Trail Description

The Grand Cliff Top Track is a scenic walking trail that connects Katoomba and Leura, offering hikers stunning panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the famous sandstone cliffs that define the Blue Mountains landscape. Running along the cliff edge, this track is a highlight for visitors to the area, providing multiple lookout points, glimpses of waterfalls, and lush forest sections, all while being an easy-to-moderate hike suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.

This track is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Blue Mountains without tackling overly strenuous terrain. The well-maintained path offers excellent views of famous landmarks such as the Three Sisters, Mount Solitary, and Leura Cascades, making it one of the best walks for photography and sightseeing.

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Key Highlights

• Echo Point: The walk can start from Echo Point in Katoomba, offering a magnificent view of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley. This iconic starting point is perfect for those wanting to capture the grandeur of the Blue Mountains before heading off on the trail.

• Prince Henry Cliff Walk: The Grand Cliff Top Track follows the Prince Henry Cliff Walk for much of its length, a historic trail that links several lookout points along the escarpment, including Gordon Falls Lookout and Bridal Veil Lookout.

• Leura Cascades: A tranquil section of the walk takes you past Leura Cascades, a beautiful series of small waterfalls and pools nestled in a lush, fern-filled valley. This is an excellent spot for a break and photo opportunities.

• Lookout Points: Along the trail, you'll encounter several stunning lookouts, including Kiah Lookout, Olympian Rock, and Cliff View Lookout. These points provide breathtaking views of the vast Jamison Valley, the surrounding cliffs, and distant mountain ranges.

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Wildlife

The Grand Cliff Top Track passes through a variety of ecosystems, from eucalyptus forests to cliffside scrub, creating habitats for a diverse range of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot crimson rosellas, king parrots, and lyrebirds along the track. The forested sections are also home to reptiles such as skinks and blue-tongue lizards.

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Safety Tips

• Footwear: While the track is generally well-maintained, some sections can be rocky or uneven, particularly near the lookouts. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip.

• Cliff Edges: The path runs close to cliff edges in some areas, so always stay on the marked trail and keep a safe distance from the edge, particularly in wet or windy conditions.

• Weather Considerations: The Blue Mountains can experience rapid weather changes, so check the forecast before heading out. Fog can obscure views, and rain can make some sections of the track slippery.

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Getting There

• Starting Point: The walk can be started from either Echo Point in Katoomba or Leura Cascades in Leura, depending on your preference.

  • Parking: There is parking available at both Echo Point and Leura Cascades, though Echo Point can be quite busy during peak tourist times.

• Public Transport: Both Katoomba and Leura Stations are accessible by train, and from there, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to the starting points. You can also walk to Echo Point from Katoomba Station.

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Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn: These seasons provide the most pleasant hiking conditions, with milder temperatures and vibrant surroundings. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers along the trail, while autumn brings cooler weather and colorful foliage. Summer can be hot, particularly in the more exposed sections of the track, so plan to hike early in the day.

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Trail Significance

The Grand Cliff Top Track offers a stunning journey along the escarpment of the Blue Mountains, linking two of the most popular towns in the region—Katoomba and Leura. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Blue Mountains explorer, this walk provides unforgettable views, access to several iconic lookouts, and a chance to experience the serene beauty of the region’s natural landscapes.

Perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers, the Grand Cliff Top Track is a must-do walk for anyone visiting the Blue Mountains. The combination of spectacular scenery, easy-to-moderate terrain, and proximity to local attractions makes it a rewarding experience for all.