Empress Canyon

Where

Katoomba area in Blue Mountains National Park in Sydney and surrounds, Country NSW

Accessibility

No wheelchair access

Time suggested

3hrs

Grade

Hard. You need a moderate level of fitness and proficiency with ropes and other canyoning equipment.

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

Drinking water, canyoning equipment, helmet, wetsuit, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, first aid kit, mobile phone, dry bag, personal locator beacon, snacks

Please note

• Fill out the log book at the canyon entrance. Check the log to see who's ahead of you.
• You may encounter commercial tour groups and waits at abseil points.
• Don't visit the canyon just before, during or after heavy rainfall or storms. Check park alerts before you go.
• Planning a guided tour? Be sure to choose a Park Eco Pass operator. Only Parks Eco Pass holders are permitted to operate tours in Blue Mountains National Park.

Empress Canyon is a short, 300m route along Valley of the Waters Creek in the Katoomba area of Blue Mountains National Park. Only attempt this technical descent if you're physically fit and proficient with ropes and other canyoning equipment.

Summer is the best time to do Empress Canyon because you'll need to make several swims in chilly Valley of the Waters Creek. Other challenges along this route include down-climbs, optional water jumps, and to finish, a 30m waterfall abseil from a rock overhang.

Come prepared for a total walking distance of 2km to get in and out of Empress Canyon. It takes about 30min to access the canyon from Conservation Hut. Follow National Pass walking track for almost 500m, then turn right at the T-junction with Nature track. Cross the bridge over Isobel Creek and continue to Valley of the Waters Creek where stepping stones mark the start of the canyon route.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info