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Festival of Walking Guidebook 2012

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Page 1: Festival of Walking Guidebook 2012
Page 2: Festival of Walking Guidebook 2012

Welcome to the Festival of Walking!

The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region is the richest destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts on the continent. You can lace up your shoes and head from your front door to a rugged valley or high plateau in an afternoon, or stroll from historic pub to historic pub through quiet, tree lined streets. The region also has some of the most experienced hospitality operators in the industry. Quiet B and Bs, executive retreats, boutique hotels, luxury resorts, award winning restaurants and rustic hotels (pubs?) can all be found in numbers, and most only a few minutes from the edge of National Parks which are steeped in history. The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region is also home to events of all kinds, from iconic cultural fairs to endurance tests for bush athletes, on the edge of the biggest city in the nation and all within a World Heritage Area.. Bearing these factors in mind, the concept of a Festival of Walking in this area is one whose time has come. We hope that in a few years, thousands of like minded people will be walking these streets and paths for the Festival. In the meantime, thank you for coming and enjoy these nine days!

Randall WalkerChairman, Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon Tourism.

DISCOVERY WALKS

What better way to start the Festival of Walking than a free guided bushwalk

to the opening! Catch the train to Wentworth Falls, where a National Parks Discovery Ranger will meet you to take you for a guided bushwalk along the easy Charles Darwin Walk.

All walks start at Wentworth Falls Railway Station, then via Wilson Park and Darwin’s Walk to arrive at Wentworth Falls Picnic Area by 10:30 am for the opening of the Festival of Walks

7:45 am – Earlybirds – Catch an early train to join a Discovery Ranger in search of birdlife on the Charles Darwin walk. Learn about the amazing birds that inhabit the Blue Mountains in spring time and the habitat resources they rely on. This will be a leisurely walk, expecting to arrive at Wentworth Falls Picnic Area around 10am. Bring your binoculars!

8:45 am and 9:15 am – Family Meander - Join a Discovery Ranger on a fun family friendly adventure down the Charles Darwin Walk. Search for signs of wildlife and discover what makes the

Blue Mountains such a fantastic location for family bushwalks.

8:45 am – Shadows of Time - This walk will be guided by a Discovery Ranger with an in depth knowledge of local history. Meet at Wentworth Falls railway station to learn more about Charles Darwin and his time in the Blue Mountains, as well as the development of our amazing Blue Mountains walking track system

9:40am – Get Moving - The official opening is at 10:30am. This is not a guided walk, however a Discovery Ranger will meet the train and set you off in the right direction for a comfortable 45 minute walk down the Charles Darwin walk to arrive at Wentworth falls Picnic Area just in time for the official opening of the Festival of Walking.

Distance: Varies from 5km – 8km Difficulty: Easy Price: Free Hosted by NPWS Booking: Numbers Limited, booking essential call (02) 4787 8877 to secure your place

FESTIVAL GRAND OPENING

When: 10.30am - Noon

Where: Wentworth Falls Picnic Ground

Who: Everyone is Welcome!

Opening Speeches, Welcome to Country, Discovery Walks, a guest appearance by Wanda the Wombat and a great BBQ Lunch await you at the 2012 Festival of Walking

launch.

Attendees are also welcome to walk throughout the beautiful tracks and trails that lead into

the bushland from this wonderful location.

Saturday 6th October

Beautiful spring flowering plants • exhibition centre • inspiring art • guided tours • Adventure Quests • Jungle Lodge accommodation • wedding venues • restaurant with views • Garden Shop www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

Your GardenMon – Fri 9 am – 5.30 pm Weekends & public holidays 9.30 am – 5.30 pm Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah T: 4567 3000. FREE ENTRY

The BLue MounTAinS BoTAnic GArden, MounT ToMAh

coME iNTo ThE Garden

Festival [email protected] P3

3 Day Iconic Jamison Valley Walka 3 day hike around the Jamison Valley Circuit taking in the award winning Federal Pass, National Pass and the beautiful Mt Solitary

...see the display at the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, Blackheath.

