Best Hikes in Blue Mountains National Park

Few places capture Australia’s wild beauty like Blue Mountains National Park. Just a 90 minute drive or train ride from Sydney, this World Heritage listed wilderness is a maze of sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, rainforest gullies, waterfalls, and open heath, with lookouts that make you stop and stare. If you love hiking, the Blue Mountains delivers everything from easy family friendly circuits to all day epics along cliff tops and through fern filled valleys. This guide pulls together the best hikes in Blue Mountains National Park with practical details, insider tips, and suggested itineraries so you can plan a remarkable trip.

Whether you are chasing misty sunrise views over the Jamison Valley, a cool forest retreat on a hot day, or a serious challenge on rugged wilderness tracks, the Blue Mountains has a walk with your name on it.

How To Plan Your Blue Mountains Hiking Trip

A little planning goes a long way in the Blue Mountains. Weather can change quickly, tracks can close for maintenance, and mobile coverage is patchy once you leave the towns and escarpment.

• Best time to hike
  • Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, lush waterfalls, and fewer storms.
  • Summer brings heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Start early, carry plenty of water, and choose shaded valley tracks.
  • Winter is crisp and clear, great for big views. Pack warm layers and check for frost or ice on steps.
• Getting there and around
  • Trains run regularly from Sydney Central to Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls, and Blackheath. From stations, many trailheads are walkable or reachable by local bus or the hop on hop off Explorer Bus.
  • Driving offers flexibility, especially for early starts and sunrise or sunset hikes. Some areas have limited parking on weekends and holidays.
• Park fees and passes
  • Entry to most areas of Blue Mountains National Park is free. The Glenbrook area has a vehicle entry fee. Paid parking applies at a few popular town lookouts.
• Safety and track conditions
  • Always check the NSW National Parks alerts page before you go. Weather, rockfalls, or maintenance can close tracks with little notice.
  • Carry a topographic map or downloaded offline map. Do not rely on phone signal.
  • Tell someone your plan, take enough water and food, and be realistic about your fitness. Some steep stairways are exposed and slippery when wet.
• What to pack
  • Sturdy hiking shoes with grip, 2 liters of water per person for half day hikes and more for full day hikes, sun protection, warm layer, rain shell, basic first aid, headlamp, and a snack.
• Respect Country
  • The Blue Mountains is Darug, Gundungurra, and Wiradjuri Country. Rock art and cultural sites are precious. Observe all signs, stay on track, and never touch rock art.

Top Day Hikes in Blue Mountains National Park

Below you will find a curated list of the best day walks that balance wow factor with accessibility. Each has quick facts to help you choose the right hike for your crew and conditions.

Grand Canyon Walk, Blackheath

The Grand Canyon Walk is a Blue Mountains classic for a reason. Sculpted steps lead into a cool, mossy gorge where sandstone walls rise above lush tree ferns, creeks trickle past boulders, and the temperature drops blissfully on hot days. Recent track upgrades have made it safer while keeping the sense of adventure.

• Distance and time: 6 to 6.5 km loop, 2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Grade: Moderate, many steps, some narrow ledges with railings
• Trailhead: Evans Lookout or Grand Canyon car park near Blackheath
• Highlights: Ancient rainforest, waterfalls, canyon narrows, photogenic bridges, birdlife
• Why go: The perfect combination of immersive canyon scenery and a manageable loop

Pro tip: Hike clockwise from Evans Lookout to finish with panoramic views of the Grose Valley. After rain, the canyon is at its lush best but steps can be slick.

Wentworth Falls Lookouts and Overcliff Undercliff Circuit, Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls is the showstopper of the Jamison Valley, and there are options for every time budget. The short walks to Jamison and Wentworth lookouts deliver big views. The Overcliff Undercliff circuit threads along the cliff line with airy views, while the longer Wentworth Pass loop drops into the valley for a rainforest adventure.

