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Mother Earth Day

Want to join me on a walk to Lockleys Pylon in the Blue Mountains?

 

It’s tucked away in one of the quieter corners of the national park — a place that feels more like a local secret than tourist track. Chances are we’ll have the whole trail to ourselves or see very few people on the there & back hike..

 

The walk is around 8km return and should take about 2–3 hours depending, of course, on how often we stop to take photos (which is likely to be often).

 

It begins with a narrow, rocky uphill section, flanked by classic bushland - gum trees, scrub, and that unmistakable scent of the mountains. Once we reach the ridge, the landscape opens up and the real show begins: distant peaks and sweeping valleys in every direction.

 

The wind is picking up now - enough to make you lean into it. If you look close you can see the track stretching ahead in this photo, toward Lockleys Pylon in the far distance, cutting across open heath. The bushland fades, the wind howls, and the views become spectacular. It's one of those moments that makes you stop and simply stare. You feel so alive. I like to pretend I'm part of the fellowship of the ring and state to whoever I'm walking with, "we aren't in the shire anymore"

 

After reaching the Pilon, we settle onto a few sun-warmed rocks, taking in panoramic views over the Grose Valley, with the golden sandstone cliffs of Mount Hay and Mount Banks glowing in the light. We rehydrate, snack on a apple and protein bars, and marvel at the fact we haven’t seen another person all day. It truly feels like we’ve found the top of the world.

 

We’re not here in unfortunately spring, so the wildflowers aren’t in bloom — but the thought of returning to see that colourful display is already in our minds. Eventually, we head back, spirits high and legs just the right kind of tired. Time now to decide which cosy mountain café or restaurant we’ll reward ourselves with and relive the walk over dinner.

 

 

Thanks kindly for any likes/comments, they are always appreciated.

 

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Uploaded on April 22, 2025
Taken on April 23, 2025