Secret Blue Mountains Hikes: What to Explore and What to Skip! π₯Ύ
π₯ G’day mates! Not gonna lie, I’m bloody sick of seeing everyone crammed around the Three Sisters lookouts. After 5 years of exploring the Blue Mountains, I’ve found some absolute ripper tracks that’ll give you those epic views without the tourist hordes. Here’s what to tackle and what to give a miss!
β Definitely Add to Your List
These are the hidden gems that’ll make your mates proper jealous. First up is the Grand Canyon Track β it’s a 6km loop through rainforests and sandstone cliffs that feels like you’ve stepped into another world. Then there’s the Lockleys Pylon track, offering panoramic views of the Grose Valley that’ll blow your mind. For something different, try the Fortress Ridge track near Blackheath β it’s a challenging but rewarding 8km return with views most tourists never see.
π Location Details
Grand Canyon Track starts at Evans Lookout Car Park, Blackheath NSW 2785. Lockleys Pylon begins at the end of Mount Hay Road, Leura NSW 2780. Fortress Ridge track starts from Perrys Lookdown, Blackheath NSW 2785. All are accessible by car and have dedicated parking areas.
β Skip These Overrated Trails
Look, unless you love crowds and selfie sticks, give the main Prince Henry Cliff Walk a miss on weekends β it’s packed! Same goes for the National Pass during peak times; the views are amazing but you’ll be queueing for photo spots. The Leura Cascades track is beautiful but so short and crowded it’s barely worth the effort unless you’re there at sunrise on a weekday.
π€ Depends on Your Vibe
If you’re bringing the family, consider the Fairmont Resort loop β easy enough for kids but still offers some decent views. For fitness freaks, the Mount Banks track is a proper thigh-burner with 360-degree views worth every step. And if you’re chasing waterfalls without the crowds, check out the Wentworth Falls track via the Conservation Hut β most tourists stick to the main entrance.
π My Top Secret Pick
The absolute winner has to be the Burramoko Ridge (Hanging Rock) trail. Start at Shipley Plateau and you’ll get this insane hanging rock formation with views that go forever. It’s only 5km return but feels like you’re at the edge of the world. I did this last arvo and had the whole place to myself β pure magic!
π Practical Info
π Multiple locations across Blue Mountains National Park, NSW 2780-2787
π From Sydney CBD: 2 hours by car via M4 and Great Western Highway. Train available to Blackheath, Leura, or Wentworth Falls stations (2-hour journey), then taxi/ride-share to trailheads
π° Free entry to all tracks (National Park parking fees apply: $8 per vehicle per day)
π Best time: Early morning (6-9am) or late afternoon (3-6pm) to avoid crowds and heat. Avoid midday in summer
β±οΈ 3-6 hours depending on track selection and fitness level
π‘ Tips & Warnings
β
Download offline maps before you go β phone reception is sketchy in most gorges
β
Pack at least 2L water per person and some snacks β even on ‘easy’ tracks
β Don’t rely on finding water sources β most creeks are seasonal or unsafe to drink
β οΈ Check weather conditions before heading out β the Blue Mountains can go from sunny to foggy in minutes
π What would you add to either list? Drop your secret Blue Mountains spots below! π
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