Not sure which Blue Mountains adventure is best for you? Our trips are graded on a scale from 3 (Introductory) to 7 (Challenging), so you can match your fitness and experience to the right day out. 

Whether you're new to the outdoors or you've had a canyon or two behind you, this guide will help you pick an adventure that suits you.

For our more introductory tours, fitness matters more than experience as our skilled and experienced guides will take you through the basics on the day. But depending on your stamina and strength, some adventures will be physically challenging and may push you out of your comfort zone, which is a good thing! It's all part of the fun, but it's worth being honest with yourself about where you're starting from.

If you're ever unsure, get in touch with our office before you book.

Find your fit

First-timers and novices

We offer a range of beginner-friendly adventures and for those with limited previous experience in the outdoors. You'll usually do best by easing in with abseiling on its own, or joining a introductory canyon trip that builds up gradually. Our guides spend extra time talking first-timer groups through what to expect before any rope is involved, which is exactly what turns the nerves into confidence by the end of the day. Even guests with a canyon or climb under their belt admit to a flutter of nerves before a bigger abseil or ascent, so if it's been a while since your last trip, there's no harm in easing back in with something introductory to moderate.

Families with younger kids

A gentler canyon or a no-abseil option is the best place to start before working up to bigger trips. The Deep Pass Canyon Explorer, Twister Rocky Creek Canyon and Juggler Canyon & Abseiling are popular family picks, with a pace and length that suit younger energy levels well. If you'd rather skip the rope element altogether, our River Caves Canyoning trip and Grand Canyon Explorer involve no abseils or jumps, just wading through cool water.

Groups after a step up

Once you've had an adventure under your belt, it's natural to want more of a challenge. A step up into more intermediate trips like the Boars Head Abseil and Climb Expedition or Serendipity Canyon is a good next move.

Advanced thrill-seekers

For those chasing something bigger, our more advanced canyons like North Bowens' Gobsmacker Canyon or Butterbox bring bigger abseils, longer days and an even more remote feeling. These trips suit adventurers who already have excellent fitness and solid canyoning or abseiling experience behind them. 

Regardless of how experienced you are, our safety-first approach doesn't change, with our guides bringing the same care and attention to every trip.

Our grading scale at a glance

Canyoning

Note that all our canyoning trips will see you carrying backpacks that may weigh up to 10kg, with our summer wet canyons often involving prolonged cold-water swimming.

Introductory (Grade 3)
For those with limited previous outdoor experience. You'll need good mobility for uneven, remote terrain.

Introductory to moderate (Grade 4)
For those with some previous outdoor experience. No abseiling experience necessary; we'll teach you as you go. You'll need a good level of fitness and mobility, with some extended bushwalking including steep uphill sections. 

Moderate to challenging (Grade 6)
For those with some previous canyoning, abseiling, climbing or hiking experience. You'll need a high level of fitness and to already be an experienced abseiler, with good mobility for extensive bushwalking and prolonged steep sections. Backpacks may exceed 10kg.

Challenging (Grade 7)
Long, hard days through uneven, remote terrain. You'll need a high level of fitness plus previous abseiling and canyoning experience. Expect many abseils, some tricky, with strenuous and at times very steep access. Some exits involve scrambling or short rock climbs, and backpacks may exceed 10kg. Canyons may involve very cold water for extended periods.

Abseiling and Rock Climbing

Introductory (Grade 3)
For those with a moderate level of fitness and good mobility. Abseiling itself isn't particularly physically demanding, but once you're at the bottom, you'll need to walk back to the top. No previous experience necessary, we'll teach you the skills on the day. Our introductory climbs incorporate tuition on climbing technique, cliff safety and belay techniques.

Introductory to moderate (Grade 4)
Abseiling or rock climbing experience is desirable but not essential. As above, you'll be walking back up once you've abseiled down, so a moderate level of fitness helps.

Moderate (Grade 5)
For those with a high level of fitness and flexibility. Abseiling and climbing experience is necessary, and you'll need to be comfortable with exposure high above the valley floor. For more technical, intermediate-grade climbs like the multi-pitch on Sweet Dreams, indoor or outdoor climbing experience is recommended. You don't need to be an elite athlete, but strength, balance and stamina all help.

Bushwalking

Introductory to moderate (Grade 3 to 4)
A couple of hours over rugged terrain with some steep ascents and descents, suited to a reasonable level of fitness. We recommend regular exercise three to four times a week in the month before your departure.

Moderate (Grade 5)
Several hours of walking over rugged terrain with steep ascents and descents. You'll get the most out of it if you're comfortable walking up and down stairs and on uneven ground, and a day pack with hill-walking experience is recommended.

Still unsure?

Most of our guests sit somewhere in the introductory to moderate range, and that's exactly where we'd point you if this is your first adventure with us. But if you've already got a trip or two behind you and you're after more of a challenge, our team is happy to talk through what a step up might look like. 

And if you're after a more tailored adventure based on your group's needs – or even a special occasion – get in touch and we'll help you out.

Towering cliffs or hidden canyons? Whichever adventure you choose, you're in for an unforgettable day out. But to help decide between a canyoning and an abseiling adventure in the Blue Mountains, here are a few differences.

What does abseiling involve?

Abseiling involves descending a rock face or a near-vertical surface (such as a waterfall or a cliff) on a rope while harnessed. If you hail from North America or parts of Europe, rappelling is also commonly known as this. The roped sport is commonly practised worldwide and is a fun, safe activity in a controlled environment when conducted with experienced professionals. 

At height, you get the payoff straightaway – taking in open views and panoramic vistas before making your way down the rope. It can also be combined with rock climbing for a full day built entirely around rope skills. 

If cliff-edge views excite you, abseiling is a great place to start. With the support of our highly trained guides, you'll learn to control your own descent using a harness and rope while taking in world-famous views of the Blue Mountains.

If you have never abseiled before, no stress! Our Introductory Abseiling adventures in the Blue Mountains are designed for beginners, including young families. You'll usually start the day with some practice descents on a shorter, easier cliff to build technique and confidence, then move on to bigger drops once you've got the hang of it. 

