Empress Canyon

Empress Canyon is a short, 300m route along Valley of the Waters Creek in the Katoomba area of Blue Mountains National Park. Only attempt this technical descent if you're physically fit and proficient with ropes and other canyoning equipment.

Summer is the best time to do Empress Canyon because you'll need to make several swims in chilly Valley of the Waters Creek. Other challenges along this route include down-climbs, optional water jumps, and to finish, a 30m waterfall abseil from a rock overhang.

Come prepared for a total walking distance of 2km to get in and out of Empress Canyon. It takes about 30min to access the canyon from Conservation Hut. Follow National Pass walking track for almost 500m, then turn right at the T-junction with Nature track. Cross the bridge over Isobel Creek and continue to Valley of the Waters Creek where stepping stones mark the start of the canyon route.