Furber Steps & Federal Pass

This fantastic walk gives you a great introduction to several different Blue Mountains landscapes, including dramatic rock features the Three Sisters and Orphan Rock, from clifftop eucalyptus forests to the lush rainforests that flourish down in the valley bottom.

Begin by walking down the pathway behind the bus shelter at Katoomba Falls Reserve and follow the signs to Furber Steps

As you descend the stairs, huge boulders and tall trees rise all around you, and even on a hot day it’s dark, moist and cool here. You’ll find plenty of excuses to stop and take photos – lacy waterfalls like Katoomba Falls offers loads of spectacular views.

Don’t miss the side trip to Katoomba Falls Lookout, an absolutely mesmerising viewpoint where the track brings you to the edge of the creek, just as it takes its great leap over the cliff.

As you twist and turn down the steep stone staircase you’ll be in serious awe of the people who carved them out of vertical rock. And very grateful to the people who came along later and installed a strong metal handrail!

Once you reach the bottom of the Furber Steps, turn left on the Federal Pass track and take a quick diversion to the bridge over Kedumba Creek for a magnificent view of the full height of Katoomba Falls. Then retrace your steps, and within about five minutes you’ll be standing at the foot of the Scenic Railway amid beautiful rainforest.

To get back to the top, you can buy a one-way ticket on the Scenic Railway or Cableway or if you grab our Lyrebird Pass you can try out all the Scenic World rides – finishing off with a trip on the Scenic Skyway, where you can get a bird’s eye view of every step of the walk you’ve just done.