OVERVIEW

The Blue Mountains region is the most accessible World Heritage-listed wilderness area in Australia. The walk traverses the plateau and the valley floor from Mt Victoria via Blackheath, Katoomba to Leura to Wentworth Falls. As you wind your way through the mountains you'll be astonished by the abundance of magnificent vistas with highlights, including Bridal Veil Falls, Govett's Leap Lookout, the Jamison Valley via the Scenic Railway and the Waterfall Valley near Leura.

Get up close to the Three Sisters and witness breathtaking views of the famed Blue Mountains blanketed in the distinctive blue haze for which they were named. There are descents through lushly forested areas to vantage points with close up views of waterfalls. Creeping vines, green moss and giant trees will be your constant companion, and there is a high chance of seeing the elusive Lyrebird.

Please note: We offer our Blue Mountains walks all year round. November to March are the warmest months however they also tend to have the highest rainfall with January and February being the most affected. Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible. 

Highlights

  • Descents through lushly forested areas to vantage points with close up views of waterfalls
  • Creeping vines, green moss and giant trees
  • Potential to catch a glimpse of the elusive Lyrebird
  • Hike into the depths of stunning canyons where forest giants tower overhead with the sounds of flowing water, birdsong and wind in the trees
  • Witness the evocative blue haze that gives the mountains their name, as you hike through eucalyptus forest

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 2445

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1155

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7

DAY 1
BLACKHEATH

The Blue Mountains Traverse starts in Blackheath any time after 2pm. There is no walking scheduled for today but there are several galleries and coffee shops in the village worth exploring.

Meals: A la carte dinner at local restaurant

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
MOUNT VICTORIA TO BLACKHEATH

The Blue Mountain Traverse walks begins with an easy climb to the highest point in the mountains, Mt Piddington, followed by a descent through the remote forest into the heart of Cox’s Cave. Marvel at the tenacity of the early explorers who forged a route through this rugged terrain. There’s more remote bushwalking this afternoon as you explore the first pretty canyon, emerging into a huge natural rock amphitheatre. Finish the day with a stroll through magnificent Rhododendron gardens nearby.

Walking: Easy / 16km / 5–6.5 hrs / shorter 12km walk available

Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
GRAND CANYON LOOP

Skirt around sheer cliff tops to see Bridal Veil Falls plummet 180 metres in a single drop. Enjoy breathtaking views from Govetts Leap and Pulpit Rock, at the same time discovering why the Blue Mountains appear blue. Then walk down into the Grand Canyon, undoubtedly one of the Blue Mountains, if not Australia’s, most beautiful walks. The canyon carved out by nature over millions of years, the huge tree ferns, the lichen and other flora and fauna work together in concert to create an unheralded sense of immersion.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16km / 5–6 hrs / shorter walk available

Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

 

DAY 4
KATOOMBA TO RUINED CASTLE VIA THE SCENIC RAILWAY

Take an exhilarating ride down the Scenic Railway into the depths of the rainforest then retrace the route used by coal miners over 100 years ago. Mining relics, tunnels and adits can be seen along the way and observant walkers are often rewarded with a glimpse of an elusive Lyrebird. Lunch today will be shared with flocks of cheeky Currawongs at an impressive rocky outcrop called Ruined Castle. Take the Furber Steps Challenge; an alternative to riding up the Scenic Railway. This track climbs steeply through dense rainforest past delightful waterfalls and pretty grottoes. This day also includes a ride in the spectacular Scenic Skyway gondola ride suspended across the Jamison Valley.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16–17.5km / 5– 6.5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a la carte dinner at a local restaurant

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 5
KATOOMBA TO LEURA LOOP

Learn the Aboriginal legend of how the famous Three Sisters were formed as you descend the 862 steps of the Giant Stairway. Then it’s away from the throng of tourists and into the depths of Leura Forest. Delicate ferns and mosses hug the rainforest trees as filtered sunlight creates a magical scene. There is a thriving arts scene in the Blue Mountains including in Leura, scores of restaurants, cafes and providores.

