Empress Falls, Blue Mountains
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Added by Steve Astorga
The hike is absolutely beautiful!There are endless opportunities for photos3-4 hours (including photo stops)It's a fantastic way to escape the city buzz in Sydney and perfect for a day trip, especially for the busy city folk !
The Empress Falls hike is just one of the endless list of trails you can find around the Blue Mountains, and is definitely one I will be going back to. There's easy parking at the Conservation Hut where you can also grab a quick bite to eat.
Heading down the track at first seems pretty easy and average, but once you reach the essentially vertical, yes - vertical, steps, you realize it's about to get a whole lot more interesting.As you descend expect to cross over the wonderful waterfall multiple times, almost zig-zagging your way down as the water peacefully roars down the cliff side.
If you want to see the waterfall at its peak, its best to hike after rainfall. However hiking in rain is not ideal as water levels can change rapidly, so be sure to check the weather and make sure there are no warnings in place for the area. However it is still wonderful without bucket-loads of rain, and it can be explored in any season of the year!
Allow about 3-4 hours of hiking time for the return trip, especially if you plan on taking photos. Of course you can turn around at any time, and once the trail veers away from the waterfall the trail becomes steep and mildly difficult to get through, so know your limits.This track is perfect for some morning exercise or a half-day hike.
The pictures shown are from a foggy, rainy autumn morning. Oh yeah, mind the leeches!
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One of the great hikes
It is so easy to get to this hike from Sydney that it is a no-brainer if you are either living in the city or visiting Sydney. In general I agree in everything with the original post except the fact that I consider that you should be extremely careful if you decide to come here during or just after a rainfall. Many parts of the trail may be slippery so be extremely careful. Otherwise, go for it, it is amazing!
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