Empress Falls

1.3km: Empress Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. It’s also one of the most popular. KEY POINTS Length: 1.3km return Elevation: 100m Grade: Easy to follow, but those stairs are a moderate climb back up the hill Best Season: Year Round Suitable for kids: Yes Dog friendly: No Park here: https://w3w.co/convening.demeaning.form Because this area sees a lot of foot traffic, the trails are well-maintained and clearly signposted. Normally, on a clear day, you’d catch glimpses of the valley through the trees. BACKSTORY: Empress Falls was named in the late 19th century during the reign of Queen Victoria, who was also crowned Empress of India in 1877. The waterfall’s name honours her title, reflecting common colonial naming practices of the era. Empress Falls Canyon was one of the earliest sites in the Blue Mountains to be set aside as a recreation reserve, which happened in the 1870s. The short, steep walk to the falls has been maintained for public use and is part of the National Pass and Valley of the Waters walking network, both of which were constructed in the early 1900s by teams such as the 'Irish Brigade,' who famously worked with hand tools to carve these cliff-hugging paths. More info: www.hikeyourstory.com/blogs/news/empress-falls Photo: Melissa Ellison