A Little Story… (Mis)Adventures in Hiking the Giant Staircase in Katoomba

Last updated on February 6, 2024 by Shannon

The Blue Mountains takes its name from the blue haze that hovers above the mountain range in every direction. You can’t actually smell the sweetly mentholated scent eucalyptus in the air, but the blue haze stretches as far into the distance.

The blue haze is created by the oil released from eucalyptus plants—there are so many eucalyptus plants releasing oil that it tints the entire mountain range blue!

hiking the blue mountains australia
Stand at the lookout in Katoomba and stand in awe of the vast landscape and pretty Three Sisters rock formation.

How Long to Spend in the Blue Mountains

Wentworth Falls trail, Blue Mountains Australia
Wentworth Falls is a hike worth doing if you’re in Katoomba for a day or two.

Several backpackers at my hostel in Sydney advised me that the Blue Mountains was best visited as a day trip from Sydney, not as a four-day excursion. On the one hand, I see their point. The train system makes it easy to spend a mere two hours traveling from Sydney to downtown to Katoomba.

But photos of the Blue Mountains looked beautiful, and staying overnight would give me a better chance to undertake at least one solid hike while I stayed in the mountains. It was so tranquil and lovely that my overnight in the Blue Mountains turned into four days.

Once I arrived, the hostel maps and guides showed several gorgeous hikes—like the Giant Staircase, Three Sisters, and Wentworth Falls—far too much to do in just two days.

I’m not a city person, so I’m glad I didn’t rush my time in the mountains. I love hiking (most of the time), and decided that time outside of Sydney would clear my head and give me some breathing space from the close quarters of my hostel.

How long should you stay in the Blue Mountains? Here’s the calculus:

Day Trip to the Blue Mountains from Sydney

If you’re short on time, a day trip to the Blue Mountains still offers a worthwhile experience. The Three Sisters is viewable even without hiking, and you can still enjoy Scenic World and various walking trails.

Many tour operators offer day trips from Sydney, which usually include transportation and a guided tour. But you can also easily catch the train yourself and be in Katoomba in two hours. Two good day tours to consider include: Blue Mountains, Scenic World All Inclusive Tour and Blue Mountains: Three Sisters, Scenic World and Wildlife Park

Overnight Stay in Katoomba

Spending a night or two in the Blue Mountains allows you to immerse in the region’s beauty and take part in more activities. You can enjoy sunrise or sunset views, hike to additional landmarks like Wentworth Falls or Govetts Leap, go on longer hikes, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the area.

You can absolutely arrange transport yourself, and if you’re sleeping in the Blue Mountains for the night, plan a wow-worthy night Stargazing with an Astrophysicist in Blue Mountains.

Multi-Day Visit to the Blue Mountains

If you’re a nature enthusiast or want to experience the Blue Mountains at a more relaxed pace, stay for several days. Then you have ample time to hike some of best routes, visit lesser-known attractions and discover charming towns like Katoomba or Leura. If you’re adventurous, you can go e-biking, rock climbing, or a day canyoning and abseiling.

Hiking the Blue Mountains from Katoomba

taking the walking trails in Katoomba as an independent day trip
There are walking trails in Katoomba that you can enjoy as an independent day trip from Sydney, and even more trails to enjoy if you stay in the area for several days.

My hostel in Sydney was loud and cramped, so I was thankful for the new digs. What a wonderful, well run hostel. The Flying Fox hostel in Katoomba is independently owned and completely charming. It was still chilly when I arrived, and they offered hot tea on arrival and mulled wine next to a warm fire each evening.

The entire vibe at the hostel is indie and right up my alley. Ross, the hostel owner, is committed to helping tourists take responsible hikes that create a low-impact on the environment. He’s also beyond knowledgeable about all the trails around Katoomba.

On my first day in Katoomba, Ross talked with me about my skills and hiking level, then he handed me a laminated map. He suggested a hike of moderate difficulty that was three hours long on the outside. I don’t think he was counting on me getting lost. Or, perhaps he realized that the truth would have kept me rooted to the hostel couch and warming myself by the fire.

