Hanging Rock, a large sandstone formation that juts out from the cliff edge, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Blue Mountains.
Located only a short distance from Baltzer Lookout, this area offers spectacular views across the Grose Valley and its dramatic escarpments.
Both landmarks are reached via the Burramoko Trail, a relatively easy 10 km return bushwalk through classic Blue Mountains bushland.
| Burramoko Trail | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 10 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3 hours (including browsing time) |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Wheel-friendly: | No |
| Dog-friendly: | Only the first kilometre |
| Trailhead: | Google Maps |
Getting There
Hanging Rock and Baltzer Lookout are a little off the beaten track, but reaching them is quite straightforward.
From the Great Western Highway in the Blue Mountains, turn onto Ridgewell Road, just north of Blackheath town centre. The road is unsealed but usually in good condition, and a 4WD vehicle isn’t required.
Follow Ridgewell Road for a short distance until you reach a gate with a small car park. This is where the Burramoko Fire Trail begins.
The map below shows the parking area and the walk to both highlights:
- P: Parking area
- 1: Baltzer Lookout
- 2. Hanging Rock
Track Notes
The walking track follows a 5 km management trail that winds through native bushland, offering a few pleasant district views along the way.
It’s not a difficult walk, remaining mostly flat from start to finish, except for the final section where a steep descent leads down to Hanging Rock. Wearing proper hiking shoes is recommended for better grip.
The fire trail is popular with bushwalkers, runners, and cyclists, though the route itself isn’t particularly exciting. It’s really all about the destination, and once you arrive, the scenery makes the effort well worth it.
Note that the first kilometre of the trail lies outside the National Park boundaries, which means dogs are allowed only on that stretch. A Blue Mountains National Park sign marks the 1 km point.
Baltzer Lookout
Baltzer Lookout sits on the edge of Burramoko Head, the dramatic cliff-top terminus of Burramoko Ridge overlooking the Grose Canyon.
The views from here are among the most impressive in this part of the Blue Mountains, stretching across the vast Grose Valley and surrounding escarpments.
The lookout is named after William Julius Baltzer, a conservationist who played a key role in protecting the Grose Valley. In the early 1930s, he was part of a group dedicated to the creation of the Blue Mountains National Park.
From Baltzer Lookout, you can spot several well-known landmarks, including Walls Lookout to the north and Bald Head to the east.
Hanging Rock
Interestingly, Hanging Rock isn’t immediately visible from Baltzer Lookout, so you’ll need to walk a little further to see it.
To reach this unique rock formation, head left from the lookout and follow the path that leads downhill.
Although it’s only a short distance, the descent is quite steep and involves some rock scrambling, but it’s still very manageable.
Take your time and watch your step, as it’s easy to get distracted by the incredible scenery.
Hanging Rock is one of those rare and beautiful spots in the Blue Mountains where you won’t find many tourists. Depending on the time of day, you might even have the place to yourself.
That sense of solitude adds to the experience, as the quiet and isolation around Hanging Rock and Baltzer Lookout capture the true Blue Mountains atmosphere.
The walking trail continues past Hanging Rock to another rock formation that’s also worth visiting.
While it’s smaller and less dramatic, the views from there are excellent. And because most visitors skip this extra stretch, there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself.
