With approximately equal parts cliff-walk and forest track, this track truly shows what the cliff edges of the Jamison Valley have to offer, especially at Tarpeian and Fossil Rocks. There is a beautiful descent into the valley, as well as the mystique of Leura Forest, and a number of great spots to take a break along the way. The walk finishes with an exciting ride to the top of Scenic World on the world's steepest railway.
(open in app)
There are Closed areas in Blue Mountains National Park Today's Fire rating LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Leura to Katoomba via Dardanelles Pass
Cross sectional view of the Leura to Katoomba via Dardanelles Pass bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Leura to Katoomba via Dardanelles Pass bushwalking track
Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length
7km
Time
4 hrs
.
Grade 4/6
Track: Hard
AS 2156.1
Gradient
Very steep (4/6)
Quality of track
Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
Signs
Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience Required
Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
Weather
Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
Infrastructure
Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing
Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the grading looking at sections of the walk. Gradient
4.1km of this walk has short steep hills and another 2.1km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 550m is flat with no steps and the remaining 200m is very steep.
Quality of track
4.4km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 1.3km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely. Whilst another 650m follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 540m follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.
Signs
Around 5km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 1.9km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
Around 6km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 660m requires some bushwalking experience.
Weather
Around 7km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 170m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 1.2km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
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Catch the bus to Corner of Olympian Parade and Lone Pine Ave
(0 km)
Corner of Olympian Parade and Lone Pine Ave
to
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Gordon Falls Lookout Track Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 41 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -7 m
From the corner of Olympian Pde and Lone Pine Ave, this walk heads south through the park and, at the information sign, connects to a small bush track. Heading down just a few steps, the track comes to an intersection with a bush track.
(0.04 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Gordon Falls Lookout Track
to
Gordon Falls Lookout Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 89 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -28 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the hardened dirt path winding down towards the cliffs, dropping down a few sets of wooden steps and one steep metal staircase as it winds down through the bush to the cliffs edge at the Gordon Falls Lookout. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
Gordon Falls Lookout
Alt = 890 m
Gordon Falls Lookout is a fenced lookout near the end of Lone Pine Rd, Leura. As the name suggests, there is a good view of Gordon Falls to the left. There is also a wonderful view along the escarpment to Sublime Point. The lookout is right at the edge of the cliff and also has a great view across the Jamison Valley, out to Mount Solitary. Narrow Neck and the 'back' of the Three Sisters are visible on the right-hand side.
(0.04 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Gordon Falls Lookout Track
to
Elysian Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 228 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 19 m
Descent = -30 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk' signpost along the bush track, winding down the hill to the bottom where it continues through the dense bush for a while before passing the 'Blue Mountains National Park' sign and coming to the intersection of the Elysian Rock Lookout.
Elysian Rock
Alt = 916 m
Elysian Rock is a fenced, small, narrow lookout on a rock buttress. The floor is mostly uneven, natural sandstone and there is a bench seat with no shade. The lookout is right at the edge of the cliff and gives a great view straight across the Jamison Valley and out to Mount Solitary. Narrow Neck and the 'back' of the Three Sisters are visible on the right-hand side, and Sublime Point on the left. The lookout is along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, just west of a concrete bridge spanning a chasm and near the end of Elysian Place, Leura.
(0.27 km)
Elysian Lookout
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Olympian Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 234 m
Time = 13 mins
Climb = 50 m
Descent = -75 m
Veer left: From the lookout, this walk heads down the concrete steps and across the Buttenshaw Bridge, passing another fenced lookout, then climbing up the other side and continuing along the bush track that winds around the edge of the valley until coming to the intersection at the Olympian Rock Lookout.
Olympian Lookout
Alt = 885 m
Olympian Lookout is a fenced lookout, just off the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, near Olympian Pde in Leura. The lookout is on a sloped, natural sandstone surface and has some steps cut to help improve access. The lookout is right at the edge of the cliff and provides a great view across the Jamison Valley, out to Mount Solitary. The 'back' of the Three Sisters, and also Narrow Neck, are both visible on the right, and Sublime Point on the left.
