Trail Fast Facts
Echo Point to Scenic World is a 2.8km, grade 3 hike in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Echo Point to Scenic World walk is a fantastic choice in the Blue Mountains, particularly for families due to its ease and accessibility. Part of the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, this route packs a punch in the scenery department despite being a relatively flat and comfortable stroll. Instead of a strenuous climb, the trail offers breathtaking 180-degree vistas of the Blue Mountains landscape as you meander along the clifftops.
Your journey begins at Echo Point, where you might catch a glimpse of some local birds like Eastern Spinebills or Crimson Rosellas. The track then winds along the cliff with dramatic rock formations jutting out and colorful lichen and moss adding a touch of vibrancy. Keep an ear out for the flitting and chattering of Brown Thornbills as you pass through shaded gullies dominated by towering eucalyptus trees.
The second half of the walk takes an unexpected turn, revealing Katoomba Cascades and Katoomba Falls. Boardwalks and lookouts provide excellent vantage points to admire these cascading beauties. Katoomba Falls, fed by the Kedumba River, is a true masterpiece, plunging 150 meters down into the valley below.
Upon reaching Scenic World, your adventure doesn't have to end. You can choose from various options for your return trip, including catching a bus back to your starting point or indulging in a more thrilling experience. For the adrenaline seekers, the Scenic Railway, originally built for a 19th-century coal mine, offers the steepest passenger railway ride in the world! Alternatively, the cable car across the valley can whisk you back to Skyway East Station for a more relaxed return.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 958 m
Min elevation: 783 m
Total climbing: 559 m
Total descent: -461 m
Getting there
Reaching Echo Point 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.
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.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
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 vistas 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 a thrilling ride at Scenic World. The historic Giant Stairway offers a challenging descent down the cliff face, connecting to the heart-pounding Federal Pass.
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Looking for things to do in Blue Mountains National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
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.
Weather
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.