Join the Adventures All Stars team as they explore everything fun and adventurous that Australia's Blue Mountains has to offer.

Adventure All Stars, a travel and adventure TV show with a difference, is the ultimate five-day road trip where TV viewers get to experience incredible locations through the eyes of an engaging and socially conscious cast. Pre-filming, cast members raise funds for a charity cause and their reward for doing so is a starring role on the TV show, experiencing fun activities and unforgettable adventures in beautiful locations.

Season 4, Episode 2 takes the team to the breathtaking Blue Mountains, where they tackle Juggler Canyon, the Blue Mountains Adventure Company's popular 'dry' canyon.

The canyon is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, featuring four exhilarating abseils through a rainforest-lined slot. The adventure didn't stop there — canyoneers enjoyed fun rock scrambles, stunning views between steep canyon walls, and an epic exit hike via Rodriguez Pass and the Grand Canyon, up the historic Pilcher Track.

One of the best parts about Juggler Canyon is its shallow water, which can be easily avoided, making it an ideal adventure spot year-round, even in winter!

Watch the episode snippet below:

Whether you have half a day, a full day, or a few days to spare, there's a wealth of iconic spots waiting to be explored on a Blue Mountains e-bike ride.

Here's a rundown of 12 must-see destinations in the upper and central hub of the Blue Mountains, perfect for discovering at your own pace.

1. Cahills Lookout

Cahills Lookout, with its stunning views of the Megalong Valley and the cliffs of Narrow Neck. Watch for rock climbers on Boars Head, where modern Australian rock climbing was pioneered a century ago. 

2. Chase Waterfalls

Katoomba Falls, Leura Cascades, Gordon Falls, Minnehaha Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Wentworth Falls, Empress Falls – water helped carve out the Blue Mountains over millions of years and this place is famed for the waterfalls that gush from the escarpment. Some of these falls are also home to one of the world’s rarest plants – the dwarf mountain pine. 

3. The Gully

From the 1890s through to the 1950s, The Gully was an Aboriginal community on the outskirts of Katoomba. Today, it is a peaceful and spiritual place with great signage to help you understand more about the Indigenous people of the Blue Mountains. 

4. Scenic World

What’s not to love about the world’s steepest railway (52 degrees!) at Scenic World in Katoomba? This breathtaking adventure also lets you explore the mining history of the Blue Mountains as the railway was first built in the 1880s to haul coal and oil shale from the Jamison Valley. 

5. Echo Point

Echo Point is the place to take in the majesty of the Jamison Valley, Mount Solitary, the cliffs of Kings Tableland and those towers of sandstone, the Three Sisters. 

6. Exotic Gardens

The Blue Mountains are famous for their cold-climate gardens that put on stunning displays of colour in spring and autumn. The heritage-listed Everglades in Leura and Blackheath Rhododendron Garden are favourites. 

7. Art Galleries & Centres

The Blue Mountains are blessed to be home to many artists and art galleries that display their work. Lost Bear, Gallery 188 and Falls Gallery are favourites. And don’t miss the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba, which boasts art exhibitions, a library, a café, stunning views, great gifts and a permanent exhibition showcasing the Blue Mountains’ World Heritage values. 

8. Short Hikes

Don’t be afraid to lock up your bike and take a short bushwalk. I recommend the Prince Henry Cliff Walk between Leura and Katoomba, Govetts Leap to the Braeside Walk in Blackheath. In my home village of Wentworth Falls, I love the Charles Darwin Walk, the Overcliff/Undercliff Track and the Valley of the Waters Track. 

9. Foods & Restaurants

There are plenty of great food and drink options in Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls and Blackheath. Try Mountain Culture for craft beers, Station Bar for pizzas, Basil Nut for modern Asian, Leura Deli for brekkie and gelato, Hominy and Black Cockatoo for bread, the Alexandra Hotel, Family Hotel and Ivanhoe Hotel for pub grub, Champagne Charlie’s in the Carrington Hotel for cocktails, Bakehouse on Wentworth and Bakery Patisserie Schwarz for cakes and pies, Laughing Elephant for bahn mi, Altitude Deli for killer sandwiches of all sorts. Locals are eagerly awaiting the reopening of famed Greek café the Paragon for its chocolates and milkshakes. 

10. Where to make a splash

If it’s hot, a swim in Wentworth Falls Lake, Katoomba Pool or Blackheath Pool is a great way to cool down. If it’s cold, Blue Mountains Sauna in Leura is a real treat. 

