Hike to The Ruined Castle Blue Mountains (2024)

For an extensive period, the Ruined Castle Blue Mountains had occupied a prominent spot on my bucket list, beckoning with the promise of adventure. Numerous attempts to embark on the hike alongside friends had been thwarted by various circumstances, causing cancellations and postponements. However, a fortunate day finally arrived, marking the fulfillment of my aspiration to conquer the Ruined Castle, etching it as my cherished trek in the Blue Mountains. The journey’s allure lies in reaching the destination and the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Are you visiting the Blue Mountains for the first time? Then, read my post, Blue Mountains, as a first-timer.

The trail leading to the Ruined Castle unveils a picturesque landscape adorned with captivating paths and mesmerising rock formations. Each step unveils nature’s artistry, weaving beauty through the intricate patterns of the terrain. The rocks at the Ruined Castle stand as a witness to the passage of time, bearing the stories sketched into their weathered surfaces. This expedition, long envisioned and finally realised, has elevated the Ruined Castle to the pinnacle of my favourite hiking experiences, an example of the awe-inspiring wonders concealed within the heart of the Blue Mountains.

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About Ruined Castle Blue Mountains

Embarking on the hike to the Ruined Castle emerges as an unparalleled adventure amidst the enchanting landscapes of the Blue Mountains. Nestled within the Jamison Valley, the Ruined Castle stands as a captivating rock formation, enticing explorers with promises of breathtaking panoramas from its summit. The arduous journey unfolds with challenging ascents, presenting a test of physical stamina and determination.

As I ventured upward, the strenuous path demanded resilience, yet the allure of the impending views spurred me onward. However, despite my best efforts, the formidable challenge thwarted my completion of the final leg of the climb. Though I fell short of conquering the entirety of the ascent, the experience left an indelible mark on my memory, solidifying the hike to the Ruined Castle as one of my cherished excursions in the Blue Mountains.

Hikes to do in The Blue Mountains
Hike to Blackfellows Hand Cave
Glenbrook to Red Hands Cave Return Hike
The Grand Canyon Hike
Hike to Ruined Castle
Castle Head Walk
Six Foot Track
Govetts Leap to Pulpit Rock
Dantes Glen Loop Walk
Hanging Rock
Valley of the Waters Hike

The awe-inspiring vistas glimpsed along the way, and the sense of accomplishment derived from tackling the demanding terrain elevated this hike to prominence in my favourite walks, a testament to the unique allure and challenges that define the Ruined Castle trail.

• The up-to-date information on whether the track is open and any changes to the track can be found on the National Parks website.
• The cost to visit Ruined Castle is FREE.

How to Get to the Starting Point?

Commencing from Katoomba, the trail for this hike unfolds, and the most convenient transportation option for both embarking on the journey and returning lies in public transport. Given that the hike follows a linear route, with the starting point distinct from the finishing point, public transportation is the most straightforward method to navigate this one-way excursion.

Opting for public transport not only streamlines the logistical aspects of the journey but also aligns seamlessly with the trail’s design, eliminating the need for complex arrangements to retrieve vehicles from different locations. Therefore, for a hassle-free and eco-friendly approach to this hike, relying on public transportation serves as the optimal choice, enhancing the overall accessibility and enjoyment of the experience.

• By Public Transport:
  • Regular train services operate between Sydney Central Train Station and Katoomba Train Station, ensuring convenient connectivity for commuters.
  • For the latest and most accurate details, refer to the Transport for NSW (TfNSW) website, where up-to-date information on train schedules and related services is readily available.
  • To facilitate fare payment, you can use Opal or credit/debit cards when boarding the trains, providing a convenient and versatile payment method for a seamless journey.
• By Road:
  • Katoomba is approximately 100 kilometers from the Sydney Central Business District (CBD), with a driving time of approximately one hour and 30 minutes. Please be aware that the route includes toll roads.
  • For those opting to drive, street parking is accessible in the vicinity, and notably, it is free during the weekends. It’s important to note that the hiking trail culminates at Scenic World, which is approximately 3 kilometers away from Katoomba.
  • Buses from Scenic World to Katoomba are available to bridge this last stretch. However, many hikers opt to enhance their experience by walking the additional 3 kilometers, thus extending the hike and enjoying the natural surroundings instead of taking the bus directly to Katoomba.

Logistics of Hike to Ruined Castle Blue Mountains

Be sure to pack a day pack for the hike with ample drinking water and sunscreen. This is particularly beneficial when trekking in more isolated areas with limited facilities, as the day pack ensures you have essential provisions readily accessible throughout your journey.

• Starting Point: Katoomba.
• Finishing Point: Scenic World.
• Distance: 16.3 kilometers.
• Grade: Very hard.
• Path: Katoomba – Narrow Neck – Golden Stairs – Ruined Castle (return) – Scenic World.
• Type of Hike: Part of the track is returned (near Ruined Castle), and the finishing point ends differently than the starting point.

Important Tip: Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes for the hike. The hike is very hard, and wearing a good pair of shoes makes a lot of difference.

Safety for Solo Female Hikers

I do not recommend embarking on a solo hike to the Ruined Castle. As a standard precaution, it is advisable to have a hiking companion when exploring bush areas. The trail is isolated, and it is uncommon to encounter many hikers along this route. Therefore, ensuring you have at least one other person accompanying you for any unexpected situations that may arise during the hike is crucial.

Closing Notes

As previously highlighted, this day hike to the Ruined Castle Blue Mountains stands out as one of the most gratifying experiences I have encountered. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to the Ruined Castle, and without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend undertaking this hike. The captivating rocks and the scenic trail contribute to a stunning landscape, making the effort to reach the peak worthwhile.

Also, read

• Hikes in Blue Mountains