Quick Picks – Editor’s Choice Hikes Across Australia
Best Epic Adventure: Overland Track (Tasmania)
The Overland Track is Australia’s premier multi-day adventure. Spanning 65–80 km through Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, this 6-day route showcases glacial lakes, alpine meadows, ancient rainforests, and rugged peaks. Backcountry huts provide shelter, and bookings ensure conservation and access control. Ranked #1 by multiple experts and acclaimed as the “pinnacle of multi-day hikes in Australia” (surveyed by AustralianTraveller and AllTrails 2025).
Best for Beginners: Grand Canyon Track (Blue Mountains, NSW)
Ideal for new hikers and families, the Grand Canyon Track is a lush 6.3 km Grade 3 loop winding through Blue Mountains rainforest, sandstone gorges, and waterfalls. The well-maintained, year-round trail is accessible by public transport from Sydney. This trail is ranked as AllTrails’ #1 in Australia (2024–2025), with consistently high beginner satisfaction.
Most Instagrammable: Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (South Australia)
This 61 km, 5-day coastal walk combines sweeping sea cliffs, iconic features like Remarkable Rocks, Kelly Hill Caves, and abundant wildlife (sea lions, echidnas, rare birds). Major upgrades and a new guided “Great Walk” launching in 2026 increase both visual appeal and accessibility. Consistently featured in top-photo lists and trending social media tags.
Hidden Gem: Larapinta Trail (Northern Territory)
Larapinta Trail is a remote, 230 km outback epic along the West MacDonnell Ranges, recognized as one of the world’s finest desert treks. Section hikes are possible, with segments revealing ancient Aboriginal cultural sites, gorges, and striking red escarpments. Less crowded than coastal icons, it’s praised as a multi-day “bucket list” hike for 2024 by international reviewers and Indigenous tourism operators.
Interactive Map – Find & Plan Your Best Australian Hike
How to Use the Map Tool
Access our interactive hike map to filter Australia’s top trails by location, length, difficulty, and points of interest. Zoom, select pins for full trail details, and export routes to your GPS or mobile. Designed to make planning intuitive and data-driven.
Quick Filter: Distance, Difficulty, State, and Scenery
- Distance: Short (< 10 km), Moderate (10–20 km), Long (20+ km)
- Difficulty: Easy, Moderate, Challenging
- State: NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, NT, TAS, ACT
- Scenery: Coastal, Rainforest, Alpine, Outback
The Top 15 Best Hikes in Australia for Every Type of Adventurer
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Hike #1 – Grand Canyon Track (Blue Mountains, NSW)
Difficulty: Moderate (Grade 3)
Distance: 6.3 km loop
Highlights: Rainforest, sandstone canyons, waterfalls
Best Time: Year-round (early morning for solitude) -
Hike #2 – Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk (Sydney, NSW)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Distance: 12 km
Highlights: Ocean views, beaches, rock pools
Best Time: September–May -
Hike #3 – Overland Track (Tasmania)
Difficulty: Challenging (multi-day)
Distance: 65–80 km, 6 days
Highlights: Cradle Mountain, alpine lakes, endemic wildlife, huts
Best Time: October–May (permit required) -
Hike #4 – Larapinta Trail (West MacDonnell Ranges, NT)
Difficulty: Very Challenging (sectional options)
Distance: Up to 230 km, 12–20 days
Highlights: Desert sunsets, waterholes, Aboriginal sites
Best Time: April–September -
Hike #5 – Three Capes Track (Tasmania)
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Distance: 48 km, 4 days
Highlights: Coastal cliffs, sea vistas, new architect-designed huts
Best Time: Year-round, limited bookings -
Hike #6 – Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (SA)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 61 km, 5 days
Highlights: Coastal landforms, wildlife
Best Time: March–November (mild temperatures) -
Hike #7 – Bibbulmun Track (WA)
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Distance: 1,000 km (section hikes available)
Highlights: Karri forests, beaches, shelters
Best Time: March–November -
Hike #8 – Jatbula Trail (NT)
Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
Distance: 62 km, 5–6 days
Highlights: Sandstone plateaus, waterfalls, Indigenous rock art
Best Time: June–August (cool, dry) -
Hike #9 – Aussie 10 Walk (Kosciuszko NP, NSW)
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 44.7 km, 3 days
Highlights: Australia’s 10 highest peaks
Best Time: December–March -
Hike #10 – Mount Lofty Loop (SA)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.8 km loop
Highlights: Adelaide views, waterfalls, wildlife
Best Time: April–October -
Hike #11 – St. Mary Peak (Flinders Ranges, SA)
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 14.6 or 21 km
Highlights: Outback landscapes, panoramic mountain views
Best Time: April–October -
Hike #12 – Mount Gingera Summit Walk (ACT)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 15–22 km
Highlights: Subalpine wilderness, valley views
Best Time: November–April -
Hike #13 – Enoggera Reservoir Circuit (QLD)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Distance: 5–12 km (variable circuits)
Highlights: Water views, birdlife, picnic areas
Best Time: May–October -
Hike #14 – Whistlepipe Gully (WA)
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.5 km
Highlights: Streams, wildflowers (in season), heritage ruins
Best Time: August–October -
Hike #15 – Australian Alps Walking Track (VIC–NSW–ACT)
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Distance: 655 km (section hikes possible)
Highlights: Alpine meadows, snow gums, wilderness camping
Best Time: November–March
Underrated Australian Trails You’ve Probably Missed
Remote Wonders Off the Beaten Path
- Carnarvon Gorge (QLD): Sandstone gorges and Aboriginal rock art, moderate 19.4 km hike.