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Wolgan Valley - Glow Worm Tunnel to Glen Davis - 2 Day

The Wolgan Valley is a stunning region of dramatic escarpments, beehive pagoda rock formations, rich bushland and ancient aboriginal rock paintings. It is also home to extensive flora and a wide array of native wildlife. On this 2 day walk you will travel through a tunnel filled with thousands of glow worms, see spectacular views as you descend from the cliff tops into the beautiful Wolgan Valley and visit the historic town of Newnes.

Distance: 14km Day One & 11km Day Two Grade: Medium - Hard Cost: Many packagesHost: Life’s an Adventure Bookings: [email protected] or p: 02 9913 8939

Govetts Leap to Pulpit Rock - 3 - 4 hrs.This walk takes you from Govetts Leap around the cliff tops, to Pulpit Rock lookout. The walk passes many lookouts, each giving their own unique perspective of the Grose Valley’s dramatic cliff line and waterfalls. The lookouts at Pulpit Rock are at 3 levels and the view varies at each.

Distance: 8km Grade: Medium Cost: Free

Host: Bankstown Bushwalking Club Bookings: P: 0411 099 943 (Bernard)

or [email protected]

Mt Wilson & Mt Tomah Private Gardens Tour - Full Day

On a TCP Garden Tour you will visit the forests which gardeners have used as the canvas for their wonderful creations. You will see riotous colours and magical landscaping using the surrounding gum trees, water courses, mossy rocks and ferns. TCP tour operator Nyla is passionate about the gardens of Mt Wilson and provides a unique experience. This tour includes transport.

Distance: 2-3kmGrade: EasyCost: $75ppHost: TCP Garden ToursBookings: Online at www.festivalofwalking.com.au

Saturday 6th October

Singles Walk... 3+ hrsEver wanted to meet some like minded “Singles”? Join other “Singles” on this walk as you meet at the Blue Mountains Hotel in lawson then head out for a leisurely stroll down to scenic Terrace Falls. After the walk we will walk back to the BM Hotel for a quick meal followed by some entertainment and socialising with the group. included is a hosted walk, fellow group of Singles, a hotel meal and a Beer or Wine.

Distance: 2-3kmGrade: EasyCost: $35Host: Michelle P: 0404 729 827Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Historic Tours at The Carrington Hotel

Taking you back to an earlier age of elegance, Carrington Historian, Paul Innes will take you on a tour of the Carrington Hotel’s gardens and ground floor rooms investigating the social history of this Grand Hotel in the heart of Katoomba. In addition to the splendid architecture within the Carrington, you’ll enjoy hearing stories that bring the building alive – stories gathered from many former guests and former employees. Many old photos, menus, and artefacts are incorporated into the tour commentary.

with Wine & Cheese tasting - 2-3hrsReturn to the Cellars to smell the wine and taste the cheese! A selection of local and regional produce will be provided for your enjoyment, with expert insight from the Cellar Manager. Be tempted and dare to try unusual combinations (you will be surprised!)

Distance: Approx 2km Grade: EasyCost: $28ppHosted by: Discover the Blue Mountains and Carrington CellarsBookings: www.festivalofwalking.com.au

with Devonshire Tea - 2-3hrsBegin your morning with a lovely devonshire tea in the Carrington Hotel taking your time over tea and scones with jam before meeting local historian Paul Innes and commencing your tour.

Distance: Approx 2km Grade: EasyCost: $25 Concession available.Hosted by: Discover the Blue Mountains and Carrington CellarsBookings: www.festivalofwalking.com.au

Geocaching - 9 days throughout the FestivalGeocaching is a free, high-tech “treasure” hunt where you use a GPS devise to find caches hidden by other players. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Blue Mountains.

During the Festival there will be 5 new hides which will be in place from 6th - 14th of October. The first 4 caches will contain some collectable pathtags, each one different. The fifth cache will be a childrens orientated cache. These caches will all be set by a local, experienced cacher and will appear on www.geocaching.com.au on the 6th October.

