Govetts Leap is the closest and most easily accessible of the spots I’ve visited to Blackheath Station and Wentworth Street. Starting from Wentworth Street, you simply follow Govetts Leap Road north to the very end—about 3 km away, a 5-minute drive or roughly a 40-minute walk. At the site, there are parking spaces, picnic areas, public toilets, and a large viewing platform. The lookout, car park, and facilities have recently been upgraded, with the original gravel surfaces replaced by concrete and asphalt, and the railings renewed. From the viewing platform, the panoramic scenery opens up immediately, with the waterfall visible on the right side. There are also multiple walking tracks for hiking enthusiasts. For example, heading right along the Cliff Top Track leads to Barrow Lookout, and further on to Evans Lookout.
Govetts Leap
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Govetts Leap
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Govetts Leap famous?
Govetts Leap is one of the Blue Mountains' most iconic lookouts, famous for its dramatic 180-metre single-drop waterfall plunging into the Grose Valley and its sweeping wilderness views. The site has been a major tourist drawcard since the 1800s and was named after surveyor William Romaine Govett who explored the area in the 1830s.
Can you swim at Govetts Leap?
No. Govetts Leap is a lookout viewing a 180m waterfall dropping into Grose Valley; no swimming access at the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Govetts Leap?
Dogs are not permitted in Blue Mountains National Park, including Govetts Leap area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Govetts Leap free? Do you need a permit?
Free entry. Govetts Leap is in Blue Mountains National Park but no vehicle entry fee applies at this location. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Govetts Leap?
Free parking available at Govetts Leap car park, directly adjacent to the lookout (accessible walk less than 100 metres). Parking capacity is moderate; can fill on weekends and holidays. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Govetts Leap?
Roadside/no hike required – the main Govetts Leap lookout is approximately 50-100 metres paved/accessible path from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Govetts Leap hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike) – the main lookout platform is wheelchair-accessible via a short paved path from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Govetts Leap?
Winter to spring (June–October) for best waterflow after rain, though the lookout offers views year-round. Autumn (March–May) also provides pleasant weather. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Govetts Leap
From the car park, follow the short paved path to the main Govetts Leap lookout platform for views of the 180m waterfall and Grose Valley. Additional walking tracks branch from this area, including the Cliff Top Track westward to Evans Lookout (3 hours one-way) and eastward to Pulpit Rock. The main lookout viewing platform is the closest safe vantage point; the waterfall itself is not accessible.
Govetts Leap official website
Attractions near Govetts Leap
- •Evans Lookout – clifftop views of Grose Valley and Grand Canyon, 5 min drive south
- •Pulpit Rock Lookout – panoramic Blue Mountains views, short walk from car park
- •Grand Canyon Track – renowned 6.3 km loop walk through rainforest and slot canyon
- •Bridal Veil Falls – seasonal cascade viewable from Govetts Leap lookout across the valley
- •Blackheath town centre – cafes, shops, heritage walks, 2 km from lookout
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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