I decided on Bungonia Gorge, a national park about two and a half hours south of Sydney, on the way to Canberra. After signing in at the ranger station I set up camp, then set off to explore the area.
By this stage it was early afternoon so I didn't want to try anything too long or difficult. I trekked the 'Yellow Track' which climbed a Western ridge to the Jerrara Canyon lookout. Although Sydney has been enduring a very wet winter, Bungonia hadn't seemed to experience the same, and the creek beds were mostly dry, no waterfalls to be seen.
The lookout afforded a really nice view of the area, I made my way back along the track back to the main trail. I continued along the 'Green Track' which looped around the southern ridge past several more lookouts.
There are several cave systems in the area, I poked my head inside the entrance to the 'Mass Cave' but didn't explore any further. I don't think I have the physique for caving, but it would be exciting to explore....
It was getting later in the day, Kangaroo sightings were becoming common, and after stopping at the final lookout I continued the loop back to camp. Arriving at dusk I had a quick dinner before retiring to my tent as the temperature plummeted.
I awoke the next morning to skies of grey, but soon after dawn the sun burnt away the lingering mist and it was a beautiful crisp winters day.
I had decided to tackle the 'Red Track' which made a steep descent down to Bungonia Creek and followed through the narrow slot canyon.
Somehow I got off track and ended up scrambling down scree slopes, following makeshift trails (I think made by animals) and traversing along rocky cliffs and buttresses. Eventually I made it back to the trail as it reached to creek floor, I sat for a bite to eat and a drink thankfully back on track.
Taking in the scenery I saw a few lines of bolts in the canyon walls, evidence of rock climbing! I knew there were routes in the area and it is always a delight to come across new lines, the possibilities and potential for a
adventure making my pulse quicken. A definite reason to return soon!
I wandered through the slot canyon, entranced by the tall rock walls either side, navigating my way through the maze-like boulder field.
After passing through the Marulan Quarry blast zone the canyon widened out and the creek bed returned. From there it was a step hike back to the car park from where I started, a four hour round trip.
It was a very enjoyable weekend, and much needed trip away to relax and enjoy what the world has to offer. My appetite has been whetted, I'll hopefully return soon to tick of some of those climbs...
More photos here
