Dare to descend into Claustral Canyon. This isn’t your average stroll through a park. Claustral Canyon near Mount Tomah in the Blue Mountains National Park demands respect. It’s a 700-meter challenge. Expect a ten-hour adventure.
Claustral Canyon is a technical canyon. It requires a high level of fitness and experience. You’ll need serious canyoning skills. You’ll abseil swim and hike for a significant distance. Guides are highly recommended. This is not for the faint of heart.
Prepare for three abseils. There are also down climbs plenty of scrambling and jumps. You’ll even enjoy multiple swims. One is a 50-meter tunnel swim. Spend time in the cool waters of Claustral Brook. Summer is the best time to tackle Claustral Canyon.
The access track begins at a large pull-in area on Bells Line of Road. It’s just southwest of Mount Bell. Follow the signposted track to Claustral Brook. Find the gully where the canyon begins. The exit gully is easy to miss. Take extra care exiting. Research your directions entry and exit thoroughly. NPWS doesn’t manage or clear canyon routes.
One group spent 17 hours exploring Claustral Canyon. They started at 7 am and finished at 12 midnight. They included a photographer and experienced canyoneers. They packed light but carried essential equipment including wetsuits harnesses helmets and a first aid kit.
They encountered the Black Hole of Calcutta. This is a stunning cylindrical tunnel. A 15-meter abseil. It’s known to be dangerous. Water levels have tragically resulted in fatalities in the past. The group took many photographs. The canyon floor is wet and humid.
The exit was challenging. They had to abseil back down into Rainbow Ravine. They navigated in the dark using head torches. They ran out of water. They finally made it out after a long and difficult hike. They celebrated with pizza.
Claustral Canyon presents a thrilling but dangerous journey. It offers breathtaking beauty. Remember safety first. Only experienced canyoneers should attempt this difficult canyon. Always inform someone of your plans. Consider hiring a personal locator beacon. Your Claustral Canyon adventure will be unforgettable.