Check out my list of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains, one of my favorite places in Australia!

After 7 years of living in the Sydney area of Australia, I’ve explored lots of New South Wales and beyond. 

I’ve seen so many gorgeous places, yet the Blue Mountains remain my absolute favorite place in the country. 

Whether it’s a quick day trip, a camping expedition, or a weekend away, the Blue Mountains always offer so much charm, serenity, and natural beauty. 

Located just west of Sydney, you can reach this UNESCO Heritage-Listed national park in around 1-2 hours. I have fully taken advantage of this, having visited the Blue Mountains countless times over the years. 

I’ve been putting off writing about the best things to do in the Blue Mountains because I know there is SO MUCH to do out here! I wanted time to explore the area more before I compiled a list. 

But I’ve realized that I’ll never fully see everything in the Blue Mountains. So I’m just going to talk about what I have seen and done so far.

So if you’re in the Sydney area, don’t miss a visit to the stunning Blue Mountains!

42 Best Things To Do In The Blue Mountains

I’ll split my list of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains into categories so it’s easier to digest.

Here you’ll find the best:

• Hikes
• Waterfalls
• Lookouts
• Attractions

Note that some of these will overlap. Many hikes lead to waterfalls and lookouts. You really can’t go wrong with any activity in the Blue Mountains!

Before you visit the Blue Mountains National Park, check the NSW National Parks website for any current notices or alerts. Parts of the park may be closed at times due to severe weather or track maintenance.

Book your rental car for exploring the Blue Mountains with ease!

Best Blue Mountains Hikes

1. Hanging Rock Trail (Burramoko Ridge Trail)

The Hanging Rock Trail, also known as the Burramoko Ridge Trail, is the coolest hike that I’ve done in the Blue Mountains. 

It’s a long but easy trail that leads to some of the most jaw-dropping views over the Grose Valley. The end of the trail, where you’ll find the famous Hanging Rock, is very exposed so be careful out there!

Read my full guide to the Hanging Rock Trail if you’re interested in trying this epic hike!

2. Giant Stairway Hike

Conveniently situated near the popular landmarks of Echo Point and the Three Sisters, the Giant Stairway is a very popular walk in the Blue Mountains. 

With 990 stairs, it’s a steep walk but incredible scenic. The Giant Stairway connects Echo Point to Honeymoon Bridge and you’ll see some crazy sandstone rock formations along the way. 

3. Perrys Lookdown to Acacia Flat Hike

The hike from Perrys Lockdown to Acacia Flat is an intense, steep drop from the top of the mountains down into the valley. 

It’s a really hard but interesting hike because you’ll notice the change in vegetation as you head down from the harsh, exposed mountaintop and into the protected, fertile forest. 

Lots of people like to camp overnight at Acacia Flat Campground at the bottom. Or you can just hike back up in the same day. 

Local tip: There is a small, freshwater creek near Acacia Flat Campground. It’s not very deep, but the water is chilly and makes a great place to cool off before you hike back up. 

4. Prince Henry Cliff Walk

If you’re looking for a hike that will cover all the main viewpoints and highlights of the Blue Mountains, this is it!

The Price Henry Cliff Walk snakes along the edge of the Jamison Valley for about 7km. You can take on all the side trails that lead to waterfalls or lookouts, or you can just do small sections of it. 

Beginning in Katoomba and ending in Leura, the trail goes right through the heart of the tourist area of the Blue Mountains. The Three Sisters Lookout and Echo Point are the most famous spots on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk.

5. South Lawson Waterfall Circuit

This is one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains on a rainy day! 

South Lawson Waterfall Circuit is a leisurely loop walk that takes you through the lush rainforest. 

You’ll pass 4 main waterfalls, Adelina Falls, Federal Falls, Junction Falls, and Cataract Falls. There are also a few smaller, unnamed waterfalls. 

The waterfalls flourish during heavy rain! But if you do hike in wet weather, wear good footwear as the track can get muddy. 

6. Grand Canyon Walk

Similar to the Perrys Lookdown hike, the Grand Canyon walk starts at the top of the mountains and leads you down through the canyon to the forest floor.

But this hike is a loop so you’ll ascend back up to the top along a different route. 

I loved the vibrant giant ferns, peaceful streams, and towering Eucalyptus trees down on the forest floor here! The Grand Canyon is definitely one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains for hiking and nature lovers. 

