Best 21 Things to do in Blue Mountains
Are you glancing for things to do in Blue Mountains? When visiting the Blue Mountains, these are the must-see attractions and must-do activities that are just not optional.
Without gazing in awe at the amazing rocks and formations that make up this ancient terrain, a trip to our wilderness that has been designated as a World Heritage Site is incomplete.
The Blue Mountains National Park, which covers more than one million hectares, is a great place to go on a trek while contemplating the tale of the Three Sisters as you look out at the hazy blue horizon from Echo Point.
Get aboard the iconic red double-decker Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, which makes 32 stops at waterfalls, lookouts, towns, and attractions, to travel between the tourist sites.
The well-known locations like Wentworth Falls, Jamison Valley, and Govett’s Leap are only a small portion of what our National Park has to offer.
The Hartley Historic Site, one of the best-preserved historical towns in the nation, is reached by continuing west through Mount Victoria. Alternatively, you may visit the magnificent Hill End to experience the days of gold mining.
With the world’s steepest passenger train and the Scenic Skyway that dangles over the Jamison Valley as perennial favorites, Scenic World has been greeting guests at its stunning escarpment site for more than 70 years.
Jenolan Caves, the oldest and most magnificent limestone caverns in the world, and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden’s amazing seasonal color are two further natural marvels that must be seen to be believed.
1. Blue Mountains Botanic Garden
If you’re looking for amazing Facts about Things to do blue mountains, this is a great place to start.
A display of indigenous and foreign cold climate plants, as well as an alpine rainforest, can be seen in the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah.
Our 28 hectares of well-maintained gardens and an additional 244 hectares of wildness are located inside a UNESCO World Heritage Area.
The protection and study of plants from a variety of various environments in Australia and throughout the globe are important endeavors for the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden.
Many rare species, magnificent cold climate trees, seasonal color, historically important plantings, and peaceful areas for picnics or forest bathing may all be found in the Garden.
The Garden, which is situated on Darug territory, is separated into four separate precincts and is crisscrossed with paths made for ambling, exploring, and interacting with the surrounding landscape.
The Garden is an unmatched site for a wedding or proposal, birthday celebration, or to get together with friends and family for a picnic or BBQ because of its panoramic views and gorgeous mountain setting.
2. Visit Scenic World
Explore the Scenic World park for a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fascinating topographic features. This provides among the most popular excursions in the park.
The world’s steepest railway is accessible. In this picturesque train trip, you will fly through a tunnel beside a precipice into a prehistoric jungle.
For a fun-filled day of adventure, you may take the glass-floored Skyway or the picturesque cableway. You may stroll through the 2.5 km gorgeous path at Scenic World’s Jurassic rainforest at your speed.
3. The Three Sisters Lookout
Here is an excellent location to go if you’re seeking intriguing facts about Things to do blue mountains.
The Three Sisters, which are close to Katoomba, are the Blue Mountains’ most visited tourist attraction. The impressive sandstone pillars tower more than 900 meters above the Jamison Valley, which is shrouded in mist.
The views are deserving of Insta. The pillars are lighted at night, and the contrast between them and the pitch-black night sky is amazing.
According to legend, the peaks were formerly three sisters who were cursed by a tribal elder to defend them from three brothers from another tribe. The elder sadly died away before he could undo his enchantment.
At Echo Point, in addition to being an excellent location for some breathtaking vistas, many of the walking trails that go into the valley have their beginnings. To reach the foot of these amazing peaks, use the Giant Stairway route.
4. Katoomba Falls
Katoomba Falls, one of the most recognized and easily accessible New South Wales Blue Mountains waterfalls, is situated halfway between Echo Point and Scenic World.
Katoomba Falls is a stunning, segmented waterfall that can be seen from a variety of vantage points in the vicinity. It descends into Jamison Valley in two major stages at a height of roughly 492 feet (150 meters).
You can travel to Echo Point, the site of the famed Three Sisters, in a short amount of time.
From the entrance of the park, bushwalks lead to breathtaking overlooks and undiscovered waterfalls. The cafés, restaurants, and welcoming pubs of Katoomba town center are nearby after a long day of seeing the Blue Mountains’ natural treasures.
Foreign visitors and domestic tourists who only have a short amount of time to discover the region should stay at The Park.
5. Tackle the Ruined Castle Hike
This is a great place to go if you’re looking for exciting information about Things to do blue mountains.
You may reach the famous Ruined Castle through the Ruined Castle Walking Track, which is situated in the center of the ridge between Mt. Solitary and Castle Head. Before reaching this natural rock structure, you will descend the Golden Stairs and pass through a stunning rainforest teeming with bird life.
