Katoomba Falls Reserve Night walk sparks Blue Mountains trip frenzy
Featuring 390 individual lights and six years in the making, this is why this walking trail has sent social media buzzing.
There’s no denying that a bushwalk in the Blue Mountains is one of the most uniquely Australian experiences one can do Down Under.
But a new trail venturing through Katoomba – at night – now has social media talking.
The spectacular Katoomba Falls Night-lit Walk is now complete and is open to the public to view - but you will need a torch, because the walk can get a little dark in parts!
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The 1.3km walk gives visitors access to a unique, night-time viewing experience of outstanding natural features such as Orphan Rock, Witches Leap, Katoomba Falls and Katoomba Cascades. The lit-up trail, at certain vantage points, also sees the Three Sisters in full glow.
The experience finally connects other previously lit areas, and has new lighting from the top of the Katoomba Falls Kiosk car park, around Reid’s Plateau and down to the Duke and Duchess lookout.
The special walk, which opened to the public in late February, is an easy feat for all ages and abilities. The entire walk took close to six years to complete, and is well worth the 90 minute journey from Sydney.
Throughout the walk, thirteen spotlights highlight the main focal points on the walk with another 390 individual lights to illuminate the well-lit footpaths.
The 2019 bushfires that ripped through the region delayed the finishing touches and completion of the walk by 15 months.
All the of the energy efficient LED lights turn on at dusk and flood lights are turned off at 10.30pm and path lights at 11pm.
If you’re in the area, be sure to visit the world-famous Scenic World during the day, and jump on board the Scenic Railway, Scenic Cableway and Scenic Skyway – which offers incredible views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley.
Stop for an afternoon drink at Bar NSW at The Lookout for views of Echo Point, and for a memorable meal, check out 8 Things on Katoomba St, which serves eight authentic dishes from around the world created daily.
Katoomba is also a great place to shop for all kinds of kooky curiosities. Local favourites include Odd Mountain Oddities and the Katoomba Antique Centre.
A little further along the Great Western Highway is Blackheath – the highest village in the Blue Mountains, and one of its most dramatically beautiful locations.
Local gem Campbell Rhododendron Gardens, just outside the town centre, is a must-visit as is a drink at the recently-restored Hydro Majestic Hotel overlooking Medlow Bath.
While you’re in Blackheath, sample the fantastic coffee at Anonymous Cafe and hunt for treasures at the Victory Theatre Antique Centre – billed as the largest antiques centre west of Sydney. If you’re in town on the second Sunday of the month, you’ll be able to catch the Blackheath Growers Market.