Empire Pass and some North Lawson Waterfalls

[FatCanyoner]

G'day folks,

I actually did this trip in late April, but only just got around to writing it up. I'm trying to do a few more kid-friendly walks with my three boys (a couple weeks back I took them abseiling, which made the 3-yr-old particularly proud of himself!). This was part of that push, with an easy 8km loop walk on a weekday before work (I don't start until 5pm in the city).

We visited four waterfalls, which were flowing really well due to the recent rains, as well as exploring the interesting mix of valleys, rocky lookouts, and fern-filled gullys.

I've traditionally shied away from the 'tourist tracks', but I'm thinking I need to do more of these classic walks from the early days of Aussie bushwalking. Not only did I find it really enjoyable, but it was the perfect length and difficulty for the kids, and really got them excited about getting out into the bush more.

If you're interested, my full trip report, with photos, is here: http://fatcanyoners.org/2012/04/23/empire-pass-north-lawson-waterfalls/

Tim

[climberman]

Tim, there are some great local walks in the mid mountains - look at Hazo as well, both north and south sides.

[FatCanyoner]

Yep, I'm pulling together a mental list. There is some great stuff in the mid mountains. Also some interesting easy off-track walking in places like Bullaburra as they get a little older. I keep talking about moving to the mid mountains. We'll have to make it happen one of these days!

[michael_p]

look at Hazo as well, both north and south sides.

FatCanyoner,

As always a great write up.

On Monday a friend and I did the Adelina Falls to Bedford Pool walk. So many stunning waterfalls. This walk would probably be a bit far for the kids to do in one hit but you could make a couple of good day walks. The section to Bedford Pool has some slippery creek crossings but other that that the walks are pretty straightforward.

Cheers,
Michael.

[FatCanyoner]

Thanks for that Michael. Great idea. I've taken the kids to Cataract and Federal Falls near there, but that is it.
I've been thinking the loop around Terrace Falls would be a good one in warmer weather. Is Bedford Pool a good swimming hole? The older two love being able to have a jump in and a swim.

[michael_p]

Is Bedford Pool a good swimming hole? The older two love being able to have a jump in and a swim.

Definitely a spot you could have a swim in. Not the best photo as the rocks I was standing on moved just as I was taking the shot.

Bedford Pool