11. Local Parks

Local parks are also a delight to visit to picnic, daydream or read a book. Try Myoori Park in Wentworth Falls, Lone Pine Memorial and Peace Park in Leura, Kingsford Smith Park in Katoomba and Blackheath Soldiers Memorial Park.

12. Carrington Hotel

Much of the tourism development in the upper Blue Mountains took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s and some wonderful architecture remains a legacy of this time. A must-see is the Carrington Hotel, built on the main street of Katoomba in 1882. Another bonus gem is the streetscape of Leura Mall. 

Ready to pedal your way around the Blue Mountains? Choose a cycling itinerary for you. 

Words by Dan Lewis, a guide for Blue Mountains Adventure Company

The first bikes imported into Australia were the famed penny-farthings, named after the biggest and smallest of Britain’s coins because the bikes had a very big front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel.

If you've read Banjo Paterson’s famous 1896 poem, Mulga Bill’s Bicycle, it'll make you laugh out loud as it satirises the enthusiasm with which Australians took to pedalling bikes: 

'Twas Mulga Bill, from Eaglehawk, that caught the cycling craze; 
He turned away the good old horse that served him many days;
He dressed himself in cycling clothes, resplendent to be seen;
He hurried off to town and bought a shining new machine; 

As Mulga Bill discovered, those bikes were notoriously difficult to ride.

Fast forward to 2024 and Blue Mountains Adventure Company’s fleet of hardtail Merida e-bikes with 630Wh lithium-ion batteries, a 10-speed drive train, and hydraulic disc brakes are state-of-the-art. 

They would be almost unrecognisable to Mulga Bill and they make Blue Mountains cycling an option for anyone with slightly more skill than Mulga. 

If you're thinking of riding in this World Heritage-listed area, here are three fun facts to get you pedalling under your own steam.

3 Electric Bike Fun Facts
 

Fact 1: A human being cycling a well-maintained bike on flat terrain is the world’s most energy-efficient means of transport. 

When venturing further into the heart of the Upper Blue Mountains and its delicate environment, e-bikes tick the box as an environmentally friendly option for exploration with a lower impact.

Fact 2: The terrain of the Blue Mountains is not flat and cycling an “analogue” bike here is hard work. 

For anyone new to road cycling or cycling holidays, opting for an electric bike gives you that extra confidence boost for a smooth and enjoyable journey. BMAC's quality hardtail Merida hybrid e-bikes effortlessly iron out hills with the additional power assist allowing you to tackle tougher climbs with ease.

Fact 3: E-Bikes have revolutionised Blue Mountains cycling by making it so much easier and so much more fun to take in the local magic.

With an e-bike, you can explore beyond the usual tourist spots and find the best local lookouts (with the help of our resident team) for breathtaking views of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains. You are your own guide, deciding when to stop for photos or choose to lock up and head on a short walk to see some incredible sites.

Discover cycling itineraries designed to let you take breaks whenever you want, all while soaking in the best of the Blue Mountains in a day or two. View trips →  

Since 1984, the Blue Mountains Adventure Company has been the trusted companion for turning ordinary weekends into extraordinary thrills.

Imagine rock climbing towering sandstone cliffs, meandering through timeless Blue Mountains trails, exploring on state-of-the-art e-bikes, or descending into incredible, ancient canyons —it's the stuff dreams are made of. As pioneers of canyoning tours in the Blue Mountains, our team have been blazing the trail for adventure enthusiasts.

Watch our short teaser as we take you into the beauty and depths of the World Heritage area:

With experienced guides, gourmet lunches, top-tier gear, and more adventure locations in the Blue Mountains than anyone else, we ensure every outing is a memorable one. 

Make your adventure dreams a reality – find your adventure today >

Say goodbye to strenuous uphill climbs and embrace the freedom to explore more ground than ever before with an electric bike (e-bike) adventure in the Blue Mountains.

The benefits of hiring an electric bike

Revel in the joy of effortlessly cruising up hills, going further than you ever imagined, and unlocking the full potential of your cycling adventure with an e-bike. Advantages include:

• Accessible for various fitness levels: Built with comfort and ease of operation in mind, our e-bikes come with unisex frames, making them suitable for anyone looking to enjoy the ride without physical strain. It's perfect for those new to road cycling or cycling holidays, by giving you the confidence boost needed for a seamless journey.
   
• A great equaliser: If you have joint issues or are recovering from an injury, the added support from an e-bike is gentle on your legs and knees compared to traditional bikes. This makes it a great equaliser when travelling with families or friends with varying strength and stamina levels as it eliminates concerns about keeping up and allows you to focus on quality time together.

