The best running trails in Blue Mountains National Park
4.4
(8)
689
runners
18
runs
Jogging in Blue Mountains National Park offers diverse landscapes, from vast eucalypt forests to deep gorges and valleys. The terrain varies, encompassing open forests, heathlands, and dense rainforests, with surfaces ranging from paved paths to uneven ground with rocks and roots. Sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations are prevalent, providing varied elevation changes and scenic backdrops for running. This UNESCO World Heritage site is characterized by its distinctive "blue haze" and an extensive network of natural features.
Best jogging routes in Blue Mountains National Park
- The most popular jogging route is Laura Cascades Viewpoint – Fletcher's Lookout loop from Scenic Railway Top Station, a 28.0 miles (45.0 km) trail that takes 6 hours 49 minutes to complete. This challenging route offers extensive views across the valleys and diverse forest environments.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Kedumba Hill – Meehni loop from Kedumba Pass, a difficult 19.7 miles (31.7 km) path. This route traverses varied terrain, including significant elevation changes through the park's characteristic valleys.
- Local runners also love the Evans Lookout loop from Beauchamp Falls, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through forested gorges and offering sweeping views, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Jogging in Blue Mountains National Park is defined by deep gorges, sandstone cliffs, and eucalypt forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from shorter paths to challenging multi-hour runs.
- The routes in Blue Mountains National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. More than 600 runners have used komoot to explore Blue Mountains National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
153
runners
44.2km
06:33
1,920m
1,920m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.3
(4)
173
runners
32.2km
05:04
1,580m
1,580m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(2)
87
runners
11.4km
02:07
780m
780m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(2)
46
runners
6.24km
00:58
380m
380m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
47
runners
32.8km
03:59
550m
550m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
Katoomba Cascades is a picturesque series of small cascades on the Kedumba River, where the water tumbles over wide sandstone shelves before continuing downstream to Katoomba Falls. There are boardwalks, bridges, benches and viewing platforms that surround the cascades for a close-up view of the flowing water within the lush gully of ferns and rainforest vegetation. It’s one of the few places where you can experience the river up close before it drops into the Jamison Valley.
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Weeping Rock is a beautiful, small waterfall where Jamison Creek spills gently over a sandstone rock overhang near Wentworth Falls. The cascade is reached by a quieter side track on the Weeping Rock circuit, and is a cool, shady spot with shallow rock pools and lush ferns under the cliff. There are metal stairs next to the falls that continue along the creek, where you might spot freshwater crayfish, often seen here.
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The Giant Stairway is a famous, challenging and exhilarating staircase, totalling almost 1000 steps, from the edge of the Blue Mountains National Park cliffside down toward the valley below. The views are hard to beat, and the stairs are carved into the sandstone cliffs, which do become quite slippery after rain. Remember, you must go down before you come up!
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The platform sits at the edge of the escarpment, with uninterrupted views of the Blue Mountains' incredible landscape.
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The Three Sisters Walk is a short, well-formed track from Echo Point that takes you right up to the Three Sisters via a series of paved paths and stairs. A small bridge connects to the first sister, with close-up views back across the Jamison Valley. The track links directly to the Giant Stairway, which continues down into the valley for those wanting a longer route. Expect steps and steady foot traffic, especially during busy periods.
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Lady Game Lookout sits a short walk from Echo Point and offers wide, open views over the Jamison Valley with fewer crowds than the main viewing area. It’s also positioned along the route to the Giant Stairway, which drops down from this part of the cliffline into the valley below. The path to the lookout is easy to follow, with a mix of paved and natural sections.
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Oreades Lookout is a quieter viewpoint just off Echo Point, looking out over the Jamison Valley and across to the Three Sisters. It’s also where you can access the Giant Stairway, which descends steeply down into the valley from this section of the escarpment. The lookout is reached via short, well-marked tracks with a mix of paved and uneven surfaces. Stay behind barriers, as the cliffs here are steep and exposed.