Expeditions like the Boars Head Abseil and Climb Expedition combine this with some rock climbing for a full day focused entirely on rope skills, with guides keeping things relaxed and unhurried throughout.

What does canyoning involve? 

Canyoning can often be a more intensive day on foot. You're moving through a canyon system shaped by water over thousands of years, which means wading, swimming, rock scrambling, water jumps, the occasional cave crawl or snaking through unique chasm slots. Abseiling is often part of the adventure as you descend further into the deep gorge. 

Canyons like Empress Falls, Juggler, Grand Canyon and Butterbox each have their own character, but the common thread is working your way through a natural landscape rather than just descending one face of it. There's a fun and thrilling rhythm to it: long, quiet stretches of wading through fern-lined pools followed by sudden bursts of adrenaline as you jump or abseil into the next section. 

Most canyoning trips include abseiling as part of the mix, and introductory trips with Blue Mountains Adventure Company (BMAC) usually kick off with a morning abseil. This helps you grow comfortable on the rope before descending into the beautiful gorges and gullies. So if you do join a canyoning adventure, you'll still get that roped experience most of the time. 

Because there's more ground to cover, these adventures tend to take longer to complete, including a hike in, exploration of the canyon itself, and a hike back out. Not every canyon involves abseiling, though.

There are no-abseiling trips, such as Bula Bula Canyon Explorer and River Caves Canyon, which involve wading and scrambling. Some other canyons, like Deep Pass Explorer, involve roped-down climbs rather than a full abseil setup.

For many, the highlight is being fully immersed in a canyon landscape that few people ever get to experience. It's the kind of place that stays with you long after you've left, and offers a beautiful reset for the soul.

Wet vs dry: why the season matters 

In summer, the season calls for some fun, wet action. This means full immersion, swimming through gorges, waterfalls, and rock pools while the weather's warm enough to enjoy it. Our wet canyoning adventures generally run from September to April, when conditions are best suited to it.

Come winter, we turn to our dry canyons (which are also open all year round). You still get the scrambling, rock formations, and a rainforest setting without the cold-water swim. It's an exhilarating way to keep canyoning on the cards if you'd rather stay dry, or you're not yet confident in the water.

Key differences

Skill focus: Abseiling days mainly focus on roped descents at various heights, practised repeatedly. Canyoning requires a broader mix of swimming, scrambling, hiking, and rope work. 

Duration and ground covered: Canyoning days typically involve more hiking in and out, plus time exploring within the canyon. Sole abseiling days are more concentrated around the cliff or vertical faces. 

Fitness: Both adventure styles call for a reasonable level of fitness, but canyoning adds swimming and scrambling to the walking mix, making it the more physically demanding of the two overall. Even fit, experienced groups can feel it on the steeper exit hikes.

Summer conditions: Even on the warmest days, the water in the Blue Mountains stays refreshingly cool. This makes the summer season a fantastic time to go wet canyoning, especially after the hike in to cool off. Prefer to stay dry? Abseiling expeditions and introductory abseil days deliver just as much excitement but let you stay completely dry from start to finish.

Autumn and winter conditions: Dry canyons avoid full water immersion, and you'll be equipped with thermal layers, fleece, and waterproof jackets to keep you warm and ready for the adventure ahead. Abseiling holds up just as well in the cooler periods of the year – if anything, the crisp air makes those panoramic views on the way down even more rewarding.

Have a browse of our upcoming departures to see what's lined up this coming season. If you're still unsure, get in touch with our team. We can help match the day to your experience, fitness, and what you're actually keen to try, whether that's your first abseil or your next big canyon.

It ultimately comes down to your fitness, confidence, and the kind of experience you're after. Either way, both will get your heart going, and both will invite you into scenery that'll leave you in awe.

Our newest canyoning adventure, Bula Bula Canyon Explorer, is a circuit linking Joe’s Canyon, Du Faur, Bell Creek and the Upper Wollangambe into one seriously immersive wilderness day out. Here's what to expect.

A four-in-one canyoning adventure

Bula Bula is the Dharug word for “four”, and this adventure combines four distinct canyon environments into a flowing, water-filled journey through the Mount Wilson wilderness.

During summer and early autumn, there is nothing better than drifting through cool, clear water while sandstone cliffs tower above you. This new circuit is playful, wild and varied. 

You'll enjoy the changing scenery and pace, and if you are hesitant about leaning back over a cliff or rock, this trip does not require abseiling. It’s a stunning introduction to canyon country that's intimate and photogenic.

Who’s it for? 

• People who want the magic of canyoning without the need for abseiling.
• Anyone keen to connect with the wild side of the Blue Mountains.
• Adventurous humans who love splashing in water.

What to expect

Canyon One: Joe’s – Tight Slot Fun

We start with Joe’s Canyon. Picture sculpted sandstone, narrow slots and that classic Blue Mountains glow bouncing off the walls. You’ll scramble, wade and swim your way through, already feeling miles away from everyday life. 

Canyon Two: Du Faur – Float Mode Activated

Then it opens up into a lovely creek. Du Faur brings sun-drenched sections and gentle current. This is where you lean back on your BMAC canyon pack and let the water carry you downstream. 

Canyon Three: Bell Canyon – Focus and Flow 

You'll then make your way through Bell Creek, which changes up the scene. High sandstone walls rise around you, and boulder fields demand a bit of patience and teamwork. This is where the adventure dial turns up, where you'll need a good sense of balance and awareness. It’s not hard in a technical sense, but it’s definitely fun. 

Canyon Four: Upper Wollangambe – The Grand Finale 

The Upper Wollangambe takes you into true remoteness, showcasing what makes the Blue Mountains extra special. Experiencing some faster-flowing water and crystal-clear pools, you'll float, swim and soak it all in, surrounded by wilderness that feels untouched.

Our new Bula Bula "Four" Canyon Explorer offers a satisfying physical day out, with enough variety and movement to keep even return canyoners engaged.

Canyoning difficulty

• No ropes, no worries! No abseiling is required on the day.
• Suitable for first-timer canyoners with a good level of fitness - it's a long, full day, so keep that in mind.
• Adventurers should have good mobility for uneven, rocky terrain.
• Confidence swimming in cold water for extended periods.
• The ability to carry a backpack weighing up to 10kg.

