This is not so much a walk as a 'park the car and enjoy the lookout'. The walk is short but the views are great. If you are in the area this spot is well worth a visit. The views from the lookout include Glenbrook Gorge the Nepean River and Western Sydney looking over Penrith. The lookout is accessible by people in wheelchairs and worth the drive along dirt road to get there.
Perched atop the lower ridges of Blue Mountains National Park, Mount Portal lookout offers magnificent views of the junction between Glenbrook Gorge and the mighty Nepean River. With a wheelchair-accessible path, it's a perfect pit stop on a car tour or a base for more adventurous thrill seekers who love abseiling and climbing.
Gazing across the dramatic tree-lined gorge to the water, you'll see how the grand sweep of Nepean River opens up to the Cumberland Plains on the western edge of Sydney. Evidence that the ridge top was an ancient river bed can be found in the large rounded pebbles, called lapstones.
The shapely angophoras, with their elegantly contorted limbs, thrive in this rugged terrain and bearded dragons are often seen sunning themselves on the surrounding rocky outcrops.
If you're keen to explore the region further, check out the unique Aboriginal art at Red Hands Cave or stay overnight at Euroka campground.
Take a virtual tour of Mount Portal lookout captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Blue Mountains National Park.
Mount Portal lookout is in the Glenbrook area of Blue Mountains National Park. To get there:
- Take Great Western Highway to Glenbrook
- Turn off the highway at Ross Street, opposite Glenbrook Oval, and follow through town to the end
- Turn left onto Burfitt Parade, which becomes Bruce Road.
- Continue around 2.5km beyond the park entry gate, crossing the causeway, then turn left towards Euroka
- Turn left onto Mount Portal trail and continue to the end.
Closest towns to this walk: Blackheath, Bullaburra, Hazelbrook, Katoomba, Lawson, Leura, Lithgow, Mount Victoria, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Woodford
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Track grade
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
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
Suggest an edit
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.