Pros & cons
PROS
- Super short detour from Katoomba Falls Reserve
- Quirky “witch’s face” rock beside a seasonal waterfall
- Easy to bundle into the Katoomba Falls Round Walk
CONS
- Waterfall is often a trickle in dry weather
- Views are modest compared to the big-name lookouts nearby
Overview
Witches Leap Lookout is a quick, rewarding stop tucked off the Katoomba Falls Round Walk. It’s a small perch above the start of the Kedumba Valley, best known for the Witches Leap waterfall and the fun rock profile that resembles a witch’s face. Think of it as a characterful side stop rather than a grand panorama.
What You’ll See
You’re here for the waterfall and the quirky rock formation. After rain, the cascade wakes up and the witch’s profile stands out beside the flow. On the broader circuit around Katoomba Falls, you can also snag glimpses of Katoomba Falls and, farther afield, the Three Sisters, but this specific lookout is about the close-in drama more than sweeping valley vistas.
Getting There & Track
Reach it via the well-made, well-signposted Katoomba Falls Round Walk from Katoomba Falls Reserve. It’s less than 10 minutes on foot from parking, with a short descent to the lookout. You can pop down and back, or fold it into a longer circuit with other viewpoints. Some cliff edges nearby are unfenced—keep sensible distance.
Best Time to Visit
Go after rainfall if you can—the falls are most impressive then. Weekends can be busier thanks to proximity to Katoomba’s marquee sights; early morning or late afternoon helps dodge the hubbub. Light is softest then too, which flatters the sandstone and makes the rock “face” easier to pick out.
Wildlife
This is classic Blue Mountains bushland, so expect the usual chorus: lyrebirds, cockatoos, and brush turkeys are all possible along the track. It’s not a wildlife hotspot, but keep your ears tuned on the quieter stretches.
Facilities
There are no facilities at the lookout itself. Parking and toilets are at Katoomba Falls Reserve, a short walk away. Bring your own water.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re already doing the Katoomba Falls circuit, yes—this is a quick, characterful add-on that shines after rain. If you’re chasing epic valley views, you’ll find bigger drama at the major lookouts; here, the waterfall and the witchy rock are the stars.
Where it is
-33.7270, 150.3029Tips for Witches Leap Lookout
- 01Time your visit for after rain to see the falls at their best
- 02Wear shoes with grip—steps and rock can be slick when wet
- 03Fold it into the Katoomba Falls Round Walk to make it a worthwhile detour
- 04Bring water; there are no taps at the lookout
- 05Go early or late to avoid the Katoomba crowds
Amenities
Near Witches Leap Lookout
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayWitches LeapShaded gully falls with a witch's face in the rock
0 mi awayOrphan Rock LookoutShort walk to a quiet perch facing iconic Orphan RockScenic Viewpoint
0 mi awayOrphan RockHistoric sandstone spire best seen from Reid’s PlateauScenic Viewpoint · Parking
0.1 mi awayPrince Henry picnic areaHandy picnic spot at Katoomba Falls with birds and track accessTrailhead · Restroom
0.2 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 awayFurber StepsSteep cliff-to-rainforest stairs with Jamison views and waterfallsChallenging · 1.4 mi · 1.5 hr
0.2 mi awayKatoomba Falls Round WalkCompact loop serving up Katoomba Falls from every angleModerate · 1.1 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayScenic WalkwayElevated rainforest boardwalk with mining relics and lyrebirdsEasy · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