 

• Tackle tougher climbs with ease: An electric bike transforms the journey into a more relaxed experience, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings without the physical challenges. Enjoy the extra boost to conquer challenging hills, where the electric assist of an e-bike provides the added power needed to make it to the top effortlessly. 
   
• Eco-friendly and efficient: E-bikes offer an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, reducing your carbon footprint. Quick to master, electric bikes make active holidays physically easier without sacrificing the adventurous spirit of the trip. 

Our high-quality hardtail Merida hybrid e-bikes are equipped with powerful 630Wh batteries, a 10-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring a ride that's as effortless as it is enjoyable. 

Experience the Blue Mountains in a new light, where the power of e-bikes brings people of all fitness levels together for an unforgettable journey amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Tag along with our guide, Dan Lewis, as he shows you all the natural beauty of the canyons in the Blue Mountains. For tourists visiting the area, many of them don't get any further than the lookout at the top, and while it's gorgeous, Dan believes the best way to explore the heart of the Bluey's is to get down into their depths, which is why canyoning for him is the perfect way to go.

Watch the full clip below:

"The magic of the Blue Mountains doesn't lie in their height, it lies in their depth. You know you descend a hundred metres in altitude, but you've effectively gone back a hundred million years in time. They're just magical places that you won't find anywhere else." 

The Blue Mountains — which, in actuality, are not so much a series of peaks but a collection of captivating ridges, plateaus, and gorges. Only 90 minutes from the Sydney centre, the World Heritage Listed site offers a swift escape from the city and an ideal place to spend the weekend away for plenty of adventures from abseiling to canyoning.

Me and Zac Efron? Yeah, we go back a fair way. All the way back to high school, in fact. 

Not the high school I went to in the Blue Mountains in the 1980s. No, I’m talking legendary East High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in the early 2000s. 

Thanks to my daughter, Molly (now aged 21), that’s where I first got to know the Hollywood actor through the movie, High School Musical. Molly was a huge fan of Zac’s schoolboy character, the deadly-handsome, all-singing, all-dancing basketball jock Troy Bolton. The Disney movie was so incredibly successful that along came High School Musical 2 and 3 and their songs were the anthems of my daughter’s adolescence. 

I endured and enjoyed all three films being on high rotation at the Lewis household throughout Molly’s teenage years. Millions of other young ladies throughout the world felt exactly the same way about Zac as my daughter did and this appeal has seen his acting career continue to blossom. 

As a humble Blue Mountains canyon guide, I didn’t think I had a lot in common with this global celebrity until early 2021 when Zac Efron – in the flesh – walked into my world. 

He was filming a second series of his Emmy-award winning Netflix documentary series Down to Earth and, due to the COVID pandemic, it was being made entirely in Australia. 

As Zac explains in the first episode, he left the United States for Australia in early 2020 to visit some friends, relax and do some surfing “and then BOOM!” COVID meant his vacation turned into an extended stay in Australia “and what started with me being stuck here has turned into me falling in love with this country”. I feel very chuffed that Zac voices those words in the documentary as he joyfully leaps into a deep pool of water in beautiful Empress Falls Canyon in the Blue Mountains. 

It turns out Zac and I do have a lot of things in common and one of them is a love of canyoning in the Blue Mountains. Although I lack Zac’s rippling physique, we also share the same sized wetsuit. (It’s a Seatec size four solid, in case you need to know.) 

Zac – now an honourary Aussie complete with his own pair of Blundstone boots - decided he wanted to share the beauty and spirituality of Australia with his family, friends and fans, so he had come to the Blue Mountains with his documentary sidekick, the US wellness guru Darin Olien, to film what became the first of eight episodes of Down to Earth Down Under. He wanted to look at lessons the wider world could learn from Australia when it comes to things like conservation, agriculture, fire, waste management and Aboriginal voices. 

Down to Earth Down Under launched on Netflix on November 11. The first 43-minute episode is titled “Habitat Conservation” and the Netflix blurb says: “From Sydney to the Greater Blue Mountains, Zac and Darin meet with leading eco-warriors to learn about protected lands and habitat conservation.” 

Nobody has ever called me an eco-warrior before (thanks, Netflix!), but I do try hard to use every canyoning adventure I guide to build an understanding of what a precious place the Blue Mountains is and why its conservation is so important. 

As a guide, I have done a lot of work with television productions wanting to use the cliffs and canyons of the Blue Mountains as high-adrenalin backdrops, but they are usually disinterested in looking beyond the action and the scenery to understanding why this place is so special. 

