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Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre - Echo Point

Echo Point Visitor Information Centre is an fully accredited with trained staff, who will assist you plan your activities during your visit.

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Echo Point Road, Katoomba NSW 2780

• Welcomes people with access needs
• Coach Parking
• Public Toilet
• Shop / Gift Shop

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Katoomba Information Services

Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre - Echo Point

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Blue Mountains Visitor Information

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Blue Mountains Visitor Information - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Katoomba area

Blue Mountains National Park

Open, check  current alerts  

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about the Katoomba area.

Getting there and parking

To get to the Katoomba area of Blue Mountains National Park:

From Sydney:

• Head west on the M4 and Great Western Highway towards the Blue Mountains
• Katoomba is around 1.5-2 hours drive from Sydney and Wentworth Falls is around 1.5 hours drive from Sydney

From Lithgow:

• Follow the Great Western Highway east toward Sydney
• Katoomba is around 40km, and Wentworth Falls is around 47km

Parking Show more

• Conservation Hut See on map
• Echo Point lookout (Three Sisters) See on map
• Gordon Falls picnic area See on map
• Gordon Falls to Katoomba walk See on map
• Grand Cliff Top Walk See on map
• Ingar campground See on map
• Mount Solitary walking track See on map
• Sublime Point lookout - Leura See on map
• Valley of the Waters lookout See on map
• Wentworth Falls picnic area See on map

Visit Transport for NSW for cycling and bike transport information.

By public transport

• Regular daily trains run from Sydney Central Station to Katoomba, Leura and Wentworth Falls. The trip takes around 2 hours. Plan your trip on the Transport for NSW website .
• Visit the Blue Mountains transit website for local bus timetables and maps.

Best times to visit

The Katoomba area is a great place to visit at any time of year. Here are some of the highlights.

Cooler temperatures and clear skies make autumn perfect for a bushwalking or camping getaway. Well-prepared hikers can tackle the 3-day Six Foot track between Katoomba and Jenolan Caves, or Mount Solitary walking track. Keep an eye out for vibrant red, orange and yellow fungus that blooms around Leura Cascades at this time of year. If you’re lucky you might see a male lyrebird putting on a show to attract females.

From early spring into summer, wildflowers blossom across the heath and forested trails, attracting birds (and birdwatchers). Spot yellow wattles, rich red waratahs, pink boronias, and blue native iris flowers. Why not get off the beaten track and see another side of the Blue Mountains with a bike ride or 4WD to McMahons Point. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Burragorang and the wilderness beyond. A night under the stars at Ingar campground, accessible only by bike or foot, is well worth the effort.

Enjoy a scenic picnic serenaded by bellbirds at Valley of the Waters picnic area, or set the kids loose in the playground at the council-run Gordon Falls picnic area. On a hot summer day Lyrebird Dell is a great option, taking you into a cool rainforest gully to the beautiful Pool of Siloam and a fascinating Aboriginal shelter. This is also the best (and safest) time to join an introductory canyoning, abseiling or rock climbing tour.

On a misty winter morning, Mount Solitary rising above the fog is a magnificent sight. Set out on a heart-pumping hike, trail run or mountain bike ride. The steep descents and challenging climbs from Furber Steps or the Giant Stairway, or bike ride along Andersons trail, will soon warm you up. Indulge in a hot chocolate or hearty lunch at Conservation Hut after exploring the tracks and lookouts around Wentworth Falls.

Toilets Show more

• Conservation Hut
• Echo Point lookout (Three Sisters)
• Federal Pass
• Furber Steps walk
• Gordon Falls picnic area
• Gordon Falls to Katoomba walk
• Grand Cliff Top Walk
• Ingar campground
• Kedumba River Crossing campground
• Mount Solitary walking track
• Three Sisters walk
• Valley of the Waters lookout
• Wentworth Falls picnic area
• Wentworth Falls to Leura walk

Picnic tables Show more

• Leura Cascades picnic area
• Sublime Point lookout - Leura

Barbecue facilities

Drinking water show more, maps and downloads.

• Katoomba area factsheet
• Katoomba area map (9.4MB pdf)

Safety messages

All Blue Mountains National Park visitors planning a long hike, off-track or overnight adventure, or visiting a remote part of the park, are recommended to fill in the trip intention form  and carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Find out more about hiring a PLB and completing a trip intention form on the dedicated iPads at Blue Mountains Heritage Centre (Blackheath), Katoomba Police Station, and Springwood Police Station.

• Keep well back from cliff edges and waterfalls at all times, especially when taking photos.
• Please stay on tracks and be aware of your surroundings and footing.

