{"id":1682,"date":"2012-09-11T20:56:17","date_gmt":"2012-09-11T12:56:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.taramoss.com\/?p=1682"},"modified":"2012-11-11T06:47:11","modified_gmt":"2012-11-10T22:47:11","slug":"mystery-tour","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.taramoss.com\/mystery-tour\/","title":{"rendered":"Mystery Tour"},"content":{"rendered":"

* Warning: Geeky hiker stuff.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The \u2018Mystery Tour of Porters Pass\u2019 circuit in the Blue Mountains is highly recommended for hikers\/bushwalkers\/trampers (to use the NZ term) interested in an excellent, medium level 2-4 hour walk with sweeping views, waterfalls – and a touch of history, with the beautiful stone steps of Porters Pass dating back to 1888.<\/p>\n

The Walk:<\/strong> Medium level. Circuit. 2-4 hour trek through some of the most varied and beautiful territory in the mountains.<\/p>\n

Start by taking the fire trail at Centennial Glen Road, Blackheath<\/a>. Free parking is available on the road. The fire trail will become a clear, narrow track that drops down under Walls Ledge. Views are breathtaking. Today was sunny and clear, and a number of rock climbers were enjoying the sheer escarpment rock walls. Once you pass the more frequented climbing area you will drop down into shady gully, pass a waterfall and a creek (Which you will need to cross. It is not difficult, though a walking stick came in handy.)<\/p>\n

Beware of the massive wasp\u2019s nest under the overhang on Colliers Causeway.<\/p>\n

After Colliers Causeway, follow the signs to Porters Pass. After taking the gorgeous stone steps up you will emerge at Burton Street. (This is where you will have to follow a few streets to get back on your path.) Take the fire trail immediately to your right, turn left into Cecil Road and right into Kanimbla Road. At the end of Kanimbla Road, take the fire trail that skirts the left hand side of Gateway Christian School. Follow the fire trail for about 10 minutes until you arrive at a stunning rocky outcrop called Fort Rock. Follow the sign to Centennial Glen, leading down carved, mossy rock steps. Continue through Centennial Glen, ducking under a stunning waterfall at one point and passing under dramatic rock ledges. At the sign to Centennial Glen Road, head up to your left and return to your car or original drop off point.<\/p>\n

* Though some of the trails are well worn and signed, trails do intersect. A map is highly recommended, as well as appropriate shoes and footwear and plenty of water. Conditions are quite changeable.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\t\t