Find the best walks in the Blue Mountains, from easy, family-friendly walking trails to challenging half-day hikes.
With so many beautiful walking tracks, the Blue Mountains is a true paradise for bushwalkers who want to explore scenic waterfalls, deep valleys, and many lookout points that offer panoramic views.
Hiking is by far the best way to discover all that natural goodness, and in this guide, we are sharing the 20 best walking tracks in the Blue Mountains.
We have ordered these walks by area (east to west) and by distance.
Top 20 Blue Mountains Walks:
| Walk | Area | Distance | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lapstone Zig Zag Walk | Glenbrook | 3 km (return) |
| 2 | South Lawson Waterfall Circuit | Lawson | 2.5 km (circuit) |
| 3 | Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit | Lawson | 5.5 km (circuit) |
| 4 | Valley of the Waters Walking Track | Wentworth Falls | 2.5 km (return) |
| 5 | Overcliff Undercliff Track | Wentworth Falls | 4 km (circuit) |
| 6 | Bridal Veil Falls Circuit | Leura | 4 km (circuit) |
| 7 | Lockleys Pylon Walking Track | Leura | 7 km (return) |
| 8 | Fortress Ridge Trail | Leura | 7.5 km (return) |
| 9 | Three Sisters Walk | Katoomba | 1 km (return) |
| 10 | Katoomba Falls Round Walk | Katoomba | 2 km (circuit) |
| 11 | Narrow Neck to Castle Head | Katoomba | 4.5 km (return) |
| 12 | Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop | Katoomba | 6 km (circuit) |
| 13 | Porters Pass Circuit | Blackheath | 5.5 km (circuit) |
| 14 | Cliff Top Walking Track | Blackheath | 6 km (return) |
| 15 | Grand Canyon Walk | Blackheath | 6 km (circuit) |
| 16 | Hat Hill to Bald Head | Blackheath | 7 km (return) |
| 17 | Hanging Rock Track | Blackheath | 8 km (return) |
| 18 | Asgard Swamp Track | Blackheath | 9 km (return) |
| 19 | Walls Lookout Walking Track | Bells Line of Rd | 2 km (return) |
| 20 | Mount Banks Summit Walk | Bells Line of Rd | 2.5 km (return) |
Before heading out to do one of these walks, we recommend checking the latest updates on closed areas in the Blue Mountains on the National Parks website.
1. Lapstone Zig Zag Walk
The historic Lapstone Zig Zag Walk in Glenbrook is a fascinating bushwalk that follows an abandoned railway line to the Knapsack Bridge.
This sandstone arch viaduct, built in the late 19th century, once carried the Zig Zag Railway over Knapsack Gully and remains an iconic piece of engineering.
Starting at the end of Knapsack Street in Glenbrook, the trail leads you through bushland, offering your first glimpses of the viaduct as you approach.
A steep staircase then takes you down to the top of the bridge, where you can either admire the view from above or descend into the gully for a closer look at this remarkable structure.
More information: Lapstone Zig Zag Walk.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 3 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
2. South Lawson Waterfall Circuit
The family-friendly South Lawson Waterfall Circuit is a 2.5 km loop that visits four charming waterfalls, tucked away in a scenic pocket of bushland not far from Lawson’s town centre.
This easy-to-follow trail suits all ages and fitness levels, though it can get a little muddy. For the best waterfall views, plan your visit after some rainfall when the waterfalls are at their finest.
As one of the few dog-friendly walks in the Blue Mountains, the South Lawson Waterfall Circuit also welcomes you to bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure.
More information: South Lawson Waterfall Circuit.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2.5 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
3. Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit
The 5.5 km Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit, located north of the highway in Lawson, is a bit more challenging than its counterpart in South Lawson.
This walk combines the Empire Pass and Dantes Glen Walking Track, leading you to four picturesque waterfalls.
The Dantes Glen section, on Council land, is 1.8 km long and features three of the waterfalls, while the Empire Pass (within National Parks) is a bit longer, showcasing the fourth waterfall, Frederica Falls. This stunning cascade makes the full circuit well worth the effort.
More information: Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 5.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 2.5 hour |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
4. Valley of the Waters Walking Track
A relatively short but steep walking track, starting from the Conservation Hut in Wentworth Falls, brings visitors up close to several scenic waterfalls.
The first section of the walk, towards the Queen Victoria Lookout and Empress Lookout, follows an easy path with several sets of stairs.
From the Empress Lookout, the track descends further via a series of metal stairs, leading to the beautiful Empress Falls.
Beyond Empress Falls, the trail continues deeper into the Valley of the Waters, revealing a few more waterfalls: Sylvia Falls, Lodore Falls, and Flat Rock Falls.