• Distance and time:
  • Lookouts: 1 to 2 km easy return, 30 to 60 minutes
  • Overcliff Undercliff circuit: 4 to 5 km loop, 2 to 3 hours
  • Wentworth Pass via Slack Stairs: 6 to 7 km, 3.5 to 5 hours, steep and strenuous
• Grade: Easy to hard depending on route
• Trailhead: Wentworth Falls picnic area, end of Falls Road
• Highlights: The multi tiered waterfall, cliff line ledges, valley views, fern grottoes, lyrebirds scratching in the duff
• Why go: Flexible options and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park

Important: Sections of the historic National Pass have been subject to closures in recent years. If you plan to include National Pass, check current alerts and signage. The Wentworth Pass and Overcliff Undercliff tracks are excellent alternatives when open.

Prince Henry Cliff Walk, Katoomba to Leura

This balcony trail strings together the most famous lookouts of the Blue Mountains, including Echo Point and the Three Sisters. Expect constant views over the Jamison Valley, short spur tracks to dramatic ledges, and plenty of photo stops.

• Distance and time: About 7 km one way, 3 to 4 hours without long detours
• Grade: Easy to moderate, undulating with steps
• Trailheads: Katoomba Cascades or Leura Cascades, with multiple access points and exit options
• Highlights: Echo Point, Three Sisters, Leura Cascades, tall eucalypts framing endless blue haze
• Why go: Maximum views and minimal logistics, ideal for a first day in the mountains

Pro tip: Combine with the Three Sisters Walk down to Honeymoon Bridge for a closer look at the rock formation. Go early to beat the Echo Point crowds.

Three Sisters Walk and Honeymoon Bridge, Katoomba

A short, spectacular stroll that delivers on the Blue Mountains postcard. The track from Echo Point leads along a sealed path to Oreades Lookout and on to the steel bridge that steps onto the first of the Three Sisters. There are stairs but it is short and sweet.

• Distance and time: 1 km return, 30 to 45 minutes
• Grade: Easy to moderate due to stairs
• Trailhead: Echo Point
• Highlights: Up close views of the Three Sisters, Jamison Valley panoramas
• Why go: Perfect for families and first time visitors

Note: The famous Giant Stairway that descends from Echo Point into the valley can be added for a much longer and steeper adventure. Check conditions before committing.

Cliff Top Walk, Govetts Leap to Evans Lookout, Blackheath

One of the finest edge of the world style cliff walks in the park. This undulating track links two superb lookouts on the Grose Valley rim with near constant views, wildflowers in spring, and wedge tailed eagles overhead. It is also a good wet weather option since the scenery is mostly about big views rather than creek crossings.

• Distance and time: About 6 km return, 2 to 3 hours
• Grade: Moderate with some steps
• Trailheads: Evans Lookout or Govetts Leap picnic area
• Highlights: Bridal Veil Falls at Govetts Leap, ethereal morning mist in the Grose, sunrise and sunset potential
• Why go: Classic Blue Mountains lookouts connected by a scenic stroll

Pro tip: Start at Evans Lookout in the afternoon for the best light on the far cliffs as you walk toward Govetts. The path was upgraded recently, but cliff edges are real, so keep to the track.

Burramoko Ridge to Hanging Rock, Blackheath

A striking sandstone blade that juts into the Grose Valley makes Hanging Rock one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the park. The walk follows a ridge fire trail through heath and low forest to a cliff edge. The final rock is unfenced with sheer drops and a thin neck.

• Distance and time: 10 to 12 km return, 3 to 4 hours
• Grade: Moderate, mostly gentle on fire trail with a short rough section at the end
• Trailhead: Burramoko Fire Trail gate off Ridgewell Road, Blackheath
• Highlights: Wildflowers, big sky ridge walking, a heart stopping viewpoint
• Why go: Unforgettable panorama and a sense of space

Important: People have been injured near the edge. Do not attempt risky poses or jump across the gap to the tip of the rock. The views are sensational from the safe side.