Want to know more? www.festivalofwalking.com.au

Mount Tomah Spur - 7 Hours

Take a Wilderness Walk to Tomah Spur to experience the Garden’s wilder side, led by a specialist guide with detailed knowledge of Blue Mountains plants and wildlife. Tomah Spur is on conservation land owned by the garden. Your walk will take you through four different environments - rainforest, eucalypt woodland, spectacular heath and wind-sculpted sandstone. You’ll travel through a carpet of ferns, moss-laden rocks and lush green rainforest with towering trees before emerging onto a rock outcrop with spectacular views of the Blue Mountains. This is great opportunity to explore this beautiful bushland on an extended tour. Reasonable fitness, sturdy shoes, sun hat and water bottle recommended.Distance: 8-10kmGrade: Medium Cost: $60 Host: Blue Mountains Botanical Gardens (Mt Tomah)Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

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Mount Tomah Themed Walks - 1hours

Explore the geographical differences between plants in a ‘Walk around the World’; or discover the history of The Jungle in a ‘Walk on the Wild Side’

Walk around the World: Starting at 11am this walk will take you through the continents of this Botanical Garden. From the Southern Hemisphere to Eurasian and then North American Woodlands you’ll wonder where in the world you end up!

Walk on the Wild Side: Starting at 1pm, explore the gently graded pathways of The Lady (Nancy) Fairfax Walk. Soak up the beauty of the ancient forest and learn how plants here adapt to low light conditions. Maybe catch a glimpse of the rainforest residents, like greater gliders, possums and powerful owls....Distance: 3km Grade: Easy Cost: $15 Host: Blue Mountains Botanical Gardens (Mt Tomah)Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Sunday 7th October

Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours

With something to interest everyone, this walk features the underground River Styx, mostly appearing as large pools of blue water. The Pool of Reflections is one of those pools, and for many people, the highlight of the tour. It is a large, very still pool of water, illuminated from several directions to show its blue colouring. The lighting casts a multitude of spectacular reflections, which guests are invited to photograph.

Distance: 3km Grade: Medium Cost: $40Host: Jenolan Caves Bookings: Online at www.festivalofwalking.com.au

Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7 Hours

Live for a day our; happy, creative, ceremonial and spiritual life. An inspiring and educational bush walk into the dreamtime to gain a deep understanding of our traditional local Darug culture. Aboriginal owned and guided we practice the original methods of learning as we complete the ancient quest of walkabout. It is; challenge, adventure, exercise and reward for your; mind, body and spirit. The song line (story of place) leads us through secluded wild bush and rainforest to our sacred sites of the dreamtime. We listen to what nature and these wonderful sites have to share with us. This tour leaves from Faulconbridge Station.

Distance: 7kmGrade: mediumCost: $95Host: Evan Yanna Muru from Aboriginal Blue Mountains WalkaboutBookings: http://www.bluemountainswalkabout.com/

Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th October

Jenolan Caves - Surface Walk - 1.5 hours

Surface walks will encompass geological features as well as fauna and flora and some indigenous content. Areas of interest may be the Blue Pool or the original Bridal Trail into Jenolan and the rich history this area has to offer.

Distance: 3kmGrade: EasyPrice: $30Host: Jenolan CavesBookings: Jenolan Caves – 1300 76 33 11 – Press 2

Valley of the Waters - 3 hours

Valley of the Waters hike with qualified ecologist guide. Often described as one of the most picturesque walks in the Mountains. Explore the World Heritage values with two 1400ft waterfalls, ancient rainforest and deep gorge environments on historic trails.

Distance: 3kmGrade: EasyPrice: $65Host: Tread Lightly Eco ToursBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

www.festivalofwalking.com

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Eco Walk - 2 HoursWith easy access, this 2 hour walk is perfect for visitors. Beginning at Solitary Kiosk (Blue Mountains Explorer Bus Stop 16), this easy grade walk is full of surprises. After meandering through local bushland along Prince Henry Cliff Top Track and discovering why this area is so special, we’ll arrive at the famous Three Sisters, Echo Point to complete the walk.

This tour will give you an intimate connection to the landscape, plants, animals and World Heritage values of this unique area.

Distance: 7kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $30 - U16yrs - $15Host: Wild at Heart Wild SafarisBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Sunday 7th October

Grand Canyon - Half Day Walk

A magnificent walk through the Grand Canyon. Your guide will share local secrets and interpret the unique environment for you. A fantastic walk in any weather. Ends with splendid views of Grose Valley. Bookings essential.

