Tips for Hiking Kangaroo Valley
Surrounded by Morton National Park, Kangaroo Valley in New South Wales, Australia is a great place for hikers of all ages and skill levels. There are short trails for children and the elderly, as well as strenuous all-day hiking trails guaranteed to challenge even the most experienced outdoorsman. Mountain trails, river walks, and hidden waterfalls make Kangaroo Valley a prime location for bushwalking.
Although there are plenty of maps and guidebooks available online, signing up for a tour offered by a company such as Kangaroo Valley Adventure Co. may make for a more enjoyable vacation. When accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery instead of worrying about getting lost or how to deal with any injuries that might occur.
If you opt to hike on your own, you should let a trusted friend or family member know of your plans and your expected return time. Do not assume you'll be able to contact someone with your cell phone; the reception in Kangaroo Valley is not reliable.
Being prepared for your hike is essential to having an enjoyable experience in Kangaroo Valley. Experts recommend you bring a lunch or snack, plenty of bottled water, a first aid kit, and sunscreen. It is also a good idea to bring warm clothes, since the weather in Kangaroo Valley can change suddenly.
Kangaroo Valley is known for its diversity of wildlife. Some of the animals you may encounter in Kangaroo Valley include echidnas, grey kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, and platypus. Birds in the area include yellow-tailed black cockatoos, wedge-tailed eagles, lyre birds, and many types of parrots. If you are planning to hike in Kangaroo Valley during the spring or summer months, watch out for snakes.
When you are watching the animals, be careful approaching any cliff edges. It is best to stay at least one body length away from the edge of the cliff. If you must get closer, wiggle forward on your belly to avoid the risk of tripping and falling.