You’ll feel challenged in a supportive, confidence-building way – the kind that leaves you grinning at the end of the day thinking, “I can’t believe I just did that.”

Ready to explore four canyons in one hit? Let’s get you exploring!

Nervous about swimming in the canyons or worried you can't swim well enough? You're not alone, and it isn't a dealbreaker. We regularly guide non-swimmers and less confident swimmers through our Blue Mountains wet canyons, and it's manageable and enjoyable with our supportive guides, buoyant canyon packs and optional life jackets available. 

Here are some frequently asked questions about whether you can go canyoning if you can't swim and alternative adventures that can help you feel more confident on the trail.

If I can't swim, can I still join a wet canyon?

Short answer: yes, you absolutely can. 

When we use the term “swimming” in canyoning, we don’t mean doing laps in a pool. In most wet canyons, the “pools” are calm sections of fresh water with a gentle - and often barely noticeable - flow. Sometimes you’ll be able to walk through them. Other times, you’ll float.

In sections where you do need to ‘swim’, this usually means lying on your back with your provided canyon pack and float. A simple waving or sweeping of your arms at your side whilst floating on your canyon pack is often all you need to propel yourself forward. And we’re not in any hurry to get to the other side of these pools, as taking it slow and gazing up at the beauty of the lush green canyon walls is part of the experience. 

How easy is it to float with the canyon pack?

It's relatively easy and simple to float with your pack on your back. The reason you can float so well is that the provided canyon pack includes a drybag with your dry clothes, sealed to keep them dry. It forms a big bubble of air on your back, which is the best buoyancy device you could want. And the canyon pack that contains the drybag ‘bubble’ is strapped at your waist and can also be strapped across your chest with the sternum strap. This gives swimmers and non-swimmers alike added confidence when in the water. 

Can I wear a life jacket even if I can't swim? 

We do have life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) available for those who want that added confidence; however, you can’t wear a PFD and your canyon pack, so someone in your group will need to carry all your personal items while you are wearing the life jacket.  

Our PFDs are rarely used, as most non-swimmers prefer the buoyancy of the canyon pack combined with the sealed drybag. It’s a personal preference, and we’ll support you either way. 

What if I panic in the water? 

You’ll likely have high confidence in the canyon pack and drybag combo, so a situation of panic is highly unlikely. Often, you’ll also be able to touch the sides of the canyon walls in the swim sections, adding to your confidence. If you do panic, your fellow canyoners and guide(s) are there to assist you. 

What happens if I don’t want to swim a particular section? 

Canyons require commitment, as they are passages through beautiful, unique natural environments. For this reason, participants must commit to the journey, including all obstacles, whether swims or abseils. 

Remember, if a swimming section is concerning for you, ask your guide to support you through it. We're here to help. 

What happens if conditions change (such as rain, water levels, or the weather)? 

Canyons come alive in the rain. They are already lush green natural wonders, so rain can and does heighten the experience. 

Too much rain is a concern, and our guides are always keeping an eye on weather forecasts and the water levels. 

Our canyon adventures do not proceed if we have any safety concerns. If groups are already out enjoying their chosen canyon adventure when unexpected weather occurs, the guides will abort or amend the adventure to ensure everyone’s safety. 

What Blue Mountains canyons offer minimal or short swims?

• Empress Falls Canyon is a short, sharp, and awesome experience that offers quick swims that are easily supported with your buoyant packs. There are jumps, however, so be prepared for a brief underwater dunk. 
• River Caves Canyon is a great first taste of wet canyoning. You’ll likely only get your feet and lower legs wet unless you’re trying hard to get wetter! 
• Deep Pass Explorer is available year-round with optional swimming, water jumps, natural water slides and pools that can be enjoyed in the summer months. During winter, we traverse around the pools, which are very narrow, so you’ll just be touching the sides in most cases, which will be reassuring for non-swimmers.

What are some non-swimming or 'dry' canyon alternatives?

Our winter canyon adventures in the Blue Mountains are usually referred to as ‘dry’ canyons, as we can avoid getting wet. As a result, these canyons have no need for swimming and can be enjoyed year-round if you’d prefer.

You can view the full range here, but a popular choice is Juggler Canyon, where the water is shallow and can generally be avoided.

Whether you have half a day, a full day, or a few days to spare, there's a wealth of iconic spots waiting to be explored on a Blue Mountains trip.

Here's a rundown of 12 must-see destinations in the upper and central hub of the Blue Mountains, perfect for discovering at your own pace.

1. Cahills Lookout

Cahills Lookout, with its stunning views of the Megalong Valley and the cliffs of Narrow Neck. Watch for rock climbers on Boars Head, where modern Australian rock climbing was pioneered a century ago. 

2. Chase Waterfalls

Katoomba Falls, Leura Cascades, Gordon Falls, Minnehaha Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Wentworth Falls, Empress Falls – water helped carve out the Blue Mountains over millions of years and this place is famed for the waterfalls that gush from the escarpment. Some of these falls are also home to one of the world’s rarest plants – the dwarf mountain pine. 

3. The Gully

From the 1890s through to the 1950s, The Gully was an Aboriginal community on the outskirts of Katoomba. Today, it is a peaceful and spiritual place with great signage to help you understand more about the Indigenous people of the Blue Mountains. 

4. Scenic World

What’s not to love about the world’s steepest railway (52 degrees!) at Scenic World in Katoomba? This breathtaking adventure also lets you explore the mining history of the Blue Mountains as the railway was first built in the 1880s to haul coal and oil shale from the Jamison Valley. 

5. Echo Point

Echo Point is the place to take in the majesty of the Jamison Valley, Mount Solitary, the cliffs of Kings Tableland and those towers of sandstone, the Three Sisters.

6. Exotic Gardens

The Blue Mountains are famous for their cold-climate gardens that put on stunning displays of colour in spring and autumn. The heritage-listed Everglades in Leura and Blackheath Rhododendron Garden are favourites. 

