Other Outdoor Activities
Abseiling
There's nothing quite like the thrill and beat of your heart as you step towards the edge of a cliff - even with the full knowledge of being safely attached and protected by gear - the heart still flutters. Rather than just using abseiling for going down cliffs for the sake of it, it can be integrated into mountaineering, canyoning or to gain access to an extra special bit of wilderness for exploring. It is a great activity, but it can be dangerous and you should be trained by an expert before you attempt it alone. SBW are trying to include it more in our activities and you won't regret giving it a go. Check out our Abseiling page as a starting point on further information.
Birdwatching
As bushwalking is a social activity, we generally chatter as we go along. We're not the only ones chattering amongst ourselves in the great outdoors though! Keeping an ear out and eyes open whilst walking, you'll discover a whole other world... just don't forget to watch your feet as well. If you like, you can download this article on Birdwatching and Bushwalking (Word Doc 111 KB).
Canyoning
Did you know that Sydney is the Canyon Capital of the World? Only problem is it can sure get cold in those canyons and usually a wet suit is required. Check out Dave Noble's website called Blue Mountains Canyons (new window) which features amazing photographs and inspiring stories. You'll find most canyons in the SBW program are over the Summer season. You will need to know how to abseil as well, so please check out the Abseiling page for some basic information.
If you are an SBW Member and want to go on one of the abseiling and canyoning trips, please read the following Abseiling Competencies for a range of things you will need to know, such as safety and knotting knowledge, how to fit a harness and helmet correctly, abseiling techniques and equipment you will need. If you're not up-to-speed on the skills or knowledge, just look out for the great abseiling training opportunities offered in the Program. Be mindful that they do book up quickly.
Aside from the challenging thrill of making your way through a canyon, depending on the trip you go on, there are also opportunities to just relax and drift away on a lilo.
Car Camping
This is something we all do on the way to somewhere, or just when we want to take it easy for a few days. Car Camping allows us to carry those extra treats, keep things colder and a stack of creature comforts! For more about this activity, download this Car Camping Article (Word Doc 1.8MB).
Cycling
Many members enjoy this as it is easier on the knees and you can cover a lot of ground quickly. Not only that, it helps the planet! You'll find cycling trips on the SBW program in most seasons. Download this Cycling Guide (Word Doc 28KB) for more information.
Kayaking
When you just want to sit back and let your arms do the work, kayaking is a good way to watch the world float by. It's a great activity that you can do even if your knees are done for from bushwalking for too many years! Read about Kayaking in New South Wales (PDF 602KB). You can find a whole new world down at water level. These trips appear regularly on the SBW program and with our lovely river frontage property in the Southern Highlands, you can enjoy kayaking with your own private campground! Take a look at these pictures of a Hawkesbury River Kayaking Trip (opens in new window). This is just one of many of SBW's leisurely kayaking trips.
Snow Activities
You come across snow and ice as part of our other activities but some of us seek this out specially of course. Download this article to read a little about what to expect with our Snow Activities (PDF 283KB).