Distance brings to mind outlooks for me, looking over vast stretches of land or sea. There are many scenic outlooks across the Blue Mountains, and although access to them is currently limited, here are some photos I’ve taken from some of the more popular spots.

View from Govett's Leap lookout at Blackheath
View from Govett’s Leap lookout at Blackheath

Govett’s Leap lookout at Blackheath is one of the most famous lookouts with spectacular views over the Grose Valley. There is a waterfall nearby, plunging down into the valley, and looking out across towards the horizon is a beautiful and humbling experience.

Evans Lookout at Blackheath
Evans Lookout at Blackheath

Evans Lookout is also at Blackheath, and it also offers beautiful views of the Grose Valley. I’ve been there on sunset and it is an amazing experience. I can still remember the huge expanse of trees as far as the eye could see, with only a small flock of sulphur-crested cockatoos breaking up the green outlook with their white wings and rowdy calls as the day faded.

Three Sisters, Echo Point

The most famous lookout in the mountains would have to be the Three Sisters at Echo Point, near Katoomba. This photo was taken way back when I was first thinking of moving to the mountains. I could hardly believe what I was seeing, and that sense of wonder stays with me still.

The photo at the top of the post is taken at Cahill’s Lookout at Katoomba. There is a viewing platform offering beautiful views over the Megalong Valley. The Jamison Valley is in the distance, and there is a rock formation known as the Boar’s Head in the foreground. This is one of several views available along Cliff Drive at Katoomba.

Spending time looking into the distance helps me to find some perspective, and creates space to watch and wonder. When was the last time you lost yourself looking into the distance?

Inspired by Discover Prompts – April writing prompts