With its rugged and dramatic cliffs, sweeping eucalyptus forests, and impressive waterfalls, the Blue Mountains National Park is one of the country’s national treasures.
And at less than two hours drive from Sydney, its splendours are accessible to a huge portion of the population.
Located almost due west of Sydney, a significant portion of the area is incorporated into the Greater Blue Mountains Area World Heritage Site, consisting of seven national parks and a conservation reserve.
A number of established towns are located within the park, including Katoomba and Blackheath – both popular spots for hikers and other visitors due to their proximity to hiking trails.
Below we take a look at 7 of the most impressive hiking trails The Blue Mountains have to offer.
1. Federal Pass
An awe-inspiring hike through the Jamison Valley, this historic track makes its way around the base of the cliffs to the south of Katoomba (including the iconic The Three Sisters) via Leura Forest.
Finishing at Scenic World, you have the option of catching the train back to Katoomba or tackling the imposing stairs back up out of the valley.
Trailhead location: Leura or Katoomba
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 13km one-way
Time to complete: 6.5 hours
More information:nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
2. Six foot track
One of the most challenging, yet most rewarding hikes in the Blue Mountains, the Six Foot track starts at Katoomba and winds south-west through woodlands and rainforest, and finishes at the Jenolan Caves.
Over the course of three days, hikers will experience a variety of wildlife, waterfalls, swing bridges and more.
Trailhead location: Katoomba
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 46km
Time to complete: 3 days
More information:http://www.sixfoottrack.com/
3. Grand Canyon Walk
A great day hike option, this historic loop track packs a lot of action into its fairly short 6.3km.
From stunning rainforest and waterfalls, ledge trails, and sweeping panoramic views, the Grand Canyon track features so much of what people love about the Blue Mountains.
Lucky adventurers will also see bird and wildlife amongst the native fauna.
Trailhead location: Evans lookout near Blackheath
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 6.3km
Time to complete: 3-4 hours
More information: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
4. Three Sisters walk
The rocky outcrop known as the Three Sisters, is the hero of this short walk, and the most iconic landmark in The Blue Mountains National Park.
According to the Aboriginal dream-time legend, three sisters were turned to stone by a witchdoctor for protection, however, when the witch doctor himself was killed in battle, the sisters remained in their rock formations.
Trailhead location: Echo Point Visitor Centre
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1km return
Time to complete: 0.5 hours
More information: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
5. National Pass
With breathtaking panoramic views and dramatic cliff side tracks, this day walk is not one to miss.
Starting in the Valley of the Waters you will encounter luscious rainforest and stunning waterfalls, not to mention abundant birdlife.
Further along the track you will find many lookouts, so try to pick a clear day for this one to make the most of the views
Trailhead location: Wentworth Falls picnic area
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 4.5km loop
Time to complete: 3 hours
More information: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
6. Forest walk to Sublime Point track
If you want to tick a few boxes off with one day-hike, then this beautiful forest walk should be near the top of your list. This walk combines the Wodi Wodi Track and the Sublime Point Walking Track to create a solid 14km day-hike suitable for those with a decent level of fitness.
With stunning city views combined with creeks, swaps and rainforest, this walk has it all.
Trailhead location: Coalcliff (Wodi Wodi track) or Austinmer (Sublime Point track)
Difficulty: Medium/Difficult
Distance: 14km one-way
Time to complete: 5-6 hours
More information: nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
7. Wentworth Falls track
Starting in the Wentworth Falls picnic area, this walk rewards those who are up to the challenge of the short climb. The highlight of this walk is undoubtedly the imposing Wentworth Falls, which are at their best after some rain.
While this short walk can be completed in isolation, it is also possible to combine it with Weeping Rock circuit, the Undercliff track, Princes Rock lookout track, or the National Pass.
Trailhead location: Wentworth Falls picnic area
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 1.4km return
Time to complete: 1 hour
More information:nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
