Bushwalking is a pastime that inspires thousands of people to visit the Blue Mountains each year. Yet, the World Heritage National Park is so vast that on many of these amazing bushwalks you could feel like you are the only one out in the wilderness.
We have compiled a collection of videos from avid bushwalker Chris Osborne to give you a different perspective on some of the Blue Mountains more iconic, and lesser-known bushwalks.
Image: Walking track near Mt Bank picnic area, Blue Mountains. Photo: Ann Niddrie
From a leisurely stroll along a paved footpath with stunning views to overnight trekking on the Six Foot track, there are opportunities to view and connect with nature for every level of fitness and time frame.
For those on a tight schedule, the shorter more populated walks could suit, such as the Charles Darwin Walk in Wentworth Falls, or part of the Prince Henry Walk in Katoomba.
Close by the Charles Darwin Walk is the Kings Tableland in Wentworth Falls. With magnificent views and unfenced cliff tops this special place is frequented by not only tourist groups and landscape photographers, but romantics and newlyweds, looking for an amazing location to picnic, or capture their special day. However, on some days, there is not a soul around, and the birds and crickets are the only sound to hear.
Image: Newlyweds Holly & Mike Ditchburn at Kings Tableland. Photo by Ann Niddrie
View a short video by Chris Osborne shows Kings Tableland from a different perspective.
For those wanting to explore a little further afield Mount Banks is a lesser known yet no less spectacular experience. Comprised of a layer of basalt on top of sandstone, there are a different variety of plants to be found on the walks at Mt Banks near Mt Tomah, to those found in other areas of the Blue Mountains.
Image: The breathtaking view down the Grose Valley from the foot of Mt banks. Photo: Ann Niddrie
There are two walks that can be done at Mt Banks, of differing levels of difficulty. The breathtaking views that make it worth the effort. A short video by Chris Osborne having completed the Mt Banks Summit Walk shows some of the special aspects of this part of the mountains.
Video: Mt Banks Summit Walk – Blue Mountains, by Chris Osborne
(Please note this area has recovered following the bushfires in 2013, however it is always advisable to check the weather conditions before heading out.)
When preparing for your bushwalk, make sure that you are suitably prepared for the weather conditions to change. Get in touch with the local Police and pick up an emergency beacon known as a PBL, read up on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife tips for staying safe on a bushwalk, and watch this inspiring video – on preparing yourself for an extended bushwalk.
For an old-fashioned 'book' on bushwalking in the Blue Mountains, there is the Best Bushwalks in the Blue Mountains available for purchase online and in bookstores.
Book yourself a stay near one of the popular walks in Wentworth Falls or use our advanced search tool to search for specific dates or requirements.
