Tahmoor Gorge & Mermaid Pool hike
by Jo Vartanian
One of the many rockpools in the Tahmoor Gorge.
After months of cold and wet weather, it was a joy to lead a Diamond Day hike under a bright sun, with spring flowers in full bloom. This hike wasn’t on my calendar until our head guide had an injury, giving me the chance to revisit Tahmoor Gorge after several years.
Nestled in the magnificent Southern Highlands, this hike is a feast for the senses. It takes you past the scenic Mermaid Pools and loops through the atmospheric Tahmoor Gorge, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls set the stage. The rugged landscape includes lush eucalypt forests, winding trails, and rocky scrambles that make every step an adventure.
Stunning rock formations.
With 2 leaders and 15 women, some on their very first full-day hike, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. This hike is challenging. But with clear instructions from Michele (who had done the recce just days before), my trusty printed maps, phone navigation apps, and Clare, my second-in-command, I was confident in our navigation. Tahmoor Gorge is notorious for its poorly marked trails, where finding the right path often means relying on your instincts, a few paint marks, or ribbons left by previous hikers.
One of the more obvious rock markings.
I began the day with a thorough briefing, highlighting the potential hazards and challenges ahead—slippery rocks, fast-flowing creek crossings, and bush trails cluttered with debris. Everyone was eager but a little nervous, including me. The start was as I remembered: straightforward, with the trail hugging the top of the cliffs. However, recent flood damage led to some detours and backtracking before we found the tricky creek crossing and got back on the main trail. I could sense the team’s confidence wavering, but that soon changed.
Nervously scrambling down to our first creek crossing.
As we continued, the stunning wildflowers lifted everyone’s spirits, and our first major highlight came into view: the breathtaking Mermaid Pools. The view from above is incredible, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. While swimming in the pool is not encouraged due to its significance as a women’s Indigenous site, we pointed out other beautiful waterholes along the gorge that are perfect for a refreshing dip.
Mermaid Pool
Then came what we describe as the ‘technical section.’ Hiking in a gorge is an entirely different experience from your everyday bushwalk. Here, the terrain is wild and untamed—wet, slippery rocks underfoot, towering cliffs on either side, and the constant sound of rushing water. There are no clear tracks, just careful footing required at every step, often scrambling over rocks with hands and feet. It’s a thrilling, beautiful, and unique experience, but one that demands focus and support, especially for those who may not have had previous training.
The way down.
The chains and ropes guiding us down into the canyon had everyone nodding in understanding. With 17 women, it was a slow, careful process to get everyone down safely. Teamwork was essential, and staying close together allowed us to find the right path.
Debris from recent flooding events.
By the time we reached the river, energy was waning, and we were all ready for a break. We found a rest spot by a fast-flowing waterfall, where we enjoyed tea, snacks, and shared stories of past adventures.
A welcome break by the fast flowing river.
The next challenge was navigating two river crossings and the final climb out of the gorge. With maps, painted markers, coloured ribbons, and 17 watchful eyes, we successfully found our way most of the time. As experienced guides, Clare and I had several on-trail meetups to discuss the best options, always prioritizing safety. While some first-timers were initially unsure, they soon realized that we knew what we were doing. The team navigated the crossings and a steep, exposed track with confidence, even though it tested the nerves of some of our strongest hikers.
Our first relatively simple crossing.
Balance and careful footing required for this crossing.
The final ascent track was tricky to find at first, but after some scrambling and testing, we were on our way.
A rock scramblers delight.
A steep, rocky climb brought us to the top track, where I let everyone know how long until our next break. By this point, fatigue was setting in, especially after the energy-draining focus required in the canyon. These women were fantastic—there were very few stumbles on a hike where rescues are common, and injuries can be severe.
A tricky exposed edge above the river.
Up on the top track, we found a peaceful spot among the wildflowers for a well-deserved snack and time-out. The final exit was smooth sailing, with another stunning view of the remarkable Mermaid Pools. As we emerged from this lesser-known gorge in the Southern Highlands, the smiles and pride on everyone’s faces said it all.
Bush babes on a break!
Amazing wildflower displays.
This day wasn’t just about taking on a tough trail; it was about pushing past fears and discovering what’s possible with the right preparation and support. Tahmoor Gorge offered more than just a hike—it was a journey into the heart of nature’s wild beauty, a test of resilience, and a reminder that even the most challenging paths can be navigated with the right team by your side.
Clare and the team.
For those who joined us, it was an experience that goes beyond the day—a story of strength, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of stepping outside your comfort zone. And for anyone considering joining our community, know that every hike with us is not just a walk in the park—it’s an opportunity to discover your own strength, supported by women who believe in lifting each other up, one trail at a time.
Women supporting Women - views to the southern highlands.
