30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
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SELF-GUIDED
5 DAYS
Moderate
to Challenging The Blue Mountains, only 90 minutes from Sydney, is the most accessible World Heritage-listed wilderness area in Australia. The hike travels across the plateau, via the valley floor and through canyons and across waterways. It begins in Blackheath and finds its way via Katoomba and onto Leura, and includes some of the best tracks in the Mountains. Be astonished by the sheer volume of incredible one-of-a kind vistas that the Blue Mountains is famous for.
The descents into the valley are well worth the effort, walking up close to nature, allowing you to literally feel and smell the forest. The valley and canyon sections of the track take you via waterfalls and waterways and there is a high chance of spotting the elusive Lyrebird as you walk.
Please note: We offer our Blue Mountains walks all year round. November to March are the warmest months however they also tend to have the highest rainfall with January and February being the most affected. Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible.
The Blue Mountains 5 day Traverse starts in Blackheath any time after 2pm. There is no walking scheduled for today but there are several galleries and coffee shops in the village worth exploring.
Accommodation: Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges in Blackheath in ensuite rooms
Meals: A la carte dinner at a local restaurant
The walking begins today out of your accommodation. Skirt around sheer cliff tops to see Bridal Veil Falls plummet 180 metres in a single drop. Enjoy breathtaking views from Govetts Leap and Pulpit Rock, at the same time discovering why the Blue Mountains appear blue. Then walk down into the Grand Canyon, undoubtedly one of the Blue Mountains, if not Australia’s, most beautiful walks. The canyon carved out by nature over millions of years, the huge tree ferns, the lichen and other flora and fauna work together in concert to create an unheralded sense of immersion.
Accommodation: Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges in Blackheath in ensuite rooms
Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 20.1km / 6–7.5 hrs
Take an exhilarating ride down the Scenic Railway into the depths of the rainforest then retrace the route used by coal miners over 100 years ago. Mining relics, tunnels and adits can be seen along the way and observant walkers are often rewarded with a glimpse of an elusive Lyrebird. Lunch today will be shared with flocks of cheeky Currawongs at an impressive rocky outcrop called Ruined Castle. Take the Furber Steps Challenge, an alternative to riding up the Scenic Railway. This track climbs steeply through dense rainforest past delightful waterfalls and pretty grottoes. This day also includes a ride in the spectacular Scenic Skyway gondola ride suspended across the Jamison Valley.
Accommodation: The Carrington Boutique Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms
Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a la carte dinner at a local restaurant
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16–17.5km / 5– 6.5 hrs / shorter option available
Walk out of your accommodation and to Echo Point to learn the Aboriginal legend of how the famous Three Sisters were formed. From here, descend the 862 steps of the Giant Stairway. Then it’s away from the throng of tourists and into the depths of Leura Forest. Delicate ferns and mosses hug the rainforest trees as filtered sunlight creates a magical scene. The valley floor is alive with fauna; it is here you might get to spot the elusive lyre bird. There is a thriving arts scene in the Blue Mountains including in Leura, scores of restaurants, cafes and providores.
Accommodation: The Carrington Boutique Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate / 9–11.5km / 4– 4.5 hrs
The Blue Mountains Traverse finishes after breakfast. You will either have your car or it is a very short walk to the train station. Or if you wish, you can stay an extra night and simply relax or wander some more in the gorgeous Blue Mountains.
Meals: Cooked breakfast
The friendly locals we work with for accommodation, meals and transfers are attentive to your itinerary and eager to help make your departure and arrival each day as smooth as possible. Each night walkers will stay in a beautiful choice of accommodation ranging from lodges and 4-star hotels, to a lovely bed and breakfast. These luxurious escapes provide a welcoming and comfortable base to relax and recount the day’s highlights. All rooms have their own ensuite.
The Blue Mountains is noted for its international cuisine with restaurants attracting some of the best chefs in the country. Award-winning wines from the nearby Hunter Valley winery district add to the dining experience.
A delicious and hearty breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning. The breakfasts will vary and be either cooked, continental or both. In the morning you will be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.
The included dinners are at local restaurants that have either won awards or received great reviews. There’s an emphasis on local produce and wine from the region. When dinner is not included, there are many great restaurants close by to choose from. We recommend you ask us or your hosts for their advice.
Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
This Blue Mountains Traverse starts and finishes in the Blue Mountains with a short 90 min train ride (fare not included) from Sydney to the first accommodation. The Blue Mountains walks are mostly along well-marked tracks and trails, with occasional steeper sections either ascending out of or descending into the gorges and valleys below. It’s a great combination of easy-going, moderate and more challenging walking terrain offering something for every level of experience.
We walk in and out of accommodations and move you along the track in order to limit the travel time in a vehicle. Your luggage moves along with you seamlessly as you walk from one accommodation to the next with just your day pack.
The Blue Mountains Traverse comprehensive walk notes provide lots of information on the flora, fauna, history and geology of the Blue Mountains.
