Govetts Leap Lookout in the Blackheath area is one of the most well-known vantage points in the Blue Mountains, offering panoramic views across the Grose Valley.
The lookout is easily accessible and a good place to take in the scale of the surrounding cliffs and wilderness without having to walk far.
| Govetts Leap Lookout | |
|---|---|
| Walk: | 50 metres from car park |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Picnic facilities: | Yes |
| Toilet facilities: | Yes |
| Wheel-friendly: | Yes |
| Dog-friendly: | No |
| Map: | Google Maps |
Getting There
To get there, drive along the Great Western Highway to Blackheath and turn onto Govetts Leap Road at the main traffic lights in town.
Follow this road to the end – it’s about 2.5 km – where you’ll find a purpose-built and spacious car park for the lookout.
If travelling by train, you can get off at Blackheath Station and catch a bus to the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, which is a short walk from the lookout.
About Govetts Leap Lookout
Govetts Leap Lookout sits at the edge of a cliff, with a large viewing platform that looks out over the deep Grose Valley.
The viewing platform is wheelchair-accessible, and there are sealed paths leading to the picnic tables and toilets next to the car park.
The lookout was named after William Govett, a surveyor and painter who was the first European settler to visit this area.
According to the large plaque at the viewing platform, he discovered this beautiful spot back in 1831, nearly two centuries ago.
One of the highlights at the lookout is the 180-metre Govetts Leap waterfall, which drops from the cliff into the valley below. The word “leap” means waterfall in old Scottish dialect.
Interestingly, this waterfall is also referred to as Bridal Veil Falls, which is confusing because there is another Bridal Veil Falls in the Leura area.
The Blue Mountains Heritage Centre is also nearby and provides helpful information about the area. You can walk there via the wheelchair-accessible, 1.8 km Fairfax Heritage Walk, which also passes the stunning George Phillips Lookout.
Alternatively, you can also stop there on your way to the lookout, as it’s located along the same road.
Walks Nearby
Several walks begin at or near the lookout.
The Fairfax Heritage Walk that we mentioned above is a short, easy option suitable for all visitors, including those using wheelchairs and prams.
The Cliff Top Track leads to Evans Lookout, following the edge of the escarpment, passing the Barrow Lookout and the top of the waterfall. Once you’ve reached Evans Lookout, you can continue hiking along the popular Grand Canyon Walk.
These trails, and others, are well-signed and offer a good variety of hiking options depending on your experience and energy levels.
28 Hidden Lookouts in the Blue Mountains
Grab our ebook and discover 28 scenic and secluded lookouts in the Blue Mountains, where you can enjoy the views without the crowds.