What made working with Zac and his Netflix crew so pleasurable was their genuine interest in and respect for things that I hold precious such as treading lightly on this breathtaking landscape of vast biodiversity, acknowledging its deep and rich Indigenous history and culture, understanding the significance of its World Heritage status as a place of universal value. They were also up for the physical and mental challenges of the formidable canyon environment. And they were friendly and pure professionals who respected all that my fellow Blue Mountains Adventure Company guides did to keep them safe. 

Indeed, it was a canyoning day like no other. Despite signing a lengthy legal document that threatened me with life imprisonment and bankruptcy if I mentioned to another soul that Zac Efron was going canyoning in the Blue Mountains, I have never had my daughter squeal with such disbelief and delight when I whispered in her ear about what her dad was going to do. 

I have never departed on a canyoning adventure with a bodyguard as part of the entourage before. And I have never had the paparazzi following a canyoning adventure before. At the time, Zac was dating Vanessa Valladares, a waitress he had met in Byron Bay, and the tabloid media was very interested in their relationship. But I still got a shock the following day when long-lens photos of them and me on our way to the canyon were plastered across the Daily Mail website. 

As part of my research to prepare for the big day, I watched the entire first series of Down to Earth, which launched in 2020 and had Zac and Darin globetrotting to destinations such as Sardinia and Costa Rica. I quickly realised who I didn’t want to be – the hapless guide at the famous Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland who was incapable of answering almost all their perfectly reasonable questions. 

On the big day, I was naturally nervous. Molly had politely informed me there would be millions of Zac Efron fans all around the world – including her - hating on me if I let him get damaged in the canyon. When Zac was looking a bit anxious at the top of Empress Falls as he prepared to abseil through its pounding flow, I reassured him that he had nothing to worry about because there was no way I was going to disappoint my daughter. That gave him a smile! 

There has been 20 months of nervous waiting since the filming to see if I had avoided the Icelander’s embarrassing fate. As soon as I heard that opening episode start with the pumping sound of awesome Yolngu musician Baker Boy, I had a good feeling about Down to Earth Down Under. That good feeling grew as I watched Zac and Darin meet with Darug elders of the Sydney region for a solemn welcome to country and a smoking ceremony that honoured more than 60,000 years of Aboriginal history. 

One of the Darug uncles asked Zac why he was here and I loved his answer: “I guess the reason I’m here is to learn and gain perspective and insight into your culture and your people.” 

And then they cut to the Blue Mountains and Empress Falls Canyon and for about 15 minutes I loved the way they made the Blue Mountains look so wonderful and canyoning look so cool. 

Using the language of the Darug people of the Blue Mountains, I look forward to saying “warami mittigar” – welcome friend - to Zac again someday. 

Empress Falls Canyon is named after another global celebrity – Queen Victoria, who was also the Empress of India in her day – but I suspect that for a lot of people around the world it’s now going to be known as Zac Efron Canyon.

The last thing you need on a long hike or multi-day trek are blisters, but often all it takes is a little preparation to keep your feet stress-free! Here are some helpful ways to make your next outdoor adventure a comfortable one.

Why do I get blisters?

Blisters form when there is too much friction between your foot and your hiking boots. Blisters most commonly appear on your heels or around your toes, but they can appear anywhere on your body if the activity is repetitive enough and creates friction against your skin.

On multi-day treks, blisters can make or break your experience, so to ensure your feet are healthy, comfortable and blister-free, we recommend using the following techniques to prevent and treat forming hot spots.

Top blister prevention tips for happy hiking feet

Your hiking boots

Your hiking boots are the most important tool in preventing blisters – they could make or break your walking holiday! Firstly, make sure your boots are the right size and fit you well – sounds simple, but if you feel your boots pinch your toes together uncomfortably, they may be too small for you and your likelihood of blisters is almost guaranteed.

At the same time, a pair of hiking boots that are too big for you will make your feet move around loosely in the boots, creating unnecessary friction and consequently, increase the likelihood of blisters. 

A well-fitting pair of hiking boots will leave enough space for your toes, even when descending a steep hill. They will, however, hold your heels securely in place, which will prevent any heel blisters from forming.

Once you have a pair of well-fitting boots, you need to ensure they have been broken in before you start your hike. If not, the stiffness of a new set of boots can create unnecessary pressure on certain parts of your feet and cause blisters. Breaking your hiking boots in slowly will make their sole more flexible and mould the inside of the shoes to your feet, helping create the perfect fit for your foot.

