Kris, Dal, Ryan, and I took the train from Sydney out to Katoomba, a town in the eastern part of the Blue Mountains. From there, we could hop on and off the Explorer bus that stopped at various scenic spots and trailheads.  The Blue Mountains and Jamison Valley reminded us all of the Grand Canyon, though much greener, and slightly less grand.

First stop: Scenic World and the cable car
We took a cable car across the Jamison Valley to the steepest train in the world, bringing us down to the valley floor and an old mine.

Cable car between two cliff tops

Katoomba falls

Dal and Kris in front of the Three Sisters

Second stop: Honeymoon Lookout and the Prince Henry Cliff Walk

I had to convince Ryan to take this picture

Very picturesque lookouts from the cliff walk

Third stop: Leura cascades from the Bridal View lookout
      

Throughout the day, we were serenaded by these lovely guys, 7-year cicadas. Male cicadas can hit 120 dB while trying to attract mates!

(Written with editorial input from Ryan)