Walking: Moderate / 9–11.5km / 4– 4.5 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
KATOOMBA TO WENTWORTH FALLS

The final Blue Mountains Traverse walk is into Waterfall Valley. The route winds its way past waterfalls, beneath overhanging cliffs and through magnificent grottoes. A real highlight today is the mid-cliff walk along a wide path that has been carved into the sheer cliff face. Handrails, ladders and airy lookouts provide a birds-eye view over hundreds of miles of forests. The spray from spectacular Wentworth Falls refreshes weary walkers before climbing to the clifftop.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4–5.5 hrs / shorter 10km option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 7
FINISH IN KATOOMBA

The Blue Mountains Traverse finishes when you check out. Breakfast is included at this accommodation. You will either have your car with you or it is a short walk to Katoomba train station. If you wish we can have you stay an extra night and simply relax or wander some more in the gorgeous Blue Mountains.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • The best of the Blue Mountains walks
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in excellent rooms with ensuites
  • Cooked or continental breakfast each morning you are walking, walkers lunches each walking day and select ala carte dinners at local restaurants
  • Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
  • We shift along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • Scenic world Railway, Skyway & Gondola all-day pass & National Park admission
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The friendly locals we work with for accommodation, meals and transfers are attentive to your itinerary and eager to help make your departure and arrival each day as smooth as possible. Each night walkers will stay in a beautiful choice of accommodation ranging from lodges and 4 star hotels, finishing with a bed and breakfast. These luxurious escapes provide a welcoming and comfortable base to relax and recount the day’s highlights. All rooms have their own ensuite.

The Blue Mountains is noted for its international cuisine with restaurants attracting some of the best chefs in the country. Award-winning wines from the nearby Hunter Valley winery district add to the dining experience.

A delicious and hearty breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning. The breakfasts will vary and be either cooked, continental or both. In the morning you will be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

The included dinners are at local restaurants that have either won awards or received great reviews. There’s an emphasis on local produce and wine from the region. When dinner is not included, it is because there are many great restaurants close by to choose from. We recommend you ask us or your hosts for their advice.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4, 5 & 6

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ~AVERAGE

Distance training should be a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

GENERAL INFO

This Blue Mountains Traverse starts and finishes in the Blue Mountains with a short two-hour train ride (fare not included) from Sydney to the first accommodation. The Blue Mountains walks are mostly along well-marked tracks and trails, with occasional steeper sections either ascending out of or descending into the gorges and valleys below. It’s a great combination of easy-going, moderate and more challenging walking terrain offering something for every level of experience.

Importantly, we walk in and out of accommodations and move you along the track in order to limit the travel time in a vehicle. Your luggage moves along with you seamlessly as you walk from one accommodation to the next with just your day pack.

The Blue Mountains Traverse comprehensive walk notes provide lots of information on the flora, fauna, history and geology of the Blue Mountains. For further information on this trip watch this walk being featured on an episode of the Sydney Weekender in 2017.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

Available all year except July. October-November is usually mild to warm. Temperatures warm up from December-February. March-April is usually cool to mild. Temperatures drop from May onwards and the days are cool to cold but with little rain and good for walking. Warmer, spring weather returns around September.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

climate graph for the Blue Mountains

Source: BOM

HOW TO GET THERE

Travelling to the Start of the walk

This walk starts in the village of Blackheath.

The walk ends in Katoomba. It is a short walk to the train station.

You will need to get yourself to and from the start and end of your walk. i.e. you will need to organise your travel to the start of the walk in the Blue Mountains. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

Public Transport: By far the easiest option is to catch a train from Sydney. Your starting destination is Blackheath. It is approximately a 6 minute walk to your accommodation so you may prefer to catch a taxi (at your expense).

The train will take around 2hrs 10min from Sydney Central station and costs approximately AUD$8 to $12. You can buy tickets directly at the train station; there is no need to book. You can also catch the train at Sydney airport and swap at Central station. The trains in peak times depart approximately every 15 mins, out of peak every 30 mins to 40 mins.

Please note:  If you would prefer a private taxi transfer we can provide details for you to arrange. This will be an additional cost.

