Mount Banks

Mount Banks is a summit in Blue Mountains National Park that rises to 1,049 meters and overlooks the Grose Wilderness below. The peak is surrounded by tall eucalyptus forests that give the landscape its distinctive wooded character.

Explorer George Cayley named the mountain after botanist Joseph Banks in 1804, though the name changed in subsequent years as exploration of the region continued. The shifting name reflects the ongoing efforts to map and understand this rugged landscape.

Early explorers mistook the gliding possums living in the eucalyptus trees for actual monkeys, which is how these trees earned their distinctive name. Visitors today may still spot these small creatures moving through the canopy.

The climb is steep and demands good fitness along with sturdy footwear for rocky terrain. Visitors should bring water and sun protection, starting early in the day to ensure adequate daylight for the descent.

The area was heavily affected by bushfires, yet new vegetation sprouts where trees were damaged, creating a striking contrast between charred trunks and fresh growth. This natural recovery process demonstrates the forest's resilience.