We do require non members, as well as inexperienced members, to contact the walk leader first to get their approval to attend the clubwalk.

Please advise the activity leader of your experience level in relation to the proposed walk. It will also allow the activity leader to discuss walk and other requirements with you.

Valley of Diamonds - Sun 15th April
Walk Leader	Barry Collier
Contact Details	4630 9702
Rating	M65
Travel Distance	125km return
Start Time	7:30am from the Neil Street carpark  Click here for map
Details	The Valley of Diamonds is a spectacular gorge in Crow’s Nest National Park, downstream from Crow’s Nest Falls. The current dry conditions will make this trip somewhat easier than normal (whatever that is!) because we will not have to negotiate the thick lantana patches that grow well in this area in wetter times. Also, the creek level is way down, which means rockhopping through the gorge will be less challenging. The walk starts at the National Park picnic/camping area east of Crow’s Nest township. We follow the graded track down towards the falls, then cross the creek to follow an old track on the ridge above the gorge and then drop down into Perseverance Creek (no, that should be walk down to the banks of Perseverance Creek!!). Walking upstream, we soon come to the junction of Perseverance and Cressbrook Creeks, the start of the gorge, and the beginning of some serious rockhopping. After a break, and some exploration of Cressbrook Creek, we will continue up the gorge. The gorge is a mass of large boulders, and progress is made more by scrambling (sorry, scurrying) over and around the boulders than by rockhopping. This part of the walk is really spectacular, with the high granite cliffs of the gorge towering above us on both sides. Eventually the gorge is blocked by a large pool below the falls, an optional swimthrough. A steep rocky gully to the right provides an escape route out of the gorge to the graded track leading back to our starting point. The walk will take up to 5 hours, depending on how long we rest/play/explore/enjoy the area around the junction of Perseverance and Cressbrook Creeks, and perhaps enjoy a swim in the pool below the falls. Take plenty of snacks or nibbles, and we will have a late picnic lunch back at the cars. The gorge can be very dehydrating on a hot day, so a good supply of water is essential – minimum 2 litres. Meet: Neil St car park Depart: 7.30 am Take: Food and water for 5 hours Wear: Hat and clothes for sun protection Footwear: Sneakers ok, boots better. Good non-slip soles necessary Travel: 125 km return Grade: M 65