A must-read guide to the Three Sisters Walk

No trip to the Blue Mountains is complete without taking in the jaw-dropping vistas along the Three Sisters Walk.

Rising from the valley floor of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park, the Three Sisters are breathtaking, ancient and folded deeply into the lore of the local Gundungurra and Darung People.

The best way to admire the sandstone maidens is by following the approachable Three Sisters Walk, which is helpfully dispersed with lookouts offering different vantage points. While the short, bush-hemmed trail is open to everyone, read on for a few things to know before you go.

What to expect of the Three Sisters Walk

Duration: 25–45 minutes
Distance: 0.8 kilometres return
Difficulty: Easy

Perhaps the best-known icon of the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters spoils visitors with their monolithic sandstone splendour as they rise nearly one kilometre above sea level. Offering up the best vantage points to take in the sisters’ bush-enclosed beauty, this walk also lays out vistas across the soft-blue haze of the Jamison Valley and leads walkers under eucalypt canopies where bird songs melodically soundtrack the trail.

views of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley, Blue Mountains National Park — Admire the monolithic sandstone splendour of the Three Sisters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Keep an eye out for the superb lyrebird and vibrant rosellas, as well as spotted tail quolls and the Blue Mountains water skink. Along the way, take your time to absorb the views from Oreades Lookout, Lady Game Lookout and, if you’re eager, take a detour to Spooners Lookout. Pets are not allowed and smoking is prohibited.

scenic views across the Jamison Valley from Echo Point Lookout in the Blue Mountains — Absorb the views from Echo Point Lookout. (Image: Time Out)

How accessible is the Three Sisters Walk?

This is a family-friendly walk and fairly achievable for smallish children or those that can be carried. For those with limited mobility, seating and rest spots are dispersed frequently along the track.

Prams and wheelchair access with assistance is easy from Echo Point to Oreades Lookout with smooth terrain and no significant slopes. However, beyond this point it’s not recommended as there are some stairs. There is no wheelchair access from Lady Game Lookout to Honeymoon Bridge.

a couple enjoying views from Honeymoon Bridge overlooking the Jamison Valley along the Three Sisters Walking Trail — Honeymoon Bridge is a scenic spot to stop along the trail. (Image: Destination NSW)

Highlights of the Three Sisters Walk

Dramatic valley views and serene bushland make it a popular entry-level trail. In fact, the Three Sisters Walk is often considered to be up there with the best of Blue Mountains hikes.

From here, you can embark on spin-off walks that are longer and some more challenging, such as the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, Dardanelles Pass Loop Track and the Grand Cliff Top Walk. However, if you only have time for one, the Three Sisters Walk is a fantastic option.

the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley, Blue Mountains National Park — Three Sisters is an iconic landmark in the Blue Mountains National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Echo Point

Starting at the Echo Point Visitor Centre, make your way to Echo Point Lookout, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley. Also, spot the Ruined Castle and Mt Solitary.

Oreades and Lady Game lookouts

Sweeping views of the valley unfurl as you step out onto the viewing platform at Oreades Lookout. There’s plenty of room at this lookout to get your money shot and soak up those mountain vibes. Then its another 50 metres to reach Lady Game Lookout, where you find yourself at an even closer vantage point. Another stone archway to the side of the lookout leads onto the Giant Stairway.

Giant Stairway

Leading into the Jamison Valley by way of nearly 1000 steps, the Giant Stairway lives up to its name. If you’re not keen to tackle the full staircase, you need only take a handful of steep steps to reach the first of the Three Sisters via Honeymoon Bridge.

Honeymoon Bridge

This is the last part of the walk and, of course, optional for the vertigo prone. It connects walkers to an overhang on the First Sister, where you can look back to the Giant Stairway. There’s not much space on the other side, so take a quick snap and head back across.

Spooners Lookout

A short detour from your return journey will lead you to Spooners Lookout, from where you may marvel at the Three Sisters welded to the valley below. It’s just five minutes extra, but worth the extra steps. The lookout is also accessed from Echo Point Visitor Centre and is wheelchair-friendly.

About the Three Sisters

Long a significant part of the landscape for the Gundungurra and Darung People, the Three Sisters continue to embody deep cultural importance for Traditional Custodians.

