Distant views, stone steps hewn into the side of the sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, ferny grottos and swimming holes all combine to justify the reputation of the National Pass as one of the Blue Mountain's classic walks. The only downside is the popularity of the track — it's hard to experience wilderness with twenty earnest backpackers trudging past. Go early in the day, or if you can, midweek outside school hols, to enjoy this walk at its best.

Grade: Medium

Time: 3 hours

Distance: 4.8 kilometres circuit

Ascent/Descent: 210 metres descent, 210 metres ascent

Weather: All conditions, even a delight in mist and rain

Closest public transport: Local bus 685 runs past the corner of Fletcher St and Falls Rd, 500 metres from the picnic area.

For more track notes, plus a full map of this walk, refer to Blue Mountains Best Bushwalks, published by Woodslane Press and available from Lamdha Books in Wentworth Falls village, or online via http://www.woodslane.com.au.