(0.5 km)
Olympian Lookout
to
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk Tarpeian Rock Track Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 516 m
Time = 15 mins
Climb = 62 m
Descent = -44 m
Continue straight: From the lookout, the walk heads down the rock steps, keeping the valley down to the left. The walk continues down the long set of wooden steps. At the bottom of the stairs, the walk follows the track, which winds along the side of the hill. The track follows the base of some rock overhangs, and continues through the forest before climbing up another set of wooden stairs to the signposted intersection with the 'Tarpeian Rock' track.
(1.02 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk Tarpeian Rock Track
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Tarpeian Rock Optional sidetrip: Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 48 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 1 m
Descent = -7 m
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Tarpeian Rock' sign along the bush track, heading through the dense scrub for a short distance before coming to the Tarpeian Rock lookout. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
Tarpeian Rock
Alt = 903 m
Tarpeian Rock is a great lookout, suspended high on a sandstone buttress, with circular patterns under foot. The view from the lookout extends from Kings Tableland on the left, to the 'back' of the Three Sisters and into Jamison Valley on the right. There are also great views across to Mount Solitary, Narrow Neck Plateau and the Ruined Castle. The name is derived from the Roman 'Tarpeian Rock', a steep cliff rocky point overlooking the Roman forum that was used as a place to execute people. Thankfully, this Tarpeian Rock has a much more peaceful feel about it. More info
(1.02 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Tarpeian Rock Track
to
The Rock Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 219 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 13 m
Descent = -23 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Leura Cascades' signpost down the rocky hill and through the dense forest until coming to the signposted intersection with the Bridal Veil lookout track. Turn right: From the intersection, the track follows the Leura Cascades sign down the long rocky hill until it flattens out and continues under a large rock overhang to 'The Rock' lookout.
The Rock
Alt = 898 m
The Rock is a small, partially-fenced lookout, about 10 metres from the Prince Henry Cliff Walk near Bridal Veil Falls. The old timber fence only partially covers the cliff line and the walk to the lookout can be slippery. The view from the lookout includes close-up views of the crowns of several trees. There is no view of Bridal Veil Falls, but the view does extend across to the cliffs at Bridal View Lookout.
(1.24 km)
The Rock
to
Leura Cascades Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 527 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 10 m
Descent = -30 m
Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the bush track, winding around the side of the valley down to the left for a short while before coming to the intersection of the short bush track heading up to Cliff Drive. Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track winding around the side of the hill, keeping the valley down to the left as it winds along to the intersection of the Cliff Drive track. Continue straight: Keeping the valley down the hill to the left, this walk follows the bush track heading around the side of the hill, steadily winding down the gentle slope to the top of a short set of wooden steps. The walk then follows the stairs down to the signposted intersection with the 'Leura Cascades' track, just before the footbridge. Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Leura Cascades' sign down the steps, keeping the handrail and creek to the right. After a short while, the walk heads along a timber platform and down some stairs to a rock platform, with great views of some cascades.
From these cascades, the walk heads down more stairs, coming to an intersection just before two bridges, with great views of Leura Cascades.
Leura Cascades
Alt = 878 m
Leura Cascades is a lovely set of waterfalls with some bridges just below, allowing walkers to get up close to the creek. The area has a nice feel about it and is quite cool in summer. Much of the track near the cascades has handrails and the bridges are fenced. Allow some time to enjoy life among the cascades and fern trees in this valley. One bridge leads to a sandstone cave next to the pool and falls, a great place to enjoy the small section of canyon.
(1.77 km)
Leura Cascades
to
Int of Leura Cascades Round Walk and Fern Bower Track Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 108 m
Time = 5 mins
Climb = 19 m
Descent = -30 m
Continue straight: From the bottom of Leura Cascades, this walk crosses the bridge (furthest from the falls), heads down the steps and comes to a fenced (unsignposted) lookout at the top of Bridal Veil Falls.
From the lookout, the walk heads up the steep steps. The steps wind up the hill passing a cave with an old bench seat, then up the metal stairs to the fenced (unsignposted) round walk lookout with views down on Bridal Veil Falls. Continue straight: From the lookout, the walk heads up the metal staircases then along the fenced cliff ledge, with more great valley views. Soon the track heads down a few steps to come to a a four-way intersection, with a sign pointing back to 'Leura Cascades' (and the short left-hand track leading to a fenced (unnamed) lookout.