Find more amazing hikes on my list of the 10 Best Day Hikes In The Blue Mountains!

7. Coachwood Glen Nature Trail

This super short and easy walk is the perfect activity for people of all ages. Though it’s a short trail, the rainforest views are stunning. 

Picture tranquil creeks, gnarled trees, and twisting vines so thick you can climb them!

Local tip: the car park is super tiny and right on the edge of a winding road. Drive super slow as you approach so you won’t miss it! There aren’t many good places to turn around on this road. 

8. Horseshoe Falls Walking Track

If you want to hike in a secluded area without any crowds, this is one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains. 

Hazelbrook is a relatively quiet and non-touristy town in the Blue Mountains. This relaxing forest trail near the town centre is a great place to just relax and get in touch with nature. 

There are wildflowers, impressive trees, beautiful plants, and three waterfalls including Horseshoe Falls, Burgess Falls, and Oakland Falls. 

Best Blue Mountains Waterfalls

9. Wentworth Falls

Checking out the waterfalls is definitely one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains! Wentworth Falls is one of my favorites. 

Located right near the town conveniently named Wentworth Falls, you can embark on a steep hike down the base of the falls.

There are amazing viewpoints of Wentworth Falls along the way, and the falls are sometimes included in day tours from Sydney. 

10. Victoria Falls

Located in the northwest area of the Blue Mountains, this amazing waterfall tumbles down layers and layers of rippling rocks to create a photogenic scene. 

It’s a hard, steep hike to get to Victoria Falls, but it’s worth it! Go swimming in the cold, refreshing waters before hiking back up to the car park. 

11. Empress Falls

Empress Falls is another one of the best waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. The best part of this waterfall is the deep, chilly swimming hole at the base. You can jump off the surrounding rocks into the pool for a refreshing dip. 

Local tip: Adventure-seekers can try abseiling or canyoning at Empress Falls. I haven’t tried this yet, but it’s on my bucket list!

12. Katoomba Falls

Located near Katoomba along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, the hike to Katoomba Falls is one of the side treks that branch off the main trail. 

You’ll pass lots of panoramic viewpoints that offer different perspectives of this massive, cascading waterfall. 

Read next: 23 Stunning Waterfalls Near Sydney

13. Bridal Veil Falls 

The hike to get to the multi-tiered Bridal Veil Falls starts from the Leura Cascades Picnic Area.

You can walk right up to the base of the falls, though I think the best view is on the way down at the Round Walk Lookout.

Local tip: From Bridal Veil Falls, continue on the pass until you reach the small metal bridge. Off to the side there is an unmarked but spottable off-road trail that leads down through the forest. Follow it and you’ll find secret infinity pool that overlooks the valley! Just be super careful here and stay away from the edge as there are no barriers and it’s an unregulated spot.

14. Leura Cascades

Leura Cascades is a smaller collection of little falls located on the Leura Cascades Walking Track.

While the Wentworth Falls, Empress Falls, and Katoomba Falls are all huge, powerful waterfalls, Leura Cascades are slightly smaller, less touristy, and more humble. 

Surrounded by vibrant green ferns and a sense of tranquility, this is a fantastic spot that I’ve never seen that crowded.

The walk begins at the Leura Cascades Picnic Area, which is a lovely spot to chill out before or after the walk.

15. Minnehaha Falls

Just a short drive north of Katooma is Minnehaha Falls, another gem of the Blue Mountains. From the car park you can walk to the falls in under an hour. 

Minnehaha Falls is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day! There is a wide, relatively deep swimming pool at the base of the falls. 

16. Cataract Falls 

Located on the South Lawson Waterfall Circuit, I decided to specifically mention this waterfall again for a very special reason. 

Cataract Falls is home to one of the Blue Mountains glow worm colonies! The Blue Mountains are known for their bioluminescent glow worms that light up blue after dark. You can visit Cataract Falls at night to see the glow worms putting on a show. 

If you are hiking at night to see glow worms, make sure you take safety precautions. Have a headlamp, good hiking shoes, and walk carefully. Also try to minimise light and sound to avoid disturbing the glow worm colonies.

Local tip: Other places to see glow worms in the Blue Mountains include the Glow Worm Tunnel, the Grand Canyon, Birdwood Gully in Springwood, and Water Nymphs Dell in Wentworth Falls.