More information: Valley of the Waters Walking Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
5. Overcliff Undercliff Track
One of the best walks in the Wentworth Falls area is the Overcliff Undercliff Track, a 4 km circuit that can be started from either the picnic area or the Conservation Hut.
This hike stays higher up on the cliffs, avoiding the valley floor, making it less challenging than, for example, the Wentworth Pass, but equally enjoyable.
Various lookout points along the track offer scenic views over the valley and the waterfall, which makes this walk all the more appealing.
More information: Overcliff Undercliff Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 4 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 2 hours |
| Grade: | Easy / moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
6. Bridal Veil Falls Circuit
The Bridal Veil Falls Circuit is a stunning 4 km walking track in Leura, winding through a lush rainforest landscape with waterfalls, creeks, and towering cliff walls.
This loop includes the Amphitheatre Walking Track and the Fern Bower Track, with the base of Bridal Veil Falls as its star attraction.
Also known as Leura Falls, this beautiful cascade flows along Leura Falls Creek into the Jamison Valley. Similar in appearance to Wentworth Falls, Bridal Veil Falls is smaller but offers a more intimate experience.
More information: Bridal Veil Falls Circuit.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 4 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 2 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
7. Lockleys Pylon Walking Track
The walking trail to Lockleys Pylon is a unique bushwalk in the Blue Mountains, offering stunning 360-degree views of the Grose Valley, Govetts Gorge, and the sandstone cliffs of Mount Banks and Mount Hay.
This part of the Blue Mountains remains relatively quiet, making the hike to the peak even more enjoyable. Despite its short length, the trail showcases a variety of landscapes and habitats.
The final stretch to the summit of Lockleys Pylon is steep, but the panoramic views from the top are truly breathtaking.
From there, you can either return to the car park or extend your walk to Du Faur Head and the Blue Gum Forest.
More information: Lockleys Pylon Walking Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 7 km (return) |
| Duration: | 2.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
8. Fortress Ridge Trail
The Fortress Ridge Trail is a 7.5 km return hike that’s not as popular as the nearby Lockleys Pylon track, but the views might be even more impressive.
At the end of the trail, a lookout offers stunning views over the Grose Valley and its imposing cliff walls.
If you’re keen, a second walk starts from the same car park and leads to another beautiful lookout, offering valley views from a different perspective.
This 2.5 km walk to the Fortress Rock Lookout is much shorter than the trail to Fortress Ridge, and well worth the extra effort.
More information: Fortress Ridge Trail.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 7.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
9. Three Sisters Walk
The scenic walking trail to the Three Sisters from Echo Point in Katoomba may be short, but it’s packed with highlights.
Along the way, you’ll find several excellent lookout points before reaching the Honeymoon Bridge, which connects to the first of the Three Sisters.
The walk begins at the stone archway next to the Information Centre at Echo Point. While the path is easy and well-maintained, there’s a challenging section at the end where you’ll need to tackle part of the Giant Stairway.
More information: Three Sisters Walk.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 1 km (return) |
| Duration: | 45 minutes |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
10. Katoomba Falls Round Walk
Often overlooked by tourists, the circuit track to Katoomba Falls offers an up-close experience with one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Blue Mountains.
This short, relatively easy walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, though there are a few steep sections along the way.
Starting at Scenic World, the trail winds through lush rainforest before reaching Katoomba Falls, offering panoramic views of the Jamison Valley. The waterfall, part of the Kedumba River, cascades 150 metres into the valley below.
More information: Katoomba Falls Round Walk.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 2 hours |
| Grade: | Easy / moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
11. Narrow Neck to Castle Head
The 4.5 km bushwalking trail from Narrow Neck to Castle Head is a pleasant walk that leads to a quiet but beautiful lookout with panoramic views.
This walk, still a bit of a hidden gem, starts from the Narrow Neck Plateau Trail, which extends from Glenraphael Drive in the Katoomba area. The trailhead is moments beyond the starting point of the Ruined Castle Walk.
The first section of the walk is on the Narrow Neck Plateau Trail, and the second part, the Castle Head Track, is a relatively easy bushwalk to that incredible lookout.
More information: Narrow Neck to Castle Head.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 4.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 2 hours |
| Grade: | Easy / moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
12. Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop
The Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop in the Katoomba area of the Blue Mountains is an incredible walking track that includes two iconic staircases.
This moderately challenging hike is one of the best in the Blue Mountains, with panoramic Jamison Valley views, beautiful forest scenery, and unique rock formations.
The Giant Stairway is located next to the Three Sisters, and the Furber Steps is located close to Scenic World. One half of the walk follows the cliff edge, and the other half meanders through the valley.
More information: Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
13. Porters Pass Circuit
The Porters Pass Circuit is an exciting bushwalk in the Blackheath area of the Blue Mountains, featuring waterfalls, valley views, creek crossings, rainforest gullies, and slot canyons.