- Yellow Arrow Walk (QLD): 1.5 km forest climb with Cairns city views, lightly trafficked.
Local Favorites and Community-Recommended Walks
- Beach to Beach Riverside Walk (QLD): Urban-to-nature path popular with locals for short day hikes.
- Glen Lomond Park (QLD): Woodlands and hill climbs for a crowd-free trail day.
Most Accessible Hikes for All Abilities
- Centenary Lakes Nature Trail (QLD): Boardwalk suitable for wheelchairs and prams, abundant wildlife.
- Mount Franklin Walk (VIC): Short 1.5 km crater circuit, accessible parking, educational signage.
Indigenous Insights – Hiking with Respect on Sacred Country
Recognizing Traditional Landowners
Every Australian hike takes place on traditional Aboriginal lands. Before hiking, research the Traditional Owners (e.g., Gundungurra and Darug for Blue Mountains, Arrernte for West MacDonnell Ranges), acknowledge their stewardship, and be mindful of posted cultural guidance.
Trails with Indigenous Cultural Significance
- Larapinta Trail (NT): Crosses Arrernte Country, passes sacred sites and art, guided bush tucker walks available via local Indigenous operators.
- K’gari Great Walk (QLD): Learn Butchulla stories through area interpretive panels, with Indigenous-run tours recommended.
Practical Tips for Hiking in Australia in 2024
Packing Essentials and Seasonal Gear Guide
- Water (2–4L/day), sun protection, map/compass or GPS, snacks, and layers for variable weather.
- In alpine and desert hikes, add a thermal layer, rain jacket, and emergency bivvy shelter.
- Purchase technical gear from trusted retailers: Wild Earth, Bogong.
Safety, Wildlife, and Emergency Tips
- Register for remote hikes with park authorities.
- Check daily fire danger ratings and weather. Download apps such as Emergency+ and state-specific fire alert apps.
- Be aware of wildlife (snakes, spiders, dingoes) and carry a basic first aid kit.
Leave No Trace: How to Adventure Sustainably
- Pack out all rubbish and food scraps.
- Stick to marked trails and respect trail closures for ecosystem regeneration.
- Respect wildlife and never feed native animals.
Planning Your Trip – Logistics, Permits, and Accommodation
Best Times to Hike Around Australia
- Southeast (NSW, VIC, TAS): October–April for mild, stable weather.
- Outback & Northern Australia: May–September (cooler, fewer storms).
Trail Access & Permits Explained
- Many iconic walks require permits (e.g. Overland Track – apply months in advance via Parks Tasmania).
- Multi-day trails often require online booking for campsites or huts. Check official park websites for current rules and closures.
Nearby Stays and Campsites
- National park campsites: Book early, especially for school holidays (Reserve NSW Parks).
- Consider eco-lodges near trailheads for comfort and early starts.
FAQ – Everything to Know About Hiking in Australia
- Is hiking in Australia safe? Yes, with preparation and respect for local conditions. Extreme weather and remote areas demand care.
- Do I need bushwalking permits? Only for select multi-day or high-demand trails. Always check park authority websites.
- When is wildfire season? December–March (south), June–October (north). Plan accordingly.
- Are trails well marked? Most major walks are clearly signed. Bring a map or GPS for alpine, desert, or lesser-used routes.
- Can I hike with children or limited mobility? Many short or paved trails cater to all abilities. Research access details in advance.
- Best gear for Australian trails? Sturdy boots, sun hat, breathable clothes, insect repellent, emergency beacon for solo or remote walks.
- Top resources? Download AllTrails for navigation and reviews. Review Australia.com Hiking Guides for official updates.
Ready to find your perfect adventure? Explore, compare, and book permits or gear now—your next unforgettable hike is waiting.