Trail Fast Facts
Scenic World to Ruined Castle is a 16km, grade 4 hike in Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 6-7 hours to complete.
Warning
Due to the ever-changing nature of the track and access points, check current conditions before you set off on your adventure. Track closures, hazards, and even parking availability can be subject to change.
Hike Overview
The Scenic World to Ruined Castle walk is an adventurous full-day adventure in the Katoomba area, offering stunning views. The walk begins at Scenic World and descends Furber Steps, leading you to Federal Pass in the valley. Along the way, you'll encounter a series of breathtaking lookout points, providing glimpses into the heart of Jamison Valley.
As you continue, the track follows an historic mining route, where remnants of miners' cottages stand as silent testaments to a bygone era. Lush rainforest with towering coachwood and sassafras trees surrounds you, offering a cool and refreshing escape. Keep your eyes peeled – you might even spot an elusive lyrebird flitting through the undergrowth.
Prepare yourself for a challenging climb to reach the summit of the iconic Ruined Castle. But the effort is well worth it! After a final steep scramble with some rock hopping, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across Jamison Valley, Wentworth Falls, and Katoomba. Take a moment to soak in the beauty from this unforgettable vantage point, perhaps enjoying a picnic lunch as you savor the unmatched scenery.
For a shorter return trip, simply retrace your steps back to the starting point. Alternatively, you can complete the circuit via Ruined Castle Campsite before walking back the way you came.
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.
Tips
- It's a good idea to fill in the free trip intention form and hire a PLB when planning your hike.
- Bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS
- Toilets and picnic facilities are located at Katoomba Falls picnic area on Cliff Drive.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 957 m
Min elevation: 688 m
Total climbing: 1531 m
Total descent: -1531 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Scenic World is conveniently in the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage region west of Sydney, Australia. During peak summer holidays, they offer extended hours for visitors.
By Car:
The easiest way to reach Scenic World is by car. It's a scenic drive of approximately 100km and takes less than two hours via the M4 and Great Western Highway. Free parking is available on-site in their multistory carpark. They also cater to electric vehicles with Tesla Connector charging points and standard 240v outlets.
By Taxi:
If you prefer not to drive, taxi services are available. Katoomba Taxi Service and 13CABS both operate in the upper Blue Mountains and can take you directly to Scenic World.
By Public Transport:
For those who prefer a car-free journey, public transport is a great option. Sydney Trains run regular services between Central Station and Katoomba Station on the Blue Mountains Line. Scenic World is just 3km from Katoomba Station. You can easily connect with the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus or public buses Route 686 & 686G, which stop right at Scenic World's bus park.
Photo 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
Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, home of the famous Three Sisters in Katoomba. Discover iconic lookouts and waterfalls, historic walking tracks, mountain biking, Aboriginal culture, adventure sports, and camping - right on Sydney's doorstep.
Katoomba area is the heart of Blue Mountains National Park. This popular day trip from Sydney is home of the iconic Three Sisters. It's packed with heritage walks, world-class views and waterfalls, including Wentworth Falls.
The dazzling natural beauty of Katoomba, Leura and Wentworth Falls has drawn visitors for over 100 years. Echo Point is a Blue Mountains favourite. Marvel at the famous views of the Three Sisters rock formation, Mount Solitary, and the dramatic sandstone cliffs towering above the Jamison Valley.
From family-friendly strolls to challenging descents into World Heritage-listed wilderness, Katoomba area is a walker's paradise. Take in ever changing views along Prince Henry Cliff walk which boasts over 20 lookouts and 3 waterfalls between Katoomba and Leura. Swap cliff top for cool rainforest on the short Round walking track. It's easily combined with a Scenic World ride (fees apply). The historic Giant Stairway will test your legs as it zig zags down the cliff face to meet the heart-pumping Federal Pass.
Similar trails nearby
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
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
Suggest an edit
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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.
1 Review on “Scenic World to Ruined Castle Hike (16km)”
Absolutely amazing hike. Although I was not particularly excited about walking back up Furber Stairs.