Pros & cons
PROS
- Immediate access to the Mount Banks Summit walk
- Peaceful bush setting with a Grose Valley backdrop
CONS
- Parking fills quickly on busy weekends
- No food, water, or shops on-site
Overview
Tucked at the very end of Mount Banks Road, this is the small, no-frills picnic spot that doubles as the launchpad for the Mount Banks Summit walk. It’s quiet bushland here—eucalypts, birdsong, and that vast Grose Valley lurking just beyond the ridges.
Why stop here
If you’re planning the summit, this is the handiest place to stage it. Park, grab your pack, and you’re straight onto the track—no shuttles, no faff. For a simple picnic before or after the hike, the setting feels properly wild without being remote.
What you’ll see
From the area itself you’re among tall eucalypts; the jaw-dropping panoramas arrive as you climb. The ridge delivers sweeping views across the Grose Valley and distant escarpments—classic Blue Mountains sandstone cliffs and deep, erosion-carved valleys.
Trails from here
The summit track starts right by the parking area. Expect a well-defined path with plenty of steps and a steady gradient; it can feel steep and, near the top, a little overgrown in places. It’s exposed higher up, so wind can bite—pack a layer and mind the escarpment edges.
Wildlife and seasons
Spring brings native wildflowers and lively birdlife—honeyeaters and parrots are regulars. With a bit of luck and quiet, you might spot wallabies or lizards along the fringes of the track.
Know before you go
This is day-use and deliberately simple: there are no shops or services, so arrive prepared with water, food, and everything you need. Pets and smoking aren’t permitted. Locations in the Mount Wilson area can close for fire danger or poor weather—check park alerts before you set off. Weekends can be busy, and the short access road is unsealed.
Best time to visit
Aim for early mornings—especially on weekends and holidays—to beat crowds and secure parking. Spring is lovely for wildflowers and birds, and calmer weekday visits make the whole experience feel more secluded.
Where it is
-33.5799, 150.3644Tips for Mount Banks Picnic Area
- 01Arrive early on weekends to snag a parking spot.
- 02Bring all food and plenty of water; there are no services on-site.
- 03Check park alerts for fire or weather closures before you go.
- 04Pack windproof layers—conditions get blustery higher up the trail.
- 05Wear sturdy shoes; the summit track is steep with many steps.
Amenities
Near Mount Banks Picnic Area
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayCaley MonumentSmall plaque marking George Caley’s 1804 turn-back at Mount Banks
0 mi awayMount Banks Summit WalkShort, steady climb to big Grose Valley views—best before the summit.Challenging · 2.2 mi · 2.5 hr
0.6 mi awayMount BanksShort, quiet summit walk with Grose Valley cliff-line dramaTrailhead · Parking
1.5 mi awayGrose ValleyRemote sandstone gorge of waterfalls, cliffs and Blue Gum ForestTrailhead · Parking
1.5 mi awayWalls LookoutShort walk to a wide-open Grose Valley panoramaTrailhead · Parking
1.6 mi awayPierces Pass walking trackSteep, spectacular drop to Blue Gum Forest and Grose River swimsChallenging · 9.9 mi · 7.5 hr
1.7 mi awayWalls Lookout TrackShort walk, massive Grose Valley cliff views with room to roamEasy · 1.8 mi · 1.5 hr
1.7 mi awayBlue Gum Forest TrackSteep plunge to a cathedral of blue gums in the Grose ValleyChallenging · 2.5 mi · 3.5 hr