No other piece of equipment can impact your enjoyment of your trek more than your boots, so investing in comfortable trekking boots is highly recommended.

We advise going to a gear shop to be fitted by an expert who will talk you through the range of boots on offer and find the best boot to suit your foot type.

Once you’ve bought your boots make sure you wear them as much as possible! They might feel a bit uncomfortable and stiff at first, but the more you wear them, the more they will mould to your foot shape. Start with short walks and build up to longer ones. It might take some time to wear them in, but it's better you get blisters now rather than on your trip.

Your socks

Now you’ve got your boots sorted, the next thing to look at is your socks.

Hiking socks are usually thicker in certain areas, such as the heel and the ball of the foot, to reduce friction against your skin and provide padding between your trekking boots and your feet.

Avoid cotton socks, as they tend to absorb your sweat and hold the moisture, while the bunched up fabric will rub against your skin and create blisters.

Hiking socks are designed to transport moisture from your foot, through the socks and into the material of your hiking boots. If you have a breathable pair of hiking boots, these will then transport the moisture out of the boot and leave your feet dry and comfortable, with a low risk of blisters.

Wearing two pairs of socks is another way to reduce friction and minimize the likelihood of blisters forming; we recommend very thin synthetic socks closest to your skin with regular hiking socks worn on top. The theory is that the socks will absorb any friction. There are socks specifically designed for this purpose and, if you are susceptible to blisters, it’s worth trying this method.

On the trail

There are a few things you can do to prevent blisters before you start your hiking adventure. If you already know of any problem areas that are likely to form blisters, tape them before you start to reduce friction. If you start feeling any of these hotspots getting uncomfortable, tend to them immediately to prevent blisters from forming. You can do this by taping them with moleskin, bandages, medical leukotape or even duct tape.

Alternatively, if none of these methods are available to you, simply take a break and take your shoes and socks off for a while to let your feet air out and give your feet a well-earned rest. If your feet get wet or sweaty enough to soak your socks, this is a good time to air them out.

Moisture creates more friction and favourable conditions for blisters to form.

When putting your shoes back on, make sure you tie them properly in a way that relieves the hotspots from pressure or friction. Another way of avoiding wet feet is changing your socks regularly throughout the day; your dry, blister-free feet will thank you later.

How to treat blisters

Notify your guides

Our guides are trained on how to best treat blisters to reduce physical discomfort while on a trek. If you feel a blister forming be sure to notify your guides the moment you notice it. Early treatment is best made for a more enjoyable walking adventure.

Treating your blisters yourself

Try to avoid creating any more friction on the affected spot by covering the area with an extra layer between your skin and your boots. You can use normal plasters, gauze or special blister plasters.

If your blister has popped, it's important to protect the blister from infection, so apply a disinfectant cream to the area and cover it with a plaster to prevent dirt and sweat from touching the sore.

Should I pop a blister?

Popping a blister is a controversial topic. Small blisters, which are not painful, should usually not be drained. The intact skin on them protects them best from infection.

How to drain a blister

Draining a blister that is larger and painful can reduce the pain but increase the risk of infection. If you decide to drain a blister, wash the blister and surrounding area thoroughly first. Sterilize your needle with heat or alcohol. Insert the needle near the base of the blister. Dress the blister like any other wound to keep it clean.

Whilst a trek may seem daunting – particularly if it’s your first time, if you take the time to prepare yourself mentally and physically, you’ll be well on your way to being ready to take on the challenge. Following these tips will hopefully help you avoid blisters and make the most of your next walking adventure. Good luck on the trails!

Have tips of your own to share? Let us know in the comments below.
 

Whether you want to be the master of your own travel destiny or enjoy the journey of travelling solo, choosing to travel independently doesn't have to be a daunting task.

Enter self-guided walking holidays. They provide the freedom of moving at your own pace and being challenged further. When there's a lot to consider on an active adventure – from transfers to accommodation, route mapping to gear hire – it helps when the hassle of organising is taken out of your hands.

What does a self-guided walking trip involve?

A self-guided hike is pretty much letting you control the steering wheel but having a personalised Siri navigator – i.e. an experienced outdoor company – help you along the way.

Especially when seeking out paths less travelled, a self guided walking trip combines the flexibility, comfort and freedom of independent travel with the benefits of an organised guided hike.

Our self-guided walks don't compromise on security and organisation, with 24/7 support and logistics taken care of by our ground team. You can get the perks of gear hire included, have most meals (or food drops when out in the wilderness) provided, camp equipment use, maps and route details on hand, luggage transfers and more. All you need to do is arrive on the day of your great adventure and start navigating.

