Lost & Found

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, inspired, and connected with a wonderful community of like-minded women.

📍 Meeting Point: St Ives, Gordon Station, or Bilpin (exact pickup locations texted upon booking)

📅 Date: July 11, 2026

🕘 Time: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

📏 Distance/Difficulty: Approx. 6km return hike. Moderate fitness level required; not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

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

✨ Highlights

• The Grumpy Baker: A morning stop in scenic Bilpin for fresh sourdough, pastries, and a warm coffee to fuel the day.

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

• Creative Stillness: Practical smartphone photography tips from Kirsty to help you slow down and capture the soul of the wilderness.

• Leura Op-Shop Hop: A curated afternoon of vintage treasure hunting and fossicking through Leura’s best boutique op-shops and leaf-lined streets.

  
  

📖 Full Description

The Journey

Our journey begins with a comfortable and scenic drive toward the mountains in the Seek Sista Shuttle Van, stopping first at the beloved Grumpy Baker in Bilpin to grab a morning coffee and watch the mountain mist clear. From there, we head deep into the Gardens of Stone to explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Lost City. This experience is exclusive to Seek Sista members (including Roam-Free and Plus-Perks tiers), offering an intimate, supportive space to challenge yourself, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and share laughs with an incredible group of sisters.

The Stops

Once at the Lost City, Kirsty will lead us on a 6km return hike winding through ancient rock formations. Along the way, we will practice 'creative stillness'—learning simple smartphone photography tips to capture the stunning textures and light of the pagodas. After enjoying a fresh, locally made picnic lunch pack from 'The Tin Shed' out in the wild, we begin our return journey via the beautiful village of Leura. The final chapter of our day is spent wandering the vibrant streets, treasure hunting for pre-loved gems in Leura’s famous vintage boutiques, and browsing the local shops before heading home.

✅ Inclusions

• Expert Guidance: Professional guides, including foundational instruction. (Guided 6km hike led by Kirsty, our First Aid–certified outdoor guide).

• All Gear: All activity-related equipment, plus smartphone photography guidance.

• Safety First: Comprehensive safety gear and communication devices. Fully licensed and insured to operate in National Parks.

• Morning Tea: A light morning tea, coffee, or tea served mid-hike in nature.

• Transport: Round-trip transport in the Seek Sista Shuttle Van from designated meeting points (St Ives, Gordon Station, or Bilpin).

• Park Fees: All National Parks entry fees paid on your behalf.

• Bonus Meal: A freshly made picnic lunch pack from 'The Tin Shed' (catering to your specific dietary requirements).

  
  

❌ Exclusions

• Lunch: Note: A picnic lunch pack is uniquely included for this specific event!

• Personal Shopping: Any purchases made at local stops or during the Leura op-shop hop.

• Personal Gear: Items like swimwear, towels, hiking poles, and sun protection.

• Personal Snacks: Additional snacks or specialty beverages purchased at The Grumpy Baker.

• Travel Insurance: Recommended but not included.

  
  

👋 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 a sharp eye for photography and a deep 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.

ℹ️ IMPORTANT INFORMATION

🎒 What to Bring

1. 1.5–2 L of water in a refillable bottle or bladder

2. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (that you are happy to get muddy and wet)

3. Comfortable clothes suitable to the weather (no jeans)

4. Second set of clothes (including shoes and socks) to be left in the van for the end of the day

5. Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen

6. A reusable mug for your mid-hike coffee or tea

7. Small daypack for essentials (hiking poles recommended)

8. Smartphone or camera

9. Personal medication

10. Personal snacks

    
    

📑 Minimum Group Size & Cancellation Policy

• Minimum group: The event will proceed with a minimum of 4 participants (modified to a minimum of 3 for this specific itinerary). If the minimum is not met, Seek Sista will contact you at least 48 hours before the event to offer a full refund or transfer to another date.

• Full refund: Cancellations made 7 days or more before the event.

• 50% refund: Cancellations made 3–6 days before the event.

• No refund: Cancellations made less than 3 days before the event or no-shows.

• Event postponement: If the event is cancelled by Seek Sista due to weather (such as storms or extreme heat), track conditions, or safety concerns, participants will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to a new date. All cancellations must be communicated via email to kirsty@seeksista.com.au.

  
  

✍️ 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, prepared, and cared for.