Inside Yileen Canyon: the Blue Mountains canyon with a 60-metre finale

Beautiful cliff views at Yileen Canyon, Blue Mountains | Sammy Zammit
Beautiful cliff views at Yileen Canyon, Blue Mountains | Sammy Zammit

If you loved abseiling down Empress Falls, then Yileen Canyon is right up your alley for your next adventure.

This Blue Mountains adventure takes it up a notch and saves the best for last: a 60-metre abseil overlooking the Grose Valley.

We've been guiding groups in the Blue Mountains since 1984, when we became the first company to offer canyoning tours here. Yileen is still one of those canyons that stops people in their tracks.

Photographer Sammy Zammit joined us for a day in the canyon, capturing everything from the walk in to that final, unforgettable descent. We'll let the photos do the talking.

The hike in


The scenery starts before you even reach the canyon. Sandstone escarpment, open sky and the Blue Mountains stretching out ahead.

Incredibly lush forest trails


The incredible scenery continues as you switch into your wetsuits.

Into the canyon


The light changes the moment you step in. The air cools, the walls rise, and the gorge engulfs you in its sublime surroundings.

Moss-lined walls


You'll navigate a stunning sandstone maze shaped by running water over time, while your guide shares stories about the canyon's unique geology and natural surroundings.

Safety, always


Every abseil starts with your guide checking your gear and talking you through it.

Exploring its depths


Enjoy multiple roped descents throughout the day, ranging from 5 to 10 metres in height during the middle section.

Up to 4 abseils


Each abseil builds on the last, helping you find your rhythm on the rope.

Make a splash


Short swims and rock scrambles keep you moving, and a full-length wetsuit helps keep the chill at bay.

The final drop


Just when you think you're done, more incredible views await. The 60-metre abseil beside a waterfall takes in the Grose Valley, with the Blue Gum Forest spreading out below you.

Ready to tackle this adventure?

Yileen runs during our wet canyoning season from September to April. If you have previous canyoning, abseiling or climbing experience and are in good shape, it could be a great next challenge.

We'll take care of the details, from your gear and guides to transport from our Katoomba office, National Parks fees and a gourmet lunch. It's all included, so you can focus on the adventure.

Take a look at our upcoming Yileen departures →

canyoning

We respectfully acknowledge the Dharug, Darkinjung, Dharawal, Gundungurra, Wanaruah, and Wiradjuri language groups as the traditional custodians of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area and thank them for sharing this beautiful land with us. Our Reconciliation Action Plan outlines our commitment to building respectful relationships, creating meaningful opportunities, and addressing inequalities that have historically existed.

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