Travelling from the End of the walk

Public Transport: Take the train from Katoomba station.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2445

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1155
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Mar 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2555

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1215

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Margaret M

    11 February, 2021 at 2:29 PM
    5

    We were six novice hikers on the self guided Blue Mountains 7 day Traverse. Each of us had a fantastic time and were so impressed with the professionalism of Auswalk. In planning the trip they were very prompt in replying to any questions and were always very friendly and helpful. The Walk Notes were accurate and detailed so none of us got lost! It was quite challenging for us (different levels of fitness) but we all managed most of the walks. We loved the accommodation in very cosy and comfortable BnBs operated by friendly and helpful people. The food and wine at various places each evening was excellent – it was all so much fun and I hope we can do another Auswalk adventure next year. Thank you!

  2. Rhonda

    11 November, 2020 at 1:03 PM
    5

    Myself and 5 other ladies took a self guided walk in the Blue Mountains. The walks were truly amazing. Lots of options provided for every level of fitness. We couldn’t fault the accommodation nor the food provided and the service from our hosts at both Lurline House (Katoomba) and Broomlea (Leura) was outstanding. We can highly recommend Auswalks for their well researched walks, accommodation choices and knowledgeable, efficient and friendly service. Rhonda (Brisbane QLD)

  3. Mandy W

    16 January, 2017 at 3:19 AM
    5

    Our self-guided 7-day Blue Mountains Traverse was the very best way to experience the Blue Mountains. We got to walk in some of the most beautiful places (hint: don’t skip the Grand Canyon!!!). Not having to worry about our next meal or whether we’d have a comfy bed & hot shower for the night was truly awesome! Each of our accommodation host were just so welcoming and a wealth of local knowledge. Without having to worry about the logistics of the trip, we were able to completely revel in the beauty of the area and connect with so many lovely people along the way. Thanks a million to Auswalk for the absolutely seamless organisation of a truly memorable holiday.

  4. Victor S

    7 December, 2016 at 5:24 PM
    5

    The Blue Mountains are beautiful, seeing them on an Auswalk self-guided tour made the experience even better. We couldn’t fault Auswalk, they provided us with everything we needed. The B & B’s they organised were perfect with wonderful hosts and the food was delicious! The walks were fantastic, each showing us a different part of the Blue Mountains.

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Overview

OVERVIEW

The Blue Mountains region is the most accessible World Heritage-listed wilderness area in Australia. The walk traverses the plateau and the valley floor from Mt Victoria via Blackheath, Katoomba to Leura to Wentworth Falls. As you wind your way through the mountains you'll be astonished by the abundance of magnificent vistas with highlights, including Bridal Veil Falls, Govett's Leap Lookout, the Jamison Valley via the Scenic Railway and the Waterfall Valley near Leura.

Get up close to the Three Sisters and witness breathtaking views of the famed Blue Mountains blanketed in the distinctive blue haze for which they were named. There are descents through lushly forested areas to vantage points with close up views of waterfalls. Creeping vines, green moss and giant trees will be your constant companion, and there is a high chance of seeing the elusive Lyrebird.

Please note: We offer our Blue Mountains walks all year round. November to March are the warmest months however they also tend to have the highest rainfall with January and February being the most affected. Track closures are common after periods of heavy rain. We will do our best to provide alternative walking options when possible. 

Highlights

  • Descents through lushly forested areas to vantage points with close up views of waterfalls
  • Creeping vines, green moss and giant trees
  • Potential to catch a glimpse of the elusive Lyrebird
  • Hike into the depths of stunning canyons where forest giants tower overhead with the sounds of flowing water, birdsong and wind in the trees
  • Witness the evocative blue haze that gives the mountains their name, as you hike through eucalyptus forest

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 2445

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 1155

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7

DAY 1
BLACKHEATH

The Blue Mountains Traverse starts in Blackheath any time after 2pm. There is no walking scheduled for today but there are several galleries and coffee shops in the village worth exploring.

Meals: A la carte dinner at local restaurant

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
MOUNT VICTORIA TO BLACKHEATH

The Blue Mountain Traverse walks begins with an easy climb to the highest point in the mountains, Mt Piddington, followed by a descent through the remote forest into the heart of Cox’s Cave. Marvel at the tenacity of the early explorers who forged a route through this rugged terrain. There’s more remote bushwalking this afternoon as you explore the first pretty canyon, emerging into a huge natural rock amphitheatre. Finish the day with a stroll through magnificent Rhododendron gardens nearby.

