Blue Mountains National Park
New South Wales
Blue Mountains National Park, located approximately 80 kilometers west of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia, is a vast protected area covering over 267,000 hectares. It forms the central part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, recognized for its outstanding natural beauty and biodiversity. The park encompasses an uplifted sandstone plateau dissected by deep valleys and rivers, with Mount Werong as its highest point at 1,215 meters. Visitors can admire iconic landmarks such as the Three Sisters rock formation and numerous waterfalls and lookouts offering spectacular views. The park supports a wide range of habitats, including wet and dry sclerophyll forests, swamps, and grasslands, home to many endemic and threatened species such as the rare Wollemi Pine and the Regent Honeyeater. The network of historic walking tracks, some listed on the State Heritage Register, invites exploration of the diverse landscapes and Aboriginal cultural sites. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, camping, and wildlife observation, all within a setting of remarkable geological history and natural heritage. The park is managed by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service and remains a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Blue Mountains National Park is during the cooler months from autumn to spring to avoid summer heat and bushfire risks. Booking accommodations and camping spots in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Visitors should check current park alerts for weather or fire closures. Entry is free, but some activities may require permits or bookings. Bring appropriate gear for hiking and be prepared for variable weather conditions. Guided tours are available to explore Aboriginal cultural sites and remote areas safely.
Interesting facts
- •The Blue Mountains National Park is part of the Greater Blue Mountains Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
- •The park contains the rare Wollemi Pine, a 'living fossil' species thought extinct until rediscovered in 1994, with fewer than 100 known trees.
- •The Three Sisters rock formation is one of Australia's most iconic natural landmarks and a popular lookout in the park.
- •The park's walking tracks include historic routes that have been used for decades and are listed on the State Heritage Register.
- •The park's rivers, including the Wollangambe and Grose, contribute to Sydney's water supply through Lake Burragorang and Warragamba Dam.
History
The idea for a protected area in the Blue Mountains region was first proposed in 1932 by conservationist Myles Dunphy, aiming to preserve large natural areas including what is now Blue Mountains National Park.
Officially established in 1959, the park initially covered 63,000 hectares and has since expanded.
In 2000, it was inscribed as part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, highlighting its global environmental significance.
The inclusion of 37 walking tracks on the State Heritage Register in 1999 reflects the park's cultural and historical importance.
Over the decades, the park has been managed to balance conservation with public access, preserving its unique ecosystems and Aboriginal heritage.
Place Guide
The Three Sisters
A famous sandstone rock formation located near Katoomba, offering panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and a significant site in Aboriginal legend.
Grand Cliff Top Walk
A scenic walking trail along cliff edges near the Three Sisters, providing spectacular vistas and access to various lookouts and waterfalls.
Govetts Leap Lookout
Located in the Blackheath area, this lookout offers stunning views over the Grose Valley and is a gateway to several hiking trails including the Grand Canyon walk.
Historic Walking Tracks1999 (heritage listing)
A network of 37 walking tracks spanning from Glenbrook to Oberon, many of which are heritage-listed, showcasing diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
Wollemi Pine Habitat
Protected habitats within the park where the rare Wollemi Pine grows, one of the world's oldest and rarest tree species.
Contact
Phone: (02) 4787 8877
