As winter days get colder and colder, and the time spent at beaches growing shorter, it seems like a perfect time to plan the adventures of next summer. The secret swimming holes within Sydney’s National Parks may seem like an increasingly tantalising break from the seemingly endless cycle. These provide the perfect break from the crowds of the beaches, and let you experience a bit of adventure while at it. These five waterholes are located within both the Blue Mountains National Parks and Ku-Ring Gai National Parks, and are relatively easy to access, by foot or car.
- The Grotto, Blackheath
Out the back of Blackheath, and at the end of a small canyon lies a swimming hole that is one of the Blue Mountains best secrets. The canyon’s walls tower above this small but deep plunge pool, ensuring that minimal sunlight finds its way in and the water stays near freezing even on the hottest of days. Getting there involves a short walk of no more than two kilometres that has some nice views of the Kanimbla Valley, the reward a picturesque waterhole that more often than not, you’ll find all to yourself.
Directions
The trail to this swimming hole start at the end of Bundarra Street, at the corner with Eveleigh Avenue. Continue down the track following the signs for the Colliers Causeway
- Great Mackerel Beach
A short walk down from the West Head Lookout in the Kuring-Gai National Park lies one of three small beaches that look out over Pittwater bay. These provide a calmer alternative to the likes of Bondi, Bronte and Manly, and makes for a solid day out, adventuring through the tip of the national park. The last of the beaches along the track, Great Mackerel Beach is the largest of the three with even a jetty in it. It is also home to a small town, only accessible by ferry or foot, where is possible to stay in an Airbnb for a few nights, for those wanting a peaceful break from the city.
Directions
Great Mackerel Beach is the third beach along the relatively easy walk starting from West Head lookout. Look for the Resolute Track from the lookout which after Resolute Beach becomes Mackeral Track. The walk is approximately 1.5km each way
- Grand Canyon
For some reason, most of the Blue Mountain’s most epic places lie in the upper mountains regions, a long trip away for Sydney siders. However, those who do take the effort to make the trip up, are truly rewarded for the mountains best parts. The Grand Canyon Walk has to be one of the best bush-walks within the greater Sydney region. The abundance of imposing rock walls, green ferns, native plants, and waterfalls make you feel as though you have been transferred into another world. Approximately a third of the way in, starting from Evans lookout comes to a large waterhole coming out of a dark cave, where those who are brave to swim all the way in, will find a small waterfall at the back. A bit ominous at first, this is the perfect secluded place to come to when the temperature goes on the rise.
Directions
Starting the Grand Canyon walk from the Evans lookout will bring you to this waterhole approximately two kilometres in. It’ll be hard to miss.
- Upper Gledhill Falls
One of Ku-Ring Gai National Parks finest spots for an afternoon cooldown this swimming hole is conveniently located just off Mccar’s Creek Road. A small path helps you scramble down the rocks where this spot is easily accessed from. However, while this swimming hole may be the most accessible due to its proximity to the road, it may not be the most accessible to those who are not be fully mobile as there is an extremely steep clamber up and down to access it. There is a small waterfall off to one side and a large cliff surrounding the other, as well as a shallow pool perfect for young kids making this a scenic stop to round off a day in the national park
Directions
Follow Mccars Creek Road until just before the intersection with West Head Road. Parking can be found along the roadside or just after the turnoff to West Head.
- Kariong Falls
Kariong Falls is another iconic waterfall of the Ku-Ring Gai Region. A perfect place to cool off on a hot day, this banger of a spot is found in the Brisbane Water National Park. It’s a great place to cool off for those doing the trek from Woy Woy to Wondabyne, the only station on the NSW train network inaccessible by car, and requiring a special order to stop at. For those a little more time pressed it is also easily accessed by car, and a short walk in. The multilevel waterfall provides a great photo opportunity and a chance to relax, free from the crowds of the beach.
Directions
Kariong Falls is found along the Hawkesbury Track. It can be accessed by train from Wondabyne on the 16-kilometre hike to Woy Woy station. By car it can be accessed through the Tommos Loop firetrail where there is parking for one or two cars on the side of Woy Woy road, just before Staples Lookout if travelling North. Alternatively, parking can be found at Staples Lookout.
Disclaimer: Swimming at these waterholes is done at your own risk.
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