Everything You Need To Know About Scenic World

Scenic World is an iconic experience that lays out the vast and captivating beauty of the Blue Mountains.

From a disused coal mine to a fixture of fun, Scenic World has been highlighting the natural assets of the Blue Mountains for more than 70 years. Swooping back and forth over sweeping valleys, across escarpments and up and down steep mountain sides on innovative modes of transport, Scenic World takes guests deep into this magnificent landscape.

But how, exactly? Read on for a Scenic World explainer and how to make the most of this world-class tourist attraction, which has fast become one of the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

What is Scenic World?

A veritable theme park where nature is given star billing, Scenic World showcases the beauty of the Blue Mountains to day-trippers in fun and thrilling ways.

It was established in 1945 when Harry Hammon actioned his entrepreneurial idea to transform a former coal mine into a tourist attraction. Now, Scenic World has grown to encompass a variety of rides designed to traverse and interact with the verdant bush terrain in a minimally invasive way.

Scenic World in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Scenic World is the best way to see the Blue Mountains in all its glory. (Image: Destination NSW)

Hammon’s original plan was simply to repurpose coal skips and tracks from the Katoomba Colliery to create a passenger train – now known as the world’s steepest railway. But today, visitors can also take the cable car and skyway, absorb the lush surroundings along forest-floor pathways and take in the view with a cup of coffee at the cafe.

One of a select few accredited Ecotourism Australia businesses, Scenic World remains a Hammon family affair some 70 years after the first tourists rattled up the mountain in Harry’s converted coal train. And while the experience is, thankfully, far more polished and modern than it once was, this iconic Blue Mountains business is still a carriage-load of fun for a family day out.

Scenic World attractions

With bush-cloaked cliffs and rainforested ravines, the Blue Mountains does drama in a large format. While walking one of the region’s many stunning hikes is one way to uncover its beauty, to really appreciate the enormity of scale here, a little bit of elevation goes a long way. As well as offering lofty viewing opportunities, Scenic World also provides other attractions to excite everyone, from kids to adrenaline junkies.

Scenic Cableway

Glide gently into the Jamison Valley and return to the 510-metre-high escarpment on the Scenic Cableway. Voted the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, you’ll be fully enclosed with up to 83 other passengers for the eight-minute trip into (our out of) the forest.

If you find yourself a little jelly-legged, remember, both of the two cables are made to support 350 tonnes each, so you’re in safe hands as you journey on at five metres per second.

the Scenic Cableway, Katoomba — Scenic Cableway is the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.

Scenic Railway

Originally built in the 19th century to transport coal into the Katoomba mine, the Scenic Railway has been voted the steepest passenger railway in the world by the Guiness Book of World Records. The ride is now in its fifth incarnation, having been redeveloped in 2013.

Once steam-powered, the train is now on an electric winch system and carries up to 84 passengers in four cars. The 310-metre route takes a pulse-quickening 52-degree incline into the Jamison Valley and returns in four minutes. Passengers can recline their seats to a 64-degree incline to really dial up the excitement factor.

Scenic Skyway

If you’re stomach allows, hop aboard the Scenic Skyway to be suspended between two cliffs 270 metres above ground along a 72-metre cable. Laying out views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt Solitary and the Jamison Valley, the Swiss-made cabin dangles over the valley below.

Those brave enough can watch through the electro-glass floor as the canopy below glides past. Or, if that’s a little too intense, you can opt to stand on solid flooring or even take a seat. When the cable car opened in 1958, it was Australia’s first. The current cabin, which can carry up to 84 passengers every 10 minutes, is touted as the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.

Beyond Skyway

If travelling in a glass-bottomed cabin 270 metres above the ground is a little mundane for you, you’ll be pleased to know you can travel on top (yes, not in) of it with Beyond Skyway .

You’ll be securely harnessed to the roof of the cable car as it makes its 20-minute crossing across the valley. Absorb 360-degree views across the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, listening out for the crashing of Katoomba Falls below, one of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls. Beyond Skyway tickets start at $369 per person and $349 for children (10 and above).

Dinosaur Valley

On until February 2025, pint-size palaeontologists will love Scenic World’s Dinosaur Valley , where more than 50 dinos are positioned under the green canopy like large-scale toys. Descend the Scenic Railway to start the hunt along elevated boardwalks, where you might spot tyrannosaurus Rex, stegosaurus and others, as well as learn fascinating facts from the Dinosaur Ranger team.

Then, quickly make your way out of the valley by aerial cable car before the meat-eating predators pick up your scent! You can also purchase a Junior Rangers Kit, which includes binoculars, a drink bottle and hat.

kids having fun at Scenic World - Dinosaur Valley — Bring your kids to Dinosaur Valley. (Image: Scenic World)

Scenic World tickets and entry fees

If you’re spending the day at Scenic World, your best option is to choose the Unlimited Discovery Pass for $54 per adult or $32.40 per child. It includes a passage on the Scenic Skyway, Railway, Walkway and Cableway, plus access to Dinosaur Valley, as often as you can manage in one day. There are family options for this pass, too.

If you expect to visit more than three times in the year, you’re better off opting in for the annual pass, priced at $105 for adults and $57 for children. This pass entitles you to unlimited visits across 12 months, with kids three years and under free on both passes.

young people enjoying the views of the Blue Mountains from the Skyway at Scenic World — Enjoy the stunning nature views from the Skyway. (Image: Destination NSW)

Getting to Scenic World and parking

Located less than a two-hour drive from Sydney, Scenic World is a relatively easy day trip for the state capital. Free parking is conveniently available onsite, as well as charging points for electric vehicles.

If you’re coming via public transport, Sydney Trains stops at Katoomba Station, just three kilometres from Scenic World. Simply jump on the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus, another of Katoomba’s best activities in itself, or take the public bus (686 and 686G).

the Blue Mountains Explorer bus passing through Katoomba — Roam around the quaint streetscapes onboard the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus. (Image: Destination NSW)

Accessibility

The Scenic Cableway, Walkway and Skyway are all wheelchair accessible. However, due to the steep incline of the Scenic Railway and its safety protocols, wheelcahir access is not available. There are accessible car parking spots onsite, as well as automatic doors, lifts, ramps and accessible toilets.

Service dogs, including guide, hearing and assistance companions, are also welcome at Scenic World, as long as harnesses and leashes are owrn at all times. Scenic World recommends that any visitors with accessibility or mobility needs contact them ahead of their visit.

Scenic World opening hours

Scenic World is open 365 days of the year, although opening hours can vary. Regular opening hours during the week are 10 am – 4 pm and 9 am – 5 pm on weekends. However during NSW school holiday periods, it’s 9 am – 5 pm, seven days a week.

Scenic World may be open longer during the summer months, so be sure to check the website before planning your trip. Bookings are essential and ticket entry is timed.

Scenic Skyway cabin at Scenic World Katoomba passing over the Jamison Valley in the Blue Mountains — Scenic World is open every day of the year. (Image: Destination NSW)

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

Scenic World – a guide to visiting the nature-themed attraction