Walking: Easy / 16km / 5–6.5 hrs / shorter 12km walk available

Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
GRAND CANYON LOOP

Skirt around sheer cliff tops to see Bridal Veil Falls plummet 180 metres in a single drop. Enjoy breathtaking views from Govetts Leap and Pulpit Rock, at the same time discovering why the Blue Mountains appear blue. Then walk down into the Grand Canyon, undoubtedly one of the Blue Mountains, if not Australia’s, most beautiful walks. The canyon carved out by nature over millions of years, the huge tree ferns, the lichen and other flora and fauna work together in concert to create an unheralded sense of immersion.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16km / 5–6 hrs / shorter walk available

Meals: Continental breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Parklands Country Garden & Lodges in ensuite rooms

 

DAY 4
KATOOMBA TO RUINED CASTLE VIA THE SCENIC RAILWAY

Take an exhilarating ride down the Scenic Railway into the depths of the rainforest then retrace the route used by coal miners over 100 years ago. Mining relics, tunnels and adits can be seen along the way and observant walkers are often rewarded with a glimpse of an elusive Lyrebird. Lunch today will be shared with flocks of cheeky Currawongs at an impressive rocky outcrop called Ruined Castle. Take the Furber Steps Challenge; an alternative to riding up the Scenic Railway. This track climbs steeply through dense rainforest past delightful waterfalls and pretty grottoes. This day also includes a ride in the spectacular Scenic Skyway gondola ride suspended across the Jamison Valley.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 16–17.5km / 5– 6.5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Continental breakfast, walkers lunch and a la carte dinner at a local restaurant

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 5
KATOOMBA TO LEURA LOOP

Learn the Aboriginal legend of how the famous Three Sisters were formed as you descend the 862 steps of the Giant Stairway. Then it’s away from the throng of tourists and into the depths of Leura Forest. Delicate ferns and mosses hug the rainforest trees as filtered sunlight creates a magical scene. There is a thriving arts scene in the Blue Mountains including in Leura, scores of restaurants, cafes and providores.

Walking: Moderate / 9–11.5km / 4– 4.5 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and walkers lunch

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 6
KATOOMBA TO WENTWORTH FALLS

The final Blue Mountains Traverse walk is into Waterfall Valley. The route winds its way past waterfalls, beneath overhanging cliffs and through magnificent grottoes. A real highlight today is the mid-cliff walk along a wide path that has been carved into the sheer cliff face. Handrails, ladders and airy lookouts provide a birds-eye view over hundreds of miles of forests. The spray from spectacular Wentworth Falls refreshes weary walkers before climbing to the clifftop.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4–5.5 hrs / shorter 10km option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, walkers lunch

Accommodation: Carrington Hotel Katoomba in ensuite rooms

DAY 7
FINISH IN KATOOMBA

The Blue Mountains Traverse finishes when you check out. Breakfast is included at this accommodation. You will either have your car with you or it is a short walk to Katoomba train station. If you wish we can have you stay an extra night and simply relax or wander some more in the gorgeous Blue Mountains.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • The best of the Blue Mountains walks
  • 6 nights’ accommodation in excellent rooms with ensuites
  • Cooked or continental breakfast each morning you are walking, walkers lunches each walking day and select ala carte dinners at local restaurants
  • Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
  • We shift along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • Scenic world Railway, Skyway & Gondola all-day pass & National Park admission
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag & info pack
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The friendly locals we work with for accommodation, meals and transfers are attentive to your itinerary and eager to help make your departure and arrival each day as smooth as possible. Each night walkers will stay in a beautiful choice of accommodation ranging from lodges and 4 star hotels, finishing with a bed and breakfast. These luxurious escapes provide a welcoming and comfortable base to relax and recount the day’s highlights. All rooms have their own ensuite.

The Blue Mountains is noted for its international cuisine with restaurants attracting some of the best chefs in the country. Award-winning wines from the nearby Hunter Valley winery district add to the dining experience.

A delicious and hearty breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning. The breakfasts will vary and be either cooked, continental or both. In the morning you will be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A walkers lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

The included dinners are at local restaurants that have either won awards or received great reviews. There’s an emphasis on local produce and wine from the region. When dinner is not included, it is because there are many great restaurants close by to choose from. We recommend you ask us or your hosts for their advice.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4, 5 & 6

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ~AVERAGE

Distance training should be a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

This Blue Mountains Traverse starts and finishes in the Blue Mountains with a short two-hour train ride (fare not included) from Sydney to the first accommodation. The Blue Mountains walks are mostly along well-marked tracks and trails, with occasional steeper sections either ascending out of or descending into the gorges and valleys below. It’s a great combination of easy-going, moderate and more challenging walking terrain offering something for every level of experience.