Distance: 6-10kmDifficulty: MediumPrice: $60Host: Blue Mountains Adventure CompanyBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

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Monday 8th October

A Ramble at Katoomba Falls: Nature, History and Poetry. 2.5 Hours

A Ramble at Katoomba Falls: Nature, History and Poetry plus tips on keeping. A Rambler’s Journal, with Deb Westbury (poet) and John Low (historian).Meet at picnic reserve next to Katoomba Falls Kiosk.

Distance: 3kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $10Host: Blue Mountains Historical SocietyBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout 7hrs - Pg 6

• Jenolan Caves - Surface Walk - 1.5 hours Pg 7

• Eco Walk - 2 Hours - Pg 8

• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours - Pg 6

Tuesday 9th October

Leura Gardens Walk 1.5 - 2 Hours

Discover the splendour of 4-5 private gardens in the wonderful Leura area.

This guided walk takes you through an assortment of gardens with their unique personality and ambience all on your way to enjoying a picture perfect picnic on garden grounds.

Distance: 3km – 5kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $20Host: Leura Gardens FestivalBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

All proceeds raised from this walk benefit the Blue Mountains District Anzac Memorial Hospital

• Mystery Walk - Faulconbridge - more details on www.festivalofwalking.com.au

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7hrs -P6• Mt Tomah Spur - 6 hrs - Pg 5 • Eco Walk - 2 Hours - Pg 8• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours - Pg 6

Wednesday 10th October

Valley of the Waters5 Hours

One of the most beautiful hikes the Blue Mountains has to offer. Descend into a valley of magnificent waterfalls through a stunning rainforest gorge. Explore ferny grottos, swimming holes and see a series of cascades including beautiful Empress Falls where water gushes from a narrow gorge. Stop for a picnic lunch at the base of a waterfall where you can listen for the distinctive calls of the whipbirds and lyrebirds. Soak up the atmosphere as you jump across stepping stones to cross creeks and stand in awe taking in magnificent views of the falls and mountain scenery. Experience the true beauty of this region.

Distance: 7km – 10kmDifficulty: MediumPrice: Standard $145 CBD Pickup $175Host: Life’s an AdventureBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

• Mystery Walk - Lapstone - more details on www.festivalofwalking.com.au

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7hrs - P6• Jenolan Caves - Surface Walk - 1.5 hours Pg 7• Eco Walk - 2 Hours - Pg 8• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours - Pg 6

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Thursday 11th October

Some Lanes of Wentworth Falls2.5 Hours

A Historical Wander with Joan Smith (histo-rian). Joan gives a roving commentry on the various laneways of Wentworth Falls , detail-ing the history behind the notably beautiful laneways.

Distance: 3km – 5kmDifficulty:EasyPrice: $10Host: Blue Mountains Historical SocietyBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Mount York’s Convict Roads - 3 Hours

Using Cox’s 1814 journal and physical evidence at Mount York, your tour guide will immerse you in the construction of the first road across the Blue Mountains. Selected readings from original journals, and letters add to the sense of ‘being there’. In addition to its History, this location has superb views, so bring a camera! The site is at the end of Mount York- turn off the highway just before Victoria Pass, about 35 minutes’ drive from Katoomba.

Distance: 3km – 5kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $15Host: Discover the Blue MountainsBookings:

www.festivalofwalking.com.au

Lawson’s Long Alley & Berghofer’s Pass - 3 hours

Lawsons Long Alley was built in the mid 1820s to replace Coxs Road. We will also look at Berghofers Pass, built in the early 20th century to replace Victoria Pass. Start is on Mt York road. We will visit some superb stonework and stone arch bridges.

Distance: 3kmDifficulty:EasyPrice: $15Host: Discover the Blue Mountains

Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 5 Hrs - Pg 6

• Eco Walk - 2 Hours - Pg 8

• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours - Pg 6

Beer Enthusaists Walk2 Hours - Evening

Leura Cellars is home to over 300 varieties of finely brewed beers, ranging from Wheat Beers, Pilseners, Dark Ales, Lagers, Pale Ales, IPA’s, Imperial Stouts, Imperial IPA’s, Abbey Ales and they would like to share some of them with you! Leura Cellars can entice many tastes and varied pallets.

