One of Australia’s oldest bushwalking tracks, the Grand Canyon Track, has reopened after a decade-long restoration.
The Blue Mountain’s Grand Canyon Track, which is more than a century old, has undergone a $4.8 million restoration across some of the most challenging terrains for walking track construction in Australia.
The 4.5-kilometre restoration included 2000 new stone steps among rugged terrain, creek crossings and cliff climbs. Helicopters lowered 2000 loads of material into the narrow canyon.
More than 90,000 people use the track each year and over a million visitors are expected to use it from now until 2030.
Minister for the Environment Gabrielle Upton said the restoration of the track would preserve its heritage and original track work.
“The restoration will ensure the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park is safe and can cope with the demand, while minimising any impacts on the environment,” Ms Upton said.