
Please note
  • There are no creeks or rivers within Blue Mountains National Park where clean drinking water can be guaranteed.
  • Please be aware the track continues on beyond the waterfalls, and there are other walks you can choose. All tracks in this area are steep and a map is essential.

From its outset at Govetts Leap lookout, this hard track is bound to impress and delight adventurous walkers. Rest assured that ‘leap’ is not a suggestion but a Scottish word for waterfall; and that’s what you’ll see, from every angle on Govetts Leap descent into the wilderness of Grose Valley in Blue Mountains National Park.

You’ll be refreshed on the steep walk down by nature’s own spritzer. Crystal clear droplets will fall from the moist moss clinging to the cliff walls above. These cliffs are covered by spectacular hanging swamps, and the ecologically endangered isopogon fletchers, known as drumsticks, are what make this walk so unique.

Stop to rest those knees as you gaze across the spectacular valley views, taking in the clear mountain air. And remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.

When you make it to the bottom, enjoy leisurely picnic at the base of the falls. Once you're well rested, take the heart pumping track back up towards Blue Mountains Heritage Centre for a browse of the souvenirs, maps, and guidebooks available.

Take a virtual tour of Govetts Leap descent captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

Google Street View Trekker

Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.

Google Trekker at Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: J Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Bush Trackers

Bush Trackers was created to encourage children to engage with the environment in and around the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area. This program highlights the natural and cultural splendour of the greater Blue Mountains through education initiatives and bushwalks.

Charles Darwin walk, Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Steve Alton

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