Federal Pass Blue Mountains
Hike through ancient fern canyons and past towering sandstone cliffs, with iconic views of the Three Sisters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Federal Pass Blue Mountains
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through ancient fern canyons and past towering sandstone cliffs, with iconic views of the Three Sisters.
"Incredible walk down from the Three Sisters, through to Botting’s lookout. Absolutely spectacular!!"
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The terrain can be uneven and steep. Good grip is essential for navigating stairs and rocky paths.
💧 Carry plenty of water
Water sources can be unreliable, especially on longer loops. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Stairway Descent
Echo Point to Federal Pass
Descend thousands of steps through lush forest, with stunning views of the Three Sisters. A true Blue Mountains icon.
Fern-Covered Canyon
Federal Pass
Wander through a magical, ancient-feeling canyon with towering sandstone walls and vibrant tree ferns.
Scenic World Experience
End of Federal Pass
Conclude your hike with a scenic railway ride up or a cable car journey, offering panoramic views of the Jamison Valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Track Status Before You Go
+1Choose Your Ascent/Descent Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The terrain can be uneven and steep. Good grip is essential for navigating stairs and rocky paths.
💧 Carry plenty of water
Water sources can be unreliable, especially on longer loops. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera or phone for breathtaking vistas of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley.
⚠️ Check for closures
Landslides can impact trail access. Always verify track status with NPWS Blue Mountains before heading out.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The terrain can be uneven and steep. Good grip is essential for navigating stairs and rocky paths.
💧 Carry plenty of water
Water sources can be unreliable, especially on longer loops. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
📸 Capture the views
Bring your camera or phone for breathtaking vistas of the Three Sisters and the Jamison Valley.
⚠️ Check for closures
Landslides can impact trail access. Always verify track status with NPWS Blue Mountains before heading out.
⬆️ Consider your exit
Scenic World's railway offers an easy ascent, but be prepared for a steep climb if using Furber Steps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers rave about the Federal Pass for its spectacular scenery, from the iconic Three Sisters views to the enchanting fern-filled canyons. Many appreciate the challenging yet rewarding nature of the hike, especially the Giant Stairway descent. However, some visitors have encountered unexpected track closures due to landslides, leading to disappointment.
"Started at Leura Cascades, then past Leura Falls before taking Federal Pass and Dardanelles Pass to Grand Staircase by Three Sisters."
Ed Smith
"Excellent walk - I’d advise you to start at Echo Point, overlooking the Three Sisters, down the Giant Stairway, then along the walking track to the Scenic Railway - not the other way - the Giant Staircase is very steep! If you don’t want to pay the AUS$25 to use the funicular or cable car, it is possible to take the Ferber Steps, though I didn’t do this. The whole walk takes 1.5-2.5 hours and is energetic, but not difficult. I managed it."
Lynn Parker
"Incredible walk down from the Three Sisters , through to Botting’s lookout. Had a fab time, with plenty to see - in skiing lyrebirds, birdlife, and tree ferns that weee 15 feet tall. Absolutely spectacular!! Looking forward to Doing another big hike tomorrow !!"
Aidan Le-Devenish
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Sydney, take a train to Katoomba Station. From there, you can walk to Echo Point or take a local bus. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Parking is available at Echo Point for access to the Giant Stairway, or at Scenic World if you plan to use their facilities for ascent/descent.
Yes, trains run regularly from Sydney to Katoomba. Local buses can then take you to trailheads like Echo Point.
The Federal Pass itself is a moderate hike, but the Giant Stairway and Furber Steps are very steep and may be challenging for some.
From Sydney, take the M4 Motorway and then the Great Western Highway towards Katoomba. Follow signs for Echo Point or Scenic World.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Federal Pass trail itself is free. However, if you plan to use Scenic World's railway or cable car for ascent/descent, there is a fee.
The Federal Pass is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, always check NPWS Blue Mountains for any specific track closures or alerts.
No, Echo Point and the Three Sisters viewing platforms are free to access.
Scenic World offers various passes, typically around AUD $25 for a single ride or a day pass. Prices can vary, so check their official website.
Yes, it is recommended to book Scenic World tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and potentially save time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many recommend starting at Echo Point, descending the Giant Stairway, walking along Federal Pass towards Scenic World, and then taking the railway up.
The hike from Echo Point to Scenic World via Federal Pass typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
Expect lush rainforest, towering sandstone cliffs, fern-filled gullies, and spectacular views of the Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters.
Restrooms are available at Echo Point and at Scenic World. Some limited facilities might be found at campgrounds if you're doing a longer loop.
The Federal Pass itself is moderate, but the steep ascents/descents like the Giant Stairway can be challenging for absolute beginners.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints overlooking the Three Sisters from Echo Point, the dramatic sandstone walls in the canyon, and the panoramic valley views from Scenic World are prime spots.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings can provide softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive landscapes effectively.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations with NPWS Blue Mountains before flying a drone.
From Echo Point, you get the classic frontal view. As you descend the Giant Stairway and walk along Federal Pass, you'll find unique side and lower angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This allows kids to experience the dramatic descent and ascent without the full exertion of climbing both ways. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes and carry plenty of snacks and water. +1Be aware of potential track closures due to landslides, which could impact family-friendly routes. Always check NPWS alerts beforehand.
The natural beauty, including the towering ferns and potential wildlife sightings, will captivate younger explorers. 🚶 Budget Travelers
If you're relying on public transport, the train to Katoomba is generally affordable. To avoid the cost of the Scenic World railway, you can opt for the challenging but free Furber Steps or Giant Stairway for your ascent or descent, provided they are open and safe.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The dramatic sandstone cliffs and lush, fern-filled canyons provide incredible opportunities for landscape photography. Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light – golden hour in the late afternoon is particularly magical.
Don't forget to look down for macro shots of unique flora and fauna. Consider a wide-angle lens for sweeping panoramas and a sturdy tripod if you plan to shoot in lower light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Federal Pass Trail
Recent landslides have occasionally led to track closures, particularly between Furber Steps and Mt Solitary. It's crucial to check the NPWS Blue Mountains website for the most up-to-date alerts before your visit to avoid disappointment and ensure your safety.
+1 The trail itself winds through a fern-filled canyon, showcasing towering sandstone walls and a rich variety of flora and fauna, including lyrebirds and ancient tree ferns. For those looking for a less strenuous experience, starting at Scenic World and walking down the Giant Stairway towards Echo Point is an option, followed by a ride back up on the Scenic Railway. Conversely, a more challenging hike involves starting at Echo Point, descending the Giant Stairway, traversing the Federal Pass, and then ascending via Furber Steps or continuing towards other trails.
The Iconic Giant Stairway and Furber Steps
Alternatively, the Furber Steps provide another steep access point, often used to connect to the Federal Pass from the Scenic World area. While both offer a significant physical challenge, they are essential for accessing the Federal Pass from these popular vantage points.
It's important to note that the condition of these steps can be affected by weather and maintenance. Always be prepared for steep, uneven surfaces and wear appropriate footwear.
Connecting with Nature: Flora and Fauna
Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area, including the striking superb lyrebird, known for its elaborate tail feathers and impressive mimicry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit