The best bushwalks in the Blue Mountains

How far? 3.1km one way
How long will it take? 1.5 hours

If you’re partial to a lookout, this trail connecting Echo Point and Katoomba Falls is a must. There are no less than nine viewing decks along this walk, many taking in the jaw-dropping vistas of the Jamison Valley, as well as more secluded natural wonders like Witches Leap Falls and the Katoomba Cascades. The stars of the show are undoubtedly the towering falls at the western end of the trail, and the Three Sisters at the eastern end. These are even more spectacular at night when they are dramatically lit by floodlighting, and as of February 2021, the pathway through the Katoomba Reserve portion of the track is also illuminated, so you can continue to hike the trail until 11pm.

How far? 6km circuit
How long will it take? 3 hours

This circuit trail through lush rainforest near Blackheath is like stepping into a scene from a fairy tale. Along the path, you’ll pass gently cascading waterfalls, giant ferns, and rocky overhangs thick with moss that any woodland nymph would be proud to call home. People have been enjoying this trail for more than a century, although it's had a few upgrades over the decades, including the installation of some boardwalk in places. There are some steep sections, but by and large, this trail is manageable by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, decent hiking footwear and enough water and snacks to keep them going. 

How far? 19km

How long will it take? The whole route takes around two days to complete, but if you’re not up for the whole two-day affair, you can choose to tackle shorter stretches of the walking track, with multiple entry points and guided tours available.

Located on Gundungurra Country, this new 19km, two-day walk takes hikers along a route that hasn’t previously been safely accessible to the public. Winding its way along the escarpment from Wentworth Falls to Katoomba, the route takes in views over the Jamison Valley towards Mount Solitary, with elevated views of the the Three Sisters, the Wentworth Falls and Katoomba Cascades, and unique access to hand-built historic and restored sandstone tracks and lookouts. Start with the 11km stretch from Wentworth Falls to Gordon Falls, refuel and rest in the historic village of Leura, then put your hiking boots back on and hike out the final 8km.

How far? 7km round trip
How long will it take? 3 hours

Not that any part of the Blue Mountains is particularly overcrowded, but if you’re looking for an especially secluded hike, this lesser-known trail is a good one to keep in mind. While many bushwalks in the Blues tend to trek through densely forested areas, this path enjoys several exposed sections with stunning 360-degree views of Grose Valley, Govettes Gorge, and both Mounts Banks and Hay. The majority of this trail is a fairly easy walk, but the final approach to the summit of Lockleys Pylon is rather steep, although the climb is certainly worth the effort. Your reward for reaching the top is a view of the Blue Gum Forest that really can’t be beat.

How far: 1km one way
How long will it take? 30 mins

It may be short, but taking the trail from the Echo Point Lookout to the magnificent Three Sisters is still an epic experience. Along the start of the trail, which is adjacent to the Echo Point Visitors Centre, keep your eyes peeled for metallic life-size sculptures of local fauna, including a lyrebird, a skink and a platypus. The descent down the Giant Stairway can be a little intimidating – truly, this steep passage lives up to its name – but once you reach the bottom, we’re sure you’ll agree that the chance to step out onto Honeymoon Bridge and stand shoulder to shoulder with such a legendary landmark is worth a little vertigo.

How far? 5km circuit
How long will it take? 4.5 hours

If you do want to go chasing waterfalls, this challenging trail is the one for you. Starting at the easily reached Wentworth Falls Conservation Hut, you’ll trek along the gorgeous Valley of the Waters via both Wentworth and Empress Falls. You’ll ford creeks and discover smaller cascades snaking through the undergrowth as you explore this verdant forest, before starting the climb back to civilisation, up the Slack Stairs and the Grand Stairway. Make no mistake, your thighs are going to be achy in the morning, but if you’ve got the stamina and buns-o-steel to manage it, this trail ranks as one of the prettiest in the whole Greater Blue Mountains region.

How far? 2.5km
How long with it take? 2 hours

This quiet, easily accessible and charmingly scenic stroll is a great option if you enjoy a hike with your four-legged friend. The dog-friendly trail cuts through thriving bush and takes in several pretty waterfalls along the route as well as crossing Cataract Creek. Be warned: the path can get pretty waterlogged after heavy rains, so if you want to keep your car free of muddy pawprints, wait until the weather is fair before visiting.