If you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the Blue Mountains, Empress Canyon delivers an unforgettable experience that combines abseiling and canyoning with spectacular natural beauty. This comprehensive guide will help you understand exactly what to expect from this thrilling full-day adventure.
A Perfect Introduction to Canyoning
Empress Canyon serves as an ideal introduction to the sport of canyoning, offering genuine adventure within a controlled and safe environment. The progression from morning abseiling practice to the final waterfall descent provides the perfect learning curve for newcomers while still delivering excitement for those seeking their next adventure challenge.
The Natural Setting
Located in Wentworth Falls in the upper Blue Mountains, the Empress Canyon trip showcases the region’s unique geology, with ancient sandstone formations carved by millenia of water flow creating the dramatic landscapes that make canyoning possible.
The moss-covered walls and hanging gardens within the canyon create a micro-environment that feels worlds away from everyday life, while the Jamison Valley views remind you of the broader spectacular landscape of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.
Morning Preparation: Building Your Skills
The adventure begins with comprehensive abseiling training designed to prepare you for the canyon’s challenges. You’ll start with practice descents from a 5-metre cliff, gradually building confidence and technique as you progress to 30-metre-high cliff faces during the morning session.
This structured approach ensures that by the time you reach the canyon’s main event – the 30-metre waterfall abseil – you’ll have the skills and confidence needed to tackle it safely. The morning training takes place on the stunning sandstone cliffs that characterise the Blue Mountains, providing spectacular views while you master essential techniques.
After the morning session, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch – you get to choose from a substantial menu of gourmet sandwiches from a renowned local deli at the time of booking, with lots of vegetarian options. This well-deserved break provides time to recharge before the main canyon adventure begins.
A scenic 20-minute walk leads to the canyon entrance, building anticipation as you approach one of Australia’s most popular canyoning destinations. The trail offers glimpses of the adventure ahead while allowing you to appreciate the unique ecosystem of the Blue Mountains.
What to Expect in Empress Canyon
Empress Canyon features several key elements that make it both challenging and accessible to beginners:
The Canyon Environment
The canyon showcases majestic rainforest scenery with moss-covered walls and breathtaking views across Jamison Valley. The crystal-clear rock pools and towering sandstone formations create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels like stepping into a hidden natural sanctuary.
Swimming Challenges
The canyon has a number of short swims, with the longest stretch covering approximately 10 metres. The water temperature is refreshingly cold, but you’ll barely feel it thanks to the thick wetsuits provided by High and Wild. These swims are well within the capabilities of most swimmers, and guides carefully assess water conditions before each descent.
Rock Jumps and Down Climbs
Optional rock jumps range from 2 metres up to 5 metres in height, allowing you to choose your comfort level while still experiencing the thrill of launching into pristine rock pools. The down climbs require basic problem-solving skills and provide excellent introduction to canyon navigation techniques.
The Grand Finale: A 30-Metre Waterfall Abseil
The canyon experience culminates with a spectacular 30-metre waterfall abseil down Empress Falls that serves as the exit from the canyon system.
This technical descent features:
- Safety Infrastructure: Chains on both sides with multiple clip-in points ensure maximum security
- Overhung Start: Both descent routes begin from overhanging rock formations, adding to the dramatic nature of the experience
- Waterfall Environment: You’ll descend through cascading water and mist, creating a truly unique sensory experience
- Expert Guidance: Our guides provide comprehensive technical setup and full support throughout the descent
The abseil requires no previous experience, as the morning training prepares participants for this moment. The combination of technical challenge and natural beauty makes Empress Canyon one of the most memorable adventure activities available in the Blue Mountains.
Physical Requirements and Preparation
Our Empress Canyon trip is designed for moderately fit individuals who enjoy physical challenges. Participants should be comfortable with:
- Swimming in natural water bodies
- Basic rock climbing movements
- Heights and exposure
- Cold water immersion
- Following technical safety instructions
What to Bring
High and Wild provides all technical equipment, wetsuits and a waterproof camera per group, but you’ll need to bring:
- Running shoes that can get wet
- Swimwear suitable for active movement
- Water for hydration
- Towel and dry clothes for after the adventure
Safety and Environmental Considerations
High and Wild Mountain Adventures maintains rigorous safety protocols throughout the experience, with qualified guides managing all technical aspects of the adventure. Their decades of experience in these specific locations means they understand every nuance of weather, water conditions, and seasonal variations that might affect the experience.
The company also maintains strong environmental stewardship principles, ensuring that this remarkable natural area remains pristine for future generations of adventurers.
Booking and Planning
This popular adventure fills up quickly, particularly during peak seasons and weekends. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date. The full-day experience provides exceptional value, combining professional instruction, all equipment, gourmet lunch, and access to one of Australia’s premier canyoning locations.
Whether you’re a complete beginner looking for your first taste of adventure sports or an experienced outdoor enthusiast seeking to explore the Blue Mountains’ hidden gems, Empress Canyon delivers an experience that combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and the satisfaction of conquering personal limits in one of Australia’s most spectacular settings.
Why Choose High and Wild Mountain Adventures?
High and Wild Mountain Adventures stands out as the Blue Mountains’ premier adventure tour provider, with over 30 years of experience and fully qualified outdoor professionals on our team.
Our perfect safety record and reputation for excellence make us the ideal choice for both beginners and experienced adventurers. We provide all technical equipment and maintain the highest safety standards throughout every aspect of the experience.
Take the plunge – Book your adventure today
You know you want to! Check out upcoming availability and book your Empress Canyon adventure here >