Fortress Ridge Track, Leura side of the Grose

Less busy than Hanging Rock, the Fortress Ridge area offers broad views over the Grose Valley and Mount Banks from a series of rocky outcrops. The ridge is a favourite for photographers at golden hour.

• Distance and time: 7 to 8 km return, 2 to 3 hours
• Grade: Moderate, short steep bits and rough rock surfaces
• Trailhead: Fortress Ridge car park off Mt Hay Road
• Highlights: Quiet track, big valley views, sunset potential
• Why go: A wild feeling lookout without the crowds

Pro tip: Combine with nearby Lockleys Pylon if you have time and legs for another half day. Lockleys is technically outside the central Katoomba, Leura cluster but offers top tier views over the Grose.

Mount Banks Summit Walk, Bells Line of Road side

Mount Banks is a prominent basalt capped peak that rises above the Grose. The summit walk is straightforward and gives you an airy vantage over endless sandstone country. It is a great choice on a clear winter day.

• Distance and time: 3.5 to 6 km return depending on route, 1.5 to 3 hours
• Grade: Moderate with sustained ascent
• Trailhead: Mount Banks picnic area, access via Mount Banks Road
• Highlights: Summit views, rare plants on basalt soils, sweeping vistas of the Grose and Mount Hay
• Why go: High reward summit without technical terrain

Pro tip: The Mount Banks Road is unsealed but usually passable for 2WD. Pack a windproof layer, as the summit can be breezy.

Lawson Waterfall Circuit, Lawson

A gentle loop through open forest and fern gullies that visits a string of pretty waterfalls. Ideal for families, easy on short legs, and lovely after rain.

• Distance and time: 2.5 to 3.5 km loop, 1 to 1.5 hours
• Grade: Easy to moderate with steps
• Trailhead: Honour Avenue near Lawson golf course for the South Lawson circuit
• Highlights: Adelina, Junction, and Federal Falls, shady creek lines, birdsong
• Why go: Family friendly waterfall hop with a tranquil vibe

Red Hands Cave and Glenbrook Creek, Glenbrook Area

The lower Blue Mountains around Glenbrook offer warmer winter days and classic sandstone creek scenery. The Red Hands Cave track visits one of the region’s best Aboriginal rock art sites. You can make a short out and back, or expand to a longer loop that also explores Glenbrook Creek.

• Distance and time:
  • Short walk to Red Hands Cave: 1 km return, 20 to 30 minutes from the Red Hands Cave car park
  • Longer loop via Camp Fire Creek and Blue Pool: 7 to 9 km, 2.5 to 4 hours
• Grade: Easy to moderate
• Trailheads: Glenbrook causeway or Red Hands Cave car park within the fee area
• Highlights: Ancient hand stencils, fragrant angophora forest, creek pools on hot days
• Why go: Culture and nature together

Important: Do not touch or photograph Red Hands Cave with flash. Respect the protective barriers.

Faulconbridge Point Lookout, Faulconbridge

A wide fire trail leads to an enormous clifftop platform with front row seats over the Grose River wilderness. It is straightforward, peaceful, and an ideal spot for a long lunch with a view.

• Distance and time: 11 km return, 3.5 to 4.5 hours
• Grade: Moderate due to length and some undulation
• Trailhead: Faulconbridge Point fire trail off Grose Road, Faulconbridge
• Highlights: Quiet track, wildflowers, sweeping lookout
• Why go: Big payoff hike that stays uncrowded even on busy weekends

Narrow Neck Plateau to Castle Head, Katoomba

Narrow Neck is the long ridge that separates the Jamison and Megalong valleys. The walk to Castle Head is a cracking half day that delivers constantly changing views, heathland blooms, and a sense of walking above it all.

• Distance and time: About 6 to 7 km return to Castle Head, 2 to 3 hours; up to 20 km return to Clear Hill for a bigger day
• Grade: Moderate, exposed to wind and sun
• Trailhead: End of Narrow Neck Road, Katoomba
• Highlights: Cliff lined plateau, views to Mount Solitary, ruined castle formation, sunset
• Why go: Grand scenery and a taste of the wilderness beyond

Pro tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is little shade. The unsealed section of Narrow Neck Road is usually passable for 2WD, but check after heavy rain.

Big Adventures and Overnight Hikes

If you want a deeper adventure, the Blue Mountains has rewarding full day and overnight walks that feel a world away from the clifftop crowds. These are best for experienced walkers with good navigation skills and the right gear. Always check track alerts, avoid high fire danger days, and carry a topo map or GPS.

Ruined Castle via Golden Stairs

A beloved outcrop of weathered rock in the Jamison Valley, the Ruined Castle is reached by a steep descent of the Golden Stairs then a rolling track through tall forest. The final scramble onto the boulders rewards you with 360 degree views to Mount Solitary and the Kedumba Walls.

• Distance and time: 8 to 10 km return, 3.5 to 5 hours
• Grade: Hard due to steep stairs and rock scramble
• Trailhead: Golden Stairs car park off Glenraphael Drive, Narrow Neck
• Highlights: Sandstone tower viewpoint, valley forest, birds and orchids
• Why go: A punchy, adventurous day out with a summit style finish

Pro tip: Go early to enjoy the top in peace. The scramble to the highest boulder involves exposure. If unsure, enjoy the views from lower rocks.

Mount Solitary Summit and Overnight Traverse

Mount Solitary rises prominently in the middle of the Jamison. Reaching the summit by way of the Ruined Castle gives you a satisfying challenge, with pockets of heath, rocky scrambles, and epic views. Strong walkers can make it a long day out. Many choose to camp near Chinamans Gully or on the eastern side and return the next morning. A full traverse from Golden Stairs to Kedumba Valley finishes near the base of the Kedumba Walls and requires a car shuffle or pickup.

• Distance and time:
  • Summit and return via Golden Stairs and Ruined Castle: 18 to 22 km, 8 to 10 hours, or overnight
  • Full traverse to Kedumba Valley: 25 to 30 km one way, 10 to 12 hours, or a comfortable overnight
• Grade: Hard, steep and rough with scrambles, exposed in hot or windy conditions
• Trailheads: Golden Stairs car park or Scenic World for alternate access; Kedumba Valley Road for the exit of the full traverse
• Highlights: Wild ridge walking, heathland wildflowers, sunrise and sunset from the summit area, deep valley perspectives
• Why go: The Blue Mountains wilderness at its most dramatic

Important: Water is scarce on the summit. Carry what you need, treat any creek water, and never light fires. Camping is permitted only in designated or durable locations. Always check fire bans.

Blue Gum Forest and Acacia Flat

Blue Gum Forest is a place with heart. Saved from logging by early conservationists, it is a cathedral of tall blue gums in the Grose Valley. The shortest way in is the steep Perrys Lookdown track to Acacia Flat campground. You can visit Blue Gum and return as a day walk, or stay the night at the grassy flat by the river.

• Distance and time:
  • Perrys Lookdown to Acacia Flat and Blue Gum and return: 6 to 8 km, 4 to 6 hours, very steep
  • Govetts Leap to Blue Gum via Govetts Creek and return: 20 to 24 km, full day, sections may close after rain or landslips
• Grade: Hard due to steep descent and ascent
• Trailheads: Perrys Lookdown near Blackheath, or Govetts Leap
• Highlights: Towering eucalypts, Grose River, wallabies at dusk, a true sense of place
• Why go: A pilgrimage for bushwalkers and a great first overnight

Pro tip: The descent from Perrys is steep with loose rock. Trekking poles help on the climb out. Pack out all rubbish and respect the quiet of the valley.

Federal Pass and Leura Forest Circuit

If you want a full day beneath the cliffs without the commitment of Mount Solitary or Blue Gum, Federal Pass delivers. Descend Furber Steps or the Giant Stairway, then follow the forested base of the cliffs through deep green gullies, past waterfalls and old landslip zones, before climbing back up via the Fern Bower or Leura Cascades tracks.