The Dreaming story of the Sisters does vary between groups, however, as told by Sharon Brown of the Burragurrang Clan of the Gundungurra Nation, the tale speaks of three beautiful sisters, Wimalah, Meeni and Gunedoo, who were in love with three brothers from the neighbouring nation of the Dharruk people.

an aerial view of the Three Sisters from Echo Point Lookout in the Blue Mountains — The Three Sisters are of deep cultural importance to the traditional custodians of the region. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tribal law forbade their union, but this failed to deter the brothers, who fought to win the sisters by force. Eventually the skirmish led clever man (Kuradjuri) to turn the sisters to stone for their own safety, with the full intention of restoring them to flesh and blood once the fighting had ceased.

Unfortunately for the sisters and their would-be lovers, Kuradjuri died in the battle, and so they remain stone-bound and unmarried for eternity.

the Three Sisters, Blue Mountains — The Three Sisters rose from the northern escarpment of the Jamison Valley. (Image: Tourism Australia)

In a geological and perhaps less thrilling interpretation of events, the Three Sisters were formed from Hawkesbury sandstone by land erosion and volcanic activity around 200 million years ago.

Today, their rough-hewn and craggy beauty is shrouded in a touch of mystery and their engaging Dreamtime story continues to draw visitors from sunrise to sunset as they ponder whether the entrapped sisters will ever be free to love.

sunrise views over Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley, Blue Mountains National Park — The sun rises over Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley. (Image: Destination NSW)

Safety information

As with all bushwalking, it’s important to be properly prepared. While the Three Sisters Walk is a short and relatively easy track, if you decide to add on another walk or tackle the Giant Stairway, be sure to pack enough water, wear sun protection and let someone know where you’re going.

The Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains — Capture the magnificent beauty of the iconic Three Sisters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Parts of the Three Sisters Walk are close to cliff edges. Use caution and common sense, especially during busy periods, and keep children close at all times. Also, you can check the National Parks website ahead of your trip to make sure there are no closures or bushfire alerts.

an aerial view of the Three Sisters, Blue Mountains, — Be sure to prepare before you go to the Three Sisters Walk. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Getting there and parking

Just an hour and a half from Sydney, you can reach the Three Sisters Walk from Echo Point Visitor Centre in Katoomba.

Parking is available at the Echo Point car park and on nearby streets, and there are designated disabled spaces. The car park does fill up on weekends, so try to arrive early and allow plenty of time.

a woman posing with arms raised with Three Sisters in the background — Strike a pose in front of the spectacular sandstone backdrop. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Things to do nearby

There’s plenty to do around Katoomba and around once you’ve completed the Three Sisters Walk, with plenty to add to your day’s itinerary. Pop across the valley to Scenic World, where you can ride the world’s steepest railway. Cool off at a local waterfall, or hit nearby Leura’s eclectic collection of boutiques and shops.

If you’re here on a weekend, you should also check to see if any of the local markets are running. Or head over to Mountain Culture Beer Co, one of the best watering holes in the Blue Mountains, for a delicious craft beer and fried pickles.

a cable car soaring above sandstone ridges and Eucalyptus forests — Soar above Jamison Valley on the Scenic World cable car. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sunshine, sea breezes and sand-speckled locals: the Sutherland Shire is perfect for an idyllic Sydney summer.

The Sutherland Shire is one of Sydney’s most dynamic regions. Home to an eclectic mix of top-notch eateries and drinking holes, a flourishing arts scene, and striking land and seascapes, it’s a haven for foodies, culture seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

It’s also an ever-evolving destination with a constant wave of new places to eat and drink, and under-the-radar pockets to explore – many of which are dog-friendly.

If you’re venturing to this gorgeous part of the world this summer, here’s your guide to what’s new and worth discovering.

Savour the summer dining scene

Fred’s After Hours on the sutherland shire — Pop into Fred’s After Hours.

The Shire’s buzzing dining scene is one of its biggest drawcards, and many of the region’s culinary highlights can be found in the sun-soaked beachside hub of Cronulla. A bunch of newcomers have recently set up shop, making the area ripe for culinary adventure.

Homer Rogue Taverna is exactly as its name suggests: a cheeky take on classic Greek food. Expect meze and mains bursting with bold flavours and a wine list packed with standout Greek drops.

Freds Providore – a Cronulla favourite for casual cafe fare and excellent coffee – is now open late from Thursday to Sunday. Come sundown, it morphs into Fred’s After Hours, serving a refined European-inspired menu, wines, cocktails and a laid-back yet polished vibe.

Bobbys is a slick destination right on Cronulla Beach, where you can grab a plate of freshly-caught seafood and a summery cocktail while cooling off in the sea breeze.