7. Art Galleries & Centres

The Blue Mountains are blessed to be home to many artists and art galleries that display their work. Lost Bear, Gallery 188 and Falls Gallery are favourites. And don’t miss the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba, which boasts art exhibitions, a library, a café, stunning views, great gifts and a permanent exhibition showcasing the Blue Mountains’ World Heritage values. 

8. Short Hikes

Get a taste of the Blue Mountain incredible outdoors on a short bushwalk. I recommend the Prince Henry Cliff Walk between Leura and Katoomba, Govetts Leap to the Braeside Walk in Blackheath. In my home village of Wentworth Falls, I love the Charles Darwin Walk, the Overcliff/Undercliff Track and the Valley of the Waters Track. 

9. Foods & Restaurants

There are plenty of great food and drink options in Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls and Blackheath. Try Mountain Culture for craft beers, Station Bar for pizzas, Basil Nut for modern Asian, Leura Deli for brekkie and gelato, Hominy and Black Cockatoo for bread, the Alexandra Hotel, Family Hotel and Ivanhoe Hotel for pub grub, Champagne Charlie’s in the Carrington Hotel for cocktails, Bakehouse on Wentworth and Bakery Patisserie Schwarz for cakes and pies, Laughing Elephant for bahn mi, Altitude Deli for killer sandwiches of all sorts. Locals are eagerly awaiting the reopening of famed Greek café the Paragon for its chocolates and milkshakes. 

10. Where to make a splash

If it’s hot, a swim in Wentworth Falls Lake, Katoomba Pool or Blackheath Pool is a great way to cool down. If it’s cold, Blue Mountains Sauna in Leura is a real treat. 

11. Local Parks

Local parks are also a delight to visit to picnic, daydream or read a book. Try Myoori Park in Wentworth Falls, Lone Pine Memorial and Peace Park in Leura, Kingsford Smith Park in Katoomba and Blackheath Soldiers Memorial Park.

12. Carrington Hotel

Much of the tourism development in the upper Blue Mountains took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s and some wonderful architecture remains a legacy of this time. A must-see is the Carrington Hotel, built on the main street of Katoomba in 1882. Another bonus gem is the streetscape of Leura Mall. 

Words by Dan Lewis, a guide for Blue Mountains Adventure Company

When the temperatures drop and the mornings turn misty, it’s tempting to swap boots for an oodie and blanket. But winter's not a reason to stay in; it’s an invitation to see a wilder side of the Blueys at its quietest and least crowded.

If you’ve been to the Blue Mountains in summer, you know how busy certain trails can get. But in winter, it’s a different story. Some days, you'll hardly see another soul on the trail, making it feel as though you have the canyon to yourself. It’s the kind of quiet that lets you really hear the valley breathe. 

If you've ever wondered what it's like to descend into these natural corridors in the off-season, here's what to expect.

What is dry canyoning?

Our winter routes focus on what we call “dry canyons” — places where the thrill of abseiling, rock scrambling and navigating through sandstone slots is still on the menu, but without the full dunk and water immersion that'll leave you shivering. So you will stay dry!

What will the day entail?

For beginner tours, your day begins with some hands-on skills — learning how to abseil and gear checks, before moving into actual canyon terrain for some fun roped descents. Adventurers who are new to it all feel completely supported and safe, thanks to our guides’ energy, knowledge and clear instructions. 

Entering the canyon, you’ll scramble over boulders, lower yourself down rock walls, and maybe even zipline past waterfalls. There’s adventure at every turn, but always at your pace, and with time to take in the views. 

Worried about the cold? Don’t be. 

We’ve got you covered—literally. Thermal layers, fleece and waterproof jackets come with every trip, so you’re warm, comfortable, and ready to tackle the day. And yes, lunch is sorted too with a hot cuppa to warm you up and keep you recharged for the rest of your adventure. 

Who can explore winter canyons?

We’ve seen all kinds of people take on the adventure: solo explorers, parents with energetic teens, couples swapping brunch for a bit of adrenaline. 

With introductory canyons available, you don’t need to be super-fit or ultra-experienced; you just need a sense of curiosity, a decent level of fitness, and a willingness to try something new. 

Sounds like your kind of day out? Then join a winter canyon today! It’s adventurous, scenic, and surprisingly soul-filling. And it’s all just 90 minutes from Sydney City. So grab your layers, bring your sense of fun, and let us show you why winter canyoning is one of the coolest ways (pun intended) to experience the great outdoors.

Just because the days are cooler and the sun is a little shy, doesn't mean your days of adventure and outdoor fun have to go into hibernation once winter rolls around.

From June to August, the Blue Mountains' World Heritage-listed wilderness transforms into a crisp, more tranquil escape. It is complete with misty valleys, golden light, and trails that feel like your own private playground. 

Whether you're chasing big views, looking to try something new, or wanting to keep the kids active, the Blue Mountains offer fun challenges, simple comforts, and incredible natural beauty. The best part is that it's all just 90 minutes from Sydney City by car or a 2-hour train ride to Katoomba — easy enough for a spontaneous day trip or a whole weekend of exploring. 

Here are five epic adventures you can enjoy this winter without the crowds. 

1. Dry canyoning 

Thought canyoning was a summer sport? Think again. You can actually find a number of year-round canyons to explore without getting a full-on soak, making it ideal even over cooler periods. 

The winter 'dry' canyons in the Blue Mountains are characterised by minimal water flow, allowing adventurers to engage in activities such as abseiling, rock scrambling, and traversing sculpted sandstone corridors without the need to swim. 

You'll still get the adrenaline rush (we promise!), but stay dry and comfortable as you explore quiet canyons with names like River Caves or Deep Pass. 

Some highlight winter canyons include Juggler, which entails multiple abseils and stunning rainforest scenery. For those who want a slightly more challenging experience, Tigersnake Canyon offers an exhilarating 'dry' canyoning adventure with tight rock passages and four unique abseils, including a 27-meter free-hanging descent! 

Generally, you can avoid shallow water and crowded trails, as the winter months typically have fewer tourists. 

2. Rock Climbing 

Winter provides crisp conditions and often clear vistas for scaling a climb. Find introductory half or full-day courses that teach the basics of climbing in a safe and supportive environment, making it a great activity for those new to the sport. 