Meet Robert at Leura Cellars at 5.30pm ready for a quick stroll to the beer tasting destina-tion. Beer tasting will include a tasting of 8 dif-ferent beers and matching of a range of locally made gourmet sausages.

Although this event is not to be missed, something to make it even more special is that amongst the beers available for tasting is the opportunity to taste the infamous “Sink the Bismarck”, a lager of 41% from the Brewdog Brewery in Scotland. Following the tasting there will be a short stroll back to Leura Cellars for the final tasting, a mystery beer and the chance to win a specialty beer pack from Leura Cellars.

This is a great walk to gift to someone who loves beer!

Distance: 2kmDifficulty:EasyPrice: $65Host: Leura CellarsBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Can’t make it to this walk today?

This walk also appears on:

Sunday 14th October.

MORE WALKS ON TODAY

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Friday 12th October

Blackheath Meander - 1.5 Hours

Do you like spring in the mountains or admiring the splendour of Rhododendrums? If you do, you’ll enjoy a walk through the parks, and back streets of this upper Blue Mountains town - while soaking in its local His-tory. Old photos, newspaper articles describing such things as ‘road hogs’, and many anecdotal accounts gleaned from local sources, (including the story of the incredible 1931 Don Bradman innings), form the basis of the tour commentary. At the end of the tour, spend some time sifting through antique, and second hand book shops, or think about a meal at one of the cafes, or hotels.

Distance: 3kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $15Host: Discover the Blue MountainsBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Streetscapesw/JaneCanfield1.5hrs

A sketchers wonderland with Jane Canfield - a renowed local artist known for her urban paintings. Jane takes the budding artist on a short walk and sketch tour. Starting at her Leura Studio, in the garden of Argyll House B&B, pick up the basic materials (paper and ink) and gain an insight into how Jane develops her work from these sketches. This walk will take you through Leura and it’s back streets to sketch some of the street scapes and vista’s that this beautiful town has to offer. Jane’s guiding hand as a renowned artist will make sure you leave this walk with all the hints and tips for the aspiring artist.

Distance: 3kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $27Host: Jane CanfieldBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Katoomba’s Night Life - 1 Hour

Pick up from all major hostels in Katoomba, this walk begins at dusk when the Australian Wildlife is beginning to wake up. Let us introduce you and your friends to the local wildlife, the local sights, and upon completion a good local pub where you can kick off your own night life!

Distance: 3kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: $30Host: Blue Mountains Adventure CompanyBookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7hrs - Pg 6

• Jenolan Caves - Surface Walk - 1.5 hours Pg 7

• Eco Walk - 2 Hours - Pg 8

• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hours - Pg 6

MORE WALKS ON TODAY

Saturday 13th October

Red Hands Cave - 5 Hours

A undulating walk along the lush banks of Camp Fire Creek at Glenbrook to see the indigenous hand print rock art. The walk is quite serene and

you can enjoy some peace as you wander along the trail to the art in Red Hands Cave, arguable the best walk in the Glenbrook National Park.

Distance: 9.5km Difficulty: Easy Price: $7Host: Sydney Christian Bushwalkers

Bookings: Leonie Bell [email protected] P: 02 9520 7180

Norman Lindsay Art Gallery - 2 Hours

A guided bush walk which starts in Lindsay’s arcadian inspired landscape garden and includes some information about his garden artworks before enjoying the 20 minute walk along the bushtrack with views down into the National Park. Begin or end your walk with a browse through the gallery and light refreshments in the courtyard.

Distance: 3km Difficulty: Easy Price: $12Host: Norman Lindsay Art Gallery Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Centennial Glen, Walls Ledge, Porters Pass, Colliers Causeway - 3 Hours

Most of the walks close to Blackheath focus on the Grose Valley to the north. This walk takes you in the opposite direction, into the glen between the arms of the Shipley Plateau and the main ridge along which the highway runs. While the view across Kanimbla Valley is not as grand as those over the Grose or Jamison, it is extremely pretty.

Distance: 8kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: FreeHost: Bankstown Bushwalking ClubBookings Essential: Bruce [email protected] P: 02 9790 1459

Hanging Rock - 5 Hours

Hanging Rock is one of the iconic images of the Blue Mountains. We’ll meet at Blackheath at 9am and then drive to the start of a fire trail near Blackheath for a return walk of about 9km in total, and enjoy the views. Nice and easy walking.