Adventure sports

Adventure sports like climbing, caving, canyoning and abseiling offer a thrilling opportunity to explore our unique environments. Before you head out, be aware of the risks and stay safe during adventure sports .

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

Fire safety

During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety .

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS.  Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

NSW national parks are no smoking areas .

• in Blue Mountains National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

Katoomba area is always open but some locations may close at times due to maintenance, poor weather or fire danger.

• Blue Mountains Heritage Centre and Blackheath office 02 4787 8877 Contact hours: 9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
• 270 Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath NSW 2785
• Email: [email protected]
• Visit Blue Mountains website
• Visit NSW - Blue Mountains
• School excursions in Blue Mountains National Park
• Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area
• Blue Mountains City Council

Nearby towns

Wentworth falls (2 km).

Wentworth Falls is a historic town in the Blue Mountains . It's a good base to explore this World Heritage-listed area on foot.

www.visitnsw.com

Katoomba (3 km)

Katoomba is at the heart of most of the stunning natural attractions that make up the Blue Mountains National Park. You can admire deep valleys, sandstone plateaus, waterfalls and native animals from the many walking trails and lookouts near Katoomba.

Sydney City Centre (105 km)

No trip to Sydney is complete without spending some time in the city’s beautiful parks. Whether it’s in central areas like Hyde Park or the Royal Botanic Gardens or further out in Centennial Parklands , there’s plenty of green space to go out and enjoy.

www.sydney.com

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• : Visitor Information
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Next Village:

Katoomba is the most visited town in the Blue Mountains. It wasn’t until 1879 that the town of Katoomba became known when J.B. North opened the Katoomba Coal Mine. Coal was obtained from the side of the mountain near Orphan Rock using a cable car to bring the coal to the top. The now famous Scenic Railway operates in the original cutting in the mountain side.

Scenic World

The Scenic Railway is the steepest railway incline in the world and is now one of the most popular man-made tourist attractions in Australia. The ride takes you down the steep descent past Orphan Rock, through a tunnel and the beautiful fern-damp cliff face.

Adjacent to the Scenic Railway is the Scenic Cableway, the steepest aerial cable car in Australia. The Scenic Cableway takes you on a 545 metre ride into the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area rainforest of the Jamison valley. Scenic World also features a spectacular Scenic Walkway. A popular option for visitors is to descend into the valley via the Scenic Railway, stroll along the Scenic Walkway and ascend to the top via the Scenic Cableway.

Also at the same site is the magnificent Scenic Skyway.The original Skyway was Australia’s first cable Skyway for passengers and was built in 1958. The new Skyway with a glass bottom floor, can carry up to 84 passengers across the Jamison Valley at a height of 200 metres. The views are breathtaking.

Katoomba Lookouts

From Scenic World west along Cliff Drive you will discover Eaglehawk Lookout and Landslide Lookout. Nearby is the Katoomba Christian Convention Centre. Further along Cliff Drive take a walk to Narrow Neck lookout . You can also experience Cahills Lookout overlooking the magnificent Megalong Valley.

Driving east along Cliff Drive from the Scenic World you can discover the Cascades and walk to Katoomba Falls. Take Prince Henry Cliff Walk to Cliff View Lookout, Wollumai Lookout, Allambie Lookout and Lady Darly Lookout within Lilianfels Park offering Picnic and BBQ facilities.

The Three Sisters at Echo Point

A visit to the Blue Mountains would not be complete without viewing the spectacular Three Sisters at Echo Point. Directions to the Three Sisters are well signposted. Either take Katoomba Street or Lurline Street to Echo Point Road. The Three Sisters is approximately 2.5 kilometres from the Great Western Highway or Katoomba Railway Station. While the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can’t help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation.

The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colours. The Three Sisters is also floodlit at night looking even more stunning set against the black background of the night sky. For those wishing to know more about the Three Sisters, the Aboriginal Dream Time Stories are well worth a read.

The famous Giant Stairway is also found at Echo Point. If you are enthusiastic and energetic, you can take the 800 steps down to the floor of the valley. Katoomba’s Echo Point Visitor Information Centre is located at Echo Point where you can experience spectacular views as well as an up close view of Rosellas feeding on sunflower seed. The centre has many Australian gifts for sale and can provide you with a vast array of information on things to do and see within the area, and how to get there.

Back in the centre of town, the first hotel in Katoomba was erected in 1882 by Mr. Harry Rowell. Known as the ‘Great Western Hotel’, this establishment attracted many visitors to the area. The hotel was sold in 1886 to Mr. F. Goyder who performed major alterations on the building and renamed it "The Carrington" after the reigning Governor. The Carrington underwent a major renovation and re-opened to the public in 1998.

