Ballast Pit

Katoomba started out in the 1860's as the site of a quarry and rock-crushing plant, used to produce railway ballast, & hence became known as The Crushers. At around the same time, the Glen Shale Mine commenced below Narrow Neck. The opening of additional shale & coal mines led to the development of a network of mining tramlines, a small portion of which remains as the Katoomba Scenic Railway.

Tourist Capital

The Katoomba - Leura region has since developed into the tourist capital of the Blue Mountains, offering spectacular views over the rugged wilderness of the southern Blue Mountains National Park, and a variety of galleries, specialty shops, restaurants and accommodation ranging from backpackers hostels to luxury resorts.

Circuit buses connect the railway station with many attractions; including the tourist information centre at Echo Point from where you can view the Three Sisters and access the Giant Stairway.

Getting off the road, the area has much to offer bushwalkers, rock climbers & mountain bike riders, including the opportunity to end some walks at the base of the Scenic Railway, a welcome relief for tired legs!