Importantly, we walk in and out of accommodations and move you along the track in order to limit the travel time in a vehicle. Your luggage moves along with you seamlessly as you walk from one accommodation to the next with just your day pack.

The Blue Mountains Traverse comprehensive walk notes provide lots of information on the flora, fauna, history and geology of the Blue Mountains. For further information on this trip watch this walk being featured on an episode of the Sydney Weekender in 2017.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

Available all year except July. October-November is usually mild to warm. Temperatures warm up from December-February. March-April is usually cool to mild. Temperatures drop from May onwards and the days are cool to cold but with little rain and good for walking. Warmer, spring weather returns around September.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

climate graph for the Blue Mountains

Source: BOM

HOW TO GET THERE

Travelling to the Start of the walk

This walk starts in the village of Blackheath.

The walk ends in Katoomba. It is a short walk to the train station.

You will need to get yourself to and from the start and end of your walk. i.e. you will need to organise your travel to the start of the walk in the Blue Mountains. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

Public Transport: By far the easiest option is to catch a train from Sydney. Your starting destination is Blackheath. It is approximately a 6 minute walk to your accommodation so you may prefer to catch a taxi (at your expense).

The train will take around 2hrs 10min from Sydney Central station and costs approximately AUD$8 to $12. You can buy tickets directly at the train station; there is no need to book. You can also catch the train at Sydney airport and swap at Central station. The trains in peak times depart approximately every 15 mins, out of peak every 30 mins to 40 mins.

Please note:  If you would prefer a private taxi transfer we can provide details for you to arrange. This will be an additional cost.

Travelling from the End of the walk

Public Transport: Take the train from Katoomba station.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2445

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1155
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Mar 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2555

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $1215
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Margaret M

    11 February, 2021 at 2:29 PM
    5

    We were six novice hikers on the self guided Blue Mountains 7 day Traverse. Each of us had a fantastic time and were so impressed with the professionalism of Auswalk. In planning the trip they were very prompt in replying to any questions and were always very friendly and helpful. The Walk Notes were accurate and detailed so none of us got lost! It was quite challenging for us (different levels of fitness) but we all managed most of the walks. We loved the accommodation in very cosy and comfortable BnBs operated by friendly and helpful people. The food and wine at various places each evening was excellent – it was all so much fun and I hope we can do another Auswalk adventure next year. Thank you!

  2. Rhonda

    11 November, 2020 at 1:03 PM
    5

    Myself and 5 other ladies took a self guided walk in the Blue Mountains. The walks were truly amazing. Lots of options provided for every level of fitness. We couldn’t fault the accommodation nor the food provided and the service from our hosts at both Lurline House (Katoomba) and Broomlea (Leura) was outstanding. We can highly recommend Auswalks for their well researched walks, accommodation choices and knowledgeable, efficient and friendly service. Rhonda (Brisbane QLD)

  3. Mandy W

    16 January, 2017 at 3:19 AM
    5

    Our self-guided 7-day Blue Mountains Traverse was the very best way to experience the Blue Mountains. We got to walk in some of the most beautiful places (hint: don’t skip the Grand Canyon!!!). Not having to worry about our next meal or whether we’d have a comfy bed & hot shower for the night was truly awesome! Each of our accommodation host were just so welcoming and a wealth of local knowledge. Without having to worry about the logistics of the trip, we were able to completely revel in the beauty of the area and connect with so many lovely people along the way. Thanks a million to Auswalk for the absolutely seamless organisation of a truly memorable holiday.

  4. Victor S

    7 December, 2016 at 5:24 PM
    5

    The Blue Mountains are beautiful, seeing them on an Auswalk self-guided tour made the experience even better. We couldn’t fault Auswalk, they provided us with everything we needed. The B & B’s they organised were perfect with wonderful hosts and the food was delicious! The walks were fantastic, each showing us a different part of the Blue Mountains.

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