Date: 26/12/25 - 3/01/25

Accomodation:

  • Blackheath Glen Tourist Park: During this time of year, the site cost $54 per night for two people. The camping area itself was quite small—just enough space for a car and a single tent—but what it lacked in size, it made up for in comfort. The showers were genuinely amazing: hot water with strong pressure, which felt especially good after a long day of climbing. The bathrooms and kitchen were consistently clean, which made our stay far more enjoyable than we had expected.
  • In hindsight, we probably could have stayed at Mt York Campground instead. However, getting a spot there would mean arriving early—likely just before Christmas, as it tends to fill up quickly. I don’t have the exact details, but I’ve heard that Katoomba Aquatic Centre offers free showers, which could make this a viable alternative for climbers camping nearby.

Gear (for 2 people):

  • 2 Personal Anchor Systems
  • 24 Quick Draws
  • 2 Ropes (60m and 70m)
  • 2 Harness
  • 2 Belay devices
  • 2 ATC and 2 Prosaic
  • Belay gloves and glasses
  • 1 18mm sling and 2 locking carabiners (for top topping)

Food recommendations nearby:

  • Bakehouse has pretty good pastries and pies! Must Try! 
  • Mountain culture had fantastic beers. My partner enjoyed drinking Moon Dust and I enjoyed drinking Cult. We didn't get to try their burgers, but based on their rating, you should try them too if you are there for lunch. Get there early because it gets packed pretty quick! 
  • Most days, we made ourselves sandwiches for lunch and had curry or tomato pasta for dinner.

Climbing:

Day 1 [Shipley Upper]:

  • Jack High** - I found it quite hard for 19
  • Lardy Lady's Lats
  • Hot Flyer
  • Language of Desire - read the route before you go, especially the end! 
  • Loop the Loop

Day 2 [Porters Pass]:

  • Powerbra Rangers
  • Nice Vice Baby
  • Nylon Happy***
  • La la land***

Honestly, Porters Pass has beautiful climbs! You must try them all.

Day 3 [REST DAY]: 

  • Grand Canyon Walk

This walk wasn't too difficult, but it was a beautiful walk. But, we were told there are more specular hikes than this so may be priorities something else.

Day 4 [Bardens Lookout]:

  • Herminone
  • The way of all Flesh***

Day 5 [Celebrity Crag]:

  • Johnny's Jalopies
  • Hark! The
  • Rudolf the Bloody Reindeer**
  • Sensory Overload - interesting crux and bumpy
  • Hunter Or Prey**

Day 6 [Centennial Glen]:

  • Jaws**
  • Split Wave**
  • Shore Break - the hardest 24 I ever tried
  • Ratcat

Day 7

[Pierces Pass]:

  • Bunny Bucket Buttress - this was an average experience. I think we want to try Randy Rabbit Ridge next time.

[Shipper Upper]:

  • These People are Sandwiches***

Day 8 [Bardens Lookout]:

  • Little Triggers**
  • Do Do Little**

Next Time:

  • Explore Mt Piddington & Orange Cliffs
  • Hotel California and/or Weaselburger at Pierces Pass

Every time we explore a new crag, we’re reminded of how much we miss out on when we only chase three- or four-starred climbs. The Blue Mountains definitely offer a much higher volume of climbing than the Grampians. While not every climb didn't feel as beautiful as Grampians or Arapiles, we really enjoyed the sheer amount of climbing available and don't get me wrong, there were pretty sick lines at the Blueys. The short approaches, green forest, and running water made the days feel relaxed and enjoyable. I also found myself really enjoying the high foot movement required on many of the climbs. Some people say that if you love MoonBoard-style climbing, the Blue Mountains are the place for it — and after this trip, I can see why.

It was a humbling experience too: getting sandbagged by the grades and then having to hike back up to the car. Still, knowing there are so many more crags left to explore makes me excited to get stronger and fitter for the next trip. I can’t wait to come back to the Blue Mountains.