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Pierces Pass to Blue Gum Forest walking track

Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park

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Overview

Fire affected area

Some areas of this park were affected by fire in 2019/2020. You’ll notice some changes to the landscape, as well as signs of recovery. Some areas may remain closed for longer to allow habitat to recover or because we’re repairing park infrastructure. Stay safe with these after-fire tips for visitors.

The scenic views are worth the effort on this challenging walk along the Grose River into the rugged wilderness of the Blue Gum Forest.

Where
Blackheath area in Blue Mountains National Park
Distance
16km return
Time suggested
6 - 8hrs
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.

What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, topographic map, personal locator beacon, gps, compass, sturdy shoes, snacks
Please note

Make sure to boil any water from the Grose River for at least 3 minutes.

The Pierces Pass to Blue Gum Forest walking track is a real heart starter with expansive views across the northern end of the iconic Grose Valley. Take a moment to breathe in that famous Blue Mountains air before you descend the valley towards the magnificent Grose River.

The track follows a spur down into the valley, passing the lush vegetation of the Fairy Grotto. From here you’ll enter the dense rainforest and see towering coachwood and sassafras, while epiphytes and orchids cling to the trunks. Skirting the cliffs, the track takes you through open forest where you might see vibrant crimson rosellas or perhaps a wedge-tailed eagle circling above.

Crossing the Grose River, notice how the canopy thickens as you approach Blue Gum Forest. Picnic under the towering blue gums before heading back or, if you’re keen on overnight camping, take the short walk to the Acacia Flat campground for a night in the rugged wilderness.

Take a virtual tour of Pierces Pass to Blue Gum Forest walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Also see

  • Rocky outcrop with a wide vista of cliffs and mountains cloaked in forest. Photo: Dave Noble/DPIE

    Rigby Hill walking track

    Rigby Hill walking track is an easy 1hr return walk from Pierces Pass, in Blue Mountains National Park. It offers dramatic views of the Grose Valley, near Blackheath and Mount Wilson.

 

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

General enquiries

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Park info

See more visitor info

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Things to do (48)

Tours (17)

Camping and accommodation (2)

Volunteering (2)

School excursions (3)