Katoomba Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Blue Mountains National Park. Located near Katoomba town, it’s one of the top Blue Mountains attractions. Steep drops and scenery and Katoomba Falls are also an eco-tourism and adventure tourism differentiator. Nature lovers, wedding photographers and trekkers will love Katoomba Falls.
Katoomba Falls
Katoomba Falls is 130m high with an interesting vertical drop arrangement. The waterfalls tumble through ferns and thick bushes to form a natural veil of water against the rough red sandstone cliffs. These are part of the Katoomba Falls which are very rugged and add to the landscape of the area. And right in front of Juresses Valley and Echo Point are the picture perfect views that are some of the best in the Blue Mountains.
Katoomba Falls is even more beautiful when viewed from different angles. The blue water and greenery are the perfect combination to take great photos. In addition to Katoomba Falls are other waterfalls in the surrounding Blue Mountains, such as Wentworth Falls, Empress Falls, and Leura Cascades, making Katoomba Falls even more attractive to waterfall lovers.
Seasonal Changes and Their Impact on the Falls
Katoomba Falls changes dramatically with the seasons. And most of the rains fall during the wet season which is from late spring to early autumn creates every setting for the biggest falls to be a sight to see. It’s during this time that the water volume increases and the falls is at its best hence the area becomes a tourist hot spot. The surrounding ferns and bushes are also in full growth adding to the overall beauty.
On the other hand the dry season is a calm and peaceful sight. The low water volume during dry season presents a new view, showing the rock structure and the tiered arrangement of the waterfall. With less water flowing the falls are still beautiful and the views of Victoria Falls and Sylvia Falls and other distant views are still stunning.
How to See Katoomba Falls
Katoomba Falls is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New South Wales and there are many ways to see Katoomba Falls some from a distance and others from close up and each option gives a different view of Katoomba Falls.
Scenic Skyway
Among the many views of Katoomba Falls, the Scenic Skyway at Scenic World is one of the best. This chair lift travels 270m over the Jamison Valley and gives a bird’s eye view of the waterfall. The Skyway has a glass floor at the bottom so you can look straight down at the waterfall and trees below.
Furber Steps
Then there’s the more physical option of the Furber Steps which is worth doing. This steep track zigzags down and through the rainforest, giving great up close views of Katoomba Falls and its features. Although the descent is tough due to the steep and slippery rocks, the views of the falls and the green surroundings make it worth it. The Furber Steps joins the scenic walks circuit including the Underfalls track to the base of the falls.
Orphan Rock
Orphan Rock is another good spot to see Katoomba Falls. Unlike other lookouts where the falls are the main attraction, this one allows you to see the cliffs that surround the falls. Most photos taken from Orphan Rock of Katoomba Falls are great for the cliff edge view.
Underfalls Track
The Underfalls Track lets you get low and up close to the base of Katoomba Falls and see the water falling. This track is a great way to see the beauty and power of the falls from the lower level. The track is well-formed and can be used by experienced bushwalkers and those who are not used to long walks.
Katoomba Falls View (Bottom of Falls)
If you want a calm and easy view of the falls, the Katoomba Falls View is at the bottom of the falls. From here you can see the green and natural surroundings and the falls. The peaceful and beautiful spot is made even more so by the deep pool at the bottom of the falls. Perfect for sitting and contemplation.
Katoomba Falls Night-lit Walk
The Katoomba Falls Night-lit Walk is one of the best experiences here. This is amazing as it lights up the falls in different colours. The worms on the vegetation add to the beauty. A fun and different way to see the Katoomba Falls as you get to see it from a new angle and new light.
Nearby Attractions
Katoomba Falls is one of Blue Mountain’s signature attractions. Besides the falls, the area has other beautiful and fun places to visit. Here are the other attractions near Katoomba Falls.
Wentworth Falls
Just a few minutes from Katoomba Falls, Wentworth Falls is famous for its beautiful falls and views. The falls are located in the Wentworth Falls Reserve where you can find the National Pass — a track famous for its waterfalls and ferns. If you like wild swimming holes, there are a couple of spots around Wentworth Falls where you can cool off on a hot summer’s day. There is an easier way, which is shorter for those who are short on time to get to the falls, or a tougher route for the seasoned walkers. Most people come for the thick bush and views and end up going for a bush walk and a rest.
Scenic World
Scenic World is one of the top attractions in Blue Mountain and gives you different ways to experience the views. It has the Scenic Skyway, Scenic Railway and Scenic Cableway. The Scenic Skyway has views of Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley, the Scenic railway takes you on a thrilling ride through the rainforest. It has views of the surroundings, Evans Lookout and Katoomba Falls, the biggest multi-level waterfall in the area. If you want to experience the rainforest without getting too adventurous, you can find the walking tracks throughout Scenic World, including Lindeman Pass, which is quite pleasant.
