Lapstone

Lapstone is a residential township at the eastern edge of the Blue Mountains, NSW, famed for its railway heritage, natural setting, and historic significance as the first mountain village on Cox’s Road.​ History Lapstone sits on Dharug land and served as a seasonal Aboriginal campsite near the Nepean River for millennia. European history began with the passage of Blaxland, Lawson, and Wentworth in 1813 and the construction of Cox’s Road by convicts in 1815; a plaque marking the historic road can be found off Governor Drive. The area was known for the Lapstone Zig Zag Railway (built 1867), a pioneering engineering feat for railways in NSW. The development of Lapstone as a suburb started in the 1950s, with further expansion following the opening of Lapstone railway station in 1964.​ Population Lapstone’s population is modest, with 948 residents recorded in the 2021 census—a close-knit community defined by residential housing and bushland surrounds.​ Attractions Local attractions include the heritage-listed Lapstone Zig Zag walking trail, the historic Lapstone Tunnel (used as RAAF storage in WWII) which is not open yet, and the scenic Darks Common bushland reserve. Lapstone is a popular starting point for mountain walks, with views over Glenbrook Gorge and access to Governor Drive historic sites.