(1.87 km)
Int of Leura Cascades Round Walk and Fern Bower Track
to
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Bridal Veil Lookout Track Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 298 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 46 m
Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Round Walk - Echo Point' sign along the track up the hill (with rock wall initially on the right). The track winds up the hill using the steps and, after passing a large gum, the track become less steep. Soon the track leads to an intersection with the signposted 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk'. Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Echo Point' sign along the 'Prince Henrey Walk', winding around the side of the hill, passing two picnic seats under a rock overhang and continuing up the side of the hill. The walk climbs up the steep slope via metal and wooden steps, until it flattens out at a fenced boardwalk, which it crosses, continuing up another metal staircase to a bush track, which it follows around the side of the hill to the signposted intersection of the Bridal Veil Lookout track.
(2.17 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Bridal Veil Lookout Track
to
Bridal Veil Lookout Optional sidetrip: Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 43 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m
Descent = -14 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Bridal Veil Lookout' sign along the bush track, heading down the gentle hill through the bush. The walk steps up onto a rock shelf, following it for a short distance before coming to the signposted 'Bridal Veil Lookout'. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn left to continue along this walk.)
Bridal Veil Lookout
Alt = 898 m
Bridal Veil Lookout provides a great views over Leura Forest and the Jamison Valley. Mount Solitary stands proudly in the distance. In keeping with its name, there are views of Bridal Veil Falls to the east. There is a small bench seat, but no shade.
(2.17 km)
Int of Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Bridal Veil Lookout Track
to
Fossil Rock Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 52 m
Time = 1 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = -1 m
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the track, keeping the cliffs and the valley down to the left, soon coming to the signposted 'Copelands Lookout'. Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track heading up the hill, keeping the cliffs and the valley down the hill to the left as it winds up to the Fossil Rock Lookout.
Fossil Rock
Alt = 916 m
Fossil Rock is a fenced lookout along Prince Henry Cliff Walk, near Katoomba. The lookout is close to Cliff Drive and gives great views along the Jamison Valley and over Mount Solitary, and along the far end of Kings Tableland. The sandstone floor of the lookout is mostly natural and has a few steps cut in it. The rock provides some natural sculptures to enjoy.
(2.22 km)
Fossil Rock
to
Int of Cliff Drive and Prince Henry Cliff Walk Track: Moderate - bushtrack,road
Length = 75 m
Time = 2 mins
Climb = 16 m
Descent = -3 m
Turn right: From Fossil Rock Lookout, the walk heads towards the short set of wooden steps that it climbs up the hill to the intersection of Cliff Drive. Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows Cliff Drive up the gentle hill, passing the picnic seat at the point and heading around the left-hand side of the restaurant to the signposted intersection of 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk'.
Solitary Kiosk and Restaurant
Alt = 931 m
Solitary Restaurant offers fine dining in a heritage-listed building overlooking the beautiful Jamison Valley, as well as housing a kiosk for a more casual lunch. The kiosk is open for lunch 7 days a week, from 10am to 4pm (opens 11am weekdays in winter). The kiosk provides a casual dinning experience, with breakfast foods from $10 and lunches around $15 per dish. The restaurant is open for lunch 7 days from 12-4.30pm, and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm. Light lunches start from $14, and dinners from $55 for a mouth-watering 2 course meal. Contact details - 90 Cliff Drive, Leura Falls Ph: 02 4782 1164. More info
(2.3 km)
Int of Cliff Drive and Prince Henry Cliff Walk
to
Fern Bower Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 228 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 9 m
Descent = -42 m
Veer left: From Cliff Drive, opposite the car park behind Solitary Restaurant, this walk follows the 'Prince Henry Cliff Walk to Federal Pass' sign, down the short set of wooden steps to the intersection with the Echo Tree Lookout track. Turn right: From the intersection, the walk heads along the bush track, away from the Echo Tree Lookout, winding along the well-defined bush track for a short while before coming to the signposted intersection of the track to Leura Forest. Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Leura Forest' sign along the bush track, winding down the hill for a short while before dropping down a set of wooden steps, to the signposted intersection with the 'Jamieson Lookout' track. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the dirt path, heading down the long set of wooden and rocky steps. The walk winds down past a picnic chair under a cliff overhang, and continues down the steps into the valley and through the forest to the Fern Bower information sign.