Distance: 9kmDifficulty: EasyPrice: FreeHost: Bankstown Bushwalking ClubBookings Essential: Bernard Woolley before 9pm P: 0411 099 943 or [email protected]

www.festivalofwalking.comFor up to date information on the Festival of Walking visit:

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Saturday 13th October

Six Foot Track - 3 days

Six Foot Track 3 day guided walk from the Blue Mountains to Jenolan Caves. Winding through State forests and national parks, the 6 Foot track follows the 44 kilometre route of the original 1884 Bridal track between Katoomba and Jenolan Caves. Crossing mountain ranges and falling into deep valleys, the Six Foot Track features sheer sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and panoramas of richly-forested valleys. Camp under the stars and enjoy fine wine or beer and a delicious gourmet dinner. Time is allowed at the end of the walk to explore the magnificent Jenolan Caves.

Distance: 45km over 3 days Difficulty: MediumPrice: Packages Vary Host: Life’s an Adventure Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Narrowneck Night Run - 2-3 Hours

The Narrowneck Night Run is both splendidly scenic run.

Narrowneck is a long, cliff-bound peninsula which divides the Jamison Valley from the Megalong Valley. On the left is near-pristine bush framed by the Warragamba Catchment; on the right is cultivated farmland with Jenolan and Kanangra on the far western horizon. At the turnaround views of Lake Burragorang (Warragamba Dam) are quite clear and the Wild Dog Mountains are arrayed below you.

From the main gate runners follow the only firetrail right out to its terminus at Clear Hill, then return.

Distance: 14km or 20km Difficulty: Medium Price: $40 Host: Running Wild Association Bookings: www.runningwildnsw.com

Newnes Industrial Ruins - 2.5 Hours

Explore the old Newnes Industrial Ruins. This free walk starts and finishes at the Old Newnes Hotel at the end of the Wolgan Valley

in the iconic township of Newnes. Newnes was once a township of 3000 strong with a healthy Shale Mining industry keeping it afloat,

now largely reclaimed, the remaining ruins are intriguing and there is an air of awe as you walk amongst the wonderful bushland in the

shadows of mystery mountain. Your tour guide is Alan Watson, a NPWS accredited guide who has over 50 years of passion and knowledge about the entire Newnes township. Alan will guide you through the ruins and can speak in

detail about the area.

Distance: 3km Difficulty: Easy Price: Free Host: Alan Watson Bookings: [email protected]

Trivia and Social Evening

After a long day of walking and exploring, a casual trivia night may be the best way to unwind. Meet likeminded people and test your trivia knowledge.

Time: 6pm start Price: Free Host: Leura Golf Club Bookings: Not essential - just rock up!

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7 hrs - Pg 6

• Jenolan Caves - Surface Walk - 1.5 hrs - Pg 7

• Eco Walk - 2 hrs - Pg 8

• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2 hrs - Pg 6

• Singles Walk 3 + hrs - Pg 4

• Mt Tomah Theme Walks - 1hr - P6

• TCP Gardens Private Tour - all day - P5

Wentworth Falls - 4 - 5 Hours

Starting on the historic Darwins Walk, walkers make their way along Jamison Creek to Wentworth Falls passing the old town baths, and then joining the award winning National Pass. The

next few kilometres consists of spectacular views of waterfalls and valleys. Walking up past Empress Falls and over to Lillians Glen crossing Lillians Bridge and arriving on the grounds of the

Leura Golf Club. Leura Golf Course will be hosting a trivia night and everyone is most welcome to attend.

Distance: approx 7km Difficulty: Medium/Hard Price: FreeHost: Sean - GoSydney Meetup Group P: 0416 019 746

[email protected] Bookings festivalofwalking.com.au

Grand Canyon - 4 Hours

This classic walk was first established in 1907, taking walkers along the path of a canyon. In places, the track follows a path

cut halfway up the cliff, keeping you out of the most dangerous section of the canyon. The creek does flood after heavy rain, so

check with the National Parks office before heading into this walk. The cool temperatures in the canyon make this walk particularly

special on warmer days. Further information on registration.

