Grose Valley view on ascent to Govetts Leap Lookout
A perfect Blue Mountains winter’s day greeted nineteen walkers who met at the Blackheath Memorial Park expecting a chilly start to the day. With the winter sun shining brightly and the warmer than expected temperature decisions were being made as to whether to leave the extra jackets in the car. Decisions were made and the walkers gathered for the briefing before heading off on a short street walk to the start of the Popes Glen Track. This very pretty track follows the Popes Glen Creek which we crossed several times. Arriving at the track junction we took the short diversion to Boyds Beach returning back to the junction and the track to Govetts Leap. The junction provided a good spot for morning tea. 
We crossed Popes Glen Creek several times
Newly burnt trees from a past fire regrowth Regrowth from the latest fire Pretty Popes Glen Creek 
Maybe not swimming weather at Boyds Beach today! The junction provided a good spot for morning tea
Popes Glen Track approaching Grose Valley Popes Glen Creek - Pulpit Track Crossing
Continuing on the views of the escarpment opened up as we reached the ascent to Govetts Leap. As the track ascended we took advantage at the lookouts to enjoy the spectacular views of the Grose Valley.
First view of Grose Valley on ascent from Popes Glen Creek to Govetts Leap Lookout We took advantage to enjoy the views of the Grose Valley
Bridal Veil (Govetts Leap) Falls from the lookout Wattle below Govetts Leap
Arriving at the recently upgraded Govetts Leap car park there were more views and photo opportunities. 
From the car park we headed along the cliff tops before descending to the junction of the Braeside Walk. At the junction we took a short diversion to Barrow Lookout with views to Bridal Veil (Govetts Leap) Falls and north to the Grose Valley before returning to the Braeside Walk with the pretty Govetts Leap Brook flowing beside the track. Arriving at the old railway water supply dam we crossed the creek one last time arriving at our lunch spot
Grose Valley from Cliff Top Track Tributary cascade to Govetts Leap Brook
Bridal Veil (Govetts Leap) Falls and mossy hanging gardens on Griffith Taylor Wall and view north to Grose Valley from Barrow Lookout
Elaine, Govetts Leap Brook and the Braeside Walk Helen A at Tim's feet offering shoelace service
Govetts Leap Brook and Braeside Walk Martin, Govetts Leap Brook and the Braeside Walk crossing at lunch spot
After lunch we walked up to the fire trail which we followed until we reached some power lines turning right to ascend a rocky track emerging at Cleopatra Street. From here it was a street walk back to the cars.
Altitude Delicatessen on Govetts Leap Road were very welcoming for our after walk refreshments.
Today’s beautiful weather, stunning views, recently upgraded tracks and a group of happy walkers made for a delightful return to walking the Popes Glen/Braeside Walk Circuit. Another great day out with HVB!
Thank you to First Aiders: Barbara R and Ros and Tail End Charlie: Don B. Also thank you to Bert and Kurt for joining Deidre and Sue S on the recce.
Walking with Deidre and Sue S were Helen A, Don, B, Tim, Elaine, Ros and John, Mary, Martin, Celia, Dawn, Bert, Pragati, Barbara R, Vreni, Lyn, Cleona and Don Wo.
Words: Deidre
Photos: Barbara R (1, 4, 7,11, 12, 14, 15, 18-24 and captions), Don Wo (2, 3, 5 ,6, 8-10, 16 and captions), Deidre (13) and Sue S (17 and caption)
.......and from the recce flowers and identification Sue S
(1) Five Corners Styphelia tubiflora (2) Hairpin Banksia Banksia spinulosa (3) Tea-tree Leptospermum sp (4) Daisy-leaved Goodenia Goodenia bellidifolia
(5) Sundew Drosera spatulata