Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney | Best Hikes, Stops & Food
If you’re craving a break from busy Sydney, a day trip to the Blue Mountains is just what you need. Just 90 minutes west of the city, this stunning region is the ultimate nature escape - with dramatic cliffs, lush forests, waterfalls, charming towns and some of my favourite hiking trails.
View of Three Sisters at Echo Point
Most travel guides will point you towards the classics - like the Three Sisters, Katoomba and Scenic World (all worth a visit, especially if it’s your first time). But my ideal day in the Blue Mountains usually involves a couple of delicious food stops, a scenic hike or two and finishing the day somewhere with a view and a drink in hand.
If you’re planning a Blue Mountains day trip, here’s how to make it a good one with my favourite hikes, activities and food spots.
Sample Blue Mountains Day Trip Itinerary
If you’re the type that likes an easy plan, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your day 😊
7:30AM - Leave Sydney
If you’re an early riser, you can leave even earlier to beat the traffic - it takes about 1.5hrs drive from Sydney to reach the lower Blue Mountains.
9:00AM - Black Cockatoo Bakery, Lawson
I was recommended Black Cockatoo Bakery by a friend a few years ago - it’s worth the stop for pastries and coffee I promise. While there’s also a Black Cockatoo Bakery in Katoomba, sometimes they sell out as the day goes on so I recommend stopping here.
10:00AM - Hike the Grand Canyon Track (3-4 hours)
The Grand Canyon Track is one of my favourite walking trails around Sydney - it’s a 6.3km loop, the landscape changes dramatically and it features some waterfalls, cliff overhangs and creek crossings! Once you’re in the valley it feels like a lush sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in nature.
10:10AM - Evans Lookout
Your first scenic stop along the trail. Evans Lookout is quieter than Echo Point but just as stunning, with panoramic views over the Grose Valley. Enjoy the view before you descend down the stairs.
1:00PM - Lunch at Bakehouse on Wentworth, Blackheath or Katoomba
Hungry after the hike? Just down the road in Blackheath is a lovely local pie shop called Bakehouse on Wentworth - my favourites are the lamb pies, and they have all the classics including beef, chicken and sausage rolls.
If you’re feeling something different, head to Katoomba for lots of cafe and restaurant options.
2:00PM - Three Sisters Lookout (Echo Point)
If this is your first time in the Blue Mountains, no visit is complete without this iconic view. It can get a bit crowded - you can head to the lower viewing platforms for a better view.
2:30PM - Undercliff-Overcliff Track or Scenic World
If you’ve still got energy, the recently renovated Undercliff-Overcliff Track runs along the cliffside near the Three Sisters Lookout and takes 1-2 hours to complete the Grade 3, 3.5km loop.
Alternatively, you can head to Scenic World to ride the cable car or railway and take a walk along the trails there.
4:00PM - Explore Leura or Beers at Mountain Culture Brewery
Head to the charming town of Leura to explore the shops and cafes (spot the candy store and teapot museum) to end your day.
You can also wind down with a locally brewed beer and sweeping views over Katoomba from the balcony seating - note that they open from 5pm on Wednesdays, and from 11am Thursday through Sunday.
5:00PM - Lincoln’s Rock
Your final lookout and a peaceful (although increasingly popular) sunset spot - Lincoln’s rock is just past Wentworth Falls and well worth it for the sweeping views.
5:30PM - Head back to Sydney
Top Things to Do in the Blue Mountains
View of Elephant Rock near the Three Sisters
Three Sisters (Echo Point)
Arguably the most famous viewpoint in the Blue Mountains, Echo Point offers an up-close look at the Three Sisters rock formation. It’s beautiful at any time of day, but early morning or late afternoon light is particularly magical.
Scenic World
Scenic World is a great option if you're not up for long hikes. You can take the Scenic Railway, Cableway and Skyway to explore the rainforest valley floor and see the Jamison Valley from above. It’s family-friendly and worth it for the views - just be prepared for crowds and book ahead online on busy days.
I found that Trip.com was cheapest for a Scenic World Unlimited Discovery Pass, especially for weekends and holidays.
Explore Leura
Leura is the Blue Mountains’ answer to Stars Hollow—charming, walkable, and full of beautiful old houses and cute local shops. Don’t miss the Leura Candy Store for nostalgic sweets, and grab a coffee from one of the cafés lining the main street.
Evans Lookout
Less touristy than Echo Point, Evans Lookout delivers equally spectacular views over the Grose Valley and doubles as the starting point for the Grand Canyon hike. There’s a nice seating area at the lookout where you can relax and take it all in.