Read my full guide to the South Lawson Waterfall Circuit!

Best Blue Mountains Lookouts

17. Echo Point Lookout and the Three Sisters

Ask any tourist and they will say that Echo Point Lookout and the Three Sisters is one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

The Three Sisters is an iconic rock formation comprised of three rugged rock towers.

Echo Point is the viewpoint that overlooks the famous landmark as well as Mount Solitary and the Ruined Castle rock formations. 

Pretty much every day tour from Sydney to the Blue Mountains stops at Echo Point. And the Three Sisters is definitely the most famous sight in the national park. However, that means it can get super crowded.

Try to visit Echo Point and the Three Sisters in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. It is worth seeing! I just think there are so many other places to visit in the Blue Mountains that are just as beautiful but far less crowded. 

Local tip: You have to pay an entry fee to park at Echo Point. To save money, just find free street parking near Echo Point and walk 5-10 minutes to the lookout.

18. Sublime Point Lookout

This is one of my favorite lookouts in the Blue Mountains! Sublime Point Lookout near Leura offers gorgeous views of the hazy blue peaks and dense green valleys below. 

It’s only a short walk from the car park, and there are a few different places around the rocky outcrop where you can get epic photos. 

19. Govetts Leap Lookout

Govetts Leap Lookout was one of the first lookouts I visited in the Blue Mountains back in 2018. It still blows me away every time!

You only have to walk a few steps from the car park, so it’s ideal for small kids or people with limited mobility. Govetts Leap Lookout is also located just a 5-minute drive from downtown Blackheath, so it’s very easily accessible. 

Local tip: Govetts Leap Lookout faces east so it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise!

20. Evans Lookout

Also near Blackheath, Evans Lookout is similar to Govetts Leap Lookout. So it’s also amazing! 

There is a walk called the Clifftop Track that runs along the clifftop between Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout. This is a great way to see both viewpoints during a hike.

Explore more of NSW with these 15 day trips from Sydney!

21. Orphan Rock Lookout

This lookout is located on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk near Scenic World.

You can see some cool rock formations here, namely the Orphan Rock. You can also watch the Cable Car as it passes through the Blue Mountains.

22. Wind Eroded Cave Lookout

This viewpoint is a bit different from the others. It doesn’t overlook the vast scenery of the Blue Mountains, but it takes you to a huge sandstone rock formation. 

This is the Wind Eroded Cave. It’s wild to see the rippling layers in the rock where wind has created pathways over time. (See photo after #23 Anvil Lookout)

Local tip: I wouldn’t say it’s worth going all the way to the Blue Mountains just for the Wind Eroded Cave Lookout. It’s cool, but not jaw-dropping. However, it is located right next to Anvil Lookout so you can visit them both at the same time. 

23. Anvil Lookout

Anvil Lookout offers lovely views of the western side of Blue Mountains National Park.

It’s near Perrys Lookdown, so you can come here for a new perspective of the mountains after completing the hike. 

It’s also right next to the Wind Eroded Cave Lookout.

24. Mount Blackheath Lookout

Mount Blackheath Lookout also offers a unique view in the Blue Mountains. It’s located on the outskirts of Blackheath town. 

While most Blackheath lookouts like Govetts Leap or Evans face east and overlook the mountains, Mount Blackheath Lookout faces west and overlooks the sprawling farmlands and small homes of rural NSW. 

Local tip: Because Mount Blackheath Lookout faces west, you get the best views at sunset!

25. Lincoln Rock

Another one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains is take in the views from Lincoln Rock. This is a huge, wide slab of rock with epic views. 

Because Lincoln Rock is massive and flat, it’s a great place to have a picnic at sunrise or sunset.

I also recommend visiting at those times because it’s pretty popular and can get crowded at midday. 

26. Pulpit Rock Lookout

Other than Hanging Rock, Pulpit Rock is the craziest rock formation I’ve seen in the Blue Mountains.

You can drive to the Pulpit Rock car park and walk 400m to the lookout, or you can hike here along the Pulpit Walking Track from Govetts Leap Lookout. 

Once you arrive, you’ll see the jagged rock blade that juts out into the heart of the Grose Valley. Descend the steep staircase to get onto the Pulpit Rock Lookout and admire the untouched wilderness around you!

