Everything You Need To Know About Scenic World

Scenic World is an iconic experience that lays out the vast and captivating beauty of the Blue Mountains.

From a disused coal mine to a fixture of fun, Scenic World has been highlighting the natural assets of the Blue Mountains for more than 70 years. Swooping back and forth over sweeping valleys, across escarpments and up and down steep mountain sides on innovative modes of transport, Scenic World takes guests deep into this magnificent landscape.

But how, exactly? Read on for a Scenic World explainer and how to make the most of this world-class tourist attraction, which has fast become one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

What is Scenic World?

A veritable theme park where nature is given star billing, Scenic World showcases the beauty of the Blue Mountains to day-trippers in fun and thrilling ways.

It was established in 1945 when Harry Hammon actioned his entrepreneurial idea to transform a former coal mine into a tourist attraction. Now, Scenic World has grown to encompass a variety of rides designed to traverse and interact with the verdant bush terrain in a minimally invasive way.

Scenic World in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Scenic World is the best way to see the Blue Mountains in all its glory. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hammon’s original plan was simply to repurpose coal skips and tracks from the Katoomba Colliery to create a passenger train – now known as the world’s steepest railway. But today, visitors can also take the cable car and skyway, absorb the lush surroundings along forest-floor pathways and take in the view with a cup of coffee at the cafe.

One of a select few accredited Ecotourism Australia businesses, Scenic World remains a Hammon family affair some 70 years after the first tourists rattled up the mountain in Harry’s converted coal train. And while the experience is, thankfully, far more polished and modern than it once was, this iconic Blue Mountains business is still a carriage-load of fun for a family day out.

Scenic World attractions

With bush-cloaked cliffs and rainforested ravines, the Blue Mountains does drama in a large format. While walking one of the region’s many stunning hikes is one way to uncover its beauty, to really appreciate the enormity of scale here, a little bit of elevation goes a long way. As well as offering lofty viewing opportunities, Scenic World also provides other attractions to excite everyone, from kids to adrenaline junkies.

Scenic Cableway

Glide gently into the Jamison Valley and return to the 510-metre-high escarpment on the Scenic Cableway. Voted the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, you’ll be fully enclosed with up to 83 other passengers for the eight-minute trip into (our out of) the forest.

If you find yourself a little jelly-legged, remember, both of the two cables are made to support 350 tonnes each, so you’re in safe hands as you journey on at five metres per second.

the Scenic Cableway, Katoomba — Scenic Cableway is the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.

Scenic Railway

Originally built in the 19th century to transport coal into the Katoomba mine, the Scenic Railway has been voted the steepest passenger railway in the world by the Guiness Book of World Records. The ride is now in its fifth incarnation, having been redeveloped in 2013.

Once steam-powered, the train is now on an electric winch system and carries up to 84 passengers in four cars. The 310-metre route takes a pulse-quickening 52-degree incline into the Jamison Valley and returns in four minutes. Passengers can recline their seats to a 64-degree incline to really dial up the excitement factor.

Scenic Skyway

If you’re stomach allows, hop aboard the Scenic Skyway to be suspended between two cliffs 270 metres above ground along a 72-metre cable. Laying out views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt Solitary and the Jamison Valley, the Swiss-made cabin dangles over the valley below.

Those brave enough can watch through the electro-glass floor as the canopy below glides past. Or, if that’s a little too intense, you can opt to stand on solid flooring or even take a seat. When the cable car opened in 1958, it was Australia’s first. The current cabin, which can carry up to 84 passengers every 10 minutes, is touted as the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.

Beyond Skyway

If travelling in a glass-bottomed cabin 270 metres above the ground is a little mundane for you, you’ll be pleased to know you can travel on top (yes, not in) of it with Beyond Skyway .

You’ll be securely harnessed to the roof of the cable car as it makes its 20-minute crossing across the valley. Absorb 360-degree views across the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, listening out for the crashing of Katoomba Falls below, one of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls. Beyond Skyway tickets start at $369 per person and $349 for children (10 and above).

Dinosaur Valley

On until February 2025, pint-size palaeontologists will love Scenic World’s Dinosaur Valley , where more than 50 dinos are positioned under the green canopy like large-scale toys. Descend the Scenic Railway to start the hunt along elevated boardwalks, where you might spot tyrannosaurus Rex, stegosaurus and others, as well as learn fascinating facts from the Dinosaur Ranger team.

Then, quickly make your way out of the valley by aerial cable car before the meat-eating predators pick up your scent! You can also purchase a Junior Rangers Kit, which includes binoculars, a drink bottle and hat.

kids having fun at Scenic World - Dinosaur Valley — Bring your kids to Dinosaur Valley. (Image: Scenic World)

Scenic World tickets and entry fees

If you’re spending the day at Scenic World, your best option is to choose the Unlimited Discovery Pass for $54 per adult or $32.40 per child. It includes a passage on the Scenic Skyway, Railway, Walkway and Cableway, plus access to Dinosaur Valley, as often as you can manage in one day. There are family options for this pass, too.

If you expect to visit more than three times in the year, you’re better off opting in for the annual pass, priced at $105 for adults and $57 for children. This pass entitles you to unlimited visits across 12 months, with kids three years and under free on both passes.

young people enjoying the views of the Blue Mountains from the Skyway at Scenic World — Enjoy the stunning nature views from the Skyway. (Image: Destination NSW)

Getting to Scenic World and parking

Located less than a two-hour drive from Sydney, Scenic World is a relatively easy day trip for the state capital. Free parking is conveniently available onsite, as well as charging points for electric vehicles.