How different is a self-guided hike to hiking independently?

Independent tours are for travellers that want to go it alone, seeking out a unique experience with that extra freedom to venture where and how one pleases. And thanks to the internet, the boom in DIY has become the rage. But that means planning, researching, making calls, organising bookings and schedules, budgeting, doing more research, making more phone calls... I think you get the drift. Planning an itinerary and managing all the logistics can get tedious and exhausting. 

So is saving a few bucks worth sacrificing the overall experience, not to mention the time taken to co-ordinate a one to two week holiday? And, do you actually save that much money in the end?

Self guided walks take the hassle away with expertly planned itineraries and service both on and off the trail with plenty of wiggle room to tailor your travel experience to suit your style, budget and needs.

While travel styles are continually evolving, a regular constant is people's need to seek out value for experience and value for money. So a boom in self guided tours makes a lot of sense for those that like the feel of independent travel but with the luxury of the expertise, advice, assistance and safety of a travel company.

Self guided walking trips offer a multitude of advantages, regardless of whether you are an experienced active traveller or a first-timer.

6 benefits of opting for a self guided walk:

1. Convenience: Researching all the possibilities can get exciting, but it is also time-consuming, overwhelming and even exhausting at times. Choosing our self guided holidays means we do all the leg work with specialist knowledge of your destination from our experienced team of adventures and experts. You'll save a lot of screen time not scouring the internet researching ideas and reading reviews with the luxury of an expertly crafted itinerary, based on years of experience and local knowledge of a destination. It allows you to make the most of your time and ensure you can travel worry-free with all the logistics sorted.

2. Competitive pricing: Travel companies can get a better price thanks to their volume. We can help pre-book accommodation, gear hire and activities at great prices and our team can help tailor your trip to meet your budget. Plus, with plenty of inclusions in the trip cost already, you can better budget for your adventure holiday and eliminate many out of pocket expenses. 

3. Luggage transport service: Having your bags transferred for you each day is a major plus where you simply leave your bags at the reception of your accommodation in the morning with our luggage tags attached and they’ll be picked up and dropped off at your following destination accommodation.

4. Travel at your own pace: With more flexibility, you can pick and choose what you want to do, where you wish to spend more time and not have to worry about keeping up with a tour group. (You can even choose your own travel buddies!) Under your own steam, you’ll have time to savour the sights and delights of the region.

5. Up-to-date and well-thought-out route notes and maps: These get updated more often than a guide book does and they always benefit from local insights and knowledge. Rest assured that we'll look after the logistics, so you can concentrate on the trail ahead.

6. Added security: If something goes wrong on your trip when travelling independently with a small group of friends or solo, who are you going to call? There's no need to go into 'survival mode'. Our self guided trips offer 24-hour local emergency contacts, which can be the difference between you getting back on the trail in a matter of hours, or aborting the trip completely. Travel with a peace of mind knowing that there is help only a fingertip away, especially when the unexpected has a way of happening.

Rather than thinking and worrying about trip logistics all day, isn’t it worth treating yourself to a trip where someone else takes on this thankless task, so you can focus on all the amazing reasons you came to the destination in the first place? We don’t doubt that independent travel doesn’t have its place, but there are certainly plenty of perks when you have expert support and advice on hand.

New to self guided trips? Check out our range.

The Blue Mountains offers an almost endless array of great walking opportunities, suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. With the UNESCO world heritage listed Greater Blue Mountains Area being a million hectares of protected Parks to explore, there is a lifetime of walking experiences to enjoy in the Blue Mountains, right on Sydney’s doorstep. 

So, where do you start when there are so many Blue Mountains walks to choose from? To get you started, we’ve created a list of the 10 best walks in the Blue Mountains. (in no particular order, they are all worth doing!)

BEST UPPER BLUE MOUNTAINS WALKS

The Upper Blue Mountains includes the townships of Blackheath, Katoomba, Leura and Wentworth Falls.

Prince Henry Cliff Walk

Grand Canyon Walk

 

Golden Stairs to Ruined Castle

For a Blue Mountains walk that gives the sense of being in the wilderness without being too far removed from Katoomba, this hike is a gem. This 6.6km ‘out-and-back’, at times, hard walk takes you to one of the most recognisable landmarks of the Jamison Valley – the Ruined Castle; a rock formation situated to the west of Mount Solitary. The climb to the top of the Ruined Castle is a tricky rock scramble however offers rewarding views across the Jamison Valley back towards Katoomba; and south across what seems like an endless green wilderness of the Southern Blue Mountains.