Fern Bower
Alt = 892 m
Fern Bower is an especially pleasant part of the Blue Mountains National Park, protected from heat and providing a great environment for fern trees, bracken ferns and moss to thrive. Fern Bower is a signposted area along the Federal Pass walking track, just below Jamieson Lookout and next to Linda Creek. This is a nice place to stop, rest and enjoy the bird noises.
(2.53 km)
Fern Bower
to
Lila falls crossing Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 343 m
Time = 14 mins
Climb = 10 m
Descent = -168 m
Continue straight: From the information sign, the walk follows the track down the steps, passing a 'Rich History' information sign before coming down to the signposted intersection with the Amphitheatre track, at the top of a metal staircase. Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Federal Pass Leura Forest' sign down the long metal staircase, to cross the bridge over Linda Creek in front of Lila Falls.
Lila Falls
Alt = 736 m
Lila Falls is a thin waterfall on Linda Creek. The Federal Pass crosses the creek (on a bridge) in front of these falls, just below the intersection with the amphitheatre. The waterfall is not the most spectacular one in this valley, but it is a nice cool spot to catch your breath.
(2.87 km)
Lila Falls crossing
to
Marguerite Cascades Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 175 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 37 m
Descent = -90 m
Continue straight: From the Lila Falls, this walk follows the track heading down the hill, winding down a wooden walkway keeping the creek to the left. The track hugs the rock wall and passes under a shallow overhang. The walk continues down a staircase, then turns back down into the gully where it come to the taller and slender Linda Falls.
After passing Linda Falls the walk follows the wooden steps down through the gulley, crossing the creek again before heading down to the Marguerite Cascades.
Marguerite Cascades
Alt = 684 m
Marguerite Cascades are a series of small cascades finishing with a taller waterfall of a few metres height, dropping into a shallow sandy pool. The cascades are on Linda Creek and a small bridge crosses the creek at the base of the falls as part of the Federal Pass walking track. The cascades are a nice place to sit and listen to the water running and the local birds in this cool shady area.
(3.04 km)
Marguerite Cascades
to
Leura Forest Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 321 m
Time = 11 mins
Climb = 50 m
Descent = -14 m
Continue straight: From the 'Marguerite Cascades'[1], this walk follows the timber steps downhill, winding steeply for a short while until coming to an intersection with a faint track, marked with a timber 'Federal Pass' sign[2], just beside a foot bridge[3]. Veer right: From the intersection, this walk crosses Linda Creek just below a pleasant cascade[4] using the foot bridge with a handrail[5]. This walk then continues along the bush track that winds along the valley floor, to the signposted 'Leura Forest'. From here, the walk continues along the wide bush track, passing a few picnic tables, and winding through the forest to an open area with a large gazebo and an information sign at the intersection of the Federal Pass and the Dardenelles tracks.
Leura Forest
Alt = 721 m
Leura Forest is a great picnic area in the Jamison Valley at the junction of the Federal Pass and Dardenelles Tracks. This place was home to a popular tea house (also known as 'Lady Carrington Dining Hall') from the late 1800's[6]. Today walkers can still enjoy the historic rotunda and the foundations of the original tea house[7]. The picnic area provides a great rest spot under the shade of the lilli pilli and coachwood forest.
(3.37 km)
Leura Forest (Int of Federal Pass and Dardenelles Tracks)
to
Int of Federal Pass, Scenic Railway and Dardenelles Tracks Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 1.16 km
Time = 37 mins
Climb = 141 m
Descent = -125 m
Turn right: From the pergola at Leura Forest, this walk follows the 'Dardenelles Track' sign (the sign is up the hill behind the pergola) which heads up the stairs towards the cliff face, before turning left behind Leura Forest. The walk then leaves the shade of the forest, along a track with many fallen logs, until coming to the base of the Giant Staircase (signposted). Continue straight: From the bottom of the Giant Staircase, the walk follows the 'Scenic Railway' sign, keeping the main cliff to the right. The track continues with some great views over the Valley, and at several points, there are small seats to enjoy these fine views. The track then comes to a well-signposted intersection, with signs pointing along the 'Federal Pass Track' and 'Dardanelles Pass'.
