Mt Wilson Canyoning

The Blue Mountains are unique. Due to their geology, the soft sandstones are susceptible to weathering by wind and water. Streams flowing across the plateau carve deep slots into the rock. These widen and deepen with time. They are fascinating places to visit and have their own unique challenges.

Canyoning safety tips and bushland protection

People who hurl themselves over the side of a cliff with only a piece of rope between themselves and severe internal injuries probably have a different concept of "minimal impact" than most bushwalkers! As a result, there are a few extra considerations needed to ensure personal safety and bushland protection:

•  Use only areas designated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Council.
•  Use chalk markings sparingly.
•  Don’t use fixed anchor points or other equipment that damages rock surfaces.
•  Avoid climbing near Aboriginal sites or near areas of threatened plants
•  Climbing above or below walking tracks may lead to injury through dislodged rocks
•  Physical markers or signs indicating starting points of climbs are visually polluting.
•  Don’t climb alone!

Blue Mountains Cliffcare promotes minimum impact climbing and undertakes maintenance and repair of cliff areas.

 

Using Streams and Rivers

Even the quietest river can turn savage - so there are a few important safety issues that must be noted:

•  Study the proposed route on a map and be aware of potentially dangerous areas and access/exit points.
•  Wear life-jackets.
•  Please let someone responsible know about your proposed timetable and route.
•  Test water depth before entering.
•  Unexpected and dangerous conditions are likely when water flows are above normal or when heavy rain is forecast.
•  Don’t use jet skis or other high speed or noisy craft on bushland waterways
•  Don’t go alone
•  Avoid rope swings

Of course, once you leave the water, you’re a bushwalker and the principles of "minimum impact" apply.