For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.
Available all year. October-November is usually mild to warm. With the warmer weather comes higher rainfall. Temperatures warm up from December-February with frequent heavy rainfall. March-April is usually cool to mild. Temperatures drop from May onwards and the days are cool to cold but with little rain and good for walking. Warmer, spring weather returns around September.
Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible. Please note that unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds due to track closures please ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover any losses.
See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
Source: BOM
Travelling to the Start of the walk
This walk starts in the village of Blackheath.
The walk ends in Leura with a transfer or short walk to the train station.
You will need to get yourself to and from the start and end of your walk. i.e. you will need to organise your travel to the start of the walk in the Blue Mountains. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
Public Transport: By far the easiest option is to catch a train from Sydney. Your starting destination is Blackheath. It is approximately a 6 minute walk to your accommodation so you may prefer to catch a taxi (at your expense).
The train will take around 2hrs 10min from Sydney Central station and costs approximately AUD$8 to $12. You can buy tickets directly at the train station; there is no need to book. You can also catch the train at Sydney airport and swap at Central station. The trains in peak times depart approximately every 15 mins, out of peak every 30 mins to 40 mins.
Please note: If you would prefer a private taxi transfer we can provide details for you to arrange. This will be an additional cost.
Travelling from the End of the walk
Public Transport: Take the train from either Katoomba or Leura; times and cost see the timetable for Blue Mountains trains.
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, or email us at info@stroll.com
The Blue Mountains, only 90 minutes from Sydney, is the most accessible World Heritage-listed wilderness area in Australia. The hike travels across the plateau, via the valley floor and through canyons and across waterways. It begins in Blackheath and finds its way via Katoomba and onto Leura, and includes some of the best tracks in the Mountains. Be astonished by the sheer volume of incredible one-of-a kind vistas that the Blue Mountains is famous for.
The descents into the valley are well worth the effort, walking up close to nature, allowing you to literally feel and smell the forest. The valley and canyon sections of the track take you via waterfalls and waterways and there is a high chance of spotting the elusive Lyrebird as you walk.
Please note: We offer our Blue Mountains walks all year round. November to March are the warmest months however they also tend to have the highest rainfall with January and February being the most affected. Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible.
The Blue Mountains 5 day Traverse starts in Blackheath any time after 2pm. There is no walking scheduled for today but there are several galleries and coffee shops in the village worth exploring.
Accommodation: Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges in Blackheath in ensuite rooms
Meals: A la carte dinner at a local restaurant
The walking begins today out of your accommodation. Skirt around sheer cliff tops to see Bridal Veil Falls plummet 180 metres in a single drop. Enjoy breathtaking views from Govetts Leap and Pulpit Rock, at the same time discovering why the Blue Mountains appear blue. Then walk down into the Grand Canyon, undoubtedly one of the Blue Mountains, if not Australia’s, most beautiful walks. The canyon carved out by nature over millions of years, the huge tree ferns, the lichen and other flora and fauna work together in concert to create an unheralded sense of immersion.
Accommodation: Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges in Blackheath in ensuite rooms
Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 20.1km / 6–7.5 hrs
Take an exhilarating ride down the Scenic Railway into the depths of the rainforest then retrace the route used by coal miners over 100 years ago. Mining relics, tunnels and adits can be seen along the way and observant walkers are often rewarded with a glimpse of an elusive Lyrebird. Lunch today will be shared with flocks of cheeky Currawongs at an impressive rocky outcrop called Ruined Castle. Take the Furber Steps Challenge, an alternative to riding up the Scenic Railway. This track climbs steeply through dense rainforest past delightful waterfalls and pretty grottoes. This day also includes a ride in the spectacular Scenic Skyway gondola ride suspended across the Jamison Valley.
Accommodation: The Carrington Boutique Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms
Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a la carte dinner at a local restaurant
Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16–17.5km / 5– 6.5 hrs / shorter option available
Walk out of your accommodation and to Echo Point to learn the Aboriginal legend of how the famous Three Sisters were formed. From here, descend the 862 steps of the Giant Stairway. Then it’s away from the throng of tourists and into the depths of Leura Forest. Delicate ferns and mosses hug the rainforest trees as filtered sunlight creates a magical scene. The valley floor is alive with fauna; it is here you might get to spot the elusive lyre bird. There is a thriving arts scene in the Blue Mountains including in Leura, scores of restaurants, cafes and providores.
Accommodation: The Carrington Boutique Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms
Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate / 9–11.5km / 4– 4.5 hrs
The Blue Mountains Traverse finishes after breakfast. You will either have your car or it is a very short walk to the train station. Or if you wish, you can stay an extra night and simply relax or wander some more in the gorgeous Blue Mountains.
Meals: Cooked breakfast
The friendly locals we work with for accommodation, meals and transfers are attentive to your itinerary and eager to help make your departure and arrival each day as smooth as possible. Each night walkers will stay in a beautiful choice of accommodation ranging from lodges and 4-star hotels, to a lovely bed and breakfast. These luxurious escapes provide a welcoming and comfortable base to relax and recount the day’s highlights. All rooms have their own ensuite.
