I did an awesome and extremely wet hike down into the Grand Canyon and around to Govett's leap with Meet Up (
Sydney Explorers). Due to the weather forecast (90% chance of storms!) and train issues, only 6 of us arrived for the hike out of 30 who originally signed up for it. We were well rewarded as the hike was absolutely stunning.
Highlights of the day included:
- All my favourite Meet Up people together in one group; Dave, Yen, Cloris, Kenny and the incorrigible Srini.
- Dunking our heads in a waterfall and walking behind it to get down into the canyon.
- Extremely slippery rocks at the bottom of the canyon. In fact, I slipped and took a hard fall which gave me quite a shock. I didn't seem any worse the wear for it, but time will tell!
- The rain starting to bucket down half way through the canyon. Thankfully, it wasn't cold though.
- The way the rain made the vegetation in the canyon seem all the more lush, and the beautiful fresh smell of it.
- Hiking in the rain, with the feel of it on my skin, feeling intensely alive.
- Some beautiful flowers and plants I hadn't noticed before.
- A lovely, refreshing swim in the rain.
- Some stunning rivers, streams and rock pools all bordered by lush ferns.
- Arriving at the bottom of The Bridal Veil Falls which was in full flow and having another dip, although the wind was strong and there was quite a nip in the air.
- Crossing the river at the falls with mighty winds and strong torrents making it an adventure.
- The steep climp up the side of the valley, including some steep metal stair cases with dripping water off the overhangs keeping us cool.
- Absolutely stunning views of The Bridal Veil falls as we neared the top of Govett's Leap.
- The gorgeous whisps of mist and cloud that hung over the valley; such a great sight.
- Changing into dry clothes when we got to our cars.
- A drink and delicious pie at The Ivanhoe Hotel after the hike.
All in all, a super and memorable day. Sometimes it pays to brave the elements!!
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The view from Govett's Leap where we left the car. |
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Having a dunk in a waterfall on the way down into The Grand Canyon. |
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At the bottom of the canyon. |
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The clouds starting to look ominous. |
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Beautiful flowers, some of which I haven't noticed before. |
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Dave, Cloris, Kenny, Yen, Srini |
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Srini dealt with the pouring rain differently to me. |
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Despite the rain, we had a lovely dip. Warmer in than out! |
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Some beautiful streams and rock pools... |
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... and beautiful rivers too. |
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Our first view of Bridal Veil Falls, very windy with lots of spray and an exciting crossing. |
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Gorgeous whisps of cloud across the valley |
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Climbing up the steep steps of Govett's Leap. |
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As we neared the summit of Govett's leap, we got an awesome view of The Bridal Falls. |
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Our final view over Govett's Leap before heading by car back into Blackheath for a drink and pie... |
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... but not before Srini had one final leap! |
A colourful mural in Blackheath