The Grandest Canyon

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Today, we’re heading to Katoomba, Australia to…

Explore the Grand Canyon of the Blue Mountains by night to see canyons filled with glow worms.

Walking through the fern-covered towering canyon walls during the day is a treat on its own, but what makes this experience even more interesting is seeing the thousands of glow worms that light up like stars in the night sky.

 

Glow Worm Canyons

Hikers can walk the Grand Canyon Track but if you’re looking for an even more adventurous option, join a canyoning tour.

The adventure starts with a downhill walk to where you will make an exciting entrance into the canyon, a 65-foot (20m) overhanging abseil, immersing you into a different world.

The beauty and serenity of this canyon will surprise you, with ferny glades and towering rock walls providing a spectacular setting all illuminated by the light of your flashlight.

You'll scramble, slide, wade, and swim through chambers filled with Glow Worms, like stars in a night sky.

Glowworms aren't worms at all, they're beetles that use their bioluminescent bodies to communicate with potential mates.

After the canyon, you'll trek through a lush rainforest, ending at Evans Lookout.

From there, enjoy a stunning view of the Grose Valley under the moonlight.

Keep your eyes peeled for nighttime creatures like possums and owls as you make your way back.

This canyoning tour is a thrilling and unique experience, especially with its nighttime finale.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about seeing the glowworms of the Blue Mountains.

• The Grandest Canyon: Glowworms by Night (tour)

• The Grand Canyon Walk’s Big Secret No One Tells You About (article)

• Glow Worms and Fireflies of the Blue Mountains (video)

How to See the Glow Worms of the Blue Mountains

Abseiling trips can be organized through Blue Mountains Adventure Company. Their 8-hour tour includes a guide, dinner, all the equipment needed, National Park fees, and transport to the canyon.

If abseiling isn’t your thing, you can also see the canyon on foot. Just keep in mind that this isn’t an easy-access glow worm colony.

Guided tours start from Katoomba and include transport to the canyon. If you decide to go it alone, you can get directions to the trailhead here.

The Blue Mountain’s Grand Canyon Walk is a classic walk and is good all year round as long as you’re prepared for the weather. Canyoning trips generally run in the Southern Hemisphere summer from November to February.

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