Read next: 21 Non Touristy Things To Do In Sydney

27. Perrys Lookdown

Though I mentioned the Perrys Lookdown hike earlier, I also want to mention the lookout. You can drive up to Perrys Lookdown and just visit the viewpoint without doing the strenuous hike!

The lookout is spectacular as well, so it’s definitely worth visiting. 

28. Baltzer Lookout

Baltzer Lookout is located near the end of the Burramoko Ridge Trail that I mentioned earlier. You’ll emerge from the forest onto this fantastic lookout space that is very exposed and has no barriers or safety measures in place. 

It’s a bit scary, but the views are gorgeous! Continue from Baltzer Lookout down the stone steps and you’ll get to Hanging Rock. 

Other Tourist Attractions in the Blue Mountains

29. Scenic World, Katoomba

Like the Three Sisters, Scenic World is one of the most popular things to do in the Blue Mountains. Many day trips from Sydney include passes to Scenic World in their itinerary. 

Scenic World in Katoomba has fun rides and family-friendly attractions that allow you to get panormaic views without hiking.

The Scenic Skyway, Blue Mountains Cable Car, and Scenic Railway provide breathtaking views of the ancient valleys, dense eucalyptus forests, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.

Since I prefer hiking, I haven’t personally visited Scenic World as it’s not really my type of thing. But it is considered one of the top tourist attractions in the Blue Mountains so I wanted to mention it!

30. Conservation Hut Cafe, Wentworth Falls

Conservation Hut Cafe is a charming establishment perched near the edge of a cliff overlooking the Jamison Valley. It’s a peaceful place to relax and have a drink or snack with a view. 

If you’re hiking down to Empress Falls, you’ll begin your journey at the Conservation Hut Cafe. Or if you don’t want to take on a hike, you can just do a short walk to Queen Victoria Lookout for more amazing views!

31. Megalong Valley Wineries

The Megalong Valley is a scenic area of rolling green hills, quaint farms, and wineries. From the town of Blackheath up in the heights of the Blue Mountains, just head southwest on Megalong Road. 

You’ll travel down the edges of the Blue Mountains and back down to low elevations. Vineyards thrive here, and you can have a nice meal or do some wine tasting at Dryridge Estate or Megalong Creek Estate.

You can even book a guided wine tour from Katoomba so you don’t have to worry about driving!

32. Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, Blackheath

If you’re someone who loves learning about the history, culture, and traditions behind a place, definitely visit the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre. 

Located on Govetts Leap Road near Blackheath, the center displays information about the Aboriginal history and culture in the Blue Mountains. You can also browse art galleries and learn about the plants and animals of the region. 

This is also a great place to ask questions to a local if you have them! And you can get maps and information about walks as well. 

Read next: 1 Week In Sydney: Itinerary For Outdoorsy Travellers

33. Jenolan Caves

Jenolan Caves is technically part of the Blue Mountains area, even though it’s a bit of a drive from the main towns of Katoomba and Blackheath. 

But if you have the time, it’s worth visiting! Jenolan Caves is home to some magnificent limestone caves full of stalactites and stalagmites. Book a cave tour to get deep into the cave system with a local guide.

Local tip: From the Jenolan Caves Visitor Center, hike up to Carlotta Arch for more picturesque views.

34. Jenolan River Walk and Blue Lake

While visiting Jenolan Caves, try to make time for a walk outside of the caves. The nature around this secluded part of the Blue Mountains is gorgeous!

We tried the Jenolan River Walk which was awesome. It’s pretty easy and includes some cool suspension bridges.

You’ll also pass the vibrant sapphire waters of Blue Lake. Swimming is prohibited in Blue Lake, but it is an important habitat for platypus!

These elusive Australian creatures are skittish and nocturnal so they are hard to spot. But they do live in the Blue Mountains, and if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of one in the Blue Lake.

35. Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, Mount Tomah

If you find yourself in the northern part of the Blue Mountains, check out the Botanic Gardens at Mount Tomah. 

I personally haven’t been up to this part of the mountains yet, but I’ve heard great things. It’s far less touristy than the other areas!

The 28-hectare Botanic Garden is full of winding walking trails, panoramic viewpoint, and unique landscaping composed of captivating local plants and flowers. 

