The Blue Mountains
A dramatic wilderness on Sydney's doorstep - sandstone cliffs, eucalyptus-hazed valleys and the rock pillars of the Three Sisters, a UNESCO landscape of bushwalks and waterfalls.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
The Blue Mountains are a dramatic wilderness on the doorstep of Sydney, a UNESCO landscape of dizzying sandstone cliffs, deep forested valleys and cascading waterfalls, named for the blue haze cast by the oils of the vast eucalyptus forests. Its icon is the Three Sisters, a trio of weathered rock pillars above the Jamison Valley, and it offers superb bushwalks, lookouts and a scenic railway, an easy escape from the city.
What you actually see
- The Three Sisters - the trio of rock pillars above the valley.
- The valley lookouts - the clifftop views over the forested valleys.
- The bushwalks - the trails to waterfalls and through the forest.
- Scenic World - the steep scenic railway and cableways at Katoomba.
When to go
Spring and autumn for the mildest weather and clear views; the mountains are cooler than Sydney, with crisp winters and even occasional snow. Misty days can shroud the famous views, so a clear day is best for the lookouts.
Honest expectations
The famous Three Sisters lookout at Echo Point is popular and busy with tour groups, but the crowds thin quickly on the walking trails. Mist and cloud can hide the views, so a clear day matters. It is cooler than Sydney, so bring layers. A car helps to reach the quieter, scattered lookouts and walks.
Nearby
Sydney is two hours east; the Jenolan Caves and the Megalong Valley are nearby.
What to pack for The Blue Mountains
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