And if you’re after a bit of everything, the sprawling and multifaceted Parc Pavilion is a melting pot of dining experiences. It blends a cafe, bistro, bar, Italian restaurant and a host of regular events, all tied together in a cool coastal setting.

Got a Saturday morning to spare? The Shire Farmers Market in Sutherland is a must-do ritual, letting you (and your four-legged friend) browse fresh produce, flowers and gourmet treats against a backdrop of live music and local chatter.

Dive into ocean pools

ocean pool on the sutherland shire — The ocean pools beckon.

Given its prime coastal positioning, the Shire teems with crystal-clear ocean pools and enclosed bathing spots. Silver Beach Tidal Baths offers a netted
swimming experience in Botany Bay. Tucked beside a small sandy beach, the tidal baths at Gunnamatta Park are calm and shallow – making them an ideal setting for less confident swimmers.

Just a hop and a skip away is Shelly Park Ocean Pool, a magical rock pool carved in the ocean. It’s well-suited to young kids and offers sweeping views towards the open sea.

Experience local arts and culture

Hazelhurst Arts Centre in Gymea is elegantly positioned within a lush garden landscape, serving as the Sutherland Shire’s premier destination for arts and culture. This summer, experience the Art on Paper Award 2025 – a celebration of innovation and creativity through the versatile medium of paper.

Set within the leafy surrounds of Hazelhurst Arts Centre, Hazel Kitchen & Bar has curated the ultimate picnic experience. Think abundant cheese platters, artisan charcuterie boards, fresh OJ and a thoughtfully chosen wine list, all available to take away and enjoy in the art-filled gardens just beyond the restaurant. Best of all, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun.

Next, venture south to the artsy village of Bundeena for the monthly Bundeena and Maianbar Art Trail . This self-guided journey through local artists’ studios offers a glimpse into their work and creative spaces.

Relish the dog-friendly atmosphere

a dog on Greenhills Dog Beach sutherland shire — Let the dog off-leash at Greenhills Dog Beach.

The Sutherland Shire is a bona fide playground for pups and their humans. Find a string of dog-friendly beaches popular with locals, visitors and pups alike. Silver Beach in Kurnell is a peaceful pocket, allowing dogs off-leash without restriction. While Horderns Beach in Bundeena and Greenhills Beach in Cronulla are equally serene and provide off-leash access (be sure to check times and seasonal restrictions before you go).

If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, book yourself and your pooch into Quest Cronulla . With stylish and spacious pet-friendly accommodation, thoughtful amenities, and a prime location just steps from Cronulla Esplanade and a variety of dog-friendly cafes, it’s the perfect spot to rest after a full day of exploring.

Get into nature

Sunrise at Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock in the Royal National Park, Sydney. — Find natural beauty in Royal National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor escapes: imagine rugged bushwalks, breezy beachside tracks, meandering cycling trails and lookouts galore. The best part? Many of them are perfectly suited to dogs.

Take your canine to Cronulla Esplanade – the Shire’s version of the famed Bondi to Coogee Walk. This eight-kilometre route takes you past the region’s most picturesque beaches, offering panoramic vistas and an electric energy. It heaves with locals every morning and weekend, getting their steps in with a coffee in one hand and a dog leash in the other.

If you’re travelling without furry friends, stop by the Royal National Park. You’ll be engulfed in ancient bushland, craggy cliffs, towering rock formations, diverse wildlife and twisting tracks. The Jibbon Loop Track is a highlight, with spectacular views over the sea. Alternatively, the Karloo Track forms a loop that winds through untamed bush, freshwater pools and waterfalls. Re-lace your walking shoes or grab a bike to follow The Bundeena Drive to Marley Walk past freshwater pools and creeks, on to scenic beach views of Little Marley Beach.

Hit up the beautiful beaches

aerial of cronulla beach and esplanade — Enjoy postcard-perfect beaches. (Image: Destination NSW)

The stretch along Cronulla bursts with postcard-perfect beaches, each offering a different flavour. With rolling waves, regular patrol and a steady stream of beachgoers, Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach are buzzy and built for all kinds of swimmers. Elouera Beach is a quieter option, attracting early-morning surfers hoping to catch the perfect wave.

If you prefer a side of dramatic scenery, visit Wanda or Greenhills – in addition to ocean panoramas, both are backed by towering golden dunes and wild scrub. Looking for something more subdued? Shelly Beach Ocean Pool is a relaxed – yet no less captivating – retreat.

Start planning your Sutherland Shire summer at visitsutherlandshire.com.au.