(4.53 km)
Int of Federal Pass, Scenic Railway and Dardenelles Tracks
to
Scenic Railway (Bottom Platform) Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 2.06 km
Time = 1 hr 1 mins
Climb = 210 m
Descent = -196 m
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Federal Pass' sign towards 'Scenic Railway', keeping the main cliffs on the right. Not long after the intersection, the track passes 'under the sisters' rock formation (signposted[8]). From here, the track turns and continues along a relatively stretch and, at several points, passes some notable rock formations and caves embedded in the cliffs. There are occasional good views that are not shrouded by the trees. The walk continues until coming to the base of Katoomba Falls, crossing these using a metal bridge know as 'Cooks Crossing'. (Just across the bridge, there is a picnic table.) Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south-west away from Katoomba Falls along the bush track, soon passing the signposted 'Turpentine Tree'. Shortly after this tree, the track comes to an intersection with another bush track and set of stairs (on the right, signposted as 'Furber Steps'). Continue straight: From the bottom of Furber Steps, this walk follows the 'To base of scenic railway' sign keeping the handrail on the left, and following the flat bush track. This track passes through a small gate over a metal bridge at the bottom of the Scenic Railway.
(6.59 km)
Scenic Railway (Bottom Platform)
to
Scenic World Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - transport
Length = 299 m
Time = 26 mins
Climb = 210 m
Descent = -8 m
Turn left: From the bottom platform, this walk heads up to the cliff top using the Scenic Railway. Hang on tight! This 415m-long journey is the world's steepest railway. Use of the railway costs $10 for adults and $5 for children one-way. Last train normally at 4:45pm (opens at 9am). More info Note: The distance and altitude change for this ride is not included in the total for this walk.
Scenic World
Alt = 951 m
Scenic World is one of the most renowned tourist attractions of Katoomba and the Blue Mountains. Located on the cliffs of the Jamison Valley [9], visitors can enjoy a ride on the Scenic Railway (the world's steepest incline railway) or the Scenic Cableway, into the Jamison Valley, and explore the Scenic Walkway from the base. Alternatively, the Scenic Skyway offers a bird's eye view over the valley, with a glass floor to enhance the experience. Scenic World also features a revolving restaurant, a cafe and a kiosk, in addition to the documentary theatre and souvenir shop. Rides can be purchased, starting from $16 for adults and $10 for children, and combination or family passes are available. More info
Fire Danger This walk passes Greater Sydney Region fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place. (Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago) Please Note: Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Blue Mountains National ParkLink to official closures and fire bans page Attracting over 3 million visitors annually, Blue Mountains National Park holds some of Australia's most spectacular and diverse wilderness areas. Explore the Grose Valley, with its sheer sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and scenic walking, or enjoy the famous views of the Three Sisters. Easy access makes a day trips very worthwhile, but with such diversity it would be great to stay in one of the many B&B's and spend a few days soaking up the region. Region: Sydney & Surrounds Park feesCampingFacilities Current Park Closure information for Blue Mountains National Park Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM Closed areas: Grand Canyon walking track The Grand Canyon walking track will be closed from Wednesday 14 October 2015 to mid-June 2016. The closure is necessary to allow work to continue on improving the walking track. Access for canyoners will be on weekends only. Access from Evans Lookout via Beauchamp Falls to the Grose Valley will remain open. Evans Lookout carpark, Loop carpark, and Neates Glen carpark will remain open. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 47878877 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Waratah Native Gardens Waratah Native Gardens picnic area is closed for maintenance. This includes the Gorge Walking track. No access to the area is permitted.Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Hawkesbury area office on (02) 4588 2400 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Prince Henry cliff walk, Leura Blue Mountains City Council wishes to advise that Prince Henry cliff walk between Majestic lookout and the junction with the Leura Cascades walk is currently closed due to a landslip. Detours will be in place and clearly signposted around the affected area. Access from the Leura picnic area to the cascades is unaffected. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains City Tourism on 1300 653 408 or Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Butterbox Swamp track The traditional access to Butterbox Canyon via the endangered swamp is now closed and rehabilitated. No access permitted. Canyoners should use the new track provided. Temporary signage is in place. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Claustral canyon access change Access to Claustral canyon via the previous route across private land at Mount Tomah is no longer possible due to landholders denying access. Canyoners should respect the rights of Mount Tomah residents and avoid using private land. Alternative access from the west side of Mount Bell has been identified. For more information, please contact the Blue Moauntains Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, open seven days 9am to 4.30pm, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Cahills lookout - Katoomba As a result of a recent bushfire, Cahills lookout remains closed until further notice. For more information, please contact Blue Mountains City Council on (02) 4780 5000.
