There’s a way to experience the Blue Mountains for every level of adventure. You can choose from an almost overwhelming number of easily accessible lookouts, from which you can take in some of the area’s most outstanding landmarks and waterfalls. Those willing to tackle hundreds of steep steps can reach the valley floor on foot, immersing themselves in the wilderness. But you can also sit back and let Scenic World do the work for you.
I had a beautiful time in the Blue Mountains, and these are the places that stood out — plus a few things I wish I knew before going.
1. Behold the iconic Three Sisters
The Three Sisters are the Blue Mountains’ must-see rock formation. On the Jamison Valley’s north escarpment, these massive pillars tower some 300 m above the valley floor. Yet the sheer scale of the eucalyptus-clad valley and steep sandstone cliffs behind them might be the most striking part.
You’ll get the best view from the easily accessible Echo Point Lookout. For different angles, take the 400-m Three Sisters Walk. It connects to additional lookouts and the Honeymoon Bridge, leading straight to one of the sisters. If you feel energetic, follow the aptly named Giant Stairway — 800-plus leg-burning steps — all the way down to the bottom of the valley.
I went in the afternoon and Echo Point was busy, but it got noticeably quieter just a few minutes along the walking track.
2. Combine a meal with epic views at Conservation Hut
Eating while soaking up Blue Mountains scenery is a winning combination. And the classic Conservation Hut, a gathering place for nature lovers since the 1960s and today a cafe, is the perfect venue for it. The biggest crowd-pleaser is the view of the Jamison Valley and Mount Solitary, best enjoyed from the outside balcony. A close second: The buttermilk scones with jam and thick cream.
3. Ride through nature at Scenic World
Touristy doesn’t have to be a bad thing, as shown by Scenic World. Glide a nerve-racking 270 m above the Jamison Valley, past Katoomba Falls, on the glass-floored skyway cable car. Then go down the railway, with an exhilarating 52-degree incline, to the valley’s bottom. There, discover a 2.4-km boardwalk surrounded by ancient rainforest. When you feel done, take the cableway up to the clifftop station where your theme park-like adventure in nature began.
Tip: You can access the valley floor for free by descending the almost 1,000 Furber Steps.
4. Hike the rewarding Wentworth Falls Track
The Wentworth Falls Track showcases the signature features of the Blue Mountains in a handy 1.4-km out-and-back package. From the Wentworth Falls parking area, make your way to the easily accessible Jamison Lookout and Wentworth Falls Lookout, where you just might see the mist of Wentworth Falls over the treetops or hear it thundering in the distance. For a much more intimate experience, descend about 200 steps to Fletcher’s Lookout and get a close view of the top of Wentworth Falls, which tumbles 187 m over three tiers. Then press on for just a little longer to find the serene pool at the waterfall’s brink before climbing back to where you began — a good workout for your legs.
Tip: You can add to the Wentworth Falls Track in numerous ways and even make it a loop. Popular extras include Queen’s Cascade, a picturesque waterfall, and Rocket Point Lookout and Prince’s Rock Lookout, both offering additional views of Wentworth Falls.
I found the steps manageable, and the closer views of the falls made it well worth the effort.
5. Marvel at grand Govett’s Leap Lookout
The scenery here is as brilliant as at the famous Three Sisters, but with fewer crowds. Absorb panoramic Grose Valley views, including thick eucalyptus forest almost 400 m below, creamy cliff faces some 200 m tall, and, of course, that signature blue haze. The cherry on top, to your right, is the bridal-veil-like Govett’s Leap, boasting a single 180-m drop.
Tip: For more info on everything from history to the latest track updates, pop by the nearby Blue Mountains Heritage Centre.
6. Explore architecture and greenery in Everglades House & Gardens
Tucked away in the idyllic Blue Mountains town of Leura, the 1930s Everglades House, operated by the National Trust, is a prime example of Art Deco architecture. Even more notable is its Paul Sorensen-designed garden with seasonal highlights that range from eye-popping autumn foliage to springtime cherry blossoms and tulips. No matter when you visit, you’ll be delighted by the sweeping Blue Mountains backdrop.
Tip: The tea room has limited opening hours, but visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic to enjoy in the garden.
7. Treat yourself to the Blue Mountains Chocolate Company
At the Blue Mountains Chocolate Company, enjoying a hot chocolate is the quintessential experience. Select your preferred chocolate type when you order, then melt it in your mug over a candle at the table. Visitors can also choose from a wide range of handmade chocolates to savour on the porch, inside by the fire or on the go.
I just had to try the hot chocolate setup, and watching it melt over the candle made it feel like a small ritual rather than just getting a drink.
8. Be captivated by the diverse Grand Canyon Track
Hiking the Grand Canyon Track is a journey through the biodiversity that has earned the Blue Mountains UNESCO World Heritage status. Here, breathtaking panoramas of eucalyptus-covered mountain valleys are, in fact, just the beginning.
After tackling seemingly never-ending stairs, hikers are rewarded with a captivating rainforest environment. Delight in lush fern gullies, cross rushing streams, chase little waterfalls and marvel at the rising sandstone walls around you — all making you feel like you have stepped into a different world.
The 6.3-km, 3-4-hour loop officially begins at the Grand Canyon Carpark. It is well maintained, but expect lots of descending and ascending.
9. Settle into the serenity of the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden
On the summit of Mount Tomah, some 1000 m above sea level, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden preserves and displays treasured collections of cool-climate plants. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it’s Australia’s highest botanic garden and the sister of Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden.
From the viewing deck, be wowed by the sight of the carefully manicured grounds and the untouched wilderness that goes far beyond. Then continue through themed gardens, including the rock garden carved from limestone and basalt, and serene woodlands with over 100 native and exotic conifer species.
10. Watch the sunset from peaceful Cahill’s Lookout
While there are no show-stealing sisters here, Cahill’s Lookout stands out for its majestic yet tranquil valley panoramas. A few minutes’ walk from the small carpark on Cliff Drive takes you to multiple platforms offering views of the Megalong Valley, Narrow Neck Plateau and Boar’s Head rock. Linger around until sunset, and it gets even better.
I arrived about 30 minutes before sunset (in summer) and had no trouble finding a quiet spot to sit and take in the view without feeling crowded.
Choosing the best activities for you
There’s a lot to do in the Blue Mountains, and you might not have the time or ambition to see it all. Here is a simple breakdown to help you pick your favourites.
Best for first-timers
- The Three Sisters is the ultimate introduction to the Blue Mountains — iconic, easily accessible, and a great spot for classic photos.
- Scenic World lets you experience the cliffs, rainforest, and waterfalls without committing to long hikes, making it ideal for visitors short on time.
Best for families
- Wentworth Falls Track can work well for families, especially if you stick to a shorter route — the waterfall views are worth the effort.
- Blue Mountains Chocolate Company is an instant hit with younger visitors (and adults who can’t resist chocolate).
Best for hikers
- Grand Canyon Track delivers lush trails, cascading waterfalls, and cliff-side excitement — a top pick for avid walkers.
- Wentworth Falls Track is also rewarding for more energetic hikers, with numerous exciting extensions possible.
Best for garden lovers
- Everglades House & Gardens is a peaceful escape, with manicured gardens and historic charm.
- Blue Mountains Botanic Garden gives you a relaxed way to enjoy native and exotic plants while soaking up sweeping valley views.
Best for serene viewpoints
- Govett’s Leap Lookout is hard to beat for its dramatic cliff-edge vistas, with a lovely waterfall plunging into the valley below.
- Cahill’s Lookout is the kind of spot where you can pause, breathe, and take in the scenery without the crowds.
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