My hike got off to an ominous start. Within minutes of leaving the hostel, which is located just near the train station in Katoomba, I was lost. No matter how I twisted the map, I couldn’t locate the correct trailhead.

Hiking in Katoomba is popular, so the trails are mostly well-marked, but for some reason this hiking trail was more elusive. I lucked out when an equally lost Swiss guy wandered by in search of the same hiking trail. We decided to pair up for the afternoon and together we found the trailhead to begin our three hour hike.

waterfalls trail in Blue Mountains as an independent traveler
how to visit the waterfalls in the Blue Mountains from Katoomba

I’ll give Ross this: It was a beautiful trail. With so many different possible hikes in Katoomba, he picked well for me. Once I made it to the trailhead on the edge of town, the trail rapidly descended into the rainforests on the floor of the mountain range. The trail was exactly what you want in a trek: instant nature.

We hiked back and forth on the switchbacks, but at least it was downhill. Hundreds of steps led down the mountain. And while some staircases were metal and had handles, many were carved right into the rock.

Our path wound around dozens of waterfalls and vast vistas into the distance. The landscape in the Blue Mountains changes rapidly. Gone was the whooshing of cars passing by overhead. Instead, the dense rainforest created a non-silence that sent shivers up my arms.

With each footstep, water droplets fell from the heavy branches. Each bend in the path brought us in alongside pretty tinkling streams. Birds chirped their joy at the clear, cool day. And the sound of our shoes made a slurping noise as we walked through shallow mud puddles.

Christian, my Swiss friend, and I walked for hours. Sometimes we swapped stories, other times we plodded along lost in our own thoughts and happy for the companionable silence.

views of the three sisters from Katoomba
My hiking buddy Christian and I made our way to the top of the Giant Staircase after hours of hiking.

After a couple of hours, it was Christian who realized that we hadn’t hit trail signs in a long while. We decided to backtrack a bit to the last fork in the trail with hopes that it would lead to a more defined path. Also somewhere along the way we had gone into a section of lightly maintained trails.

Once we believed we were back on track, we thankfully spotted another hiker. They shared their route  since they were hiking our trail in the opposite direction. With their guidance, we stayed on the right trail and soon after we encountered what is affectionately called the Giant Stairway.

views over the Jamison Valley trails from Katoomba
Views over the Jamison Valley trails on a hike from Katoomba.
steep stairs on the Giant Staircase
Steep stairs lead up from the valley floor up the Giant Staircase to eventually reach the Three Sisters.

Four and a half hours after descending into the rainforest, the Giant Stairway was more than 900 steps back up the mountainside. Just as the stairs started, the sign gave an estimate. It will take 45 minutes to summit the staircase if you stop along the way. More or less depending on fitness.

For us, having taken so many detours, we knew that it would take a bit longer. The final count as 70 minutes on the Staircase and 4.5 hours on the trail. That’s fairly terrible! But we had fun, and the views were spectacular, so that’s something.

The reward for braving the 900 steps of the Giant Staircase is an epic view of the Three Sisters and the long valley. The Giant Staircase edges around the Sisters, and you can’t see all three rock formations as a single unit until you reach the top. The hike wiped us both out, but we both returned to our hostels exclaiming over the beautiful views and stunning natural beauty.

What to Do in Katoomba

View the Three Sisters at Sunset

how to hike the blue mountains independently
Sunset on the Three Sisters—you don’t need to hike the Blue Mountains to see the Three Sisters, there’s a lookout, but hiking makes it so you earn the views.

The Three Sisters is the star of the show in the Blue Mountains. These magnificent rock formations offer stunning views of the surrounding valleys and cliffs. According to local legend, the Three Sisters represent three Aboriginal sisters who were turned into stone to protect them during a battle. Each sister stands at a different height, creating a distinctive silhouette against the mountain backdrop.

