Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover an enjoyable hiking adventure in the heart of Blue Mountains National Park, just a stone's throw from Katoomba, Australia. This challenging 4.7km Grade 4 trail takes 2-3 hours, starting at Echo Point lookout and descending via the historic Giant Stairway to mesmerising views of the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls. End your journey with a unique ascent on the world's steepest Scenic Railway, or challenge yourself with the gruelling Furber Steps climb. Remember, last train is at 3.50pm!

Length:

4.7km

Duration:

2-3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One way

Max elevation: 966m

Min elevation: 698m

Total Ascent: 624m

Start: Echo Point

End: Scenic World

Blue Mountains National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Katoomba

From state capital: 104km

Latitude: -33.73198887958687

Longitude: 150.3124576917711

Overview

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3,605 views

Hike overview

Enjoy a breathtaking journey through the Blue Mountains National Park with this challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail starts at Echo Point lookout, offering panoramic views before you conquer the historic Giant Stairway, a series of over 800 steps built in 1909. Descend into the valley and marvel at the Three Sisters from a different perspective. The easy Federal Pass then leads you to Katoomba Falls.

Reaching Scenic World, you have a choice for your ascent. Take a ride on the iconic Scenic Railway, the steepest in the world, for a unique experience. Built in the 1880s for coal transport, this funicular railway offers stunning views as it climbs at a 52-degree angle. Make sure to catch the last train up at 3.50pm. Alternatively, for a more challenging finale, tackle the Furber Steps and conquer the climb back to the clifftop.

Tips

Toilets and kiosk are located at Scenic World.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway (4.7km)

Total distance: 4516 m
Max elevation: 966 m
Min elevation: 698 m
Total climbing: 624 m
Total descent: -620 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Blue Mountains National Park.

Reaching Echo Point and the Giant Stairway in Blue Mountains National Park is straightforward. Take the Katoomba exit from the Great Western Highway. Once off the highway, turn onto Katoomba Road and follow signs directing you to Echo Point. Upon arrival, a 450-meter walk along the Three Sisters Walk will lead you right to the top of the Giant Stairway.

Keep in mind that parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Options include Echo Point lookout, the Three Sisters, and Scenic World. Plan accordingly to avoid any parking hassles.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Bullaburra, Hazelbrook, Katoomba, Lawson, Leura, Lithgow, Mount Victoria, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Woodford

About the region

Nestled in the heart of Blue Mountains National Park lies the Katoomba area, a paradise for day-trippers from Sydney. This iconic region boasts breathtaking natural wonders like the Three Sisters and grand cliff-top walks that showcase panoramic views and cascading waterfalls, including the famed Wentworth Falls.

The allure of Katoomba has captivated visitors for over a century, beckoning them to explore the beauty of Wentworth Falls, Leura, and Katoomba itself. Immerse yourself in the best the Blue Mountains has to offer with a challenging 2-day, 19km hike on the Grand Cliff Top Walk, traversing between these charming villages.

Echo Point is a must-see, where you can witness the awe-inspiring Three Sisters rock formation, towering sandstone cliffs, and the dramatic expanse of Jamison Valley.

Hikers of all levels can find their perfect adventure in Katoomba. Family-friendly options like Prince Henry Cliff Walk offer ever-changing views with over 20 lookouts and 3 waterfalls between Katoomba and Leura. For a refreshing change, the Round Walk takes you from cliff tops into the cool embrace of a rainforest, easily combined with an enjoyable ride at Scenic World. The historic Giant Stairway offers a challenging descent down the cliff face, connecting to the heart-pounding Federal Pass.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Blue Mountains National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway (4.7km)

5 Reviews on “Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway (4.7km)”

Overall rating

Arthur Sargeant

Leanne Sargeant

24/03/2022, 05:14

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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

Acknowledgement of Country

Echo point to scenic world via giant stairway (4. 7km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway (4.7km)