Descend into a Cool Oasis
Carved into the side of a spectacular cliff face, the Wentworth Falls National Pass trail offers expansive views over the Jamison Valley, and also boasts a number of beautiful waterfalls. This iconic walking track was originally constructed in 1906-1907 using shovels, crowbars and dynamite. In 2002 it underwent major restoration works. Heritage stonemasons were employed to repair the steps that had been eroded over the years, while helicopters were deployed to place large sandstone blocks along the trail.
- Where: National Pass Trail – Wentworth Falls Blue Mountains National Park – 100km West of Sydney
Getting there: Refer NSW National Parks & Wildlife Link
Allow: 3 hours walking
Also see: Blue Mountains Attractions
Wentworth Falls & National Pass
Although there are two ways to access the National Pass trail we prefer to start at the top of Wentworth Falls. From the Wentworth Falls picnic area take the path past the Jamison and Wentworth lookouts. A short but steep walk takes you down to the ‘top of the falls’. As you wind your way through the bush to the falls you will find some fabulous lookout spots to see the falls plunging 100m to the valley floor.
The top of the falls in themselves are quite beautiful, and particularly refreshing on a hot day. The Jamison Creek cascades into a shallow pool on one side and the Jamison valley opens out on the other… large sandstone blocks take you across the pool. Be careful not to venture into the pools where the rocks are slippery and the drop off extreme!
Many visitors don’t venture beyond the top of the falls however I highly recommend continuing on to the Grand Stairway and Undercliff track, both of which make up the National Pass walk.
Please note that this is a strenuous walk for people of average fitness. Consider your fitness and the weather conditions before descending the Grand Stairway.
Grand Stairway
Just beyond the top of the falls is the historic Grand Stairway, carved into the cliff face and descending steeply to the next level of the falls. One cannot help but be impressed by the sweeping views and the incredible feat of engineering in constructing the stairway.
At the base of the Grand Stairway is a welcoming cool oasis, where the falls plunge into a number of large rocky pools. Surrounded by overhanging trees and magnificent cliffs, this is the perfect spot to cool off and have a picnic lunch.
One could continue to descend further into the valley via the Slack Stairs, however our preference has always been to follow the National Pass Undercliff trail…. not sure I would have the fitness to do the Slack Stairs anyway 🙂
National Pass Undercliff Trail
The Undercliff trail has been built into the side of the cliff face, another engineering feat! The trail continues at an easy walking grade, passing beneath dramatic clifftops, large rock overhangs, waterfalls and tree ferns. In the warmer months a dazzling array of wildflowers can be seen.
At the end of the Undercliff trail there’s a steep but particularly beautiful climb back up to the Conservation Hut where you can enjoy a well deserved drink and snack! From here you can take the Shortcut track to get back to Wentworth Falls picnic area.
There is really so much to see along this walk, so be sure to pack your camera to capture the views and wildlife.
Other Attractions in the Area
Wentworth Falls Village
Everglades Garden & Leura Mall
Leuralla Toys Trains & Amphitheatre
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