Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway is a 4.7km, grade 4 hike located in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
For a memorable day out in famous Blue Mountains National Park that takes in renowned views, try this challenging walking track from Echo Point lookout to Scenic World via Giant Stairway. Pack a picnic and round up the family for a day of magnificent sights, fresh mountain air and unique history on this iconic walk.
Gaze at the scenic vista before descending the valley via the 800-plus steel and stone steps, originally constructed in 1909. Marvel at the fabulous Three Sisters from the ground up. From here it's an easy stroll along Federal Pass to Katoomba Falls.
Arriving at Scenic World, you might be tempted to ride the historic Scenic Railway to the cliff top. Originally built in the 1880s to carry coal, it's the steepest railway of its kind in the world and tilts at a whopping 52 degrees. Just remember, the last train up is at 4.50pm, so give yourself plenty of time to reach the station.
If you're after more heart-pumping action, you can finish by walking up Furber steps instead of taking the railway.
Take a virtual tour of Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
Scenic Railway operates regularly during the day, with the last train leaving at 4.50pm.
Fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB before you set out. It's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Trail location
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Getting there
To Scenic World. Echo Point and Giant Stairway are in the Katoomba precinct of Blue Mountains National Park. To get there turn left off Great Western Highway onto Cliff Drive. Park entry points Scenic World See on map Parking Parking is available at Echo Point lookout, the Three Sisters and Scenic World. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.
Gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and Country NSW regions
Blue Mountains National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. Some parts of the park close overnight; details are provided for specific attractions.
9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.