Fern Bower to Furber Steps (via Leura Forest)

Located in Katoomba, this is a great day walk in the Blue Mountains that incorporates some areas less trafficked by the masses whilst still exploring the more frequented popular areas. The descent down the Fern Bower Track is steep at times but manageable with great steps and railings in place. The trail winds past beautiful waterfalls and through lush green rainforest to Leura Forest. At this peaceful rest area you can connect with either the Federal Pass or Dardanelles Pass for your onward journey beneath the Three Sisters. Shortly before reaching Scenic World you turn upwards on Furber Steps; and to create a circuit walk, you can connect with the Prince Henry Cliff Walk (see above) and return to your start point near Leura Cascades. 

For details on accessing this walk download our free map for Leura Forest and Leura Cascades.

 

Lockleys Pylon to Govetts Leap (via Blue Gum Forest)

This Blue Mountains walk is a committing day walk or an overnight hike for the adventurous. The walk to Lockleys Pylon offers some of the most spectacular views of the Blue Mountains across the Grose Valley wilderness. The open heathland of the ridge tops closes in on your rugged descent into the Grose Valley as you enter the forests of the valley floor. The Blue Gum Forest, nestled in the depth of the valley, is one of the most renowned bushwalking sites in Australia as a result of its beauty and history as a catalyst for the Blue Mountains National Park being realised. Continuing past Acacia Flats campsite and on to Junction Rock you now begin your climb out of the valley towards Govetts Leap. In time, the serious climbing begins up the epic Rodrigues Pass, which at times clings to the sheer walls of the escarpment. Not to be missed by the adventurous.

National Pass and The Valley of the Waters

Built into the side of the cliff, National Pass is a spectacular Blue Mountains walking track offering unrivalled views of the many natural wonders of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park. Beyond the stepping stones at the top of the spectacular drop of Wentworth Falls, you will begin your descent on the historic Grand Stairway, built by hand in the early 1900’s. The National Pass begins its traverse mid-way up the towering escarpment from the base of the Stairway, and connects you with the Valley of the Waters. From here the walk begins its return ascent past numerous waterfalls including Empress Falls with its epic finish to this popular canyon adventure. At the top, at Conservation Hut, you’ll be greeted by yet more expansive views. If you began your walk from Wentworth Falls Picnic Area then you can complete your circuit by taking the Shortcut Track.

 

 

Kanangra to Katoomba (K2K)

This full-pack bushwalking expedition is one of the classic multi-day wilderness walks of the Southern Blue Mountains. The walk explores spectacular wilderness, following an unmarked path from Kanangra Walls to Katoomba. It is a challenging undertaking, with numerous significant ascents and descents but your effort will be well rewarded. In three days you will cross two National Parks, enjoying the best scenery of both. If you don't want to tackle this on your own come join us on a guided Kanangra to Katoomba expedition for the reassurance and a heightened experience.

 

BEST LOWER BLUE MOUNTAINS WALKS

The Lower Blue Mountains includes the towns of Lawson, Woodford, Springwood, Blaxland and Glenbrook. Whilst most of the focus is on the upper Blue Mountains walks, the trails of the Lower Blue Mountains are equally worth exploring – and often quieter. Our suggestions include:

The Victory Track  / Sassafras Gully

This is a beautiful track that is commonly approached from Faulconbridge and concluded at Springwood. It is also an access point to the more adventurous walking routes along Glenbrook Creek and the ridges above. Lush and green, the walk meanders through a beautiful rainforest gully the like of which is usually seen beneath the escarpments of the upper Blue Mountains. There are numerous options for side trips and exit tracks up towards the Great Western Highway. In the warm summer months, the many shallow swimming holes are worth visiting.

Martin’s Lookout to the Lost World

A fantastic walk with a steep descent/ascent in both directions and fabulous views. The walk starts at Martin’s Lookout (vehicle access required or a 4-5 km walk to start of the track from Springwood Station). Descend from Martin’s Lookout along single track, steep in parts and some short rock scrambles to Glenbrook Creek which is a lovely stop; and even better on your return journey to rest before your final steep ascent back up to Martin’s Lookout. Cross Glenbrook Creek and follow an at-times indistinct path to connect with the Kings Link Track that leads away from the creek up to Bunyan Lookout. Some great rocks to scramble on near Bunyan Lookout before following path up the spur towards the Lost World Lookout. Fantastic views up and down the valley. A worthy lunch spot before returning to Martin’s Lookout via the same route.

