Empress Canyon - track notes

Entry

From the Conservation Hut at Wentworth Falls, follow the track to Empress Falls. Take the right turn towards Edinburgh Castle Rock. Continue past Lilians Bridge (where you can look down into the canyon) until you reach a ford across Valley of the Waters Creek. This is the start of the canyon. There is also an upper section that is worth having a look at some time.

Notes

The canyon narrows immediately. There are a number of tricky climb downs and if you have less confident people in your group you may wish to use a handline. There are also quite a number of short but cold swims. The canyon is quite short, and after about half an hour you find yourself at the top of the abseil. There are chains on both sides, as well as clip in points for safety. The left side has a slightly tricky overhung start and drops 15m or more to some slippery ledges, or 28m to the pool at the bottom. The right side has a slightly easier start, and drops 28m straight down the waterfall to a pool at the bottom.

Exit

Follow the track up to where it rejoins the entry track and from there back to the carpark.

Comments

A short but attractive little canyon with very easy access. A good beginner's trip, although the abseil is overhung from whichever side you start. Wetsuits may be useful, particularly if your party is large or inexperienced. A fast moving party on a warm day can probably make do without.

Rating: 3/5

Time

The whole trip took about 2.5h from carpark to carpark. 5 people, 3 experienced, 2 moderately experienced. A fast moving group can do carpark to carpark in less than an hour.

Tom Brennan : website@ozultimate.com: updated 20040116