What should I wear to the Blue Mountains?

Not sure how to dress for a trip to the Blue Mountains? We’ve got you covered.

West of Sydney stand the spectacular Blue Mountains, a popular escape for locals and travellers alike. On offer are a range of walking trails, stunning lookouts, quaint country towns and fun attractions including Scenic World. It’s also home to some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled throughout your trip.

The Blue Mountains are great to visit anytime of the year, but the weather and temperature often differ from what Sydney is experiencing, so it can be hard to prepare for a visit from the city. Whether you are going for a day or planning a longer getaway, packing the right clothing will ensure you are comfortable and get the most enjoyment from your trip.

Below is our guide on what to wear for each season, but best thing to do is check the weather the day before you travel with a reliable online source to give you a rough idea what to expect and help you plan accordingly. No matter what the season, wear comfortable clothing, especially footwear, so you feel good as you travel to and explore the region. We also recommend carrying water and sunscreen no matter what time of the year you travel, because you are in Australia!

• Summer

  While temperatures in the summer are usually lower than in nearby Sydney, it can still get hot in the Blue Mountains. Wearing a long sleeved, light shirt made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo will protect you from the sun and keep you cool. Loose fitting trousers of a similar material are also good for protecting your legs from prickles and bushes that are dry from the summer heat. A hat at this time of the year is essential to protect your head and face from the strong summer sun.

  While many of the walking paths through the Blue Mountains are moderately easy and don’t require hiking boots, we still recommend wearing enclosed shoes like sneakers, rather than sandals or thongs. They will protect your feet and will be more comfortable as you meander along the walking trails.

• Autumn / Spring

  The weather during these seasons can be quite variable, so it’s definitely worth checking before you travel. Temperatures can vary wildly as you move from the valleys to the mountain tops and from shade to sun, so we recommend wearing layers that you can remove or add as needed. A light waterproof jacket will also protect you from the wind and rain.

• Winter

  June, July and August are the coldest months in the Blue Mountains, so be prepared to rug up. While snow is rare, it does occasionally occur, adding a special magic to the scenery as it covers the eucalypts in soft white powder. A good rain jacket, waterproof walking shoes, a beanie and a scarf will serve you well if you visit during this time. Layers are again useful, so you can remove them as you warm up while walking.

Related article: Which is the Best Blue Mountains Tour?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.