If you'd like to try your hand at something more adventurous or just want to brush up on your belay game, there are a number of more intermediate grade climbs, such as 'Sweet Dreams'. 

Led by expert guides from the Blue Mountains Adventure Company (BMAC), the day trips include all your gear, safety equipment, and a gourmet picnic lunch. Your big day out is sorted with epic views to match. 

3. Cycling 

Not all winter adventures need ropes and cliffs. Sometimes all you need is a trail, a bike, and a little curiosity. The region boasts various stunning vistas and attractions, including Echo Point, Leura Cascades, and Cahills Lookout. 

If you have an e-bike for that extra battery-powered assistance, this'll make tackling hills easier and covering more ground without feeling overly exerted. 

With lighter traffic over winter, there's plenty of freedom to explore the best bits of the Blue Mountains without breaking too much of a sweat on two wheels.

4. Abseiling 

Combine the thrill of vertical descents with the serene beauty of the Bluey's landscapes. From a multi-pitch abseiling experience over the spectacular Megalong Valley to more introductory abseils, you can join a tailored abseiling experience suitable for children as young as six. 

At Blue Mountains Adventure Company, every trip is guided by experienced professionals who handle all the gear and safety systems so that you can focus on the good stuff: that moment your feet leave the ledge, the wind in your face, and the unbeatable feeling of conquering something new. 

5. Guided Bushwalks 

Explore the Blue Mountains in its most serene state. The air is clean, the trails are quiet, and the scenery feels extra magical under a soft blanket of mist. Without the heat or humidity of summer, walking in winter is more comfortable, making guided bushwalks such as the Grand Cliff Top Walk, the Sassafras Gully, and the Lost World feel more achievable. 

Wander through ancient escarpments and fern-filled gullies where every turn offers a new perspective, with the chance to experience the region's unique flora and fauna in the tranquil winter setting. 

Adding to the experience is a knowledgeable guide who will bring the ancient landscape to life with stories of geology, culture, and local lore. 

It's a great way to connect with nature, take in jaw-dropping views, and walk away with a deeper appreciation for this World Heritage-listed wilderness. 

Blue Mountains Adventure Company offers several guided winter adventures, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all skill levels. Their experienced guides provide all necessary equipment, including helmets, harnesses, and safety gear, as well as gourmet lunches to keep energy levels high throughout the day. 

Ready to make winter your season of adventure? Start exploring →

While I was well-prepared for the adventure, my lack of confidence in swimming initially made me hesitant. However, the guides, Greg and Lauren, were incredibly supportive and encouraging, making me feel comfortable throughout the experience. 

I joined BMAC's Empress Falls Canyon and Abseiling tour in January, and the adventure, as my group describes it, "will blow you away." Take a look at the video below for a recap of the day:
 

@setfacilegagatesjops Hey everyone! Whether you're a fitness pro or just starting out, you need to check out BMac Adventures! No matter where you're at in your fitness level, this adventure will blow you away. Trust me, everyone who’s joined has been amazed by the fun, the challenges, and the memories made. Big shoutout to our incredible guides, Greg and Lauren—seriously, you two are legends! And to my buddy Jamie, you’re an absolute legend too. Thanks for making this all even more epic. C’mon and give it a go! Head over to bmac.com.au and join their adventures of a lifetime. #abseiling #abseilingwaterfall #cayoning #adventure #empresscanyon #empressfalls #bluemountains ♬ Rock Song - StoryTune

The overall experience was exhilarating, with the most exciting and memorable part being abseiling down Empress Falls and the water jumps. Surprisingly, I found the water jumps more intimidating than the canyons I had previously done, even though they also involved similar jumps. 

For anyone nervous about the abseiling section, my best advice is to relax, trust the experienced guides, and enjoy the moment. Greg and Lauren were absolute legends, ensuring that everyone felt safe while making the adventure fun and unforgettable. 

The group dynamic was fantastic, with everyone continuously expressing how amazing the canyoning experience was. 

My key takeaway is simple – just have fun! 

Even if something feels challenging, trust in your guides. They are there to ensure your safety and help you conquer any doubts. 

I would absolutely like to try another canyon adventure – hopefully soon.

Words by: Josephine Libago, who was a competition winner for the Empress Falls Canyoning adventure.

Join the Adventures All Stars team as they explore everything fun and adventurous that Australia's Blue Mountains has to offer.

Adventure All Stars, a travel and adventure TV show with a difference, is the ultimate five-day road trip where TV viewers get to experience incredible locations through the eyes of an engaging and socially conscious cast. Pre-filming, cast members raise funds for a charity cause and their reward for doing so is a starring role on the TV show, experiencing fun activities and unforgettable adventures in beautiful locations.

Season 4, Episode 2 takes the team to the breathtaking Blue Mountains, where they tackle Juggler Canyon, the Blue Mountains Adventure Company's popular 'dry' canyon.

The canyon is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, featuring four exhilarating abseils through a rainforest-lined slot. The adventure didn't stop there — canyoneers enjoyed fun rock scrambles, stunning views between steep canyon walls, and an epic exit hike via Rodriguez Pass and the Grand Canyon, up the historic Pilcher Track.

One of the best parts about Juggler Canyon is its shallow water, which can be easily avoided, making it an ideal adventure spot year-round, even in winter!

Watch the episode snippet below:

When I started working as an outdoor adventure guide in the Blue Mountains, the famous Six Foot Track – a three-day, 45km bushwalk between Katoomba and Jenolan Caves – was my first paid gig. 

Guiding that historic walk and wanting to do justice to its Indigenous heritage led me to a book called Cullenbenbong, written by Bernard O’Reilly, whose family lived at Cullenbenbong in the late 1800s and early 1900s.


This Kanimbla Valley community of pioneering white settlers was also home to Indigenous people like the Gundungurra leader Billy Lynch (c1839-1913). 


Lynch, whose tribal name was Mawiak, would walk the Six Foot Track to Katoomba to sell bush honey, rabbits and possum-skin rugs to tourists.
 

He later led Blue Mountains Aborigines to settle in The Gully community on the outskirts of Katoomba, where the last fluent speakers of Gundungurra probably died about the time of WWII. 