This challenging hike combines four different walking trails and is considered one of the best in the Blue Mountains. Interestingly, the Porters Pass Circuit is much quieter than more popular hikes like the Grand Canyon Walk.
A highlight along the way is the Centennial Grove Grotto Canyon, a slot canyon that includes a small waterfall and a natural swimming pool.
More information: Porters Pass Circuit.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 5.5 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
14. Cliff Top Walking Track
The Cliff Top Walking Track connects two of the most spectacular lookout points in the Blue Mountains: Govetts Leap Lookout and Evans Lookout.
Located near Blackheath, this stunning track follows the edge of the valley’s cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the expansive Grose Valley. At Evans Lookout, the trail connects with the Grand Canyon Walk.
You can start this scenic hike from either Govetts Leap or Evans Lookout. To reach Govetts Leap, follow the Great Western Highway to Blackheath, then turn onto Govetts Leap Road, which leads directly to the lookout.
Alternatively, if you prefer to begin at the other end, turn onto Evans Lookout Road in Blackheath and drive to the third and last car park.
More information: Cliff Top Walking Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Easy / moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
15. Grand Canyon Walk
The Grand Canyon Walk is one of the most impressive and enjoyable hikes in the Blue Mountains. This track offers incredible views and beautiful scenery to enjoy from start to finish.
The trail meanders through lush rainforests, featuring several creek crossings, small waterfalls, sandstone cliff walls, and rock overhangs.
First opened in 1907, the 6 km Grand Canyon walking track was the first of its kind in the Blue Mountains and has since been embraced by thousands of hiking enthusiasts each year.
While the Grand Canyon Walk includes some steep sections, it can be tackled by anyone with a reasonable fitness level. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, appropriate footwear, and some snacks to keep you going.
More information: Grand Canyon Walk.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 2.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
16. Hat Hill to Bald Head
The 7 km return walking track from Hat Hill Road in Blackheath to Bald Head takes you through beautiful bushland before reaching a panoramic lookout point.
The views from Bald Head over the Grose Valley, the surrounding cliff walls, and nearby landmarks are truly impressive.
The walk begins with a climb to the summit of Hat Hill, followed by a stretch through an open landscape, and then continues through bushland to Bald Head.
This moderately challenging hike in the Blackheath area of the Blue Mountains is relatively unknown, making it a peaceful escape.
More information: Hat Hill to Bald Head.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 7 km (return) |
| Duration: | 2.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
17. Hanging Rock Track
Hanging Rock, a large sandstone formation jutting out from a cliff, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Blue Mountains, located near Blackheath.
Just moments away is Baltzer Lookout, which offers breathtaking views of the Grose Valley and the surrounding escarpments.
While Hanging Rock and Baltzer Lookout are a bit off the beaten track, you can easily reach them via a management trail. Although the trail itself may be somewhat uninspiring, the beauty of Hanging Rock is well worth the journey.
More information: Hanging Rock Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 8 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
18. Asgard Swamp Track
The walking track to Asgard Swamp and Thor Head, commonly known as the Asgard Swamp Track, is an adventurous hike that navigates through stunning Blue Mountains scenery.
This typically quiet, 9 km return walk on the Asgard Plateau features several exciting sights and offers fantastic valley views from multiple lookout points.
The views from Asgard Head at the end of the trail are especially impressive, overlooking the Grose Valley and showcasing various landmarks of the Blue Mountains.
More information: Asgard Swamp Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 9 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
19. Walls Lookout Walking Track
The walking track to Walls Lookout is situated in the Bells Line of Road area of the Blue Mountains, which is typically much quieter than the Katoomba and Wentworth Falls regions.
Walls Lookout isn’t a purpose-built lookout platform; instead, it offers a spacious area atop a cliff where visitors can roam and take in the views.
The views from Walls Lookout over the Grose Valley and surrounding cliffs are stunning, providing plenty of space to explore.
Depending on rainfall, you might even catch a glimpse of a waterfall on Hungerfords Gully, which flows into the Grose River in the valley below.
More information: Walls Lookout Walking Track.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Easy / moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
20. Mount Banks Summit Walk
Mount Banks features a distinctive rounded peak, making it one of the most recognisable landmarks in the Blue Mountains.
Often overlooked by tourists, the hike to the summit of Mount Banks offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, a part of the Blue Mountains that remains quiet.
You can reach the summit of Mount Banks via two routes. One track roughly follows the cliff edge, while the other is accessed via a fire trail.
The first option is the shortest and most enjoyable walking track, though it is quite steep. The second option is longer and less steep but doesn’t provide the best views.
More information: Mount Banks Summit Walk.
| Walk stats: | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
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