Read next: How To Spend A Weekend In Blackheath, Blue Mountains

36. Victory Theatre Antique Centre, Blackheath

Blackheath has a charming town centre with a few cafes and shops. The Victory Theatre Antique Centre is the main draw. 

Housed in the historic, Victory Theatre from 1915, the building itself is a feast for the eyes. There is old, Art Deco architecture at the front and colorful street art along the side.

Within Victory Theatre you’ll find the largest antiques center west of Sydney. There is a cafe there as well where you can grab a coffee or a nice lunch. 

37. Black Cockatoo Bakery, Lawson

The Blue Mountains area is full of nice cafes, but this is the only one that I visit almost every time I visit.

Black Cockatoo Bakery is a tiny takeaway shop in Lawson. It’s a convenient stop as you drive along the main road towards Katoomba or Blackheath. 

They have the freshest, fluffiest pastries and do coffees as well. It’s also located right across from a public toilet, which is handy because we’re usually been driving for a while by the time we get to Lawson.

There are nice public benches across the street where you can sit and relax surrounded by birds and flowers.

Local tip: Arrive early before all the buttery, mouthwatering chocolate croissants are sold out! It opens at 7:30 so by 9 or 10am, the pastries are running low.

38. Megalong Valley Tea Rooms

Another gem of the Megalong Valley is the Megalong Valley Tea Rooms.

This adorable cafe is situated on a wide expanse of farmland surrounded by the distant mountains. Sit outside on a rustic wooden picnic table and say hi to the sheep while you sip on a tea or eat a fresh scone.

The Megalong Valley Tea Rooms menu is simple and uses local ingredients.

I recommend the Ploughmans Plate which has super fresh bread, cheese, and ham as well as vegetables straight from their garden. 

39. Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearoom, Leura

Another place for tea lovers in the Blue Mountains! Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum and Tearoom feels like your Grandmother’s house. It’s a creaky old building that has lots of interesting teapots on display.

When we visited, Matt and I were the youngest ones there by at least 40 years. But it was a peaceful, adorable place and they had yummy scones.

40. Falls Gallery

Located in the small town of Wentworth Falls, art lovers may want to check out this beautiful Falls Gallery. 

The inside of the adorable building showcases a variety of antiques and paintings. Outside, you can wander through landscaped gardens full of colorful flowers and rich greenery. 

41. Station Bar & Woodfired Pizza, Katoomba

I haven’t actually been here yet, but a friend has highly recommended this place to me so I wanted to include it. 

If you’re staying in Katoomba, which you probably are since it’s the main tourist town in the Blue Mountains, be sure to visit Station Bar & Woodfired Pizza. It’s located right next to the train station.

They make delicious wood fired pizzas, and the ambiance is cozy. Perfect to end a day of hiking and exploring! 

42. Campgrounds

Camping is another one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains! I’ve only camped there once but I am dying to check out more campgrounds as there are many. 

We stayed at Blackheath Glen Reserve, which was free and required no booking back in 2018. That may have changed now, but it’s still a nice remote, quiet place in the forest where you can have a campfire (unless a fire ban is in place).

Murphys Glen Campground and Ingar Campground are also highly recommended. And there is Acacia Flat Campground at the base of Perrys Lookdown, which looked incredibly peaceful.

Check the NSW National Parks website for a full list of campgrounds. 

Thanks for reading my list of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains!

I will continue adding to this list over the years because I plan on visiting the Blue Mountains many more times. There are so many places I haven’t even touched on in this article, and I can’t wait to continue exploring. 

I love the Blue Mountains because there are so many things to do, most of which involve hiking and nature. 

Also because nature is the #1 attraction, most of these things to do in the Blue Mountains are free. The budget traveler in me loves that I don’t have to spend much money when I come out here. 

Before traveling to Australia:

Make sure you have a visa in advance! I think iVisa is a super helpful tool for checking visa requirements online.

I also recommend having travel insurance, especially if you’ll be hiking in remote areas like the Blue Mountains. My favorite website for comparing insurance plans in Squaremouth Insurance. Check out my Budget Traveler’s Guide To Travel Insurance for more info!

Check out more of my favorite destinations around New South Wales:

12 Fun Things To Do In Port Stephens

18 Best Beaches In Jervis Bay

NSW South Coast Road Trip Guide

Best Things To Do In The Royal National Park

8 Tips For Visiting The Figure 8 Pools

The Castle Hiking Guide, Morton National Park