Majestic thunder

The O’Reillys had the privilege of hearing Lynch and others speak in Gundungurra and this is what Bernard wrote of that experience: 

“If you listened to the Aborigines speaking together you didn’t hear a jumble of foreign words, you heard the sighing of trees, the voice of birds, the sounds of storm and flood and wind, the rolling of rocks in a landslide… It is with regret then and some shame that the name Cullenbenbong must be written here; how cold and lifeless it looks in white man’s type, yet to hear it pronounced by the black warriors of the old Kanimbla tribe was to hear majestic thunder re-echoing amongst the granite mountains of their hunting grounds. What did Cullenbenbong mean? My father, Peter O’Reilly, probably knew, but that knowledge has gone with him, as have ten thousand other things I’d give my right hand to know.” 

I love retelling this story on Blue Mountains Adventure Company (BMAC) and World Expeditions adventures. It's a powerful reminder of the tragic loss of a language shaped by thousands of years of life in the Blue Mountains. 

Like O’Reilly, I’d give my right hand to be able to speak Gundungurra and know another ten thousand things about the Aboriginal heritage of the Blue Mountains. 

O’Reilly’s book also happily reminds us that, despite all we have lost, there is still plenty that is preserved about the Blue Mountains Aboriginal heritage that BMAC and World Expeditions guides can share on our adventures. 

Wonderful books have been written by the likes of Jim Smith, Grace Karskens, Jim Barrett and Eugene Stockton that shed light on Aboriginal life here. There are also fantastic resources on the Internet such as Trove, where you can look up the astonishing 1896 interview Billy Lynch gave to the Sydney Mail newspaper about what life was once like for Aboriginal people in the Blue Mountains. 

Uncle David & Uncle Lex

An even better source of knowledge is to rub shoulders with current local Indigenous elders such as Uncle Lex Dadd (Dharug) and Uncle David King (Gundungurra), pictured below. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by David King (@dingo_darbo)

Some non-Indigenous guides feel uncomfortable talking about Indigenous issues, but I believe it is appropriate as long as it is done with integrity. Using language is crucial to this integrity. We still know about 1200 Gundungurra words and can use those words when we tell the stories of the Gundungurra. 

As we hike out of Empress Canyon, a highly popular canyoning adventure in the Blue Mountains, I love to stop at a lookout with a stunning vista to the south, over Gundungurra country, and tell of the gunyungalung – the Dreamtime of the Gundungurra – when this epic landscape was created by a series of battles between Mirragan (a giant tiger quoll) and Gurangatch (a part-fish, part-reptile creature). 

Resurrecting Indigenous Language

Work is ongoing to resurrect the Dharug language of the Blue Mountains and we can still count to 10 in the language of the Dharug: 

1. Wagul 
2. Bulla 
3. Bulla wagul 
4. Bulla bulla 
5. Dhamara (hand) 
6. Dhamara wagul 
7. Dhamara bulla 
8. Dhamara bulla wagul 
9. Dhamara bulla bulla 
10. Dhamara dhamara

We can remind people that Blue Mountains place names such as Katoomba, Megalong and Kanangra are Aboriginal and everyday words like waratah, koala and billabong come from the Indigenous languages of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. 

We can tell our clients that the village of Mt Victoria might be named after a British queen, but Billy Lynch said this place was called Kinderan. 

The Coxs River might be named after the man who supervised the convict team that built the first road over the Blue Mountains, but to the Gundungurra it was Therabulat. 

Welcoming friends to country: 'Warami Mittigar'

“Bimbiigang” (greetings) and “Warami mittigar” (welcome friends) to the “Ngurra” (country) of the Gundungurra and Dharug people: That’s how I love to greet people as they walk through the door of BMAC in Katoomba. 

The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is blessed to be home to six Aboriginal language nations and, as you walk into the BMAC Katoomba office, there’s a prominent sign to remind us all that this corner of the Blue Mountains “Always was, always will be Dharug and Gundungurra Country”. 

BMAC's commitment to Indigenous cultural respect

I’ve been blessed to live here nearly all my life and am double-blessed to have worked as a guide for more than a decade at Blue Mountains Adventure Company, an organisation that genuinely strives for reconciliation and honours Indigenous culture. 

This commitment is reflected in so many ways. There are posters, maps and signs on the office walls and information on the BMAC website that celebrate Indigenous culture.

There’s the connection BMAC has with Uncle Lex’s The Ganya Shed at Wentworth Falls, where BMAC guides are paid to do odd jobs and learn from Uncle Lex about Dharug culture.

There’s the encouragement for guides to learn as much as possible about Indigenous culture and make that knowledge a key part of every adventure. 

There’s the triple eco-certification BMAC worked hard to achieve from Ecotourism Australia, which recognises BMAC for “helping to preserve and respect Australian indigenous cultures”. 

BMAC also has ROC (Respecting Our Culture) certification from Ecotourism Australia. The Ecotourism Australia website explains that ROC-certified tourism operators “are committed to protecting cultural authenticity and integrity, developing sound business practices, environmental protection and acknowledging Indigenous peoples’ spiritual connection to the land and water”. 

The World Expeditions Travel Group, which BMAC is part of, has its own ratified Reconciliation Action Plan. BMAC manager Andy Mein was a champion of this plan and Gundungurra elder Uncle David King worked on it as an Aboriginal community representative. 

Colomatta

In recent years, historian Grace Karskens and a team of Dharug researchers discovered an 1829 list of Indigenous names that included Colomatta (phonetically pronounced Gu-lum-ada), 'Place of the Koala' - for the Blue Mountains. The Geographical Names Board of NSW is now considering this as an official alternative name for the Blue Mountains. 

Nearly 200 years after that list was written, I’m looking forward to wearing a shirt that says I work for Colomatta Adventure Company. And as the Dharug like to say: Yanama budyari gumada – may we all walk together with good spirit! 

Words by Dan Lewis, a guide at Blue Mountains Adventure Company 
 

Blue Mountains Adventure Company was awarded the highest level of certification across all three programs from Ecotourism Australia. This places the brand among an elite group of only 21 businesses in Australia to date to achieve this, solidifying their position as a leader in sustainable adventure travel.

