Lost and Found (Full Day Out)

Leave the map behind and step into a landscape of ancient sandstone cathedrals and hidden treasures. This day is a transition from the rugged grandeur of the "Lost City" to the curated charm of mountain village life, designed to leave you feeling grounded and inspired.

📍 Meeting Point: St Ives Village (7:00 am) or Gordon Station (7:15 am)

📅 Date: March 7, 2026

🕘 Time: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

📏 Hike Distance: Approx. 6km return hike

👣 Group Size: 3–6 participants (plus your guide, Kirsty)

✨ Highlights

• The Grumpy Baker: A morning stop in Bilpin for fresh sourdough and mountain provisions.

• Lost City Exploration: A guided hike through the iconic sandstone pagodas of the Gardens of Stone.

• Creative Stillness: Practical smartphone photography tips to capture the soul of the wilderness.

• Picnic Lunch: A fresh, locally made lunch featuring a wrap, seasonal fruit salad, and a sweet treat.

• Leura Op-Shop Hop: A curated afternoon of treasure hunting through Leura’s best boutique op-shops.

🙋‍♀️ Who’s it for?

This experience is available to Seek Sista members.

• Roam-Free ($0)

• Plus-Perks ($30 / quarter) 

Not a member yet? 👉 You can Join or Upgrade Here

📖 Full Description

Our journey begins with a scenic drive toward the mountains, stopping first at The Grumpy Baker in Bilpin to fuel our adventure with fresh coffee and local sourdough. From there, we head deep into the Gardens of Stone to explore the Lost City. Kirsty will lead us on a 6km return hike through these ancient rock formations, where we will practice "creative stillness"—using our smartphones to capture the textures and light of the pagodas. After a fresh picnic lunch from local Lithgow café The Tin Shed enjoyed in the heart of the wild, we begin our return journey via Leura. The final chapter of our day is spent wandering the leaf-lined streets for a curated op-shop hop, fossicking for pre-loved "finds" in Leura’s famous vintage boutiques.

🚗 Getting There

• Pickup Point 1 (St Ives): Meet at St Ives Village at 7:00 am. Look for the grey Seek Sista shuttle van.

• Pickup Point 2 (Gordon): Meet at Gordon Station at approximately 7:15 am. (Exact location confirmed via text).

• Driving Yourself: As we travel as a group in the shuttle from the North Shore, we recommend joining us at a pickup point. If you wish to meet us in the mountains, please contact us to coordinate.
  

✅ Inclusions

• Guided 6km hike led by Kirsty, our experienced and First Aid–certified outdoor guide, sharing insights on the Lost City’s sandstone pagodas, local history, flora and fauna.

• Return transport from St Ives Village or Blackheath Station to The Lost City and back.

• Tea or coffee served mid-hike.

• Freshly made picnic lunch pack from 'The Tin Shed,' catering to your specific dietary requirements.

• Creative smartphone photography tips, with guidance on capturing nature and landscapes.

• Fully licensed and insured to operate in National Parks.

• Small group experience (4–6 participants) for a personal, supportive adventure.
  

❌ Exclusions

• Advanced photography equipment (tripods, DSLRs, etc.).

• Additional meals or snacks beyond the provided picnic.

• Travel insurance (highly recommended).
  

⚠️ Not Suitable For

• Children under 18 years.

• People with mobility impairments.

• People with pre-existing medical conditions that may be aggravated by hiking.

  
  

🙋‍♀️ Who can join? 

This experience is a benefit of our community. To join us, simply sign up for one of our membership tiers:

• Roam-Free Members: $0 to join! Includes access to this walk and our community platform.

• Plus-Perks Members: $30 per quarter membership, which features priority bookings and exclusive perks.

• Not a member yet? Secure your spot by joining the sista-hood today. 👉 Join / Upgrade Here

👋 Meet your Guide

Kirsty is an experienced outdoor guide who believes the best way to find yourself is to get a little lost in nature. With an eye for photography and a love for local mountain gems—from hidden trails to the best op-shop racks—she ensures every Sista Day Out is a supportive, soulful and grounded journey.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

🎒 What to Bring

• 2L of water in a refillable bottle or bladder.

• Hiking shoes with good grip.

• Hiking poles (recommended).

• Hat and sunscreen.

• A small daypack for your essentials.

• A mug for your cup of coffee or tea.

• Smartphone for photos.
  

🌦️ Know Before You Go

• Weather: We operate in most weather conditions except storms or extreme heat. Check local conditions for “Lithgow.”

• Fitness: A moderate fitness level is recommended for the 6km trek.

• Age: Our community is typically aged 30s–60s.
  

📑 Minimum Group Size & Cancellation Policy

Each Full Day Out requires at least 3 participants to run.

• 7+ days notice: Full refund.

• 3–6 days notice: 50% refund.

• Less than 3 days notice: No refund or credit available. If we cancel due to low numbers or dangerous weather, you will receive a full refund or credit.
  

✍️ Waiver & Pre-Trip Details

After booking, you’ll get an email with everything you need to know—including links to waiver forms to fill out before your experience to help keep everyone safe and cared for.