Blue Mountains National Park
Day Trip
Embark on a journey through this natural wonderland, where towering eucalyptus forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas await. Get ready for a day of adventure, breathtaking views and exploration amidst the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains.
Things to do in Blue Mountains
1. Lookouts
Anvil Rock Lookout
Be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the mountains, and the lookout itself is named after the distinctive shaped rock formation that resembles an anvil. There is even a real anvil installed at the top of the lookout!
Govett's Leap
Drive along Govetts Leap Road to reach this awe-inspiring viewpoint overlooking the Grose Valley. Just a short stroll from the parking area, you’ll be welcomed by the serene blue tones of the mountains and meandering valleys.
There are a few walking tracks from Govett’s Leap lookout:
- Pulpit walking track to Pulpit Rock lookout
- Govetts Leap descent to the Bridal Veil Falls
- Clifftop walking track to Evans lookout
Blackheath Lookout
Another amazing view in Blackheath overlooking a beautiful pasture dotted with tiny houses. If you’re lucky, you can even spot paragliders launching off the side of the mountains!
Echo Point Lookout - Three Sisters
The top tourist spot in Blue Mountains National Park is probably Echo Points lookout for the Three Sisters, a famous rock formation.
Embark on the Three Sisters walking track, which is an easy 30-minute walking track to reach the Honeymoon Bridge that connects you to the ‘First Sister’.
2. Scenic World
The Unlimited Discovery Pass at Scenic World gives you access to rides such as the Scenic Railway, Cableway and Skyway to experience the Blue Mountains from totally different vantage points!
Opening hours: 9am – 5pm
Ticket price: $50 (adult)
3. Walking tracks
Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker (or not), dedicate your afternoon to exploring the numerous hiking trails in Blue Mountain National Parks. These paths guide you through verdant forests, picturesque waterfalls, and mesmerizing slot canyons—a true natural wonder.
Here are some of the most populat walking tracks:
Remember to check the local alerts for Blue Mountains National Park as some of the walking tracks or lookouts might be closed due to weather condition or rockfall.
Day trip itinerary
7.00am – 8.30 am: Drive from Sydney to Blue Mountains Blackheath
8.30am – 9.00 am: Anvril Rock Lokout
9.00am – 10.00am: Govett’s Leap Lookout
10.00am – 10.30 am: Blackheath Lookout
10.30am – 11.30am: Lunch at Blackheath Lookout picnic area
12.00nn – 4.00pm: Hike the Grand Canyon Walking Track
4.30pm – 6.00pm: Drive back to Sydney
7.00am – 8.30 am: Drive from Sydney to Blue Mountains Blackheath
8.30am – 9.00 am: Anvril Rock Lokout
9.00am – 10.00am: Govett’s Leap Lookout
10.00am – 10.30 am: Blackheath Lookout
10.30am – 11.30am: Lunch at Blackheath Lookout picnic area
12.00nn – 4.30pm: Scenic World
4.30pm – 6.00pm: Drive back to Sydney
Transport
1. By car
Duration: 1.5 hours (Sydney to Katoomba)
Do note that some lookouts would require driving on dirt roads so be sure that your car is able to handle such terrain. The paths might also be quite narrow and need some manoeuvring if there is oncoming traffic. We rented a compact car from Jucy Rentals that held up just fine!
We would definitely recommend driving to explore at our own pace and reach the various lookouts that would not be possible by the Explorer bus or public buses.
2. By train
Duration: 2 hours (Blue Mountain Train from Central Station to Katoomba)
Within Blue Mountains: Explorer Bus of public buses
3. By tour
For those who prefer to sit back, relax and still be able to hit major scenic sights, book a tour that includes transportation from Sydney and within the Blue Mountains National Park!
Tips
1. Start early in the day
There will be less crowds and better lighting for all your photos
2. Plan your route
Plan your route to visit your favourite destinations first. Chances are, if you visit early enough, you’ll get the whole place to yourselves! We were most excited to visit the lookouts at Blackheath so driving straight to Blackheath before slowing making our way back towards Sydney was the obvious choice.
3. Blue Mountains National Park in winter
Temperatures can get colder especially at the lookouts that are higher up so be sure to prepare extra layers
4. Pack your lunch
There are so many beautiful and serene picnic spots for you to enjoy your packed lunch around the park. It would also be more convenient to have your lunch ready to tuck into wherever you are instead of taking an extra trip out to a café.
Restaurants and cafes are mostly located in Leura so plan your route if you are choosing to dine in.
This article is published by Postcards with Coffee. Last updated: 11 September 2023
