Our first morning in the Blue Mountains we asked the proprietress of our hostel for a good hiking recommendation. She suggested we drive a short distance to the National Pass Trail trailhead. We met up with two Germans we befriended the night before and set off.

After a kilometer or so, we stopped to chat with an Australian couple who was very familiar with the hiking trails in the area. They warned us that we were in store for a long and arduous hike. They also let us know that we initially took the wrong trail and added a few extra kilometers to the route. Oops! We decided to ignore their warning and press on. I’m glad we did. Although the trail was a bit strenuous at times (tallest outdoor staircase in Australia), it was nothing we couldn’t handle.

The National Pass Trail takes you through forests, past waterfalls, and up to lookouts, all while walking along the side of the gorge walls. It’s difficult to explain just how impressive the hiking route is. I guess you’ll just have to trust me!

Along the way we spotted several parrots, cockatoos, and other unidentifiable birds.

The making of the trail is quite interesting as well. It was built between 1906-1907 using picks, shovels, crowbars, and dynamite. (Some of the work was supposedly completed using a Bosun’s chair, eep!). Certain points of the trail showcase old photographs of the trail’s construction and early hikers. It’s hard to believe that people used to hike in suits and long dresses. I can’t imagine. Thank goodness for yoga pants.

Hiking the National Pass Trail was definitely a highlight of our time in Australia. Now I just wish I could hike every other trail in the area, but that might take some time and true devotion.

xo, jill