Waterfall Circuit

A great circuit walk starting near Lawson Swimming Pool, and taking in a series of small but very pretty waterfalls. Some lovely spots to stop and cool off along the way. This Blue Mountains walk is best done after some rain to enjoy the full effect of the beauty of the falls and surrounding rainforest areas.

If you'd like to try a walk in the Blue Mountains but prefer some experience local guidance, check out our range of guided Blue Mountains walks.

 

The most frequent question I get asked as a canyon guide? Easy! "Dan, what is YOUR favourite canyon?"

The answer, however, is not so easy. For many years I gave the diplomatic reply that choosing a favourite slot canyon was like choosing a favourite child - it can't be done. They are all beautiful in their own way and you love them all equally, I would reply. It was my honest belief.

But as the years went by and I thought about it more deeply I realised that, for me, there was a first among equals when it came to the canyons of the Blue Mountains - Empress Falls Canyon.

Because of its immense scenic beauty, much of the land around Empress Falls Canyon was among the first in the Blue Mountains to be set aside as a recreation reserve back in the 1870s, during the reign of Victoria, Queen of Great Britain and her Australian colonies. Another of Victoria's titles was Empress of India and the stunning falls were named in her honour. The name is perfectly apt. Empress Falls Canyon, I believe, is the queen of Blue Mountains canyons.

Why did it take me so long to work this out? There's a saying that familiarity breeds contempt. I've certainly never had anything remotely resembling contempt for Empress Falls Canyon, but as a guide it is inevitably the canyon you work in the most often, the canyon where you do your initial guide training and - in my case - the very first canyon I ever did. Living in Wentworth Falls, it's also my backyard canyon. And that familiarity can cloud your judgment.

Why do I now reckon that Empress is my favourite? Because, metre for metre, there is no other Blue Mountains canyon that gives you greater pleasure.

That pleasure starts with simply driving into the beautiful village of Wentworth Falls, with its sprawling gardens of cool climate plants and quaint weatherboard homes.

From the rock shelter on Kings Tableland where Aboriginal occupation has been dated back 22,000 years to the rock lookout where the famed naturalist Charles Darwin stared down into the cliff-lined Jamison Valley in 1836 and declared it one of the most astonishing things he had ever seen, this is a part of the Blue Mountains that just has so much history and so many great stories attached to it. Your BMAC guides can share all this with you.

The half-hour walk to the canyon (which starts at the iconic Conservation Hut cafe) is an absolute delight. The Valley of the Waters Track descends steeply through a fragrant forest of eucalypts, tea tree, banksia, wattle and mountain devils. Along the way you will often see or hear cockatoos, lyre birds and kookaburras.

The vegetation within the canyon is also magical. It is temperate rainforest, a remnant of the time Australia was still part of Gondwana - the great southern continent that included Antarctica, South America, Africa and India - 100 million years ago. Here the mighty coachwoods, sassafras and tree ferns create a real-life Jurassic Park. This is the Australia dinosaurs roamed through! This is canyoning, but it's also time travelling!

For the adrenalin junkies, Empress kindly contains four very exciting and very different jumps into the cool waters trapped by the rock walls squeezing in on either side. They never get old! The smooth, steep rock walls of the canyon are a natural masterpiece themselves, sculpted over millennia by rushing water. Then comes the crescendo - a 30 metre abseil down Empress Falls with a crowd of bushwalkers below cheering you on as water from the falls tumbles onto your helmet. Absolutely exhilarating! It's also a serious challenge, which is why we like to take you out abseiling on some dry cliffs in the morning so you have the technique and confidence to tackle the waterfall with style. At the bottom of the waterfall, it's time for your Blue Mountains Adventure Company guide to brew you a hot drink and hand around the lollies as you reflect upon your amazing canyon adventure.

The walk out is steep and hard work, but the perfect place to stop for a rest is Queen Victoria Lookout, which boasts a priceless view over the Jamison Valley, Kedumba Walls, Mount Solitary and the massive Blue Mountains wilderness beyond - the traditional country of the Gundungurra people.

As an adventure-loving Blue Mountains boy, Wentworth Falls resident and now a Blue Mountains Adventure Company guide for the past eight years, I long ago lost count of the number of times I have done Empress Falls Canyon, but every time still feels like a pleasure and a privilege. 

And during this crazy summer it is the only canyon we can currently guide due to the bushfires, and I'm extremely grateful that I can still share my favourite canyon with you.

Written by Dan Lewis - BMAC guide since 2014

READY TO EXPERIENCE EMPRESS FALLS? View all Empress Falls adventures.