Best hiking trails starting at Scenic World
Scenic World is an ideal location to start your adventure, standing as the gateway to a number of memorable adventures. Take your pick from gentle strolls which trace the escarpment to challenging hikes which capture some of the finest views on offer.
The Blue Mountains is an outdoor playground for nature lovers, boasting over 100 kilometres of walking tracks and countless lookouts serving up stunning vistas.
Scenic World is an ideal location to start your adventure, standing as the gateway to a number of memorable adventures. Take your pick from gentle strolls which trace the escarpment to challenging hikes which capture some of the finest views on offer.
Whatever you decide, you’re sure to be amazed by expansive views, towering ancient rainforest, and stunning flora and fauna that set the stage for ‘Insta worthy’ moments to remember. Here are some of our local favourites:
Prince Henry Cliff Walk
From Scenic World, take the boardwalk at the rear of the main plaza to the top of Katoomba Falls to enjoy beautiful views across the Jamison Valley. Experience first-hand the eucalypt forest which takes on an intense blue haze, giving the region its name, and marvel at sandstone rock formations which have been sculpted by centuries of natural erosion. From here, walk further around the cliff to the Skyway East Station where you can take the Skyway back to Scenic World or continue along to Echo Point and the Three Sisters, which is a further 30 minutes down the track.
Grade: Easy
Time: 30 minutes (return)
Furber Stairs
Grab a ticket and wristband from the ticket box at Scenic World (and check with staff about when the last ride is). Then head towards the Prince Henry Cliff Walk and take a right turn down the Furber Stairs which descend into the Jamison Valley. There are approximately 996 steps to enjoy; it may be steep, but the views are worthwhile! This local favourite takes in great vistas of Mt Solitary and the magnificent Katoomba Falls. Make your way along the track to the Scenic Railway bottom platform for a ride back up on the Scenic Railway – or get your heart racing and return via the same route.
Grade: Easy (with steep stairs)
Time: 1hr (Return)
Great Round Walk
Take the Skyway from Scenic World to the East Station and walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk to Echo Point and the Three Sisters. Take the Giant Staircase down into the Jamison Valley, keeping an eye out for lyrebirds and bird life that provide the perfect excuse to pause and catch your breath. At the bottom of the stairs, turn right as the track winds its way to the bottom of the majestic cliff face and onto the Federal Pass track. The Pass showcases flora and fauna at its finest, from a temperate rainforest to an open and dry eucalypt forest. The track then leads back to Scenic World where you can take the Scenic Railway or the Cableway back up to the escarpment. Don’t forget your camera for this gem! Be sure to check what time the last rides leave the valley with our staff before heading off.
Grade: Medium (with steep stairs)
Time: 2.5 hr round trip
Scenic Walkway
Discover the tranquillity of ancient rainforest along the 2.4km Scenic Walkway, which transports visitors to another world among towering Jurassic rainforest in the heart of the Blue Mountains. Explore elements of the region’s coal mining history, learn about local flora, and listen for the Superb Lyrebird which calls this place home. Choose your own adventure, whether it’s enjoying a peaceful moment in the Rainforest Room or resting on benches along the route to take in your surroundings. Be prepared to be relaxed, inspired and ready to return.
Grade: Easy
Time: As long or short as you like!
There are many beautiful walks to explore from Scenic World. No matter how brief your planned walk, please always carry a good supply of drinking water, food and clothing for wet and cold weather. Our climate is beautiful, but it can change very quickly.
Always check which tracks are open with Blue Mountains National Park