BROWNE’S PATH

Brownes Path is another pass into the Grose Valley. It is named after Kevin Browne, the first Ranger appointed to the National Park and a former Group Captain for the Blue Mountains Rural Fire Brigades. Presumably he was using it to access the Grose Valley.

Off we went along Bald Head Ridge which never fails to deliver on views! First stop was Bennett Lookout, a large rocky outcrop overlooking the Grose Valley. After taking in more views (and having morning tea), we went down in search of the “chocolate coloured ledge of rock”. Say chocolate! and I become motivated!

The ledge was short, milk chocolate coloured and not exposed except for a small sloping shale section. Soon we were below the cliff line and the descent on the talus to the Grose Valley started: that turned out to be more difficult than the pass due to the steep slope and the post-fire regrowth!

Eventually we emerged on the Grose Valley track and we made our way across the Grose River to Pierces Pass. On the way, we stopped several times to admire Bennett Lookout and get different views of Hanging Rock – all excuses to catch our breath!