Grand Canyon: Environmental change and management

Stage 5 (Years 9-10), Geography, Blackheath area

Overview

People enjoying waterfall at Grand Canyon track, Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Paul Cardow

Perrys Lookdown drive, Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Nick Cubbin

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Stage 5 Geography Grand Canyon Environmental change and management

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The spectacular Grand Canyon forms the backdrop for this Stage 5 (Years 9-10) geography excursion in Blue Mountains National Park. This in-depth fieldwork excursion is designed to support the Environmental Change and Management K-10 syllabus

Students will gain first-hand experience of the iconic Grand Canyon track on location in Blackheath. It's a renowned walk, and a key highlight of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park.

From Neates Glen we'll journey through lush rainforest ecosystems, open forest and along the canyon floor towards Evans lookout. Here, students will be rewarded with sweeping views of the impressive Grose Valley.

We'll learn about track heritage, local ecology and park management issues. Students will analyse influences, connections and management approaches to sustaining this important environment.

This 4.5 hour excursion will explore how environments function and the causes and consequences of environmental change. Students will come away with first-hand insight into sustainable management of our precious environment here in New South Wales.

For program outline, safety and practical information about this excursion, see info for teachers

Stage	Stage 5 (Years 9-10)
Learning area	Geography
Student outcomes	GE5-2. Explains processes and influences that form and transform places and environments GE5-4. Accounts for perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical issues GE5-5. Assesses management strategies for places and environments for their sustainability GE5-7. Acquires and processes geographical information by selecting and using appropriate and relevant geographical tools for inquiry
Objectives	Students will: Explore the diverse features and characteristics of the Blue Mountains environment as we travel through several distinct ecosystems Observe processes and local influences that help to shape and transform the landscape Explore different perspectives on managing and using this protected environment Learn how this area is managed by NPWS, including the effects and impacts of bushfire, tourism and pest species.

Excursion details

When: Monday to Friday during school term.
Availability: Guided. Available on request.
Where: Grand Canyon track, Blackheath area
Duration: 4hrs 30min
Grading: Hard. 5km walk through uneven terrain. There is a steep descent and ascent via steps. The track may be wet in places and you may be required to cross a creek at the base of the canyon. There are many stairs, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Price: $680 incl GST per group (up to 20 students).
Accessibility: Hard
Meeting point: Neates Glen carpark, 3km down Evans Lookout Road, Blackheath.
Equipment provided: Yes. We can provide a selection of worksheet questions for teachers to compile prior to the excursion for students.
Booking: If you would like to organise a NPWS school excursion please get in touch with local staff or use the 'Enquire' link for the online form.

Operated by

School excursion inquiries - Blue Mountains
02 4784 7301 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
BlueMtns.Education@environment.nsw.gov.au

Park info

in the Blackheath area of Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Blackheath area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

See more visitor info