Pros & cons
PROS
- Sweeping Jamison Valley outlook with glimpses of Katoomba Falls
- Easy to fold into Furber Steps and Scenic World walking loops
CONS
- Steep stair approach that’s taxing on the return
- No facilities at the lookout itself
Overview
Furber Lookout is a simple, signposted viewpoint tucked along the steep Furber Steps track above the Jamison Valley. It’s not a big, built-out platform—more a classic pause point with a cracking vista—so think views and photographs, then keep moving. You reach it on concrete and rock stairs with handrails, descending from the escarpment near the Scenic World precinct.
What You’ll See
Expect wide, layered views over the Jamison Valley and rugged sandstone cliffs. Katoomba Falls is visible from nearby points along the same route, depending on vegetation and conditions. The approach threads through cool, ferny forest and escarpment overhangs, so the walk in feels as good as the view out.
Getting There & The Walk
The lookout sits on the Furber Steps, a steep, hand-built stairway that drops from the cliff line toward the valley floor. It’s close to junctions for other highlights like Katoomba Falls and Vera’s Grotto, and it slots neatly into short loops from Scenic World or longer circuits linking the valley base.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
This is one of the better mid-descent viewpoints for a valley panorama and waterfall context, without committing to a full-day hike. It’s a natural breather on the way down—or the morale boost you need on the grind back up.
Best Time to Visit
Crowds ebb and flow with Scenic World’s busy periods and holidays, so aim for early morning or late afternoon for a quieter feel and softer light across the valley. Midday can be busier and harsher for photos; mornings often treat you to clean air and better contrast on the cliffs and falls.
Wildlife
Keep an eye (and ear) out for superb lyrebirds in the rainforest sections—this track is a good place to hear their mimicry, especially during quieter hours.
Amenities (or Lack Thereof)
There are no facilities at the lookout—no toilets, no water, no picnic tables. Treat it as a viewpoint on a bush track. Services live back at the Scenic World area or in town.
Practical Notes
The stairs are steep and sustained; descending is easier for many, while the climb back up will test your legs. Wear grippy footwear, pack water and a layer, and expect spray or damp rock near waterfall sections.
Where it is
-33.7294, 150.3029Tips for Furber Lookout
- 01Descend via Furber Steps if you prefer to save your legs—ascending is the hard part.
- 02Start early or go late to dodge peak crowds and catch kinder light.
- 03Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water; sections can be damp near the falls.
- 04Pause at the signed lookouts for the best angles on Katoomba Falls.
- 05Listen for lyrebirds in the rainforest stretches around the steps.
Amenities
Near Furber Lookout
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayFurber StepsSteep cliff-to-rainforest stairs with Jamison views and waterfallsChallenging · 1.4 mi · 1.5 hr
0 mi awayQueen Victoria LookoutShort walk to sweeping valley views above Empress FallsTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayJuliet's BalconyHidden balcony with the best Katoomba Falls viewScenic Viewpoint
0.1 mi awayScenic SkywayGlass-floor cable car over Jamison Valley with Three Sisters viewsTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayScenic WorldThrill rides to rainforest boardwalks with blockbuster valley viewsTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayPrince Henry Cliff walkIconic clifftop stroll from Katoomba to Leura with nonstop valley views.Moderate · 4.3 mi · 3.5 hr
0.2 mi awayScenic WalkwayElevated rainforest boardwalk with mining relics and lyrebirdsEasy · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayKatoomba Falls Round WalkCompact loop serving up Katoomba Falls from every angleModerate · 1.1 mi · 1 hr
