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Want an easy day trip packed with nature, spectacular scenery and a healthy dose of adventure? Head to Scenic World, Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, where everyone will be saying “Whoa!” as you hurtle down the mountain on a railway, cruise above the treetops or wander through ancient rainforest.
The star of the show is the Scenic Railway, which has been getting passengers’ hearts racing since 1945. Originally built in the 1880s to transport shale from the valley, it was later transformed into a tourist attraction by Harry Hammon. Today, you can plunge into the rainforest on a stomach-churning 52-degree incline at up to four metres per second. According to Guinness World Records, it’s the world’s steepest passenger railway – so don’t blame us if the kids want to ride it again immediately.
Once you’ve survived the ride down, hop off and explore the Scenic Walkway. The 2.4km network of elevated boardwalks winds through the rainforest, giving you the chance to stretch your legs and get among the lush greenery of the Jamison Valley. You don’t need to tackle the whole thing, either – there are shorter ten-minute routes if little legs are starting to tire.
While you’re there, join one of Scenic World’s Buunyal Indigenous experiences, led by an Indigenous guide and offering a chance to learn more about Gundungurra Country. The shorter Buunyal Yarn is a good introduction, while the guided Buunyal Tour combines the rides and rainforest walk with stories and knowledge about the land, its plants, animals and culture.
Then it’s time to head back up on the Scenic Cableway. The glass-walled cabin gives you a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest as you climb towards the clifftop. Look out for the Three Sisters and Orphan Rock as the Jamison Valley opens up beneath you. The views are spectacular – although anyone with a serious fear of heights might want to keep their eyes on the horizon.
For maximum wow factor, jump aboard the Scenic Skyway. It glides 270 metres above the rainforest, with sweeping views across the Jamison Valley, Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters. The original Skyway opened in 1958 as Australia’s first cable car, but the experience today is anything but old-fashioned. And if your family includes a budding daredevil, there’s Beyond Skyway – a rooftop cable car experience where you can step outside onto the roof while suspended high above the treetops.
When hunger pangs hit, head to Terrace Café or the restaurant at the top station for a bite to eat – and, naturally, another chance to soak up those marvellous mountain views.
The best part? Scenic World passes include unlimited rides on the Railway, Cableway and Skyway, so you can go back for another spin on your favourite attraction. With three thrilling rides, a rainforest walk and plenty of fresh mountain air, there’s more than enough to keep the whole family entertained for a fun-filled day out from Sydney.
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