Due to its 360-degree views of the area, the ruined castle itself is an excellent place to have lunch and take pictures (including the Three Sisters).
6. Jump On The Hop-On Hop-Off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus
A must-see for every visitor to Sydney is the Blue Mountains, and the easiest way to travel there and explore is by rail combined with an all-day Blue Mountains Explorer bus ticket.
You have the option to devote as much time as you wish at the most well-known locations in the Blue Mountains when you ride the Explorer Bus, which operates on the traditional Hop-On-Hop-Off basis.
This makes the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus the ideal choice if you want to have a bit more control over your trip compared to taking a fully planned day tour.
Wait for the bus to come when you’re ready to board and ride to the next attraction. The bus drivers are well-known for being quite kind and giving helpful background knowledge regarding the numerous sites you’re likely to see.
7. Visit The Blue Mountains Katoomba
This is a terrific place to initiate if you’re seeking outstanding Facts about Things to do Blue Mountains.
The Blue Mountains’ most popular tourist destination is Katoomba. The Katoomba Coal Mine, which J.B. North inaugurated in 1879, was the first significant development for the town of Katoomba.
With the use of a cable car, coal was brought to the summit of the mountain from the side close to Orphan Rock. In the original cut in the mountainside, the Scenic Railway, which is today renowned, runs.
Eaglehawk Lookout and Landslide Lookout may be found on Cliff Drive heading west from Scenic World. Katoomba Christian Convention Center is nearby.
Take a trip to Narrow Neck overlook by continuing along Cliff Drive. Observe the lovely Megalong Valley from Cahills Lookout, which is another option.
From Scenic World, you may reach the Cascades and trek to Katoomba Falls by traveling east along Cliff Drive.
Visit Cliff View Lookout, Wollumai Lookout, Allambie Lookout, and Lady Darley Lookout at Lilianfels Park, which offers picnic and barbecue facilities, by taking the Prince Henry Cliff Walk.
8. Knapsack Bridge
If you’re looking for exciting information on Things to do Blue Mountains, this is a great place to look.
The Lapstone Zig Zag Railway’s Knapsack Viaduct was finished in 1867. It was the highest building in the nation at the time, and tourists flocked to the location to take in its development.
The rail line was rerouted around the zigzag in 1913, leading to the bridge’s abandonment. The bridge was a crucial component of the Great Western Highway by 1926 and was enlarged in 1939 to handle increased traffic.
A large concrete slab was placed on top of the existing roadway, and stone columns and arches were erected on either side of the bridge to support it. This helped preserve the viaduct’s original architecture and aesthetic.
9. Blue Mountains National Park
The pride and history of the nation are the Blue Mountains National Park. There are many threatened animals there, notably the Tiger Quoll. This national park, which is located in the heart of the Blue Mountains, welcomes more than 3 million tourists each year.
The Blue Mountains National Park in Australia is home to some breathtakingly magnificent terrain.
Mountain climbing, rock climbing, short hikes, overnight adventures, long-distance lookouts, and canyoning are just a few of the sports and activities that the national park provides to its guests.
Every summer, the biggest bird, an “Emu,” come into this park, which is a fascinating sight to see.
10. Visit the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre
If you’re seeking intriguing details regarding Things to do Blue Mountains, this is a terrific spot to visit.
A must-see when visiting the Blue Mountains is the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre.
The Blue Mountains City Art Gallery, one of Australia’s top regional art galleries, has an exhibition schedule that includes in-house curated exhibits, national traveling exhibitions, and works by local and international artists.
Public activities that attempt to inform and engage the audience with the artists are linked with each show.
A shop that offers a wide variety of goods manufactured in Australia and locally is another feature of the Cultural Centre.
Browse the original and inventive gifts, home goods, stationery, books, and children’s toys that have been chosen with gallery exhibits and the Blue Mountains area in mind.
After perusing the artwork and the World Heritage Interpretive Exhibition, gather with relatives or friends at the Gallery Café to have a small lunch.
11. Blue Mountains Heritage Centre
A vast, unspoiled dreamworld of towering peaks, beautiful waterfalls, pleasant hiking routes, and charming picnic areas, the Blue Mountains are one of Australia’s natural wonderlands.
It seems to reason that the Blue Mountains History Centre would be a monument to the area, its Indigenous heritage, and the distinctive species that call the mountains home given that they are such a magnificent natural landmark.
The historical center is close to Blackheath and offers visitors interested in learning about the area entertaining family activities as well as interactive displays and immersive experiences.