• Distance and time: 9 to 14 km depending on route, 4 to 6.5 hours
• Grade: Moderate to hard due to long stair climbs
• Trailheads: Scenic World, Katoomba Cascades, or Leura Cascades
• Highlights: Rainforest, waterfalls, towering cliffs above, chances to spot a lyrebird
• Why go: A classic under the cliffs experience that avoids the most exposed sections

Important: Giant Stairway and some valley tracks can close after storms. Check conditions, and be ready to backtrack.

Family Friendly and Short Walks

Short on time or hiking with kids? These easy to moderate walks deliver big scenery without big mileage.

• Leura Cascades round trip
  • Distance and time: 1 to 2 km, 30 to 60 minutes
  • Why go: A pretty series of falls under tree canopy, with picnic facilities nearby.
• Katoomba Cascades and Reids Plateau
  • Distance and time: 1 to 2 km, 30 to 45 minutes
  • Why go: Quick waterfall fix with excellent views and well formed paths.
• Jellybean Pool, Glenbrook
  • Distance and time: 800 meters return, 20 minutes; longer if you swim
  • Why go: A sandy beach pool on Glenbrook Creek. Great on hot days. Supervise children carefully.
• Three Sisters Walk to Honeymoon Bridge
  • Distance and time: 1 km return, 30 to 45 minutes
  • Why go: Iconic views and a touch of adventure.
• Princes Rock Lookout, Wentworth Falls
  • Distance and time: 2 km return, 45 to 60 minutes
  • Why go: A front row view of Wentworth Falls from the opposite side of the valley.

Insider Tips To Elevate Your Hike

• Beat the crowds
  • Start early, especially for Echo Point, Wentworth Falls, and the Grand Canyon. You will score parking and softer light for photos.
  • Explore Blackheath and Mount Hay Road for quieter lookouts and tracks.
• Weather and microclimates
  • Cloud inversions in the Grose and Jamison valleys are common after cool nights. If you wake to fog, head to a high lookout and watch the landscape emerge.
  • After heavy rain, waterfall walks are superb but steps can be slippery. Wear grippy shoes and take your time.
• Photography
  • Golden hour delivers warm light on the orange sandstone cliffs. For Cliff Top Walk, late afternoon from Evans Lookout toward Govetts is ideal.
  • A polariser helps cut glare and enhance sky and foliage.
• Where to base yourself
  • Katoomba and Leura are great for first timers, with cafes, gear shops, and easy access to signature walks.
  • Blackheath is perfect for Grose Valley hikes and a more chilled village vibe.
  • Glenbrook works well for short winter escapes and family friendly creek walks.
• Food and coffee near trailheads
  • Katoomba Street and Leura Mall have plenty of cafes. Blackheath has standout bakeries and pubs. Grab a post hike pie or a hot chocolate when the weather turns.
• Scenic World
  • If your legs are tired, Scenic World’s Scenic Railway and Scenic Walkway can be a fun add on to a valley hike, especially for families. It is a paid attraction adjacent to the national park.

Responsible Travel and Safety Essentials

• Always check NSW National Parks alerts on the park’s website before you go. Track status changes are common after storms or high winds.
• Stay on formed tracks. Cliff edges are unfenced and crumbly. Keep clear and supervise children.
• Do not rely solely on phone navigation. Download maps, take screenshots, or carry a paper map.
• Pack enough water. Streams can run dry in summer. Treat all natural water if you decide to drink it.
• Blue Mountains weather can turn quickly. Carry a warm layer and rain shell even if the day starts sunny.
• Snakes and leeches live here. Watch where you step, carry a basic first aid kit, and do a quick leech check after wet valley walks.
• Leave No Trace
  • Take all rubbish out with you.
  • Do not stack rocks or carve trees.
  • Toileting in the bush requires care. Use toilets at trailheads when possible.
• Cultural respect
  • Sites like Red Hands Cave are sacred. Observe all protections and never touch rock art.
• Fires and stoves
  • Fires are prohibited in many areas and total fire bans are common in summer. Use fuel stoves only where permitted and check current restrictions.