Lincoln’s Rock
A lovely sunset spot with sweeping views of the valley below, Lincoln Rock is a lesser known (although increasingly popular) lookout near the town Wentworth Falls. I love the serenity of this spot - leave some time to wander around and don’t get too close to the edge!
Best Blue Mountains Hikes
Grand Canyon Track
Stats: 3-4 hours, 6.3km, medium grade
The Grand Canyon Track is hands-down one of the most beautiful hikes in the Blue Mountains. Starting at Evans Lookout near Blackheath, the loop trail winds through rainforest gullies, over creeks, and beneath towering sandstone walls. Moderate difficulty with some stairs (you have to go down towards the canyon and back up), but absolutely worth the effort.
More info: Grand Canyon Track
Waterfall along the Grand Canyon Track
Undercliff-Overcliff Track
Stats: 1-2 hours, 3.5km loop, medium grade
A shorter walk near Wentworth Falls with sweeping views, hanging cliffs, and fewer crowds than the more famous tracks. You can combine these two recently renovated tracks for a beautiful loop.
More info: Undercliff-Overcliff Track
If you’re looking for more, this can be extended into the Valley of the Waters Track or Wentworth Falls Track for waterfalls, or do the whole National Pass 4.5km loop which takes about 2.5-3.5 hours.
South Lawson Waterfall Circuit
Stats: 2 hours, 2.8km loop, medium grade
Close to the town of Lawson, this wonderful lush loop walk has always stuck in my mind as ‘the walk where you see 5 waterfalls in a short loop’.
The South Lawson Waterfall Circuit winds through peaceful bushland and takes you past four beautiful waterfalls, including Adelina, Junction, Federal, and Cataract Falls. It’s especially spectacular after it rains - but it can get muddy and slippery so hiking shoes are suggested.
I went with my family as the trail has a mix of gentle sections and some steeper, rocky steps, making it a fun and rewarding walk without being too challenging.
More info: All Trails Map | Trail Summary with Pictures
Horseshoe Falls Track
Stats: 1 hour, 2.9km loop, medium grade
A quieter, lesser-known trail, the Horseshoe Falls Track begins in Hazelbrook, loops through shaded forest and follows a creek past small cascades and mossy rocks. It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal if you’re looking for a short hike that still feels off the beaten path.
More info: Horsehoe Falls Track
Where to Eat & Drink in the Blue Mountains
While these are some of my favourites, there are so many more in towns all along the drive - let me know some of your favourites in the comments below.
Black Cockatoo Bakery (Lawson & Katoomba)
A friend recommended Black Cockatoo Bakery a few years ago and oh my goodness, the pastries are to die for.
They use Pepe Saya butter and you can taste the difference - I’m still dreaming of my last hazelnut praline. They also serve coffee and sell a wide variety of bread by the loaf.
Go early to avoid missing out - sometimes they sell out over the day!
Bakehouse on Wentworth (Blackheath, Leura, Springwood)
Famous for their meat pies and fresh sourdough - I usually get one of the lamb pies but I’ve also had their chicken and beef ones which are all equally as good. It gets busy during lunch time so get in before the rush!
Left: Hazelnut Praline from Black Cockatoo Bakery, Right: Meat pies from Bakehouse on Wentworth
Yellow Deli (Katoomba)
A whimsical, rustic spot run by a religious community (some may call it a cult), known for its wholesome food and quirky Hobbit-hole interiors. You can order one of their unique drinks or a deli sandwich for a cosy lunch, and cosy up on one of the loft tables.
Mountain Culture Beer Co. (Katoomba)
Katoomba’s very own brewery with a chilled-out vibe and a massive beer list. Sit out on the deck with a pint and views of the mountains - the perfect end to the day.
Tips for Planning your Blue Mountains Day Trip
Car vs Train: Driving gives you more flexibility, but the intercity train itself is a experience and drops you right in Katoomba. If you’re looking to do hikes then I’d suggest the Undercliff-Overcliff Track, Horseshoe Falls Track or South Lawson Waterfall Circuit as these are close to a train station.
Start Early: The earlier you leave Sydney, the more sunlight you’ll have - and the better your chances of avoiding crowds especially on weekends.
What to Pack: Hiking shoes, water, snacks, a jacket (weather can change quickly), and a hat/sunscreen if it’s sunny.
Check the Weather: Fog can block out views - if the forecast looks misty, maybe wait for a clearer day.
Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, food or getting some fresh air with a nature escape, the Blue Mountains makes for a great day trip from Sydney. This is only the surface as there’s more on the Richmond side too - think fruit picking and cider breweries!
Have you been to the Blue Mountains? Got a favourite hike, lookout, or bakery I should try next time? Drop a comment below :)
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