Distance: 6km Difficulty: Medium Price: FreeHost: National Parks Association

Bookings: [email protected]

Kanangra Walls & Surrounds - 3.5 Hours

Start at the end of Kanangra Walls Rd and hike out to Kanangra lookout and down to Kalang falls. Visit Dance floor cave then out to Kanangra Tops to the top of the Plateau to see 360 degree views of the area.

Distance: 5km Difficulty: MediumPrice: $30Host: Hellarewe Adventures [email protected]: festivalofwalking.com.au

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Page 10: Festival of Walking Guidebook 2012

Sunday 14th October

Blackheath Tour 4 - 5 Hours

Meet at the Blackheath Station for a diverse bush / township tour of Blackheath. Our walk begins by picking up the Popes Glen Trail which meanders secretly through the middle of residential Blackheath and down to Govetts Leap. Along the way we come across a little hidden beach and follow the creek bed down to the lookout. Once at the lookout we will make our way across the “trail” to Evans Lookout enjoying some of the most magical sights and sounds of the wilderness below us. Get a feel for why the Blue Mountains are named as such as you gaze down the Grose Valley… After a rest at Evans Lookout we will make our way back through some more secret trails and into the township of Blackheath.

Distance: 8km Difficulty: Medium Price: Free Host: Sean - GoSydney Meetup Group P: 0416 019 [email protected] Bookings festivalofwalking.com.au

Ruined Castle 6 - 7 hours

This fantastic full day Blue Mountains hiking experience includes a must-do ride on the thrilling Scenic Railway and a spectacular hiking experience to Ruined Castle. We traverse the Jamieson Valley and climb one of the most visible and remarkable landmarks, the Ruined Castle. The 360 degree views from the rocky battlement of Ruined Castle is a stunning climax to this wonderful Blue Mountains walk. Enjoy a delicious lunch before returning.

Distance: 13km Difficulty: Medium – HardHost: Life’s an Adventure Bookings: festivalofwalking.com.au

Trivia and Social Evening

After a long day of walking and exploring, a casual trivia night may be the best way to unwind. Meet likeminded people and test your trivia knowledge.

Time: 6pm start Price: Free Host: Ivanhoe Hotel, Blackheath Bookings: Not essential - just rock up!

• Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - 7hrs - Pg 6

• Eco Walk - 2hrs - Pg 8

• Jenolan Caves River Walk - 2hrs - Pg 6

• Beer Enthusiasts - 2hrs - Pg 13

• Mt Tomah Theme Walks - 1 hr - P6

• Kanangra Walls 3.5hrs - P16

MORE WALKS ON TODAY

At the time of print - all walks details are current. Please check the Website for start times and more up to date details.

www.festivalofwalking.comEnquiries Email: [email protected]

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Surprisingly diverseLithgow

For a free copy of the new

Lithgow Visitor GuideLithgow Visitor Information CentreGreat Western Highway, (PO Box 19 Lithgow NSW 2790)T: 1300 760 276 or (02) 6350 3230, F: (02) 6350 3239E: [email protected]

www.tourism.lithgow.com

Canyoning adventures

Six beautiful National Parks to explore

Lithgow Flash Carnival February 25 & 26

february 2012.indd 1 5/01/12 12:48 PM

Page 11: Festival of Walking Guidebook 2012

Discover the unique ambience of the Grand Old Lady of the Blue Mountains as you step through her doors into another time. The Carrington has had a rich and fascinating history spanning over 125 years.

THE CARRINGTON HOTEL 15-47 Katoomba Street Katoomba 2780 NSW Australia

For reservations call +61 (0)2 4782 1111 | [email protected] | www.thecarrington.com.au

TIMELESS ELEGANCE THE GRAND DINING ROOM

BAROQUE NIGHTCLUB CARRINGTON CELLARS & DELI

ACCOMMODATION

SALOON & BEER GARDEN

OLD CITY BANK BAR & BRASSERIE

CHAMPAGNE CHARLIE’SCOCKTAIL BAR

RENAISSANCE SPAAT THE CARRINGTON

Stop 1

Stop 1

T H E C A R R I N G T O N H O T E L

Carrington-BMTNad-0511 18/5/11 3:38 PM Page 1