Three Sisters
New South Wales
The Three Sisters are a distinctive rock formation located in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia, near the town of Katoomba. Comprising three sandstone peaks named Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo, they rise dramatically above the Jamison Valley, reaching heights of approximately 900 meters. Formed around 200 million years ago through natural erosion processes during the Triassic period, these striking turrets are a testament to the region's geological history. The site is culturally significant, associated with Aboriginal Dreamtime legends about three sisters who were turned to stone to protect them during tribal conflict. Today, the Three Sisters attract over 600,000 visitors annually, who come to admire the panoramic views and explore nearby walking trails such as the Giant Stairway that descends nearly 1,000 steps into the valley. The surrounding eucalypt forests and native wildlife, including superb lyrebirds and crimson rosellas, enhance the natural experience. The area is protected within the Blue Mountains National Park and recognized as an Aboriginal Place since 2014, underscoring its cultural and environmental importance.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Purchase tickets for the Scenic Railway in advance if planning to return via the railway after hiking the Giant Stairway. Wear sturdy footwear for steep sections and bring water. Check current park alerts before visiting. There are access-friendly walking tracks nearby for visitors with mobility needs.
Interesting facts
- •The Three Sisters are named Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo, each standing around 900 meters tall.
- •They were formed by natural erosion during the Triassic period about 200 million years ago.
- •The site attracts over 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of the Blue Mountains' most popular attractions.
- •The Giant Stairway near the formation descends 998 steps from the plateau to the valley floor.
- •The Three Sisters were declared an Aboriginal Place in 2014, highlighting their cultural significance.
History
The Three Sisters were formed approximately 200 million years ago during the Triassic period as sandstone cliffs eroded by wind, rain, and rivers.
The rock formation has long been significant to the local Aboriginal peoples, including the Gundungurra and Katoomba tribes, featuring in their cultural stories.
In 2014, the Three Sisters were officially declared an Aboriginal Place, recognizing their cultural heritage.
Over time, the site has become a major tourist attraction within the Blue Mountains National Park, with infrastructure such as the Giant Stairway developed to facilitate access to the valley floor.
Place Guide
Echo Point Lookout
The main vantage point offering spectacular panoramic views of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley, easily accessible from Katoomba town center.
Giant Stairway
A steep walking trail consisting of 998 steps descending from Echo Point to the valley floor, connecting to the base of the Three Sisters at Honeymoon Bridge.
Three Sisters Walk
A family-friendly walking track passing through eucalypt forest with opportunities to spot native birds like lyrebirds and crimson rosellas, leading to multiple lookouts for varied perspectives of the rock formation.
Contact
Phone: (02) 4787 8877