In March 2024, the adventure tour operator was awarded the highest level of certification across three key categories – Advanced Ecotourism Certification, Climate Action Business Certification, and Respecting Our Culture Certification.

Michael Buggy, BMAC's General Manager, expressed his pride in this accomplishment. “It is an honour to have BMAC’s efforts to deliver tours of the highest standards of sustainability recognised with this triple program certification,” he stated. “Many of the areas in which we operate are places of astonishing natural beauty and are often of great significance to Indigenous people.” 

BMAC underwent a rigorous examination by Ecotourism Australia, the nation's peak body for ecotourism and sustainable tourism, ensuring certified businesses adhere to global best practice standards. 

The months-long certification process involved an assessment of the company's environmental management plan, conservation initiatives, Indigenous cultural respect and representation, and operational practices to effectively measure and minimise their carbon footprint.

“We hope this independent accreditation gives travellers even greater confidence that they are travelling and enjoying adventure activities sustainably and respectfully when they book with us,” Mr Buggy said. 

“We welcome the regular audits by independent experts from Ecotourism Australia that are part of ongoing accreditation to ensure we maintain best practice,” he said. 

Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan, commended the achievement. “We are proud to see BMAC achieve certification in all three programs, showcasing to travellers that their tours and adventure activities in the World Heritage area of the Blue Mountains uphold global best practice sustainability standards in environmental protection, Indigenous cultural respect and representation, and climate action,” she said.

Learn more about BMAC's responsible travel commitments and initiatives.

Last updated 17 April 2024.

Since 1984, the Blue Mountains Adventure Company has been the trusted companion for turning ordinary weekends into extraordinary thrills.

Imagine rock climbing towering sandstone cliffs, meandering through timeless Blue Mountains trails, exploring on state-of-the-art e-bikes, or descending into incredible, ancient canyons —it's the stuff dreams are made of. As pioneers of canyoning tours in the Blue Mountains, our team have been blazing the trail for adventure enthusiasts.

Watch our short teaser as we take you into the beauty and depths of the World Heritage area:

With experienced guides, gourmet lunches, top-tier gear, and more adventure locations in the Blue Mountains than anyone else, we ensure every outing is a memorable one. 

Make your adventure dreams a reality – find your adventure today >

Tag along with our guide, Dan Lewis, as he shows you all the natural beauty of the canyons in the Blue Mountains. For tourists visiting the area, many of them don't get any further than the lookout at the top, and while it's gorgeous, Dan believes the best way to explore the heart of the Bluey's is to get down into their depths, which is why canyoning for him is the perfect way to go.

Watch the full clip below:

"The magic of the Blue Mountains doesn't lie in their height, it lies in their depth. You know you descend a hundred metres in altitude, but you've effectively gone back a hundred million years in time. They're just magical places that you won't find anywhere else." 

The Blue Mountains — which, in actuality, are not so much a series of peaks but a collection of captivating ridges, plateaus, and gorges. Only 90 minutes from the Sydney centre, the World Heritage Listed site offers a swift escape from the city and an ideal place to spend the weekend away for plenty of adventures from abseiling to canyoning.

Me and Zac Efron? Yeah, we go back a fair way. All the way back to high school, in fact. 

Not the high school I went to in the Blue Mountains in the 1980s. No, I’m talking legendary East High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in the early 2000s. 

Thanks to my daughter, Molly (now aged 21), that’s where I first got to know the Hollywood actor through the movie, High School Musical. Molly was a huge fan of Zac’s schoolboy character, the deadly-handsome, all-singing, all-dancing basketball jock Troy Bolton. The Disney movie was so incredibly successful that along came High School Musical 2 and 3 and their songs were the anthems of my daughter’s adolescence. 

I endured and enjoyed all three films being on high rotation at the Lewis household throughout Molly’s teenage years. Millions of other young ladies throughout the world felt exactly the same way about Zac as my daughter did and this appeal has seen his acting career continue to blossom. 

As a humble Blue Mountains canyon guide, I didn’t think I had a lot in common with this global celebrity until early 2021 when Zac Efron – in the flesh – walked into my world. 

He was filming a second series of his Emmy-award winning Netflix documentary series Down to Earth and, due to the COVID pandemic, it was being made entirely in Australia. 

As Zac explains in the first episode, he left the United States for Australia in early 2020 to visit some friends, relax and do some surfing “and then BOOM!” COVID meant his vacation turned into an extended stay in Australia “and what started with me being stuck here has turned into me falling in love with this country”. I feel very chuffed that Zac voices those words in the documentary as he joyfully leaps into a deep pool of water in beautiful Empress Falls Canyon in the Blue Mountains. 

It turns out Zac and I do have a lot of things in common and one of them is a love of canyoning in the Blue Mountains. Although I lack Zac’s rippling physique, we also share the same sized wetsuit. (It’s a Seatec size four solid, in case you need to know.) 

Zac – now an honourary Aussie complete with his own pair of Blundstone boots - decided he wanted to share the beauty and spirituality of Australia with his family, friends and fans, so he had come to the Blue Mountains with his documentary sidekick, the US wellness guru Darin Olien, to film what became the first of eight episodes of Down to Earth Down Under. He wanted to look at lessons the wider world could learn from Australia when it comes to things like conservation, agriculture, fire, waste management and Aboriginal voices. 

Down to Earth Down Under launched on Netflix on November 11. The first 43-minute episode is titled “Habitat Conservation” and the Netflix blurb says: “From Sydney to the Greater Blue Mountains, Zac and Darin meet with leading eco-warriors to learn about protected lands and habitat conservation.” 

Nobody has ever called me an eco-warrior before (thanks, Netflix!), but I do try hard to use every canyoning adventure I guide to build an understanding of what a precious place the Blue Mountains is and why its conservation is so important. 

As a guide, I have done a lot of work with television productions wanting to use the cliffs and canyons of the Blue Mountains as high-adrenalin backdrops, but they are usually disinterested in looking beyond the action and the scenery to understanding why this place is so special. 

