Pulpit Rock lookout

Pulpit Rock lookout is a set of platforms on a narrow sandstone spur above the Grose Valley near Blackheath. The rock projects over the forest, with a near-360 view across the cliffs and distant mountains; Blue Gum Forest, Govetts Leap and Mount Banks are landmarks in the scene. Keep it on your list if you want a real cliff-edge outlook and are comfortable with steep steps.

Drive in on Hat Hill Road. The unsealed access can become boggy after rain. Several narrow, steep stair sections lead down to the platforms and can be slippery when wet, so save some energy for the climb back up. There are toilets, picnic facilities and shelters; bring your own drinking water, a hat and sunscreen. On-site water availability isn't confirmed.

The 2019–20 Black Summer bushfire destroyed the former timber stairs and shelters, and the lookout stayed closed for six years before reopening in September 2026. The rebuild uses more fire-resistant sandstone and upgrades three lookout levels. The lowest former platform couldn't be rebuilt safely after ground investigations, so the current visit is focused on the remaining viewpoints.

The Pulpit walking track links the lookout with Govetts Leap. From Govetts Leap lookout, it's a 7 km return walk, Grade 3, usually two to three hours. The route passes Popes Glen Creek, smaller cliff lookouts and Horseshoe Falls lookout, then crosses hanging swamps and open heathland. November wildflowers are a seasonal highlight.

Picnic facilities make this a place to pause, not just hop out for a photo. Put the railed platform and sandstone spur in the foreground to show how far the lookout sticks out above the valley. Binoculars help pick out Blue Gum Forest and Govetts Leap across the cliffs, with Mount Banks farther around the panorama.