The Blue Mountains is a very large national park and it is difficult to get to certain areas without a car. I do not have a car and was quite centralized in the town of Katoomba during my visit, so here is my 3 day itinerary if you are in a similar situation but wanting to see a good portion of the Blue Mountains.
NOTE: I was lucky enough to make friends on my hikes who were willing to give me rides back to my hostel. Please be safe when hiking alone and accepting rides – trust your gut!
Day 1
Spend your first day actually in Katoomba and experience everything the area has to offer. Buy a morning ticket to Scenic World and take your time riding the scenic rides and wandering around the valley. Scenic World includes a cableway, a sky train, and a railway – all of which provide beautiful views of the Three Sisters, Katoomba Falls, and the valley. The railway is actually the steepest railroad track in the world!
I recommend taking the railway into the valley, doing the valley hike, and then taking the cableway out of the valley. Grab a bite to eat at the Scenic World Center and then take the sky train over to where the Katoomba Falls Trek begins.
Once finished with that trek, head up to Minne-Ha-Ha Falls. This is definitely a less necessary trip, especially because buses do not frequent trips out to it, but it is a refreshing swimming hole to relax in. Finally, head back into town and enjoy a wide selection of global cuisine right in the heart of Katoomba.
Day 2
For your second day take the train north to Black Heath for the day and make your way to the Grand Canyon Walking Track. I did not actually do this hike, however, after hearing about it from friends it is definitely a longer hike that is very worth it. Another option (which I did) is to make your way to Anvil Rock and the Wind Eroded Caves. Sunset from the top of the caves is absolutely stunning, but be careful not to miss the last bus/train back to Katoomba.
If you aren’t looking for day long treks, Mermaids Cave Walk and The Big Rock in Black Heath or Sunset Rock by Mount Victoria are smaller options for the day.
Day 3
Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Echo Point Lookout. Once the sun is up get started on the Three Sisters Walk for the morning. On this trek you’ll end up standing right on the three iconic peaks.
Following this morning hike, head out to Wentworth Falls. This is a demanding walk so be sure to get plenty of fuel beforehand either in Katoomba, Leura, or Wentworth.
You’ll want to spend plenty of time at Wentworth Falls and be sure to bring a swim suit. This area was my absolute favorite spot in the park and is the perfect way to end a trip. There are loads of stairs down to the falls but it is 100% worth the climb back up.
More like this:
Sylvia's Gap Year 