Suggested Hiking Itineraries

Here are simple, flexible plans that stack the best hikes by location and effort.

• One day Blue Mountains highlights
  1. Early start at Wentworth Falls for Overcliff Undercliff circuit or the lookouts loop.
  2. Late morning coffee in Leura.
  3. Prince Henry Cliff Walk section to Echo Point and the Three Sisters Walk.
  4. Sunset at Evans Lookout or Govetts Leap.
• Two day classic combo
  • Day 1
    • Grand Canyon Walk in the morning.
    • Lunch in Blackheath.
    • Afternoon Cliff Top Walk to Evans Lookout and back.
  • Day 2
    • Ruined Castle via Golden Stairs for a satisfying challenge.
    • Recovery treat in Katoomba or a gentle stroll to Katoomba Cascades.
• Three day immersive escape
  • Day 1
    • Narrow Neck to Castle Head in the morning.
    • Explore Leura Cascades in the afternoon.
  • Day 2
    • Mount Banks Summit Walk, picnic lunch at the top.
    • Fortress Ridge for sunset views over the Grose.
  • Day 3
    • Blue Gum Forest day trip from Perrys Lookdown if you are fit, or Red Hands Cave and a swim at Jellybean Pool for a relaxing finish.

Practical FAQ

• Is entry to Blue Mountains National Park free?
  • Most areas are free. The Glenbrook precinct has a per vehicle entry fee. Town parking fees may apply at some lookouts.
• Can I get to the hikes by train?
  • Yes. Trains run from Sydney to Glenbrook, Springwood, Lawson, Wentworth Falls, Leura, Katoomba, and Blackheath. Many trailheads are within walking distance or reachable by bus or taxi.
• Are dogs allowed?
  • No. Dogs are not permitted on national park walking tracks or in most picnic areas. Consider dog friendly state forests outside the park if traveling with a pet.
• Do I need a guide?
  • Most day hikes are well signposted. A guided walk can be a great way to learn about geology, plants, and culture, and is recommended for off track or canyon adventures.
• What about canyoning and rock climbing?
  • The Blue Mountains is a world class canyoning and climbing destination. These activities require specialised skills and gear, and should only be undertaken with proper experience or a licensed guide.
• Are track closures common?
  • Yes. Landslides, rockfalls, flood damage, and maintenance can close tracks. Always check the NSW National Parks website on the morning of your hike and obey all closures on the ground.

Why Hike the Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains National Park blends accessible adventure with serious wilderness. In a single weekend you can gaze at the Three Sisters at sunrise, descend stone steps into a ferny canyon, picnic above an ocean of blue green forest, and fall asleep to the sound of a river under tall blue gums. The variety of walking tracks, from stroller friendly cascades loops to mountaintop traverses, means every hiker can find a path that fits.

The key is to match your route to your experience, respect the land and its Traditional Owners, and give yourself the gift of unhurried time on the track. Pack your sense of wonder and a thermos for the lookout, and the Blue Mountains will do the rest.

Conclusion

The best hikes in Blue Mountains National Park showcase a landscape carved by time and alive with stories. Grand Canyon’s mossy walls, the thundering drop of Wentworth Falls, the cliff top parade from Govetts Leap to Evans Lookout, the wind washed hum of Narrow Neck, the serene giants of Blue Gum Forest, and the sculpted rocks of Ruined Castle and Hanging Rock are all chapters in one unforgettable adventure.

Build your trip around a few of these standout walks, allow room for weather and whim, and you will leave with memory cards full of views and a head full of fresh mountain air. Before you lace up, check the latest track alerts, pack smart, and tread lightly. Then step onto the sandstone and let the Blue Mountains work their magic.