So you've done a canyon or two. You've had your first abseil, braved the cold water, and now you're wondering: where to next? It's time to put Yileen Canyon on your radar.

The thing about this canyon located in the Blue Mountains' Grose Valley is that it doesn't give everything away at the start. It builds.

The ferny trails turn mossier; the rock walls close in, so you twist through nature's stunning maze; and every abseil keeps things interesting as you navigate through.

Here's what to expect on Yileen Canyon, with the best abseil saved for last.

What makes Yileen special

Yileen is an intermediate wet canyon that brings together some of the best parts of canyoning in the Blue Mountains. 

From short swims and rock scrambling to up to four abseils, each one feeling a little bigger than the last as you go further. 

Then, towards the end, the canyon opens up, and you stand at the top of a 60-metre abseil with panoramic valley views that make you feel pretty small, but in the best possible way. Sounds pretty epic, doesn't it?

How your day unfolds

The full-day adventure kicks off at 8am at our Katoomba office, where we'll fit you with your gear before heading out to the canyon. 

Once you're in, you'll scramble, wade and swim your way downstream, discovering a new side of the canyon around every bend. Your guide will be there every step of the way, checking your gear and talking you through each abseil before you head down the rope. 

And don't worry if the nerves kick in. That's all part of the adventure! Our guides are there to help you feel comfortable and confident along the way, while keeping it fun and exciting. (You can read what fellow travellers have said in our Google reviews.)

Of course, all that exploring works up an appetite. We provide a hearty lunch to fuel your big day of adventure.

After the last abseil, you'll head back up via Pierces Pass. It's a moderate walk, but after a big day in the canyon, your legs might have a thing or two to say about it. Take your time and enjoy the scenery. 

Is the Yileen Canyon adventure right for you?

If you've already had a taste of canyoning and you're keen to try something a little more challenging, Yileen is a great next step.

It's graded 5 (Moderate) and suits adventurers with some previous canyoning, abseiling, climbing or hiking experience, plus a good level of fitness.

A few things to prepare for on the trail: 

• Extended bushwalking, including steep uphill sections 
• Carrying a backpack that may weigh more than 10kg throughout the day 
• Moving over uneven terrain in a remote environment 
• Swimming in cold water, sometimes for long stretches

And if you're feeling a few butterflies before a big abseil? That's totally normal, and you'll be in good company. Your guide will be there every step of the way to help you feel prepared and talk you through what's ahead.

If you're still unsure, have a chat with our team. We're always happy to help you choose the canyon that best suits your experience and confidence.

New to canyoning altogether? Start with Empress Falls Canyon and Abseiling or Grand Canyon and Abseiling. They're great places to get a feel for the ropes before taking on something like Yileen.

What's included? 

We've got the essentials covered so you can spend more time enjoying the canyon without worrying about any of the logistics.

Your day includes: 

• A hearty lunch from the local deli 
• Experienced local canyoning guides 
• All activity equipment, including wetsuits, helmets and harnesses 
• Safety equipment 
• National Parks fees 
• Transport from our Katoomba office to the canyon and back 

What to bring

Once your adventure is confirmed, our team will send a list of recommended items to bring. Among these include suitable clothing, swimmers, comfortable enclosed footwear, a water bottle, your camera or smartphone in waterproof casing, and a change of clothes.

When is the best time to explore Yileen Canyon?

Our Yileen adventure operates during the Blue Mountains wet canyoning season, from September through to April. 

The warmer spring and summer months (November to February) are generally the most popular time to explore the area, as the cool canyon pools are a welcome escape from the heat.

If you've been eyeing your next canyoning challenge, check out our upcoming Yileen departures and start planning your adventure.