Pros & cons
PROS
- Dramatic, fenced cliff-edge viewpoint over the Valley of the Waters
- Easy, signed walk from Conservation Hut with nearby waterfalls to combine
CONS
- Waterfall views are mostly obscured by trees
- Can be busy on weekends; steep stairs can be slippery after rain
Overview
Empress Lookout is a small, signposted platform perched on a cliff edge above the Valley of the Waters at Wentworth Falls. It’s the first payoff on the popular Valley of the Waters network and pairs naturally with Queen Victoria Lookout and the nearby cascades of Empress and Sylvia Falls.
What You’ll See
- Intimate views down into the lush Valley of the Waters and across to the broader Jamison Valley.
- The sound of Empress Falls below, though the waterfall itself is largely hidden by trees from the lookout.
- A classic Blue Mountains cliff-and-canyon scene without committing to a long hike.
Why It’s Worth It
This lookout feels close to the action—right on the cliff edge—with a moody, rainforest backdrop. It’s a quick win if you’re starting from Conservation Hut and want a taste of valley drama without a big day out, and it slots perfectly into a short loop that also visits Queen Victoria Lookout and the nearby falls.
Getting There
Start from Conservation Hut and follow the Valley of the Waters track. Expect steps and a short, straightforward walk to reach the fenced platform. There’s no road access or facilities at the lookout itself—everything (parking, toilets, café) is up at Conservation Hut.
Crowd Factor
This area is popular, especially on fine weekends. You can usually find quieter moments early or late in the day, or in misty weather when the valley feels extra atmospheric.
Conditions and Cautions
The track network includes metal staircases and steep sections that feel exposed to some visitors. Surfaces can be slick after rain—good shoes matter, and take it slow on the descent toward the falls if you continue past the lookout.
Wildlife
Birdlife is active around the valley edges and in the rainforest below. Your best chances of seeing or hearing resident birds are in the early morning or late afternoon when the track is quieter.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
- Misty or post-rain conditions add a moody, rainforest feel—just watch the steps.
- Weekdays tend to be calmer than weekends.
Make It a Mini-Adventure
Visit Queen Victoria Lookout for a broader panorama, then drop to Empress and Sylvia Falls if you’re up for a steeper, wetter descent. It’s a compact, rewarding sampler of the area.
Where it is
-33.7210, 150.3597Tips for Empress Lookout
- 01Start from Conservation Hut; it’s the simplest and signed approach.
- 02Pair it with Queen Victoria Lookout for a wider panorama in minutes.
- 03Go early or late for fewer people and gentler, more photogenic light.
- 04Expect stairs and wet, slippery sections if you continue to the falls.
- 05If heights worry you, preview the stair sections before committing further.
Amenities
Near Empress Lookout
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayEmpress FallsShaded slot‑canyon falls with a chilly plunge pool and abseilers
0.1 mi awayValley of the Waters LookoutCliff-edge valley views and a gateway to waterfall walksTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayLyrebird LookoutCompact lookout, big Jamison Valley views via a short loopScenic Viewpoint · Restroom
0.2 mi awayConservation Hut CafeCafe with huge valley views and trailheads at the doorTrailhead · Restroom
0.2 mi awayValley of the Waters trackA stair-heavy rainforest plunge with nonstop Blue Mountains waterfalls.Moderate · 2.1 mi · 2 hr
0.2 mi awayHippocrene Falls TrackRemote Blue Mountains plunge-pool waterfalls for seasoned hikersChallenging · 5.8 mi · 5.5 hr
0.2 mi awayNature TrackShort loop with rainforest magic, cascades, and a punchy stair climbModerate · 2 mi · 2 hr
0.2 mi awayVera Falls walking trackRemote, rough descent to towering falls—reward for the skilledChallenging · 3.3 mi · 3.5 hr
