The best walks and hikes around The Blue Mountains
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Hiking trails around The Blue Mountains are characterized by dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and extensive eucalyptus forests. The region features numerous waterfalls and rock formations, carved over millions of years. This diverse landscape offers a variety of terrain for hikers, from valley floors to escarpment edges. The area's distinctive blue haze is a result of the oil released from its vast eucalyptus forests.
Best hiking trails around The Blue Mountains
- The most popular hiking route is Margaret Paull Side Trail loop, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 9 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a gentle exploration of the local woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Scenic Caves Lookout Point – Scenic Caves Suspension Bridge loop from Blue Mountain Ski Resort, a moderate 4.5 miles (7.2 km) path. This trail provides scenic views and passes by notable natural features.
- Local hikers also love the Metcalfe Rock loop from Duncan Escarpment Provincial Park, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 48 minutes.
- Hiking around The Blue Mountains is defined by sandstone cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in The Blue Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore The Blue Mountains's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.0
(3)
21
hikers
4.20km
01:09
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
3.31km
01:13
210m
210m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
4.06km
01:39
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(4)
34
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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57
hikers
10.0km
02:48
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around The Blue Mountains
Tips from the Community
Blue Mountain's lower lodge has a restaurant and pub. It also serves as the launching-off point for a hike up the Cascades Trail.
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This steep, but rewarding trail meanders near the creek, earning you many views of its tumbling cascades. There are also excellent panoramic views from the top of the mountain.
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The views don't get much better than this. Whether you hiked from the upper gondola house or all the way from the resort near the base of the mountain, you're rewarded with nonstop panoramic views in every direction.
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The Village Way Trail takes you from the village at Blue Mountain Resort to the summit of the mountain near the open-air gondola at Trail Head 27. Though short the path does have a decent amount of elevation gain with stairs and switchbacks near the top.
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Blue Mountain is the only year-round resort in Ontario. In winter you can enjoying skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. In summer there's hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. The spa and restaurants are open all year as are many other indoor attractions. In short, bring the whole family and everyone will find something they love.
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The Margaret Paull Trail is a short off-shoot of the main Bruce Trail that spans the breadth of Ontario. It's known for having a nice variety in the landscapes that it covers including meadows, forest, and fields that burst with wildflowers in spring.
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Indian Brook tumbles off the Niagara Escarpment on its way to Lake Huron's Nottawasaga Bay. It's a small, but important, watershed that provides valuable spawning grounds for Rainbow & Brown Trout as well as Chinook Salmon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in The Blue Mountains?
The Blue Mountains offer a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 140km of tracks and trails. Our komoot guide features 27 routes, catering to different skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes in The Blue Mountains?
Hikers in The Blue Mountains will encounter dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep valleys like the Jamison and Grose, and extensive eucalyptus forests responsible for the region's distinctive blue haze. You'll also discover numerous spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforest gullies, and iconic rock formations such as the Three Sisters.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in The Blue Mountains?
Yes, The Blue Mountains offer several easy walks suitable for families. While specific routes from our guide like the Margaret Paull Side Trail loop are easy, the region generally provides options for all ages and fitness levels, including shorter, well-maintained paths around popular lookouts.
Which trails feature waterfalls in The Blue Mountains?
Many trails in The Blue Mountains lead to or pass by impressive waterfalls. Notable areas include Wentworth Falls, which cascades 100 meters into the Jamison Valley, and the enchanting Lawson Waterfall Circuit. The Grand Canyon Track also features waterfalls and fern-lined creeks.
What are some of the best viewpoints in The Blue Mountains?
The Blue Mountains are renowned for their panoramic lookouts. Echo Point offers stunning views of the Three Sisters, while Govetts Leap provides spectacular vistas over the vast Grose Valley. Other popular viewpoints include Wentworth Falls Lookout, Lincoln's Rock, and Narrow Neck Lookout.
Are there any circular hiking routes in The Blue Mountains?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, the Margaret Paull Side Trail loop is an easy circular option. The Grand Canyon Track is also a popular 6.3-kilometer loop that descends into a lush rainforest canyon.
What do other hikers say about the trails in The Blue Mountains?
The trails in The Blue Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 39 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, stunning natural beauty, and the variety of options available for different skill levels.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can find several points of interest. The Blue Mountain Lookout offers great views. For a break, consider visiting the Summit Social House - Coffee & Bikes. The Nottawasaga Lookout Provincial Nature Reserve is also a notable natural monument in the area.
Are there challenging hikes for experienced trekkers in The Blue Mountains?
Absolutely. While there are 7 easy and 17 moderate routes, The Blue Mountains also feature 3 difficult trails for experienced hikers. The National Pass Trail near Wentworth Falls, with its 600 rock steps, is known for being challenging. The region's deep canyons and rugged terrain provide ample opportunities for more strenuous adventures.
Can I access hiking trails in The Blue Mountains using public transport?
The Blue Mountains region is well-serviced by public transport, particularly trains from Sydney to towns like Katoomba and Wentworth Falls. Many popular trailheads and lookouts are accessible via local bus services or are within walking distance from train stations, making it convenient for hikers without a car.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in The Blue Mountains?
The Blue Mountains are beautiful year-round, but autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for hiking. Summer can be hot, while winter can be cool and crisp, sometimes with misty conditions that add to the atmosphere.
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