On the north side of the Great Western Highway you is the head office of the Blue Mountains City Council, the Renaissance Centre and The Edge Cinema. The Edge has one of the largest cinema screens in the southern hemisphere. Visitors to The Edge can enjoy a 40min documentary titled ‘The Edge'. This film was exclusively produced for the cinema and offers the ultimate on screen Blue Mountains wilderness experience. This movie takes you to places in the Blue Mountains which you may never be able to discover yourself.

Katoomba's North

In Katoomba’s North you will find the Showground (on the Great Western Highway), several parks including Melrose Park, Harold Hodgson Park and Burea Park. Off Mort Street you will find the RSPCA animal shelter.

Yosemite Park

If you drive along Mini Ha-Ha Road you will reach Mini Ha-Ha Reserve and can walk to Mini Ha-Ha Falls within the beautiful Yosemite Park.

Historical Katoomba

Further west in Katoomba along the Great Western Highway is the famous Explorers Marked Tree. Now caged in and sheltered to protect the remains of the tree from weather and vandalism, the tree has the initials of the famous explorers Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson dated 1813.

Just behind the Marked tree at the top of Pulpit Hill you will see around 20 heaps of stones. It is believed that these mark the graves of convicts who died while working on the building of Cox’s Road. This was also the location of many religious services, hence the name Pulpit Hill.

Six Foot Track

Just near the Explorers Marked Tree down Nellies Glen Road is the start of the famous ‘Six Foot Track’. For the adventurous, this track takes you from Katoomba through to Jenolan Caves taking the route down into Nellies Glen and across the Megalong Valley. Also down Nellies Glen Road you can walk to Pulpit Rock and Boonie Doon Falls.

Katoomba Activities and Events

Katoomba comes alive at night with the many cafes and restaurants in the main street. The only problem is choosing which one you wish to dine in.

Katoomba also features many galleries, with some located on Lurline Street.

Major Festivals in Katoomba include the Six Foot Track Marathon in March, and the Winter Magic Festival in June.

Along the Blue Mountains railway line in 1874, there was an area where stone was quarried to provide ballast. The area was given the name of "Crushes". It was at this point trains stopped to adjust the brakes of the carriages to allow for the descent to Springwood. The name "Crushes" was changed to Katoomba in 1877.

Katoomba is a derivative of the Aboriginal word ‘Kedumba’ meaning ‘shiny, falling waters’ after the natural beauty of the area.

Katoomba Heritage Walk

The home of traditional shopping.  It's also a place where history, the arts, breath-taking natural scenery and cafe culture merge, making it a fascinating place to explore at a leisurely pace - on foot. To get the most out of your visit to Katoomba, the principal township in our World Heritage Blue Mountains, we suggest you follow this map.

Click here for more information on the Heritage walk

• Emu Plains
• Faulconbridge
• Hawkesbury Heights
• Jenolan Caves
• Medlow Bath
• Megalong Valley
• Mount Riverview
• Mount Tomah
• Mount Victoria
• Mount Wilson & Mount Irvine
• Sun Valley
• Valley Heights
• Wentworth Falls
• Yellow Rock
• Living In the Blue Mountains

Have You Visited

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Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre – Echo Point

Tourist information & services katoomba , blue mountains , new south wales.

The Blue Mountains Visitor Information Centre at Echo Point is an accredited information centre with fully trained staff, who will help you plan your activities during your stay in the Blue Mountains region.

Everything from local attractions, events and adventure activities to dining options and accommodation.

Located at the Three Sisters in Katoomba on the edge of the Blue Mountains National Park, the Jamison Valley views are spectacular.

If you are contemplating taking a walk, you can also get expert advice and maps on walks to suit all capabilities.

The centre offers an extensive range of gift ideas and souvenirs featuring Australian and locally made products

Internet Access

Disabled Assistance

Indigenous Culture

Accreditation

Nearby Accommodation

Chalet Guesthouse and Studio

Medlow Bath, Blue Mountains

Leura Rose Cottage

Leura, Blue Mountains

Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant

Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Hydro Majestic Hotel Blue Mountains

Kurrara Historic Guest House

Brigalow Cottage

Also in this location.

• Accommodation
• Attractions

The Ultimate Guide to Katoomba, New South Wales: The Gem of the Blue Mountains

Welcome to Katoomba, the Gem of the Blue Mountains!

