If you like your scenic views from the ground up, you'll love this magnificent walk through Jamison Valley.
Originally built by the Katoomba community, from Leura Forest to Katoomba Falls, the track was extended on the old horse-drawn coal tramway line and now goes all the way to Ruined Castle, on the other side of Jamison Valley.
The track follows the base of the cliffs from Leura to Ruined Castle, passing forests, waterfalls and the iconic Three Sisters. You can join Federal Pass at four places and each junction involves a challenging climb down and back up the valley.
You can join this historic track by descending any of the stairways (Furber Steps or Golden Stairs) to marvel at the scenic views of the dramatic cliff line. You'll pass through dense forests and cool clear waterfalls, with some great picnic spots along the way.
If you're after a real heart-pumping finish, take the stairs back to the top, or cut it short and enjoy an exhilarating train ride to the top from Scenic World, hopping off at Katoomba.
This historic track will take about 12 hours to complete if you choose to start in Leura at Fern Bower circuit, walk all the way to Ruined Castle, and return back the same way.
Take a virtual tour of Federal Pass captured with Google Street View Trekker.
It's a good idea to fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB before you set out. Bring a topographic map and compass or GPS.
The Scenic Railway operates regularly during the day, with the last train departing at 4.50pm.
For information regarding the price of Scenic Railway tickets, contact Scenic World.
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.
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Getting to the trailhead: Blue Mountains National Park.
To Golden Stairs carpark. Federal Pass walking track is in the central precinct of Blue Mountains National Park. You can join Federal Pass at four places:To access the beginning of the walk, near Leura, take Fern Bower circuit.From Katoomba, go down Giant Stairway, near Echo Point, to Dardanelles Pass, which can take you to the start of the track at Leura Forest. For a shorter walk, head towards Scenic World, where Dardanelles Pass joins Federal Pass a short way along.Alternatively, descend via Furber Steps, near Katoomba Caravan Park, where you’ll join Federal Pass about halfway, just near the base of Scenic Railway. From here, you can walk to Ruined Castle, passing Golden Stairs on the way.Golden Stairs descends from Glen Raphael Drive, (unsealed) on Narrow Neck Plateau south Katoomba. Descend to the intersection with Federal Pass; turn right to go to Ruined Castle where the track ends, or turn left to walk back towards Scenic World, Furber Steps, Giant Stairway and finally Leura Forest. Park entry points Golden Stairs carpark See on map Scenic World See on map Parking Parking is available at all sites where you can access Federal Pass, with paid parking at Echo Point. Federal Pass can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Bullaburra, Hazelbrook, Katoomba, Lawson, Leura, Lithgow, Mount Victoria, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Woodford
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Blue Mountains National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
