While some of the images of canyoning or abseiling in the Blue Mountains may seem extreme, they are very safe. So safe, even younger children can participate on certain trips and many active families have organised private excursions to tailor an experience comfortable for their loved ones.

If you’re an active person, or just like to travel differently, there are many things to do in the Blue Mountains that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

CANYONING

 

While the Blue Mountains are a superb mixture of hills and deep valleys and gorges, while many come to admire her heights some of the real beauty can be found deep below. Canyoning allows you to experience the magic of the regions many unique canyons.

As our guide Dan Lewis puts it in his quick history of the Blue Mountains, “To venture into the deep, dappled, cold, wet, narrow slot canyons like Serendipity, Whungee Wheengee, Butterbox, Claustral, Empress Falls or Rocky Creek is to not only experience an adrenaline-filled physical challenge full of breath-taking beauty and biodiversity but to travel in a time machine to a hidden and ancient world that helps you fully comprehend why UNESCO deemed this dissected plateau to possess universal values important for all of humanity when it granted it World Heritage status in 2000.”

 

A Blue Mountains canyoning trip is hands down perhaps the most exciting outdoor adventures you can have here.

 

ROCK CLIMBING

Rock climbing is about balance, concentration and self confidence. Age and fitness should not be seen as a barrier. Climbing is about controlled moves, planned in advance and purposefully applied. 

Anyone can start at any age and rock climbing is a great focus for kids. When once asked when he started climbing, legendary Australian mountaineer and adventurer Jon Muir once quipped, “I never stopped!” 

Popular rock climbing spots in the Blue Mountains include Mt York, Mt Piddington, Zig Zag, Narrowneck and the Wolgan Valley. It’s advised to always enjoy them with experienced, certified and passionate guides.

Even if you’re an experienced climber, an experienced Blue Mountains rock climbing provider should have guides that can help you find some ‘secret spots’ for an even more thrilling weekend on the wall.

 

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ABSEILING

Also known as rappelling in North America and much of Europe, abseiling is commonly practised the world over as a method of descending a rope in a safe and controlled manner. It’s a fun and safe activity when conducted with experienced professionals, and it’s also one of the most exciting ways to enjoy the Blue Mountains.

The Blue Mountains offers a myriad of abseiling experiences. Some are all about the abseiling and some are combined with a canyoning adventure. 

Abseiling in the Blue Mountains can be enjoyed by people of all ages, with some abseiling trips known to have participants as young as 6 on them. There are many more than can be enjoyed participants under 13.

On organized abseiling trips in the Blue Mountains make sure that all the safety equipment is supplied and that they are checked regularly.

 

BUSHWALKING

Bushwalking is basically walking in the bush, an Australian term for forest areas. Walking is something that everyone can do, and its definitely something everyone should do when visiting the Blue Mountains.

Walking offers a chance to slow down to really appreciate the natural landscapes you stroll past. It brings out like minded people, talking to your companions is often a highlight of a healthy day out.

The Blue Mountains is literally dotted with historical sites, unique wildlife and landforms that will leave you breathless. There are many walks that can take you to appreciate these things, graded from introductory to the more challenge, multi day hikes, like the Kunungra to Katoomba.

If the idea of using ropes isn’t for you, then make sure you at least enjoy a hike in the Blue Mountains.

 

SWIMMING & WATER JUMPING

Whatever you choose to do there is usually a chance to refresh in a beautiful water hole in the Blue Mountains that seems like its been reserved just for you. Always pack your swimmers, especially in summer when cooling is important.