With so many beautiful walking tracks, the Blue Mountains is a paradise for bushwalkers keen to explore scenic waterfalls, deep valleys, and panoramic lookouts.
Hiking is by far the best way to take in all that natural beauty, and in this guide, we are sharing the 20 best walks in the Blue Mountains.
We have ordered these walks by area, from east to west, and by distance, from short to long.
| 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 | Asgard Swamp Track | Blackheath | 9 km (return) |
| 18 | Hanging Rock Track | Blackheath | 10 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, with your first glimpses of the viaduct appearing as you get closer.
A steep staircase then takes you down to the top of the bridge, where you can admire the view from above or descend into the gully for a closer look at this impressive structure.
More information: Lapstone Zig Zag Walk.
| Lapstone Zig Zag Walk | |
|---|---|
| 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 small 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, although it can get a little muddy. For the best views, plan your visit after some rainfall when the waterfalls are flowing well.
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.
| South Lawson Waterfall Circuit | |
|---|---|
| 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, guiding 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 section, within National Parks, is a bit longer and showcases the fourth waterfall, Frederica Falls. This scenic cascade makes the full circuit well worth the effort.
More information: Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit.
| Empire Pass Waterfall Circuit | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 5.5 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 2.5 hour |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
4. Valley of the Waters Walking Track
This 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 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.
| Valley of the Waters Walking Track | |
|---|---|
| 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, which makes it less challenging than the Wentworth Pass but just as enjoyable.
Various lookout points along the track offer scenic views over the valley and the waterfall, adding to the appeal of this walk.
More information: Overcliff Undercliff Track.
| Overcliff Undercliff Track | |
|---|---|
| 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 scenic 4 km walking track in Leura that winds 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.
| Bridal Veil Falls Circuit | |
|---|---|
| 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 impressive 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, which makes 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 make the effort worthwhile. 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.
| Lockleys Pylon Walking Track | |
|---|---|
| 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 is not as well-known as the nearby Lockleys Pylon track, but the views may be even more impressive.
At the end of the trail, a lookout provides 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 scenic 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 is well worth the extra effort.
More information: Fortress Ridge Trail.
| Fortress Ridge Trail | |
|---|---|
| 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 is packed with highlights.
Along the way, you’ll pass 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 is a challenging section at the end where you’ll need to tackle part of the Giant Stairway.
More information: Three Sisters Walk.
| Three Sisters Walk | |
|---|---|
| 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, although there are a few steep sections along the way.
Starting at Scenic World, the trail winds through lush rainforest before reaching Katoomba Falls, with 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.
| Katoomba Falls Round Walk | |
|---|---|
| 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 only moments beyond the starting point of the Ruined Castle Walk.
The first section of the walk follows the Narrow Neck Plateau Trail, and the second part, the Castle Head Track, is a relatively easy bushwalk that leads to that impressive lookout.
More information: Narrow Neck to Castle Head.
| Narrow Neck to Castle Head | |
|---|---|
| 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 is an exciting 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 are located close to Scenic World. One half of the walk follows the cliff edge, while the other half meanders through the valley.
More information: Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop.
| Giant Stairway to Furber Steps Loop | |
|---|---|
| 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, 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 tracks like the Grand Canyon Walk.
A highlight along the way is the Centennial Grove Grotto Canyon, a narrow slot canyon with a small waterfall and a natural swimming pool.
More information: Porters Pass Circuit.
| Porters Pass Circuit | |
|---|---|
| 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 scenic track follows the edge of the valley cliffs, offering wide views over the expansive Grose Valley. At Evans Lookout, the trail connects with the Grand Canyon Walk.
You can start this hike from either Govetts Leap or Evans Lookout. To reach Govetts Leap, follow the Great Western Highway to Blackheath and turn onto Govetts Leap Road, which leads directly to the lookout.
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.
| Cliff Top Walking Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3 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, offering great views and beautiful scenery from start to finish.
First opened in 1907, this 6 km track was the first of its kind in the Blue Mountains and is now a favourite among hiking enthusiasts. The trail meanders through lush rainforest with creek crossings, small waterfalls, sandstone cliff walls, and rock overhangs.
While it includes some steep sections, the Grand Canyon Walk can be tackled by anyone with a reasonable fitness level. Bring plenty of water, good footwear, and a few snacks.
More information: Grand Canyon Walk.
| Grand Canyon Walk | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 6 km (circuit) |
| Duration: | 3 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 walk begins with a climb to the summit of Hat Hill, followed by an open stretch across exposed terrain, before continuing through bushland to Bald Head. The views from Bald Head over the Grose Valley, surrounding cliff walls, and nearby landmarks are very impressive.
This moderately challenging hike in the Blackheath area is relatively unknown, which adds to the experience.
More information: Hat Hill to Bald Head.
| Hat Hill to Bald Head | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 7 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
17. 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 impressive Blue Mountains scenery.
This typically quiet 9 km return walk on the Asgard Plateau features several interesting sights and offers wide 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 several well-known landmarks.
More information: Asgard Swamp Track.
| Asgard Swamp Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 9 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate / hard |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
18. 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 before reaching this landmark, the trail passes Baltzer Lookout, which offers wide 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. The trail itself may be somewhat uninspiring, but the beauty of Hanging Rock is well worth the journey.
More information: Hanging Rock Track.
| Hanging Rock Track | |
|---|---|
| Hanging Rock Track | 10 km (return) |
| Duration: | 3.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
19. Walls Lookout Walking Track
The walking track to Walls Lookout is located in the Bells Line of Road area of the Blue Mountains, which is typically much quieter than the Katoomba and Wentworth Falls areas.
Walls Lookout isn’t a purpose-built platform; instead, it offers a spacious area atop a cliff where visitors can wander and take in the views. The outlook over the Grose Valley and surrounding cliffs is excellent, with plenty of room to explore.
Depending on recent 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.
| Walls Lookout Walking Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1 hour |
| 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 offers beautiful views of a part of the region that is still fairly 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 shorter and more enjoyable walking track, although it is quite steep. The second option is longer and less steep, but it does not offer the best views.
More information: Mount Banks Summit Walk.
| Mount Banks Summit Walk | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2.5 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1.5 hours |
| Grade: | Moderate |
| Trailhead: | Map location |
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