The Blue Mountains is noted for its international cuisine with restaurants attracting some of the best chefs in the country. Award-winning wines from the nearby Hunter Valley winery district add to the dining experience.
A delicious and hearty breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning. The breakfasts will vary and be either cooked, continental or both. In the morning you will be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.
The included dinners are at local restaurants that have either won awards or received great reviews. There’s an emphasis on local produce and wine from the region. When dinner is not included, there are many great restaurants close by to choose from. We recommend you ask us or your hosts for their advice.
Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
The accommodation used in Blackheath is nothing short of a luxurious escape. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges provides 28 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. All rooms are fitted with an ensuite and a fireplace. There’s a large lounge area and a dining room for guests to make use of, with an onsite day spa for walkers to relax and unwind. This retreat combines the luxury and comfort of modern life with the charm and ambience of years gone by. Situated only minutes away from Grose Valley and Govetts Leap lookout, Parklands is an ideal location for exploring what the Blue Mountains has to offer.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
Carrington Hotel is a heritage listed manor, providing a charming place to stay in Katooomba. Carrington’s refurbished rooms are all equipped with the essential amenities including a flat screen TV, access to WIFI and a refrigerator. You will not be disappointed with the classic decor of both the exterior and interior that runs throughout this historical space. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy within this elegant building such as dining rooms, bars and performance spaces.
This Blue Mountains Traverse starts and finishes in the Blue Mountains with a short 90 min train ride (fare not included) from Sydney to the first accommodation. The Blue Mountains walks are mostly along well-marked tracks and trails, with occasional steeper sections either ascending out of or descending into the gorges and valleys below. It’s a great combination of easy-going, moderate and more challenging walking terrain offering something for every level of experience.
We walk in and out of accommodations and move you along the track in order to limit the travel time in a vehicle. Your luggage moves along with you seamlessly as you walk from one accommodation to the next with just your day pack.
The Blue Mountains Traverse comprehensive walk notes provide lots of information on the flora, fauna, history and geology of the Blue Mountains.
For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.
Available all year. October-November is usually mild to warm. With the warmer weather comes higher rainfall. Temperatures warm up from December-February with frequent heavy rainfall. March-April is usually cool to mild. Temperatures drop from May onwards and the days are cool to cold but with little rain and good for walking. Warmer, spring weather returns around September.
Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible. Please note that unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds due to track closures please ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover any losses.
See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
Source: BOM
Travelling to the Start of the walk
This walk starts in the village of Blackheath.
The walk ends in Leura with a transfer or short walk to the train station.
You will need to get yourself to and from the start and end of your walk. i.e. you will need to organise your travel to the start of the walk in the Blue Mountains. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.
Public Transport: By far the easiest option is to catch a train from Sydney. Your starting destination is Blackheath. It is approximately a 6 minute walk to your accommodation so you may prefer to catch a taxi (at your expense).
The train will take around 2hrs 10min from Sydney Central station and costs approximately AUD$8 to $12. You can buy tickets directly at the train station; there is no need to book. You can also catch the train at Sydney airport and swap at Central station. The trains in peak times depart approximately every 15 mins, out of peak every 30 mins to 40 mins.
Please note: If you would prefer a private taxi transfer we can provide details for you to arrange. This will be an additional cost.
Travelling from the End of the walk
Public Transport: Take the train from either Katoomba or Leura; times and cost see the timetable for Blue Mountains trains.
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, or email us at info@stroll.com
Our first self-guided hike was the ‘Blue Mountains Traverse’ – it exceeded our expectations with all the planning and organisation taken care of by Stroll. If you are wanting an active break and enjoy beautiful accommodation, high quality meals and stunning scenery, this may be what you are looking for.
Staying at the Carrington was a highlight. As a Sydney resident, it was great to go walking so close to home. I had forgotten how beautiful the Blue Mountains are.
Our trip went really well. The walk was far more strenuous than I had anticipated. Serves me right lol. It took me out of my comfort zone but I completed it. I’m motivated to improve my fitness level and take on others hikes in Australia or abroad. Foods were of excellent quality.
Joanne K
Our first self-guided hike was the ‘Blue Mountains Traverse’ – it exceeded our expectations with all the planning and organisation taken care of by Stroll. If you are wanting an active break and enjoy beautiful accommodation, high quality meals and stunning scenery, this may be what you are looking for.
Joyce K
Staying at the Carrington was a highlight. As a Sydney resident, it was great to go walking so close to home. I had forgotten how beautiful the Blue Mountains are.
Debbie B
Our trip went really well. The walk was far more strenuous than I had anticipated. Serves me right lol. It took me out of my comfort zone but I completed it. I’m motivated to improve my fitness level and take on others hikes in Australia or abroad. Foods were of excellent quality.