Capertee Valley: The World❜s Second Largest Canyon is in NSW

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Surrounded by World-Heritage wonders, stunning landscapes, and the world’s second-largest canyon, Capertee Valley is one of those hidden gems that we can’t believe we didn’t know existed!

If you’re looking for a new road trip destination just outside Sydney, you’ll definitely want to add Capertee Valley to your list.

Capertee Valley: The World's Second Largest Canyon is in NSW

Capertree Valley
The ultra-sleepy town of Capertee is the gateway to the incredible Capertee Valley. 


Capertee itself is a sleepy village 45 kilometres north of Lithgow and just over 2.5 hours' drive from Sydney.

While the town itself doesn’t have much in the way of tourist attractions (the main street offers nothing more than a pub, cafe, convenience store, and real estate office), Capertee Valley is a site of immense natural wonders.   

Capertee Valley is Australia’s Grand Canyon

Capertee Valley
Get your awe-inspiring canyon fix at Capertee Valley. Image via Destination NSW.


Hailed as Australia’s Grand Canyon, Capertee Valley is geology on a very grand scale.

Much like Arizona’s Grand Canyon, Capertee Valley’s sandstone cliffs plunge hundreds of metres and encircle the valley for kilometres upon breathtaking kilometres. However, unlike the Grand Canyon, which sits at a width of 29 kilometres, Capertee Valley is an impressive 30 kilometres wide. Could it be the largest canyon in the world? Sadly, no, as Capertee isn’t as long or deep as the Grand Canyon, but we’ll happily accept the largest canyon in Australia and the second-largest canyon in the world titles!  

Visiting the largest canyon in Australia is certainly a bucket list item for adventurous families. Aside from the spectacular views and sensational rock formations the valley offers, Capertee is home to a wide variety of bird and animal life, has plenty of bushwalking tracks for all fitness levels, is great for family camping, and is also the site of former mining town, Glen Davis. 

Things To Do in Capertee Valley

Capertee Valley
Bushwalking in Capertee Valley. Image via: Destination NSW.

1. Go Bushwalking

Bushwalking is practically mandatory when visiting Capertee Valley and so it should be – the views are simply breathtaking!

There are a number of bushwalking tracks to suit different fitness levels, from the lengthy 20-kilometre Pipeline Track to the less intense Capertee Valley Bird Trail.  

If you’d prefer to take in the Capertee Valley views without having to bushwalk, Pearsons Lookout is your best bet. Located a few kilometres south of Capertee town, Pearsons Lookout gives you one of the best viewpoints of the impressive canyon and is easily accessible by car.

2. Explore a Ghost Town

Glen Davis Ruins Capertee Valley
Spooky, eerie and pretty cool—Glen Davis is a deserted town well worth visiting.


For those who aren't afraid of ghosts, a pitstop at Glen Davis is a must (but maybe only during the day!).

The old shale-mining ghost town is completely deserted and completely chilling when you view the abandoned houses and crumbling ruins of a once flourishing mining tunnel from 1881. Glen Davis is located 35 kilometres east of Capertee on the easter rim of the valley.  

3. Spot Some Birds

If you’re an avid bird watcher, you’re in luck, as Capertee Valley just happens to be one of the top 50 best birdwatching locations in the world.

Capertee is home to more species of bird than anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere, so you’re sure to meet some new and endangered species on your travels. The Capertee Valley Bird Trail offers 19 birdwatching sites, all easily accessible. 

4. Visit the Gardens Of Stone

Gardens of Stone National Park
Soak up the sights of incredible rock formations at the gorgeous Gardens of Stone National Park.


The incredible rock formations at the Gardens Of Stone National Park are also worth a visit while in Capertee.

Access to the park is via a 4WD track at Ben Bullen (look out for the signpost) and will put you face-to-face with looming limestone outcrops, sandstone cliffs, and unique multi-tiered formations. 

Capertee Valley Accommodation

Bubble Tent Capertree Valley
For some serious wow factor, look no further than Bubble Tent Australia's epic accommodation options!


From camping to funky bubble tents, rustic cottages, and homestays, there’s plenty of accommodation in Capertee to suit all tastes.

If you have your heart set on camping right in the thick of nature, Capertee Campground is located in the Capertee National Park and offers tent sites, caravan sites, cottages, and homesteads.

For accommodation that’s a little bit out-of-the-box, you might like to try a Bubble Tent. With panoramic views over Capertee Valley, Bubble Tent Australia’s Virgo Tent will put you smack-bang in the midst of the Valley for a unique overnight stay under the stars.

For a touch of history right in the centre of town, the Royal Hotel Capertee is located right next to the world's widest canyon and also has dining options. 

Accommodation in Capertee Valley
Belle Bois


Belle Bois is Capertee Valley's stunning bed and breakfast for those looking for comfort and elegance. Nestled within the national park, Belle Bois offers three guest suites all with stunning views of the valley.

Hero image via Destination NSW.

Other Places to Explore Near Sydney

Sleep Amongst the Trees in Unique Treehouse Accommodation
Top Wellness Retreats in NSW
Cool Caves you can Visit Near Sydney


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Reviews


Effie

Jan 08 2021

I thought the pipeline track was closed in 2014 as it passes through private property. Has it been reopened or is there now an alternative route.