Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls.

Another attractive area in the Blue Mountains is Wentworth Falls. As an extension of the Valleys of the Waters walk I did a month ago, and with the weather quite ordinary, I was determined to get out of the house and explore the varieties of tracks that this area has to offer.


Red Browed Firetail Finch

Commencing at the West Street, I took the Short Cut Track, which is a fire trail, to the Conservation Hut. The weather was foul yet I still spotted Red Browed Firetail Finch and White Throated Tree Creeper as well as Yellow Rumped Thornbill and Wattlebird.

From the Conservation Hut to the falls themselves is a short, brisk walk with spectacular views across the Jamison Valley. Wentworth Falls is in two sections with superb views from the top, the centre and the bottom.


Steep Stairs

The track then crosses the falls and a well defined, steep, rock staircase takes you to the middle section of the falls. These steps again remind me of a Tolkien adventure. Further along you can turn left and walk to the bottom of the falls- the advise from National Parks is only if you are experienced. Whilst I feel that its not too difficult, there are plenty of tourists who could find themselves stressed by being inappropriately equipped- I saw one guy in UGG boots...


Mt Solitary above the clouds.

Its a fantastic walk, as the track follows the cliff line, under waterfalls, over bridges and ladders. Following the track which hugs the cliff face until it reaches Vera falls as mentioned in a previous post. There are quiet dark forests, exposed rocks and cliffs all within easy reach.


More water falls.

There are many tracks and diversions, however follow the advise of the National Parks signs, Avoid the tracks that are marked "Exerienced Walkers Only", and you can get fresh air, great views, exercise regardless of the conditions! Walk distance about 8km.

Birds seen:- New Holland Honey eater, Eastern Spinebill,Red Browed Firetail Finch, White Throated Tree Creeper, Wattlebird, Yellow Tufted Honey Eater, Currawong, Grey Butcherbird, King Parrot, Bell Minor,

WW2 Jeep photos.

I took a photo of the snorkel hole- used when jeeps were off loaded onto a beach and traveled underwater....




I then moved around towards the front


and put the roof on and....

had a beer.

Neats Glen, Grand canyon, Evans Lookout.

Evans Lookout Views
This is a walk I had not done since 1977! With the weather being erratic, ( variations of temperature during the day 9-19 and back again ), and a suggestion of sleet, it was time to get out and explore.
This walk is fabulous, there is no other word to describe it. Whilst the Grand Canyon bares no resemblance to the one in America, it is a walk that takes you through waterfalls, beside the canyon that in many spots you cannot see the bottom, under cliff overhangs , through tunnels, and back to the top where the contrasting view is spectacular.

Across Creeks
Again, this is a walk which can lead you into the Blue Gum forest, if you care. An easy grade, yet good shoes and water are essential.
Getting there is easy. From Sydney take the Great Western Highway, pass Katoomba and passing the famous Hydro Majestic hotel. Here the highway crosses the railway. A few km on there is a road to the right, clearly sign posted. Follow this until you reach the car park.

Behind waterfalls.
I had forgotten most of the walk, however I did recall the track being wet for most of the way. Good boots and keeping an eye on finding a good grip is essential. The National Parks are doing a great job upgrading the track, as many of the ladders and walk ways were showing signs of wear and tear. Keep an eye out for the areas of work, as some of the rocks are loose.
How can I describe it all to you? A scene from Lord of the Rings is the only way. Tall fern trees, mossy rocks, cool and dark. I would think that much of the canyon would never see full sun light. In summer icy cold rock pools would be a treat.



Into dark tunnels
Here we encountered a Rock Warbler that was not frightened in the least. In fact when I stopped, I though it was going to jump on my shoe! I can only assume it had a nest nearby.
Finally reaching the bottom you can either continue down and walk to Blue Gum forest, or take the ascent to Evans Lookout. Being a day walk we chose the look out.
Miles of mossy walking tracks
Here, step after step is encountered and like the Valley of the Waters its important to maintain a pace that you can handle without "blowing up" i.e. becoming fatigued. When you reach the top, the contrast is truly spectacular. Lockleys Pylon, Mt Hay, Mount Banks and Perrys Lookdown can all be observed from another perspective.


Rock overhangs

Again, in pausing we encountered a Lyrebird. Happy to scratch like a chook, only a few feet away from us. The walk back to our car was only 800m, and after 2 1/2 hours Rosalie and I agreed this was truly one of the better walks.


Rare Blue Sky
If you are ever in Sydney and would like information on walks., just drop me an email.

Subaru WRX STI

All my friends know I am a sucker for cars. They do not have to be fast for me to love 'em but they do have to have something "unique". In previous posts I have listed some of my favorites.
However, one of my absolute favorites is my 2006 Subaru WRX STi C spec which is enhanced with upgrades. This car is not only quick, but "bullet" proof, and good on fuel. I think its the last real STi and has as much ( if not too much ) power that i need to get me to and from work.

I have included a clip that you might find enjoyable... this is "off the chain" !!! Ken Block is an amazing driver. This is an Sti at its best