Visit the Three Sisters from Echo Point, a popular lookout in Katoomba that provides the best vantage point. Echo Point offers panoramic views of the Three Sisters, the Jamison Valley, and the surrounding landscapes. Then take a short walk to the Honeymoon Bridge.

You can visit the Three Sisters year round, but if you’re hiking to the three sisters, coming up on them from the staircase, then check the weather conditions before planning a trip to Katoomba so you’ll have good weather for the hike. And to avoid large crowds, visit on weekdays or arrive early in the day.

You can visit in the early morning, but the soft golden light of late afternoon is the best. It is important to note that the Three Sisters can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. It’s a not-to-be-missed thing to do in Katoomba.

Enjoy Scenic World

blue moutains from sydney
The views of the Blue Mountains are gorgeous from many places, but Scenic World has built numerous fun ways to immerse in nature if you’re short on time and need to get back to Sydney.

Scenic World is best known is its collection of scenic rides through a picturesque valley. The Scenic Railway, which holds the title of the steepest passenger railway globally, takes passengers on a descent through the rainforest while offering panoramic views throughout the journey.

The Scenic Skyway, a cable car that glides above the valley, provides impressive vistas of the mountains, deep canyons, and the Katoomba Falls. Seeking a more immersive experience? The Scenic Cableway offers a gentle descent into the Jamison Valley, where you can admire the lush vegetation and stunning scenery.

You can also undertake various walking tracks through ancient rainforest, each one showcasing the region’s unique flora and fauna. You can make a day of it with additional facilities, including a café and a souvenir shop.

If you’re already in the Blue Moutains, you can easily visit Scenic World. Or you can arrange a day tour from Syndey.

Stroll Around Charming Leura Village

Leura Village is a charming town known for its quaint atmosphere, picturesque streets, and delightful shops and cafes. Its unique character and idyllic setting are the main reason to visit. Surrounded by lush greenery and gardens, Leura offers a peaceful and relaxed ambiance.

Highlights to explore include Everglades Historic House and Gardens, a stunning Art Deco property with beautiful landscaped gardens, and Leura Cascades, a serene natural spot with walking trails and cascading waterfalls. The Leura Village Fair, held in October, is a popular annual event featuring local artisans, live music, and entertainment.

All of the main towns in the Blue Mountains are connected by bus and train, so you can get there even if you’re staying in Katoomba.

Hike to Wentworth Falls

My hike to Wentworth Falls was a clear highlight of my trip to the Blue Mountains. To embark on this hike, start from Katoomba and head towards the Wentworth Falls Reserve. Follow the signposted walking tracks, such as the Charles Darwin Walk, which takes you through scenic vistas and leads you to the famous waterfall. The hike is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour journey, depending on your pace and the trails you choose. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful lookout points, serene bushland, and possibly wildlife sightings.

Prepare with suitable hiking gear—comfortable hiking boots, sufficient water, snacks, and sun protection. While the hike is generally well-marked, carry a map or use a hiking app for navigation—I got lost so it’s totally possible to just miss a signpost. Taking breaks at designated resting areas and embracing the natural beauty around you will enhance your experience. The hike to Wentworth Falls from Katoomba offers a rewarding adventure in the heart of the Blue Mountains, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s breathtaking scenery and connect with nature.

Don’t forget to book travel insurance for your trip—a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used IMG Global for more than a decade highly recommend it!

How to Independently Explore the Blue Mountains

katoomba day trip sydney visit
The lookout near town in Katoomba offers special views of the misty blue eucalyptus settling over the distant mountains.

Visiting the Blue Mountains is one of my favorite memories from my time traveling Australia. It’s a gorgeous spot and worth at least a day trip from Sydney, though most people will enjoy anywhere between an overnight trip to even a five nights.

There are plenty of interesting trails and relaxing evening activities to keep you entertained. And since you’ll be hiking, be sure you have good travel insurance (full review here) in case you need transport all the way back to Sydney for treatment.

How to Get to the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are a surprisingly easy trip from Sydney—you don’t have to book a tour. You might see more viewpoints and such on a tour, but taking the train is far cheaper.