If you’re coming via public transport, Sydney Trains stops at Katoomba Station, just three kilometres from Scenic World. Simply jump on the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, another of Katoomba’s best activities in itself, or take the public bus (686 and 686G).

the Blue Mountains Explorer bus passing through Katoomba — Roam around the quaint streetscapes onboard the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accessibility

The Scenic Cableway, Walkway and Skyway are all wheelchair accessible. However, due to the steep incline of the Scenic Railway and its safety protocols, wheelcahir access is not available. There are accessible car parking spots onsite, as well as automatic doors, lifts, ramps and accessible toilets.

Service dogs, including guide, hearing and assistance companions, are also welcome at Scenic World, as long as harnesses and leashes are owrn at all times. Scenic World recommends that any visitors with accessibility or mobility needs contact them ahead of their visit.

Scenic World opening hours

Scenic World is open 365 days of the year, although opening hours can vary. Regular opening hours during the week are 10 am – 4 pm and 9 am – 5 pm on weekends. However during NSW school holiday periods, it’s 9 am – 5 pm, seven days a week.

Scenic World may be open longer during the summer months, so be sure to check the website before planning your trip. Bookings are essential and ticket entry is timed.

Scenic Skyway cabin at Scenic World Katoomba passing over the Jamison Valley in the Blue Mountains — Scenic World is open every day of the year. (Image: Destination NSW)

The heavens take centre stage at this Outback NSW glamping lodge.

Crane your neck. Look up. If it’s nighttime in a major Australian city, you might see a faint dusting of stars. Now imagine yourself out in the bush. Here, those stars aren’t just scattered dots – instead, they’re smudged across the sky in endless, glittering streaks. Welcome to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit , a new glamping lodge in one of the most picturesque corners of outback NSW.

Between its eight stargazing tents, Gilay Guest Lounge, and shared tales of the Dreamtime night sky, this retreat is designed to exist in harmony with the breathtaking lake and surrounding landscape. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.

Bathed in warm light, a couple watches the sun dip beyond the horizon. — Watch the sky melt into magic at Wilderluxe.

Getting to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit is in the NSW Northern Tablelands, bordered by the Great Dividing Range. The lake itself is hard to miss: this mammoth body of water is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour.

Just 40 minutes from Tamworth and close to Gunnedah, it’s on the inland route between Sydney and Byron Bay. Drive or take one of the daily flights to Tamworth’s airport.

Aerial view of Wilderluxe. — Let vast waters and towering ranges set the scene for your escape.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit rooms

Don’t settle for a paltry room when you can sleep directly under the cosmos. Wilderluxe offers eight domed ‘Star Tents’ , all named after Aboriginal sky stories – like Djirri Djirri, the sacred messenger bird, Baiame, the Sky Father and great creator, and Dhinawan, the Emu in the Sky constellation.

On a clear night, use your tent’s retractable roof for gazing above or wander to the outdoor bathtub on your private deck to soak under the night sky. No need to go anywhere. You can stay put come evening with a kitchenette inside and a gas barbecue on the deck.

A couple gazes up at a sky ablaze with stars at Wilderluxe. — Sleep beneath the stars.

Style and character

When it comes to aesthetics, Wilderluxe Lake Keepit stays on trend. The encampment blends with its surroundings, building up layers of minimalist visuals that mirror the ever-changing curves of the water.

Earthy tones, natural materials and timber finishes also anchor the retreat in its bushland surrounds. It’s enough to deepen the sense of calm you’ll experience as you drive off-grid, and this is only heightened as you spot kangaroos grazing at dawn or hear the chatter of native birds by the lake.

The dreamy sunset at Wilderluxe. — Go off-grid in style at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit dining

‘Dinner and a show’ hits differently with the property’s Big Sky dinner experience . Hosted in the Gilay Lounge, enjoy complimentary drinks and a grazing table with the host, followed by a screening of Big Sky Dreaming, a film produced exclusively for Wilderluxe guests in which Kamilaroi storyteller Uncle Len Waters narrates tales of the Dreaming above.

Once your imagination has been fed, it’s time to take a seat fireside for a glass of Australian port and a serving of s’mores.

Keen to explore the wider area? Staff can provide barbecue and picnic hampers, stuffed with regional meats, cheeses and organic local fare.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit facilities

While you could very well spend all your time in your tent, sometimes it’s time to hit pause on the celestial show. Instead, make your way up to the Gilay Guest Lounge, where you can relax on the deck overlooking the lake or the outdoor fire pits. It’s a great way to unwind and clink glasses with other stargazers.

The Gilay Lounge with the view of the lake. — Unwind by the fire and raise a glass at Gilay Lounge.

Wilderluxe Lake Keepit experiences

No need to turn nocturnal; when the sun rises, there are still plenty of ways to touch the sky.

Lake Keepit hosted the 2020 Women’s World Gliding Championships, and it’s one of the best places in Australia to stretch your wings. The local Soaring Club operates year-round, meaning you can book a gliding experience any day of the year – or opt for a scenic flight to take in the vast beauty from above.

Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? There are plenty of walking and cycling trails in and around the area. Luckily, bikes are part of the Wilderluxe package. All you have to do is ask a staff member for their favourite route, throw a picnic onto the back and cycle off into the great beyond.

Alternatively, nab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak and head out onto the lake. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, borrow a fishing rod and try your chances.

A person kayaking through serene waters. — Paddle into peace.

The details

A two-night minimum twin-share accommodation package includes Big Sky dinner and drinks experience, plus daily continental breakfast. As well as access to leisure equipment including mountain bikes, kayaks, SUPs and fishing gear.

The interiors of the glamping tent. — Let nature restore you, while luxury takes care of the rest.

Start planning your outback glamping adventure at wilderluxe.com.au.

Scenic World – a guide to visiting the nature-themed attraction