OUTDOOR

Bush Trackers have a wonderful list of child friendly bushwalks which include maps designed by children with extra information and questions to add to the adventure. The maps are beautifully illustrated by local children, include information such as how many Kms, intensity of track, how many hours return walk, even history of the area. These tracks are tried and tested for walking with children.

MORE INFO:http://www.bushtrackers.com.au/guides-maps

Please consider also taking a quick survey about your experience with the Bush Tracker maps:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BushTrackers

One of the blue Mountains most popular tourist venues, scenic world definitely has the most beautiful views of our beloved mountains. You can ride on the worlds steepest railway down into the valley where a walkway will show you around a variety of displays, and travel up and down by cableway as an alternative. Or you can float over the valley in the skyway and take in the 360 degree views- which are breathtaking.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Cnr Violet St and Cliff Dr Katoomba
TIME: 9am-5pm most days but check website to confirm
COST: See website for ticket prices
MORE INFO: www.scenicworld.com.au

When Rhododendron season is upon us in October November, this garden is a rainbow of colour. Beautiful grounds with winding pathways- suitable for children to walk. Little bridges over small waterways, grassy areas to picnic and relax, make it a delightful exploration of nature.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Bacchante St Blackheath
TIME: 9am-5pm
COST: Gold coin donation at car park
MORE INFO: www.rhodogarden.org.au

Glenbrook National Park has many bushwalks, camping sites and picnic areas available as well as a few watering holes. Jelly bean pool is a popular spot to bring children with its small beaches to sit on and shallow areas to paddle in.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Glenbrook National Park, Bruce Rd Glenbrook (entry at top car park)
TIME: 8.30-6pm
COST: Charges for Parking in national Park.
MORE INFO: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/jellybeantrack/

One of the most beautiful Gardens you’ll see with spectacular views from the on site restaurant, this is a great place to ring your children. There is an exhibition in the visitors building that features a variety of interesting and tactile education, a restaurant on site that is welcome to children, and a shuttle us that can take you on a garden tour at certain times throughout the day. While the gardens themselves are beautiful to explore- ask about the latest guided adventure for children that will help them search and find some of the gardens treasures and learn about the ecosystem they are exploring.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Bells Line of Road Mt Tomah
TIME: 9-5.30 weekdays, 9.30-5.30 weekends
COST: Free admission, check charges for additional childrens guides.
MORE INFO: www.bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au

Jenolan Caves is a maze of spectacular rock and mineral formations. Different caves for different levels of skill with a tour guide taking you through so you get the best out of your exploration. There are bushwalks also on the grounds where you are likely to see some of our native bush wildlife which is always a treat.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: 4655 Jenolan Caves Rd, Jenolan Caves
TIME: 9am-5pm, check website for cave tour times.
COST: Check website for tour costs.
MORE INFO: www.jenolancaves.org.au

Mt Wilson and Mt Irvine is a beautiful destination. Many gardens to explore, camping and picnic grounds and even chestnut and walnut picking for a bit of fun.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Mt Wilson, off Bells Line of Rd
TIME: Gardens open at various times
COST: Most gardens have an admission fee
MORE INFO: www.mtwilson.com.au

A stroll along formal European-style terraces and winding paths will reveal the many moods of Everglades, from the tranquil Reflection Pool amongst towering trees from all over the world, to the subtle charms of the lookout and contemplative Grotto Pool. You will also enjoy the surprise unveiling of vistas through to Mt Solitary and the Jamison Valley. Then come visit and enjoy Everglades’ Tea Rooms and gift shop, or picnic in the beautifully landscaped, spacious grounds.

WHEN: Open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day
WHERE: 37 Everglades Avenue, Leura
TIME: March-September 10-4, October-February 10-5
COST: See website for admission costs
MORE INFO: www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/everglades-house-gardens/

Located on the beautiful Memorial Park grounds is blackheath pool. Open during the warmer season it offers a 25m lap pool and toddler pool for children.

WHEN: Open every day during warmer months November- March (check dates)
WHERE: Prince Edward St Blackheath
TIME: 7am-6pm weekdays 9.30-6.30 weekends
COST: Check website for entry fee
MORE INFO: www.bmleisurecentres.com.au/centres-/blackheath-pool

A lovely outdoor pool in the lower mountains that also has a covered therapy pool and toddler play pool as well as playground area.

WHEN: Open every day
WHERE: Cnr Fletcher and Wascoe St Glenbrook
TIME: check website for entry times as they change seasonally
COST: Check website for entry fee
MORE INFO: www.bmleisurecentres.com.au/centres-/glenbrook-swim-centre

A lovely outdoor pool in mid Mountains. A covered therapy pool and toddler pool for children as well as a 50m lap pool. There is also play equipment on the grounds.

WHEN: Open every day in warmer months Septemer- April (check website for opening times)
WHERE: St Bernards Dr Lawson
TIME: check website for entry times as they change seasonally
COST: Check website for entry fee
MORE INFO: www.bmleisurecentres.com.au/centres-/lawson-swim-centre/

There are a few farms up in Bilpin where you and the kids can enjoy picking your own fruit in season. Good idea to check the websites to see what fruit is in season and when the farms are open to the public.

MORE INFO: www.bilpinfruitbowl.com.au, www.pinecrestorchard.com.au, bilpinspringsorchard.com.au