1. The Blue Mountains Really Are Blue
Have you ever wondered why the Blue Mountains appear blue?
The answer lies in the eucalyptus trees. These trees release fine droplets of oil into the air that mix with dust and water vapor.
When sunlight passes through, it scatters short-wave blue light, giving the mountains their distinctive color. You can see the best examples of this natural phenomenon from lookouts such as Echo Point and Govetts Leap, two of our guests’ favorite stops on the
Picture Me Sydney Blue Mountains Tour.
2. They Are Older Than the Grand Canyon
The sandstone plateaus of the Blue Mountains are estimated to be around
450 million years old, making them much older than the Grand Canyon. Over millions of years, wind and water carved the valleys and cliffs that define this region. At
Picture Me Sydney, our guides love sharing how these layers of history tell the story of an ancient Australian landscape still alive with natural beauty.
3. Home to the World’s Steepest Passenger Railway
Hidden in
Scenic World in Katoomba is the
world’s steepest passenger railway, which descends into the Jamison Valley at a thrilling 52-degree angle. Originally built in the 19th century for coal miners, the railway now takes visitors on an exciting journey through the rainforest. Guests who join our
Blue Mountains Tour with Picture Me Sydney can experience this iconic attraction as part of their itinerary.
4. The Jenolan Caves Are the Oldest Open Caves in the World
About an hour from Katoomba lie the
Jenolan Caves, the largest and oldest open-cave system on the planet. Formed from pure limestone estimated to be
340 million years old, the caves feature underground rivers and impressive crystal chambers.
Picture Me Sydney offers curated tours that include guided cave walks, letting you experience these natural wonders safely and up close.
5. More Than 250 Kilometres of Walking Trails
The Blue Mountains are a hiker’s paradise with more than
250 kilometers of walking tracks, from short strolls to full-day adventures.
Some of our top picks at
Picture Me Sydney include:
- Three Sisters Walk, perfect for first-time visitors.
- Wentworth Falls Track, featuring breathtaking waterfalls.
- Grand Canyon Walk, a lush circuit through rainforest and sandstone cliffs.
Our local guides know all the hidden paths and best viewpoints for the perfect photo moment.
6. 27 Mountain Towns Full of Charm
The Blue Mountains region is dotted with
27 charming towns and villages, each offering its own attractions.
- Katoomba is the cultural heart, filled with art galleries, cafés, and boutique shops.
- Leura is famous for its heritage cottages and colorful spring gardens.
- Wentworth Falls offers peaceful trails and panoramic lookouts.
When you travel with
Picture Me Sydney, we make sure you experience both the iconic sights and the small-town gems that most visitors miss.
7. Over 900 Hidden Canyons Beneath the Surface
Few travelers realize that the Blue Mountains hide over
900 sandstone canyons, carved by millions of years of rainfall and erosion. These natural corridors create spectacular canyoning opportunities. If you’re feeling adventurous,
Picture Me Sydney can arrange guided canyoning tours that take you deep into the heart of this mysterious landscape.
8. A Landscape Rich in Aboriginal Heritage
The
Gundungurra and Darug peoples are the Traditional Custodians of the Blue Mountains. Ancient rock art, hand stencils, and Dreamtime stories reflect a connection to Country that stretches back tens of thousands of years.
Through
Picture Me Sydney’s cultural experiences, travelers can learn from local Aboriginal guides, explore sacred sites such as
Red Hands Cave, and gain insight into the spiritual importance of this remarkable region.
9. A Biodiversity Hotspot with Rare Wildlife
The Blue Mountains are home to more than
130 rare and endangered species, making it one of Australia’s richest ecological regions. You might spot
koalas,
lyrebirds, or the ancient
Wollemi Pine, a plant once thought to be extinct.
Our team at
Picture Me Sydney knows the best lookouts and nature trails for spotting wildlife safely while helping preserve their fragile habitats.
10. Every Season Brings a New Kind of Beauty
The Blue Mountains transform with each season:
- Summer brings bright skies and cool mountain breezes.
- Autumn paints the valleys in gold and crimson.
- Winter offers misty mornings and cozy fireside cafés.
- Spring fills the gardens with blossoms and festivals.
No matter when you visit,
Picture Me Sydney helps you make the most of the scenery and light for unforgettable photos and memories.