The Blue Mountains Heritage Centre is the ideal location to learn about this amazing region before venturing out to experience it in all its natural beauty, whether you’re immersing yourself in the fascinating local history at the permanent “Outside In” exhibition or donning the VR goggles to explore the breathtaking Claustral Canyon!
12. Sublime Point Lookout
This is a great place to go if you’re looking for exciting information about Things to do blue mountains.
180-degree views of the ocean, the rain forest, and the 17 beaches that follow the coastline to Wollongong are available from Sublime Point Lookout.
The 850 meters of the Sublime Point course are covered. The advised walk duration is 45 minutes, and the grade for the difficulty is high.
Among the few routes between the plateau and the coastal foothills is this one. Few paths climb the escarpment due to its unstable terrain, excessive rains, and risk of rockfalls, landslides, and erosion.
The trail diverges from Gibson’s track before climbing steeply to the Sublime Point overlook. Near the peak of the hike, several steel ladders let walkers ascend the steep rock faces.
Some of the greatest views of the Illawarra escarpment, plain, and coastline can be seen from the viewpoint and the trail itself. Bring your drinking water; there are barbecues, picnic shelters, and restrooms available for guests.
13. Giant Stairway
Visit the Blue Mountains National Park for a day excursion, then climb the Giant Stairway to complete the strenuous Echo Point to Scenic World walking trail.
From the overlook at Echo Point, take in the breathtaking views before descending the more than 800 steel and stone stairs into the valley. Initially created in 1909, the stairs The Blue Mountains’ bush is home to incredible native fauna and magnificent native vegetation.
While traveling to Scenic World, a well-known tourist destination, take in the Three Sisters from the Jamison Valley’s floor, walk through Federal Pass, and pass the stunning Katoomba Falls.
When arriving at Scenic World, guests may choose to ride the Scenic Railway back up to the summit or ascend the challenging Furber Steps for further breathtaking views of the rainforest. 52 degrees is the steepest slope in the world, according to the scenic train.
The walking trail is classified as Grade 4, has a very high incline, and experts advise having some prior expertise with bushwalking.
14. Stroll South Lawson Waterfall Circuit
This is a beautiful, dog-friendly hiking trail that passes multiple waterfalls and is properly signposted.
On the main trail, first, descend to Adelina Falls. Take a break to paddle, then continue on your stroll down Lawson Creek in the direction of Junction Falls.
Take note of the set of stone stairs on your left as you go from Junction Falls since you will be heading there after seeing the Federal Falls, which are just a few paw steps away.
The Cataract falls are the next waterfall to see, located just before the route turns away from the stream. Right now, take some time to relax.
Returning to the main route, climb a flight of stone and wood stairs, then turn left at the bottom of the steps and seek at the signs directing you to Honour Avenue. You can return to your starting point by following the track that runs parallel to Honour Avenue.
15. Govetts Leap Lookout
This is a great place to go if you’re looking for exciting information about Things to do blue mountains. One of the Blue Mountains’ most beautiful lookouts is at Govetts Leap, without a doubt.
Impressive vistas of the vast, cliff-enclosed Grose Valley may be seen from all directions. There are several streams and rivers in the valley, including Govetts Creek and the Grose River.
William Govett, a painter and a surveyor who was the first European settlement in this region, is the name of the leap that bears his name.
He originally found this stunning location in June 1831, based on the sign at the overlook. From the overlook, facing southeast, it is easy to see The Bridal Veil Falls (or just Govett’s Leap).
Given that the term jump signifies waterfall in ancient Scottish dialect, the waterfall’s original name was “Govett’s Leap.” There are many picnic areas with plenty of open space and covered picnic tables close to the Govetts Leap overlook.
You may as well take advantage of it as it’s one of the nicer picnic locations in the Blue Mountains.
16. Blue Mountains Sydney Harbour Cruise
On this thrilling boutique-style trip, which departs from Sydney, you’ll travel far into the Blue Mountains, which are part of the World Heritage Site, and find immense gorges, high cliffs, amazing lookouts, stunning bush walks, and much more.
By using smaller buses, we can visit some amazing viewing sites and views that are inaccessible on bigger coach trips, allowing you to see and do more during your tour. As we take you to the top locations in the Blue Mountains, you’ll have the ideal viewpoints for taking pictures.
Walk into the forest after getting off the bus, surrounded only by the sounds of nature and breathtaking vistas. Breathe in the Blue Mountains, engage your senses, and exhale your tension.
Our Tour Guides are experts that are tuned in to give you one of the greatest experiences Australia has to offer.
The day will come to a close when you board Sydney’s flagship harbor tour for a voyage up into Sydney Harbour and awe-inspiring views of the city skyline. Enjoy the air while capturing the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the finest possible light from the ocean.
The high point of your journey to Australia will be a very unforgettable day tour!
17. Gordon Falls Lookout
Here is an excellent location to go if you’re seeking intriguing facts about Things to do blue mountains.
You must visit the Gordon Falls overlook and picnic spot in the Blue Mountains National Park, close to Leura, for some of New South Wales’s most breathtaking vistas.
It’s a well-liked destination for a family day trip since it offers everyone something they can enjoy, including expansive vistas, superb birding, bush trekking, and a playground for youngsters.
The waterfall descends more than 200 meters from the viewing platform. Look over to the magnificent vistas of Kings Tableland and Mount Solitary. Look to the sky while admiring the breathtaking view of peregrine falcons that are circling high on valley thermals.
Lyrebirds may often be found feeding closer to the ground amid the forest debris. Before having a leisurely picnic, grab the camera to capture some family photos for the picture book.
There are several hikes available, such as Lyrebird Dell – Pool of Siloam, if you want to get some exercise. If you want to go birdwatching, don’t forget your binoculars.
18. Explore Grand Canyon Walk
The Grand Canyon Walk, widely recognized as one of the most stunning walking routes in the Blue Mountains, will leave you speechless as you travel through a breathtaking setting of lush rainforest with several stream crossings, minor waterfalls, towering cliff walls, and rock overhangs to admire.
The first of its type, the 6-kilometer-long Grand Canyon walking trail was built and made available to the public in 1907.
Since then, countless hikers have taken on the task. For those planning to do the Grand Canyon Walk, a parking space called the Grand Canyon Carpark was specifically created.
With more than 100 parking spaces, restrooms, and areas for the handicapped and buses, this freshly renovated and sizable car park is extremely spacious.
The Grand Canyon Carpark is the greatest and most convenient place to leave your vehicle in a secure area for the day.
19. Pulpit Rock Lookout
If you’re looking for exciting information on Things to do Blue Mountains, this is a great place to look. Just a few miles north of the charming hamlet of New Norfolk, the Pulpit Rock Lookout is perched on a cliff.
You’ll get vistas of lush, rolling hills, wide-open farms, and a bend in the Derwent River with the town positioned immediately south of the river.
The overlook is just a short distance from its parking, but getting there may be challenging since it’s at the end of a winding dirt road.
A simple trip to the Pulpit Rocket Lookout is appropriate for a few social media photos and possibly a family lunch. All you must do is understand how to reach your destination.
20. Mountain Biking In the Blue Mountains
The “Oaks” Fire path, one of the most well-liked mountain bike routes in Australia, is the crowning achievement of Blue Mountains trail riding and has all the makings of a memorable ride and experience.
The route connects Glenbrook (height 607 m) with Woodford (altitude 607 m) (altitude 163m). With a last ascent up the road leading out of the National Park to Glenbrook Village, the ride descends 80 percent of the way.
In the first 10 km of the trip, there are a few minor rises (which are best walked), but after you get to the helipad, it’s all downhill the rest of the way.
You should take the time to look about as the route weaves its way up ridge tops because you may get some fantastic views of the lower Blue Mountains. On a clear day, Sydney’s central business district is visible.
21. Hiking and Heritage Trails
Hiking and historic path experiences are unquestionably among the most well-liked methods to take in the grandeur of this World Heritage site.
One of the most well-known pathways dates back to the early 1800s and is the historic national pass. The conservation hut serves as the starting point for this walk, which leads into the Valley of the Waters and then requires you to follow a path that has been cut into the side of a cliff.
Before the route concludes at Wentworth Falls and Jamison Lookout, you get to see some of the most stunning waterfalls. For some of the greatest pictures of your trip, don’t forget to bring your gear.
Conclusion
An integral aspect of the renowned Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is the Blue Mountains National Park. One of the most well-known forests in Australia is this one.
Due to its proximity to Sydney—just 60 kilometers away—the park is regularly visited as a day excursion from the city.
Because of the many eucalyptus trees, the Blue Mountains earn their name because of the blue haze they produce. The impressive mountains have a variety of mountainous rock formations, valleys, waterfalls, gorgeous eucalyptus trees, and abundant animals.
With more than 140 kilometers of hiking routes and several historic paths, this area is a hiker’s heaven.
In this park, visitors may engage in a variety of wilderness activities, including caving, mountain biking, abseiling, canyoning, camping, rock climbing, horseback riding, and canoeing.
