Blue Mountains Weekend

This is a very scenic tour and for 2026 it's going to be easier, as we're starting further up the mountains. Come for one or both days, or even part of one day. This is a great time of year to be in the Blue Mountains, with many of the cold climate gardens in full bloom. We'll take in lots of scenery, and some tea rooms.

Day 1 (Saturday) - approx 30 km
Meet at Wentworth Falls Station at 9.45am (train from Central departs 7.56 am arrives 9.39 am). We'll head down to Wentworth Falls Lookout, then have coffee at the Conservation Hut. After that we'll meander over to Leura, via Sublime Point, Gordon Falls and the Cascades, to a photo op (and maybe a drink) at the Three Sisters, checking out some of the area's gardens on the way. We'll then explore Katoomba's other lookouts, ride around the old Catalina Circuit, and, if time and interest, maybe head up to Medlow Bath via the Explorers Tree. Lunch will be in Leura or Katoomba (plenty of cafes or BYO).
Day 2 (Sunday) - 60km
An 8.30am start from outside the YHA will see us head all the way down to Penrith, via Lawson, Springwood, and Glenbrook. We drop 1000m in altitude so it's mostly (but not all!) downhill. Some of the roads are narrow. We'll pick up lunch at Lawson or Springwood and have a picnic at the scenic Lennox Bridge. Then it's a quick dash down to Penrith, from where there are regular trains.
Please note that about 10km of this ride is along the Great Western Highway with very fast flowing and sometimes erratic traffic. There is a good shoulder for most (but not all) of the way. There are a couple of tricky sections and great care is required (but it's fun).

Accommodation in Katoomba - this is "do it yourself". In the past people have stayed at the YHA however there are plenty of other options in Katoomba.

Dinner Saturday night - to be confirmed but probably at Family Hotel Katoomba. Menu : https://www.katoombahotel.com.au/eatdrink.

Please note there are no flat roads in the Upper Blue Mountains and you will need good gears and legs, or have an e-bike.

Saturday will be a relaxed pace to enjoy the area. The entire route is OFF the highway.

Sunday is only suitable for fit riders very confident in traffic.

You will need to carry water, repair kit, your personal possessions, and be prepared for any weather. There are bail out points along the route on Sunday.

Ride will be cancelled if very hot or wet, or there is unexpected track work, so please make sure you have a flexible accommodation booking.

This ride is for Bike Leichhardt financial members only.