Did Surefire Canyon on Saturday. Have learnt of an alternative exit that I have used twice now and is easier than the long, long slug up the traditional exit gully.
Walk past the first exit 300m down to a huge overhang. You'll be walking through a beautiful classic canyon section. After the big overhang on your right, walk another 25 minutes and go up the 2nd creek coming in on your left. The gully closes in after about 200m, then there's a short steep section of scrambling, and a short steep climb up a flat-faced boulder. First one up might want to throw down a handline for the others, and to haul packs.
Another creek comes in on the right here, but stay left and climb another 5 minutes through a dead gum that has fallen in, then traverse left to the cliffs. Walk to the left under the cliff-line about 150m and there is an easy scramble to the top. It is 20m further left after a break in the cliffs that can be climbed up with some care, but is steep and bouldery.
At the top, walk 500m over the top of the knoll and you will come upon the fire trail and a 9-10 km walk back to the cars. It's mainly flat with only one not too steep incline.
photos
http://imageevent.com/jburton/canyons/surefire190909Julie