Perched high in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, the enchanting town of Katoomba beckons travellers with its spectacular natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and fascinating cultural heritage. This charismatic location, home to the stunning Katoomba Falls and the awe-inspiring Scenic World Katoomba, offers a delightful fusion of magnificent panoramas and unique attractions. Whether you're an adventurer at heart, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Katoomba caters to every whim and desire.

Katoomba and the Blue Mountains

Katoomba is the jewel in the crown of the Blue Mountains, a rugged region characterised by its towering sandstone cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, and cascading waterfalls. The area's distinctive blue haze, created by the oils released from the eucalyptus trees, gives the mountains their name and adds to the ethereal beauty of the landscape. The diversity of the region allows for an array of recreational activities throughout the year, from bushwalking and rock climbing to exploring the charming towns dotted throughout the mountains.

A Town Steeped in Culture and History

Whilst Katoomba is renowned for its spectacular scenery and outdoor pursuits, it also boasts a rich and intriguing cultural heritage. From its origins as a mining town to its transformation into a vibrant tourist destination, Katoomba's captivating history offers a glimpse into the past and the pioneering spirit of its inhabitants.

Exploring Katoomba's Unforgettable Landscapes

Scenic world katoomba.

Scenic World Katoomba, a world-class visitor attraction, provides unrivalled access to the beauty of the Blue Mountains. With its Scenic Railway, Skyway, Walkway, and Cableway, visitors can explore the region from multiple perspectives, whether from the dizzying heights of the Skyway or the immersive experience of the Walkway through the ancient rainforest. Read More

Katoomba Falls Blue Mountains Walks

The Blue Mountains region is a paradise for walkers, with Katoomba Falls being a highlight among the numerous trails crisscrossing the landscape. The journey to this awe-inspiring waterfall allows hikers to traverse stunning cliff tops, wind through beautiful bushland, and experience the tranquil allure of the rainforest. Whether embarking on the shorter round trip to the falls or undertaking the more challenging trail down to the base, the Katoomba Falls Blue Mountains Walks promise unforgettable experiences and panoramic views. Read More

Energising Outdoor Activities

Rock climbing and abseiling.

With its rugged cliffs and crags, Katoomba is a popular destination for rock climbing and abseiling. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a beginner eager to try something new, there are routes and experiences to suit every skill level. Read More

Bushwalking

Katoomba offers countless bushwalking opportunities, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. The Prince Henry Cliff Walk and the Federal Pass are among the most popular trails, offering stunning views and a close encounter with the region's unique flora and fauna. Read More

Canoeing and Kayaking

The numerous rivers and lakes in the surrounding region provide excellent conditions for canoeing and kayaking, offering a peaceful way to explore the area's natural beauty. Read More

Getting to and Around Katoomba

Katoomba is conveniently connected to major cities such as Sydney (approximately a 1.5-hour drive) via well-maintained highways. Car hire from these cities is a practical option for visitors who prefer to travel at their own pace. Read More

For those preferring public transport, Katoomba is easily accessible by train from Sydney, with the journey offering breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains. Read More

Public Transport in Katoomba

Once in Katoomba, getting around is a breeze with local buses, hop-on hop-off tourist services, and taxis readily available. The town centre is also very walkable, with many attractions within a short distance of each other.

In conclusion, whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, a peaceful escape amidst nature, or a deep dive into local culture and history, Katoomba NSW has something for everyone. So pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Blue Mountains.

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Blue Mountains Cultural Centre

Open Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm. Closed Public Holidays

Located in the heart of Katoomba, Blue Mountains Cultural Centre encompasses the Blue Mountains City Art Gallery, Katoomba Library and Into the Blue, an interactive exhibition that explores the history and natural landscape of the mountains. Browse through our shop focusing on local suppliers or relax in our café.

Description

The Cultural Centre showcases innovative, diverse, distinctive and creative cultural programs for both locals and visitors to the Blue Mountains. A program of workshops and special events such as movie nights, art classes and the Wollemi Artisan Markets invite you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region; while the Art Gallery features major touring, regional and local exhibitions, beautifully curated for an immersive experience. Into the Blue (the Blue Mountains World Heritage Interpretive Centre) is devoted to education about the environment, culture and history of the Blue Mountains. It features high-tech, interactive exhibitions exploring the natural and social landscapes of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. There is no admission charge to the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, which gives free access to the Library, shop, courtyard, viewing platform and café. Within the Cultural Centre there is a combined admission charge to the Art Gallery and Into the Blue. Adults - $5 Concession - $3 Children under 18 – Free

Map & Directions

30 Parke St, Katoomba

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