Wollangambe Canyon 1

Where

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

Accessibility

No wheelchair access

Time suggested

10hrs

Grade

Hard. You must be a strong swimmer with a moderate level of fitness and navigational skills.

What to
bring

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

Please note

• Dangerous whirlpools may be present in Wollangambe River.
• Don’t visit the canyon just before, during or after heavy rainfall or storms. Check park alerts before you go.
• You may encounter commercial tour groups.
• Planning a guided tour? Choose a Park Eco Pass operator. Only Parks Eco Pass holders are permitted to operate tours in Blue Mountains National Park.

Be sure to bring your wetsuit for this 2.2km canyon in the Mount Wilson area of Blue Mountains National Park. Also known as the Wollangambe Canyon Upper Tourist Section, Wollangambe Canyon 1 is a non-technical canyon with scrambles, climbs and many long swims that takes 10hrs to complete.

The long, warm days of summer are the best time to do this canyon to avoid getting too cold in the chilly Wollangambe River waters. A lilo, pack raft or other type of inflatable float is recommended. Only try this canyon if you’re moderately fit, and remember to bring your compass because you’ll need to navigate the 7km walk in and out. 

To reach Wollangambe Canyon 1, start near Mount Wilson Fire Station and set out along Merewether Lane Fire Trail. After about 800m, follow the signposted walking track to Wollangambe River, passing sandstone pagodas along the way. At a steep corner, down-climb 30m into a gully using tree roots and follow the gully to the river.

In the canyon you’ll need to scramble over massive boulders and make many long swims. Be sure not to miss the exit track, which leads up a gully with a 5m exposed climb using rocks and tree roots. Follow the exit track and Northern Fire Trail to make your way back.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info