Closed areas: Waratah Native Gardens Waratah Native Gardens Some areas of this park are closed due to a major landslip event occurring across The Gorge Walking Track. Closed areas include The Gorge Walking Track in the Blue Mountains National Park. A full assessment is underway to determine the extent of damage and to ensure the area is made safe. The Gorge Walking Track is closed at the entry trackhead however the Waratah Native Gardens Day Use and Picnic Area located off Valley Ridges Road Berambing (west of Bilpin) has now been reopened. This closure may be extended and any extension will be posted as soon as possible. For more information, please contact NPWS Heritage Centre on (02) 4787 8877, open seven days 9am to 4.30pm, or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines
Did this walk by pairing it up with the Katoomba-Leura via Prince Henry Cliff Walk. After leaving Gordon Falls, it took about 3.5 hours to get to the base of the furber steps, and another 45 mins to ascend the steps, all with breaks for photography. Completed the walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk in about 3 hours. Given 8 hours most people of reasonable fitness could complete this, and this walk gives a great experience of the environment both in the Jamison Valley and along the Cliff Top. It also gives an opportunity to experience the lookouts along the first section both in the morning and afternoon light, which give a different quality. I would highly recommend doing these two walks together.
admin - re: joining walks
Super Administrator | 2009-02-23 10:34:15
Matt Arkell wrote:
Did this walk by pairing it up with the Katoomba-Leura via Prince Henry Cliff Walk.
Thanks Matt. Sounds like a great day out. I have added this idea to you list of walks to include, so that you can do this with just one set of notes. Thanks for the feedback
Matt :)
Mike Cuming
IP:58.173.42.xxx | 2011-04-20 05:48:38
Hi Matt,
I'm assuming it is a typo, but your header for this walk states 5 hours for this 6.6km walk! Your point-to-point cumulative time (to the bottom of Scenic Railway) however is 3.17 hours and yesterday I found this more than generous for a 70 year old who takes lots of photos on the way! Might also be worth including Furber Steps as an alternative ascent to taking the railway. As above, allow about 45 mins for this section.
Regards
Mike
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2011-04-20 06:21:50
Mike Cuming wrote:
Hi Matt,
I'm assuming it is a typo, but your header for this walk states 5 hours for this 6.6km walk!
Thanks Mike,
You are a fit 70year old though :)
I have looked at the walking times and have changed this to 4hrs, this is more consistent with other walking times in the area. I am planning to re-walk much of this area in the next few months, so I will hopefully add the alternate route then, good idea.
Hope you had a good time, I love Leura Forest - such a unusual spot.
Thanks again
Matt :)
Gayle Adams - Great walk
IP:124.188.150.xxx | 2012-03-13 04:11:16
Hi Matt,
Did this walk on a Sunday in March 2012. Fabulous. Bridal Veil Falls, Leura forest, Lilla Falls, just some of the many highlights. And the views. And the the ride up escarpment via the Scenic Railway at the end. Wow! Highly recommended. Excellent trip notes.
Hiking near Sydney 
Track: Hard
1 km
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
There is free parking available.
not too much longer now :)