  1. At Sydney’s Central Station train station, purchase a train ticket toward Katoomba. This is main trainline into the Blue Mountains.
  2. The trains run all morning from Sydney into the Blue Mountains. At least one train an hour throughout the day and you don’t need to book ahead, just show up. Then, on the return just make sure you catch the latest train back, which leaves usually no later than 10pm.
  3. On the train, the best seats are on the upper level on left hand side. With a seat here you’ll get a beautiful look at the Blue Mountains the entire trip.

How to Get Around the Blue Mountains

Katoomba is small enough to walk on foot, but for families with young kids, or those who want convenience, there are still independent options once you get to Katoomba. (Also, the Lonely Planet Australia details some other hikes and adventures that I would consider if I returned).

  • After two hours on the train, you end in Katoomba, the main town. If you’re staying overnight, head to your hotel. If you’re doing your own day tour, consider the “Blue Mountain Explorer Bus.” This is a hop-on-hop-off experience that takes you through the major spots to see the gorgeous views. If you’re in town for a few days, however, the Blue Mountains Bus Company is the public bus service and is much cheaper.
  • If you’re renting a car in Sydney’s CBD, stop by the Featherdale Wildlife Sanctuary on your way to Katoomba, it’s a special spot. (And I always rent from RentalCars.com, it nearly always finds the best deals.)
  • Most hiking trails start from the Jamison Valley lookout not far from the Katoomba train station. This is also where you’ll find the stunning lookout for the Three Sisters. Plan your hike and walks through this government and National Parks site. Also, take precautions on the longer hikes. Always hike with a buddy and always tell your hotel your planned route, as well as when you expect to return.
  • Scenic World is much cooler than it sounds and the caged railway is a thrill for families to solos—it’s just stunning.

Where to Sleep in Katoomba

In Katoomba on a budget, the Flying Fox Hostel is a wonderful spot with a warm and welcoming vibe. If you’re staying for a few days, book a nice hotel on Booking.com.

What to Eat in Katoomba

I am a coffee fiend so you can find me at Cassiopeia Specialty Coffee in Katoomba in the mornings to fuel up for a hike. Other than that, there are heaps of options at every price point. Leura is a good spot for dining, but every town has something to offer. I recommend cruising through the reviews at True Blue Mountains as I love the ease of navigating and they keep everything nicely up-to-date.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

Yes, you need travel insurance.
IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why.

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip.
Shop my favorite travel gear, including all of the packing essentials for world travel, gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books, and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation.
Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation.

📍Navigate more effectively.
Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com.

✈️ Book affordable flights.
Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights.

Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel, or learn how to move and live abroad.

6 thoughts on “A Little Story… (Mis)Adventures in Hiking the Giant Staircase in Katoomba”

  1. Do you remember the name of this hike; is it Federal Pass? Looking at some options for when I am there in a couple of weeks.

    Reply
    • Yes, good question! I have misremembered some things as I verified some thoughts just now through Googling, but it was definitely the Federal Pass hike since we eventually ended at the base of the Giant Staircase and the sites look familiar! The local hotel owners also always have favorite hikes and you can run anything by them and they’ll help you find something just right for your fitness level and sense of adventure. :)

      Reply
  2. I’m so glad to see you!! You look so happy and your in good company!! :) I’m with Niki and Lisandra – I’ve been waiting and waiting for your posts. Glad to see your finding all the cute guys in Oz (but it’s not hard to do).

    Reply
  3. I love the Blue Mountains! I’m with Niki… I was worried b/c you weren’t posting anything. :-) Umm, Mr. Swiss man is kinda cute. It seems like Australia is treating you well!

    Reply
  4. Wow, that is soooooo cool. Margie and I were a little worried there Shannon. It had been since Monday since we had heard from you. :) We were about to call the embassy. Peter and I are looking forward to more stories of your travels. Peter is willing to donate a dollar per story you write lol.

    Miss you! And are you keeping in touch with the Swiss dude?

    Reply

Leave a Comment