Grose Valley Cliff Top Walk

Fast facts

• Easy stroll overlooking a heart-stopping natural treasure in World Heritage National Park.
• Evans Lookout to Govett’s Leap, Blackheath, Blue Mountains
• 3 km

Why walk it

For its entire length, this track runs along the edge of the area’s famous sandstone cliffs, offering amazing views into the vast, forested trough of the Grose Valley – and a lesson in the earth’s history.

In the process of gnawing its way through the sandstone, the Grose River has peeled back the eons. The horizontal band of dark mudstone separates the finer, paler sandstone that was laid down when Australia was part of Antarctica – the supercontinent Gondwanaland. The more recent, rust-coloured stone is from the time after the continents drifted apart.

In the distance, you’ll see the peaks of Mt Banks, Mt Tomah and Mt Hay, the stumps of ancient volcanoes. Closer at hand there are hanging swamps, waterfalls and patches of ferny rainforest.

Many Blue Mountains walking trails involve steep descents into the mountain valleys. But, as its name suggests, the Cliff Top Walk rides high on the ridgeline with only the gentlest of gradients – yet 100 per cent of the scenic splendour.

Along the way

Stop at Luchetti's Lookout for an uninterrupted view of the Grose Valley, taking in Pulpit Rock, Govetts Leap and Horse Shoe Falls.

Admire the many and varied fascinating wildflowers in spring and native birds such as rosellas and king parrots.

Snap a photograph of pretty Bridal Veil Falls, not far from the Grose Valley Lookout.

Don’t miss

• The Blue Mountains Heritage Centre in Govetts Leap Road.
• A meal by the fireside at eco retreat, Jemby Rinjah Lodge.
• The patterns in the trunks of the scribbly gums.
• Afternoon tea in a cosy Blackheath café.