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Perrys Lookdown to Blue Gum Forest Walking Track

Hike into the Grose Valley from Perrys Lookdown, discover the iconic Blue Gum Forest, and explore a key site in Australian conservation history.

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Descend from Perrys Lookdown into the Grose Valley to experience the majestic Blue Gum Forest, a significant conservation icon in the Blue Mountains National Park. This challenging 5.4km return hike offers stunning views and a steep descent into a unique forest environment.

A brief summary to Perrys lookdown to Blue Gum Forest walking track

Local tips

  • Allow 3-4 hours for the return trip, as the descent is steep and the climb back up can be challenging.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days.
  • Consider an overnight stay at Acacia Flats campground to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
  • Check the condition of the access road (Perrys Lookdown Road) before you go, as it can be heavily potholed.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Blackheath, take the Great Western Highway and turn east onto Hat Hill Road. Follow the signs to Perrys Lookdown. The access road includes both sealed and unsealed sections but is generally suitable for 2WD vehicles. Free parking is available at the picnic area and campground. Be aware that the last 3km of Perrys Lookdown Road can be heavily potholed. There are no fees to enter the National Park or access Perrys Lookdown.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport to Perrys Lookdown, you can take a train to Blackheath Station. From there, you would need to take a taxi or arrange for a ride-share service to reach Perrys Lookdown, which is approximately 8km away. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for a one-way taxi or ride-share trip from Blackheath to Perrys Lookdown.

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Discover more about Perrys lookdown to Blue Gum Forest walking track

The Perrys Lookdown to Blue Gum Forest walking track offers a memorable journey into one of the most scenic and historically significant areas of the Blue Mountains. Located near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains National Park, about 120km from Sydney, this challenging 5.4km return trail descends steeply into the Grose Valley to the serene Blue Gum Forest. Starting from the Perrys Lookdown car park, the well-formed path leads past a railed lookout with sweeping views across the Grose Valley. From this elevated point, you can see the dense canopy of the Blue Gum Forest and across to Lockleys Pylon. The lookout is believed to be named after Captain William Perry, who served as Deputy Surveyor General under Sir Thomas Mitchell. A short distance into the descent, a side track branches off to Docker's Lookout, offering more vantage points. The Blue Gum Forest itself is a thriving forest of towering mountain blue gum trees (Eucalyptus deanei), located near the junction of Govetts Creek and the Grose River. This area is a haven for birds and wildlife. The forest's historical and natural significance is immense, and it stands as a testament to early conservation efforts in New South Wales. In 1932, a group of bushwalkers pooled their money to buy out the lease and save the forest from being axed. For those wanting to extend their visit, the Acacia Flats camping area is located just 500 meters beyond the forest. The track to the campsite veers gently away from the Grose River, passing over a small creek before arriving at a quiet, open area suitable for overnight stays. Returning involves retracing your steps back up the steep spur to Perrys Lookdown.

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