What made working with Zac and his Netflix crew so pleasurable was their genuine interest in and respect for things that I hold precious such as treading lightly on this breathtaking landscape of vast biodiversity, acknowledging its deep and rich Indigenous history and culture, understanding the significance of its World Heritage status as a place of universal value. They were also up for the physical and mental challenges of the formidable canyon environment. And they were friendly and pure professionals who respected all that my fellow Blue Mountains Adventure Company guides did to keep them safe. 

Indeed, it was a canyoning day like no other. Despite signing a lengthy legal document that threatened me with life imprisonment and bankruptcy if I mentioned to another soul that Zac Efron was going canyoning in the Blue Mountains, I have never had my daughter squeal with such disbelief and delight when I whispered in her ear about what her dad was going to do. 

I have never departed on a canyoning adventure with a bodyguard as part of the entourage before. And I have never had the paparazzi following a canyoning adventure before. At the time, Zac was dating Vanessa Valladares, a waitress he had met in Byron Bay, and the tabloid media was very interested in their relationship. But I still got a shock the following day when long-lens photos of them and me on our way to the canyon were plastered across the Daily Mail website. 

As part of my research to prepare for the big day, I watched the entire first series of Down to Earth, which launched in 2020 and had Zac and Darin globetrotting to destinations such as Sardinia and Costa Rica. I quickly realised who I didn’t want to be – the hapless guide at the famous Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland who was incapable of answering almost all their perfectly reasonable questions. 

On the big day, I was naturally nervous. Molly had politely informed me there would be millions of Zac Efron fans all around the world – including her - hating on me if I let him get damaged in the canyon. When Zac was looking a bit anxious at the top of Empress Falls as he prepared to abseil through its pounding flow, I reassured him that he had nothing to worry about because there was no way I was going to disappoint my daughter. That gave him a smile! 

There has been 20 months of nervous waiting since the filming to see if I had avoided the Icelander’s embarrassing fate. As soon as I heard that opening episode start with the pumping sound of awesome Yolngu musician Baker Boy, I had a good feeling about Down to Earth Down Under. That good feeling grew as I watched Zac and Darin meet with Darug elders of the Sydney region for a solemn welcome to country and a smoking ceremony that honoured more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal history. 

One of the Darug uncles asked Zac why he was here and I loved his answer: “I guess the reason I’m here is to learn and gain perspective and insight into your culture and your people.” 

And then they cut to the Blue Mountains and Empress Falls Canyon and for about 15 minutes I loved the way they made the Blue Mountains look so wonderful and canyoning look so cool. 

Using the language of the Darug people of the Blue Mountains, I look forward to saying “warami mittigar” – welcome friend - to Zac again someday. 

Empress Falls Canyon is named after another global celebrity – Queen Victoria, who was also the Empress of India in her day – but I suspect that for a lot of people around the world it’s now going to be known as Zac Efron Canyon.

“Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.”

With the sage advice of British philosopher and polymath John Ruskin (1819-1900) fresh in our minds, let’s start by dispelling these two key myths:

1.    Canyoning can’t be done safely when it’s raining.
2.    Canyoning is unpleasant when it’s cold.

It’s true that the vast majority of canyoning takes place in the warm half of the year because it involves full immersion into chilly canyon waters. Many people, therefore, have the impression it’s a fair-weather, summer-only activity. But in 10 years as a canyon guide, some of my most memorable adventures have happened in conditions the less well-informed would rate as less than ideal for canyoning. The weather was cold or wet, or both, and still the experience was magical.

I vividly remember an icy winter’s morning after heavy overnight snowfall in the Blue Mountains a few years ago. The Newnes Plateau was coated in a thick blanket of white as we drove towards Tigersnake Canyon. Snow continued to fall in fat, silent flakes as we hiked through the hushed bush towards our first abseil into this spectacular winter slot canyon.

Yes, it was very cold, but it was also beautiful and ethereal. 

Tigersnake Canyon is as remarkable as it is remote. It boasts deep, dark, water-sculpted slots as stunning as any canyon, but can be completed without getting anything more than your feet wet. It is what we call a dry canyon – just one of several such canyons Blue Mountains Adventure Company can take you to during the colder months. 

It’s not that they don’t have water in them, it’s just that they can be navigated without having to don a wetsuit and swim, thus avoiding any icy winter agony. 

Other examples include Deep Pass Canyon on the Newnes Plateau, Dione Dell Canyon out Kanangra way, and Juggler Canyon between Medlow Bath and Blackheath. These dry canyons are also the perfect alternative when torrential rain makes many wet canyons too dangerous to tackle. 

A good example is BMAC’s most popular dry canyon, Juggler. It is a winter classic with its four abseils through a deep rainforest-lined slot, some cave crawling, traversing and a magnificent exit hike along the Rodriguez Pass, through Grand Canyon and up the historic Pilcher Track. In normal conditions it can be done by getting nothing more than your feet wet. 

During the record-breaking La Nina summer of 2021-22, Juggler was also a spectacular but safe option during and after heavy rain. 

With either raincoats and thermals or wetsuits to protect from the water and the cold, it was an utterly breathtaking canyoning option amid raging waterfalls that inspired awe and got the adrenalin thoroughly pumping. 

Another bonus is that wet weather brings out the brilliant aromas and colours of the Blue Mountains bush and keeps the tourist crowds back in the cafes.

They know a thing or two about bad weather in Britain and the famed British fell walker Alfred Wainwright (1907-1991) once observed: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” 

That’s why BMAC can provide you with all the gear you need to make canyoning in cold and wet conditions safe and pleasant - hot drinks and lollies, thick wetsuits and neoprene socks, beanies and thermals, spray jackets and fleeces. Even more importantly, BMAC will provide you with guides with the skills and experience to make your canyoning experience special in all conditions.

Part of the charm of canyoning is that it helps create a serene mind and sound body. That’s why I love this final weather-related quote from the English novelist George Gissing (1857-1903): “For the man sound of body and serene of mind there is no such thing as bad weather; every day has its beauty, and storms which whip the blood do but make it pulse more vigorously.”

Come canyoning with us, regardless of the season or the weather. You won’t be disappointed because every day – and every canyon - has its beauty in every condition.

Written by Dan Lewis - BMAC guide since 2014