07/01/2026
Wild Swimming, Safely
During the warmer months, you might be tempted to cool off in a local creek or lake. But is it safe?
Between October and March Blue Mountains City Council takes weekly water samples at several popular local waterways, to test for bacterial contamination and provide advice on water-quality-related swimming suitability.
Council has also partnered with NSW Beachwatch, enabling more regular updates on recreational water quality. To access weekly star ratings, annual reports and council’s enterococci data for Megalong Creek, Minnehaha Falls and Wentworth Falls Lake, check out the Beachwatch website linked in our bio.
Before you swim, don’t forget to 👉
• Check the latest updates on the Beachwatch website
• Understand the catchment area for the waterway and the associated risks of water pollution (look at Google Maps, a topographic map or pop into one of our Visitor Centres for advice).
• Ensure the swimming spot is free from signs of pollution such as discoloured water, odour or ‘urban’ debris in the water (such as rubbish, exotic leaves etc).
• Keep water out of ears, eyes, nose and mouth
• Avoid water contact with broken skin such as cuts, bites or grazes.
• Remember that the very young, very old and those with compromised immunity are at greater risk of illness due to contact with poor quality water.
📍 Minnehaha Falls, Katoomba