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Set along the cliff edge in Blue Mountains National Park, this lookout sits on a narrow, fenced ledge with a direct view of Wentworth Falls as it drops into the valley below. The position brings you close to the escarpment, with steep drop-offs and a more immediate perspective of the waterfall and surrounding rock walls. Space is limited at the lookout, and surfaces can be uneven or slippery, particularly after rain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails in Blue Mountains National Park?
Blue Mountains National Park offers incredibly varied terrain for runners. You'll find everything from mostly paved paths to uneven ground with rocks, roots, and challenging steep sections and stairs. The landscape includes open eucalypt forests, heathlands, dense rainforests, and rugged canyons, providing diverse surfaces and elevation changes.
Are there any easy running routes for beginners in Blue Mountains National Park?
While many routes in the park are challenging, there are options for various fitness levels. The park categorizes trails, with some considered easy (up to 3 miles and 330 ft of elevation gain). For example, the Evans Lookout loop from Beauchamp Falls is a shorter route that leads through forested gorges and offers sweeping views, often completed in about an hour.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see while jogging in Blue Mountains National Park?
The park is rich with stunning natural features. You can encounter cascading waterfalls like Wentworth Falls and Katoomba Falls, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations. Iconic viewpoints such as Echo Point Lookout – View of the Three Sisters, Evans Lookout, and Govetts Leap Lookout offer spectacular vistas across the valleys and gorges.
Are there any circular running routes in Blue Mountains National Park?
Yes, many of the running paths in Blue Mountains National Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the challenging Laura Cascades Viewpoint – Fletcher's Lookout loop from Scenic Railway Top Station, which offers extensive views and diverse forest environments.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Blue Mountains National Park?
The running routes in Blue Mountains National Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from vast eucalypt forests to deep gorges, and the stunning views from various lookouts. The challenging terrain and varied environments also make it a prime location for training.
What is the best time of year to go running in Blue Mountains National Park?
The Blue Mountains offer a unique experience year-round. The 'blue haze' from the eucalypt forests is a constant, but conditions vary. Spring (September-November) brings wildflowers, while autumn (March-May) offers cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, but rainforest gullies provide cooler, shaded environments. Winter can be crisp and clear, with occasional snow at higher elevations, offering a different kind of beauty.
Are there any running routes that pass by waterfalls in Blue Mountains National Park?
Absolutely! The park is home to numerous cascading waterfalls. Routes often incorporate or pass near spectacular falls like Wentworth Falls and Katoomba Falls, providing picturesque backdrops and refreshing stops along your run.
How long are the running routes typically in Blue Mountains National Park?
The running routes in Blue Mountains National Park vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter paths, like the Evans Lookout loop from Beauchamp Falls at about 3.7 miles (5.9 km), which takes less than an hour. There are also much longer, challenging routes, such as the Laura Cascades Viewpoint – Fletcher's Lookout loop from Scenic Railway Top Station, which spans 28.0 miles (45.0 km) and can take over 6 hours to complete.
What are the options for parking and public transport when accessing running trails in Blue Mountains National Park?
Many popular trailheads and lookouts in Blue Mountains National Park have designated parking areas. For public transport, train services connect Sydney to various towns within the Blue Mountains, such as Katoomba and Wentworth Falls, from where local buses or walking can lead to trail access points. It's advisable to check specific access details for your chosen route.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Blue Mountains National Park?
Generally, dogs are not permitted on most walking tracks and in wilderness areas within Blue Mountains National Park to protect native wildlife and natural environments. However, there are some designated areas and fire trails where dogs on a leash are allowed. It's best to check the specific regulations for the area you plan to visit on the official NSW National Parks website before heading out.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the running routes in Blue Mountains National Park?
Yes, towns like Katoomba, Leura, and Wentworth Falls, which are gateways to many trails, offer a range of cafes, restaurants, and other facilities where you can refuel or relax after your run. Many popular trailheads are accessible from these towns, making it convenient to combine your run with a visit to a local establishment.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the running paths?
Blue Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity. While running, you might spot various bird species, including parrots and kookaburras. Keep an eye out for wallabies, kangaroos, and other native marsupials, especially during dawn and dusk. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
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