A spectacular Grand Cliff Top walk has just opened in the Blue Mountains

See all of the Blue Mountain’s most breathtaking sights in one amazing walk

Can our fave mountain destination get any better? From the year-round delights of Scenic World to the family-friendly villages of Leura and Katoomba bursting with gorgeous boutiques and gourmet cafes, the Blue Mountains seems to tick all the boxes for a quick day trip or weekend family get-away. But now there’s even more. The World Heritage listed area has just opened a breathtaking 19kms track – aptly called the Grand Cliff Top Walk – which will take ramblers on a stunning journey along the escarpment of the Blue Mountains National Park, linking Wentworth Falls, Leura and Katoomba.

Two walkers following Grand Cliff Top Walk along the cliff edge, Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Remy Brand copyright.

🌱 The Grand Cliff Top Walk Day 1

Located on Gundungurra Country, the Grand Cliff Top Walk is accessible from different locations – allowing walkers to tailor the length of their hike – and will feature newly opened paths and trails spanning the entire Blue Mountains escarpment. Families wanting a one day experience can kick off their walk at Wentworth Falls and make their way to Leura. Whilst you can join the Grand Cliff Top walk at any stage, the Wentworth Falls to Leura Walk is often considered Day 1 in the multi-day walk and is categorised as a Grade 3 Walk – a moderate level of fitness is required (read: this won’t be for little ones starting to find their feet). Starting at Wentworth Falls Village this 11km (5-7 hour) route passes through a pretty creek line and includes sights of the stunning Jamison Valley, Weeping Rock – a picturesque waterfall above Wentworth Falls – and winds it way through plunging rainforest gullies and cliff top trails where you’re sure to run into cheeky lyrebirds or spot yellow-tailed black cockatoos amongst the trees. Pack hats, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellant and water. There are few toilet stops along the way with the main public toilets at the end of the walk at Gordon Falls Picnic Area near Leura.

Two walkers looking at Wentworth Falls from Fletcher’s Lookout on Grand Cliff Top Walk, Blue Mountains National Park. Photo: Remy Brand copyright.

🌱 The Grand Cliff Top Walk Day 2

Want more? Tackle Day 2 of the Grand Cliff Top Walk with the Gordon Falls to Katoomba track, boasting 8km of track that will see you gazing on the iconic Three Sisters Aboriginal place. Best of all, this 3-4 hours walk traces the cliff-edge above the Jamison Valley so you’ll have panoramic views out to Mount Solitary for most of the walk. One of the highlights includes a crossing over the historic Buttenshaw Bridge which connects the two lookouts at Elysian Rock. Seats at each lookout allow you to enjoy sunrise or sunset but, whatever time you arrive, you can be sure the views will be legendary.

Ending at Katoomba, if the little ones haven’t burnt off enough steam you can plan a quick visit to Scenic World – from 5 April to 4 May you can visit Scenic World after hours and revel in the mystery of the night sky via Nocturnal, an immersive, interactive experience that will allow visitors to enjoy Scenic World’s rides at dusk. There’s also the Art Deco architecture and cafes of Katoomba and the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre with its ever changing exhibitions and child-friendly displays.

Want to join the fun but prefer a shorter walk than a day-long affair? We hear you! There are shorter tracks throughout the Grand Cliff Top Walk including existing Blue Mountains walking trails. Head to NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service or download the National Parks app to make planning your Blue Mountains visit a walk in the – emmm – park…!

Two walkers crossing Buttenshaw Bridge on Grand Cliff Top Walk. Photo: Remy Brand copyright.

The Grand Cliff Top Walk

📍 Blue Mountains National Park
🌏 www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/experiences/grand-cliff-top-walk

Do you have a favourite walking trail or track? Leave a comment below or email us at info@theinnerwestmums.com.au and share an outdoor adventure you’ve had with the family that you think other Inner West mums will enjoy.

About Author

Francesca Millena

Writer, foodie and ideas-sponge, Francesca grew up in the Inner West and loves writing about all things IW related from playgrounds and podcasts, restaurants and retail, bubble tea and basketball courts. Mum to an active child, she also knows a thing or two about keeping a little one entertained on a rainy day.

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