We are on the road again (surprise surprise) and this time we are heading to the Blue Mountains! While researching some fun family friendly activities to do in the area I kept coming across Scenic World! Located in beautiful Katoomba, Scenic World is an array of different sight seeing attractions and loads of FUN! With a Scenic skyway, Scenic cableway,Scenic walkway and even a Scenic railway Scenic World is the best way to experience the beautiful mountains and lush rainforest that surrounds it. From the moment the kids saw the Scenic World website they were so excited to experience all of the attractions! and after experiencing it first hand I can definitely say we were not disappointed. It was such a fun day out and really great for the kids to learn about the rich history of Katoomba and how important our wildlife and rainforest echo system is. Here is some information on Scenic World and the attractions it has to offer below.
Scenic Skyway-
Suspended 270 metres above ancient ravines, the Skyway provides a unique thrill as breathtaking views are revealed beneath your feet through the electro-glass cabin floor. For the less adventurous, seating and solid flooring is also available!
With 360° views, the 720 metre journey provides the best views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, and Jamison Valley stretching to the horizon.
Following a three million dollar upgrade to improve the visitor experience in November 2017, the new Skyway cabin features 30% more capacity, free Wi-Fi, and improved loading and unloading to make the Scenic Skyway one to remember!
Disembark at the Skyway’s east station to access lookouts over the valley along with bush trails to Echo Point.
Scenic Cableway-
Discover panoramic views of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains from the Scenic Cableway.
The 510 metre journey gently descends into the Jamison Valley and also returns visitors to the top of the escarpment. The Cableway’s fully enclosed cabin provides a unique vantage point for viewing the Three Sisters, Orphan Rock, Mt Solitary and Katoomba Falls.
Disembark at the bottom station to access the Scenic Walkway and stroll through 2.4 kilometres of Jurassic rainforest.
Wheelchair accessible with a capacity for 84 passengers, the Cableway is the steepest and largest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.
Scenic Walkway –
Discover the tranquility of ancient rainforest – or simply tire the kids out – strolling along our 2.4 kilometre Scenic Walkway.
Brilliant in sunshine and even better in the rain, this elevated boardwalk immerses visitors in Jurassic rainforest on the Jamison Valley floor with minimal impact on the environment.
Along the way, explore elements of the site’s coal mining history including the mine entrance, a replica miners’ hut and scale bronze sculpture of a miner and his pit pony.
Learn about local flora, listen for the native lyre bird or taste pure Blue Mountains water straight from Marrangaroo Spring. Enjoy a peaceful moment in the open-air Rainforest Room, or on rest benches located along the route.
Options for various walks taking ten minutes or a full hour are clearly signposted, along with the wheelchair accessible link between the bottom Cableway and Railway stations.
Experiencing the Walkway in the rain is magical; colours change, mist shrouds the towering cliffs above, hidden waterfalls murmur, raindrops cling to leaves and native birds become more vocal.
Protected by the rainforest canopy, the Walkway has its own microclimate which can be quite distinct from the weather at the top of the escarpment. We recommend the rainforest in the rain – don’t let a little weather stop you!
Scenic Railway-
Discover the thrill of a 52 degree incline (128% incline) riding the steepest passenger railway in the world, the Scenic Railway.
Following an award-winning redevelopment in 2013, this unforgettable experience offers glass-roofed carriages with expansive views of the rainforest setting and spectacular Jamison Valley.
Custom designed carriages allow passengers to choose their own adventure like never before, adjusting their seated position up to 20 degrees! Choose an adventurous ‘Cliffhanger’ ride at a steep 64 degree incline, or for those seeking a relaxed journey select the ‘Laid Back’ option. Of course, loyal fans can still ride the ‘Original’ at 52 degrees (128% incline).
The Railway experience descends 310 metres through a cliff-side tunnel, emerging into ancient rainforest at the Jamison Valley floor. Operating since 1945, the Scenic Railway has thrilled 25 million passengers – this is the fifth generation train to ride the tracks since the Hammon family opened the attraction.
Carrying 84 passengers, the train departs every ten minutes. Disembark at the bottom station to access the Scenic Walkway and stroll through 2.4 kilometres of Jurassic rainforest.
The term ‘Scenic Railway’ was first used in the late 19th century in reference to amusement rides at English seaside funfairs. Consisting of simple carriages on rails, passengers passed a series of exotic ‘scenic’ backdrops such as the Swiss Alps or Egyptian pyramids.
As you can see Scenic World has so much to offer, as a family we had so much fun learning new things and trying out all the different attractions and we would go back in a flash! If you have any questions please comment them below or if you’ve been to Scenic World and loved it as much as us!