Leura Cascades
Just a short drive from Katoomba Falls is Leura Cascades, which has several individual cascades and a few waterfalls. Near the main falls is the Leura Cascades walking track, where you can find a pleasant path to walk and enjoy the water cascading down in several beautiful scenes. The walking track has stone steps and a few gentle slopes, so it’s suitable for all types of walkers. Close by are picnic benches where you can rest and take in the views and surroundings of the lush ferns and palm trees of the cascades. Good for children and nature lovers.
Empress Falls
In the adjacent valley is Empress Falls famous for its cascade and quietness. Empress Falls is a beautiful waterfall where you can enjoy without the rush and the crowds with picturesque walking tracks including Empire Pass. The area has tropical vegetation and is so calm you can take in the views without being disturbed if you want to see the sights without the masses.
Dantes Glen and Dantes Glen Falls
If you want to go a bit further you can head to Dantes Glen which is a pretty area with Dantes Glen Falls. This is part of the Blue Mountains walkways and has beautiful views and greenery. The glen has a waterfall that cascades into the pretty evergreen glen created by the trees.
Other Waterfalls in the Area
Blue Mountains is famous for its waterfalls, which all have their own characteristics and views. Here are some other places and waterfalls to visit:
Victoria Falls
This one is just a stone’s throw from Victoria falls road and is a natural attraction in blue mountains with a waterfall. Its main feature is the mountainous drop across the forest that surrounds the water. The area around Victoria Falls has great hiking and nature appreciation. These falls are more pronounced after a lot of rain which is why it’s a photographer and nature lover’s paradise.
Sylvia Falls
Sylvia Falls is a beautiful fall and a great place to get away from it all. Greenwood falls is not a falls and is in the middle of a dense rainforest with a well defined walking track to it. There’s not much in this area except for nature so it’s perfect for those who are sick of the rat race and looking for peace. Interesting is that Sylvia Falls is a great place to have a picnic with great views.
Minnehaha Falls
A beautiful waterfall but the flow is light so more of a picturesque spot. This water fall is in Blue Mountains in a quiet area and the rest of the surrounding area is suitable for a holiday. The Minnehaha Falls Track is a short and easy walk to the bottom of the falls where you can sit and admire the foliage.
Horseshoe Falls
Horseshoe Falls is perhaps one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world with its unique shape of a concaving “J”. The cascade is in a very beautiful area and has a very pretty and dramatic view. The area is surrounded by great terrain to climb and explore. The falls are even more stunning after the rain when there’s lots of water to see. Another great spot for nature lovers and for those who love to take pictures.
Bridal Veil Falls
Apart from its unique erosion method, Bridal Veil Falls, as the name suggests, has a romantic atmosphere, and so a resort or lodge is built near the cliff and the waterfall. There are reasons why the falls are popular, the other reason being the views. Bridal Veil Falls has benefited from these factors as there are many walking tracks and viewpoints around the area. The middle of the Mississippi River gorge region is the most scenic as the wildflowers bloom in spring and summer.
Conclusion
And around Katoomba Falls there are many many other attractions. Nature lovers and outdoor types will love the waterfalls and streams, nature trails and picnic spots. Some routes are harder, there are tiered waterfalls, and there are tables for tea and picnics among the blue mountains to be found. Discover the breathtaking Katoomba Falls on your Blue Mountains tour. Experience nature’s beauty and enjoy stunning views in this iconic location!
FAQ
Are there any waterfalls to see around Katoomba Falls?
Wentworth falls, Empress falls and Leura cascade are some of the best waterfalls around Katoomba Falls. Each has its own beauty and level of difficulty.
How long does it take to do the Katoomba Falls Loop?
Katoomba Falls Loop is one of the easiest of the hitters and thither and should take about 20 minutes within the other 7-10 minutes. The extra viewing is just the view beyond.
Are there any wild swimming spots near Katoomba Falls?
Yes, there are wild swimming holes around Wentworth Falls and other waterfalls in the Katoomba Falls area. Always check local conditions and safety guidelines before swimming.
Can I visit Katoomba Falls at night?
Yes, the Katoomba Falls Night-lit Walk allows visitors to see the falls lit up with different types of lights.
Are there any restaurants near the waterfalls?
Tables at Leura Cascades and Conservation Hut. Eat in.
Govetts Leap
