Tucked away in the peaceful sanctuary of Kanangra-Boyd National Park awaits a true hidden gem – Kanangra Walls, offering 3 short, yet spectacular hiking trails just waiting to be explored.
Here, you’ll have the chance to relax and listen to the soothing rush of Kalang Falls, venture through historic caves with vibrant rock formations, and take in unmatched panoramic views from the cliff tops, offering a breathtaking vista of the Central Tablelands stretching as far as the eye can see.
Whether you’re itching for a spontaneous getaway from the hustle and bustle of Sydney or planning to relax for a few days at the peaceful Boyd River campground, I can’t wait to tell you why Kanangra Walls should absolutely be on your radar, especially if you’re based in Sydney.
How To Get To Kanagra Walls
Getting to the Kanangra Walls parking area requires driving along 27km of unsealed road (Kanangra Walls Rd).
During my drive, I found the road to be very well-maintained, wide enough for two vehicles to comfortably pass each other, and mostly flat.
My 2WD vehicle handled the road well and I comfortably maintained speeds of 50-70km/h for the majority of the journey.
Kanangra Walls Parking
At the end of Kanangra Walls Road, you’ll find several gravel carparks offering plenty of space for numerous cars, all without any parking fees.
Additionally, there are small toilet facilities available, as well as at least 2 picnic tables situated behind the information board area.
Kanangra Walls Trails
Although Kanangra-Boyd National Park offers a variety of long hiking trails, this article will focus only on 3 of the most popular walks that you can easily complete within a single day of your visit:
- Kanangra Walls Lookout
- Kalang Falls
- Plateau Walk
For anyone exploring the area, I strongly suggest trying out all three of these walks.
Following the map provided above, you’ll cover a total distance of approximately 4.5km with an elevation gain of +200m.
Just be prepared for a steep descent into Kalang Falls and a few minor climbs along the Plateau Walk.
Kanangra Walls Lookout
Kanangra Walls Lookout is an easy, wheelchair-accessible walk suitable for walkers of all abilities.
It’s a short 500m round trip from the car park on a well-maintained gravel path, taking about 15-30 minutes to complete.
As you arrive at the lookout point, get ready to feast your eyes on the awe-inspiring panoramic views that stretch before you.
From the depths of Kanangra Deep to the towering Kanangra Walls, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
On the left side, the majestic Thurat Walls stand tall, adding a sense of grandeur to the landscape.
During our walk, we had the pleasure of chatting with fellow hikers who shared captivating sunrise photos taken from Kanangra Walls Lookout.
Their stories and images have inspired me to add this experience to my must-see list for my next visit!
If you happen to visit Kanangra Walls on a clear, cloudless day, you’ll be treated to spectacular views that include Mount Cloudmaker, Mount Maxwell, and even a slice of the beautiful Lake Burragorang.
Kalang Falls Walk
After soaking in the breathtaking scenery from Kanangra Walls Lookout, it’s time to make your way to Kalang Falls.
Take a right from the lookout and walk a short distance of around 75 meters until you come across the signs marking the start of the Waterfall Walk.
From Kanangra Walls Lookout, the total walking distance to Kalang Falls is approximately 300 meters. However, be prepared for a relatively steep descent on the way down.
Despite the large number of stairs and being labelled as a hard walk, the trail is very well-built, making it relatively easy walk for those with a basic level of fitness.
As you continue your descent, you’ll be treated to fantastic views that only get better. Further down the trail, you’ll get another look at Thurat Walls from a slightly different angle.
After descending for a few hundred meters, you’ll find yourself at the trail’s end. There, you’ll find a small, wooden viewing platform.
To truly appreciate the beauty of Kalang Falls, take a walk behind the viewing platform.
It’s worth noting that, like several other waterfalls in the Blue Mountains, Kalang Falls tends to dwindle to a mere trickle during extended dry periods.
To witness its full splendor, it’s advisable to schedule your visit after substantial rainfall.
Plateau Walk
Once you’ve taken some time to relax to the gentle sounds of the cascading water of Kalang Falls, it’s time to prepare for the climb back up the same way you came down.
To reach the Plateau Walk, continue past the Kanangra Walls Lookout and make a left turn at the first junction.
As you continue along the trail, you’ll descend via a series of steps, passing by an another lookout point that is partially obstructed by trees.
Nonetheless, this vantage offers another opportunity to admire Thurat Walls and Kanangra Walls from a different angle.
After passing the lookout point, you’ll enter a short, scenic section of the trail that is more densely covered by trees.
This pathway will eventually lead you to the junction where you can choose to continue along the Plateau Walk by turning left, or explore Dance Floor Cave by turning right.
I highly recommend choosing the right turn, as the cave is much closer than the signs indicate, merely a minute away rather than the stated 10 minutes.
Dance Floor Cave
Dance Floor Cave is situated along the ancient cattle route that connected the Burragorang Valley to Oberon, serving as a reminder of times gone by.
Kanangra was the focal point for settlers spread across the region, drawing them together for important gatherings.
In 1891, a dance floor was added to the cave.
Although the wooden dance platform is no longer present, it was a cherished spot where locals would come together.
Today, the cave serves as a refuge for hikers exploring Kanagra-Boyd National Park and seeking shelter along their treks.
Take your time to wander through this remarkable site, where vibrant yellow, orange, and green moss-covered rocks adorn the walls of the cave.
I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll to the end of the cave and passing beneath two massive boulder-like rocks.
Plateau Walk – Final Part
Once you’ve explored all the hidden secrets of Dance Floor Cave, it’s time to make your way back to the Plateau Walk.
Ascend a few steps, and you’ll soon find yourself on top of the Kanangra’s massive cliff walls, where several short trails to your left provide an opportunity to get up really close to the cliff edge.
While images may not convey the true sense of elevation, this is certainly not a location for those with a fear heights as there no fences along the cliff top.
The walk along the Plateau is pleasantly easy, offering a flat pathway and breathtaking views in every direction.
If you continue a bit further, you’ll eventually arrive at the most iconic and photographed rock cliff in Kanangra-Boyd National Park.
During our visit, we were fortunate to witness one brave individual putting on an incredible skylining show.
Despite the temptation to snap the iconic photo at the cliff’s peak, we chose to unwind and appreciate the acrobatic show unfolding before us.
As the sun began to set and our return trip to Sydney loomed, we decided to conclude our walk here and head back to the car.
However, if you have the luxury of more time, I highly recommend fully exploring the entire Plateau, right up to the end of the trail.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Kanangra Walls is one of the most underrated destinations for a day trip or a few days’ getaway from the Sydney area.
The views here are truly unique, unmatched by any other area in the Blue Mountains.
I’m eagerly looking forward to returning here soon for more exploration!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long does the trail take?
- A half-day should provide plenty of time to thoroughly explore all 3 trails at a relaxed pace
What about signage and trail quality?
- All of the trails are very well signposted
How difficult are the trails?
- Kanangra Walls Lookout walk is very easy, while Kalang Falls and Plateau Walk are moderate
What essentials should I carry?
- Bring along water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and if you have them, binoculars
Is it the trail child-friendly?
- Yes, but please be aware that there are no fences installed at most of the viewpoints, so watch your children carefully
Is the trail wheelchair accessible?
- Only Kanangra Walls Lookout trail is wheelchair accessible
When is the best time to visit?
- Early in the morning (or even better wake up for a sunrise) or later in the afternoon
Is there phone service?
- Limited
Can I bring my dog?
- Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted
