The towering rock faces of Jamison Valley, Grose Valley and Megalong Valley are etched deeply in my memory, constantly beckoning me back to this place. The cliffs are dotted with waterfalls that cascade down into the rainforest-covered valleys below. These valleys—and all they conceal—attract adventurers from across the globe, drawn to explore the Blue Mountains’ endless network of walking trails.
Located just an hour’s drive west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park is a World Heritage-listed destination and an exceptional place for outdoor adventure. With so many walking trails, one could spend years exploring them and still not see everything. This is precisely what makes the Blue Mountains National Park so unique.
Under certain lighting conditions, the blue haze that shrouds the Blue Mountains is precisely what gave the range its name. A letter written by Mrs Audrey Tennyson (wife of the Governor of South Australia, circa 1900) to her mother says it all.
The scenery in the afternoon and at dusk was absolutely stunning, with the interplay of light and shadow creating a truly breathtaking sight. What left the deepest impression on us was the stunning deep blue of the distant mountains. I have never seen such beauty; it was a truly dazzling sapphire blue, a clear and translucent blue—simply beyond words.
But this breathtaking mountain range is far more than just a sight to behold from afar. It harbours all manner of secrets.
The Blue Mountains hold profound significance for six Indigenous nations: the Dharawal, Darkinjung, Dharug, Gundungurra, Wonnarua and Wiradjuri. You may not hear their ancient stories everywhere you go, but if you set out to explore with an open mind, you are sure to have some enlightening experiences. Contact the New South Wales Department of Parks and Wildlife to enquire about their Indigenous Discovery Ranger programme; this might be a good place to start.
The best walking trails in the Blue Mountains? The very notion is laughable.
Sublime Point Lookout
At the Summit Lookout, you’ll feel as though you’re standing on the edge of the world. The views are vast and unobstructed.
This little-known, easy Blue Mountains walking trail is suitable for walkers of all ages and fitness levels, and truly lives up to its name with absolutely stunning scenery. I’ve walked many day and multi-day trails in the area, but this one remains one of my favourite Blue Mountains walks.
– Anna Sherchand, from annasherchand.com (follow her adventures on Instagram).
The Pool of Siloam
Cool off beneath the hidden waterfall at the Pool of Siloam—the perfect spot for a summer afternoon walk with the children. It’s just a 300-metre walk one way, and the small waterfall and sandy pool at the bottom are well worth a visit. Even if you don’t go for a dip, the fern-lined ravine offers a refreshing respite from the summer heat.
If you think the views from Gowetzlip and the Preacher’s Pulpit are already spectacular, why not head down into the valley to admire the scenery from a different angle? Setting off from the Gove’s Lip viewpoint and following the Gross Valley downwards, you’ll reach the base of Gove’s Lip Falls (also known as the Bridal Veil Falls). If you go in the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight bathe the mountains, casting enchanting silhouettes, you’re likely to have the entire trail to yourself.
Rosen Falls Circular Walk
The picturesque Lawson Falls Circuit Trail takes in four small but charming waterfalls—Convergence Falls, Federal Falls, Cataract Falls and Adeline Falls. This 3-kilometre Blue Mountains trail is suitable for children and is at its best after rain, though it is beautiful all year round.
If you’re interested in seeing the magical Blue Mountains glow-worms, head to Cataract Falls after dark.
—Holly from GlobeBlogging (follow her adventures on Facebook)
Grand Canyon Trail
The Grand Canyon Walk is one of the most popular hiking trails in Blue Mountains National Park. As you descend from Evans Lookout, pass through the canopy and reach the rainforest stream, you’ll soon understand why it’s so popular.
Before long, you’ll be walking along the stream through the canyon, passing tranquil waterfalls cascading down the sandstone cliffs. The path winds its way through towering tree ferns, with zigzagging stepping stones laid across the stream. You’d never imagine that such breathtaking scenery could be packed into such a short walk.
—Emma from Our Wayfaring Life (follow her adventures on Facebook)
Water Valley and the National Mountain Pass Trail
Descend the steep cliff from the nature reserve hut to reach the Valley of Water. A spectacular waterfall, surrounded by cascading ferns, plunges down into a pool encircled by moss-covered rocks. On a fine, sunny day, you may even spot lyrebirds foraging amongst the rainforest undergrowth.
Less adventurous visitors may turn back at Lodore Falls and retrace their steps; this section is approximately 1.3 kilometres and takes 1.5 hours. However, I recommend setting aside a full day to continue along the National Pass Trail. You’ll have the chance to experience the sheer power of Wentworth Falls from the base, before climbing the 600 rocky steps of the Grand Staircase. On your return to the Conservation Hut, you can take the Shortcut Track.
