The 12 Most Exciting Hikes to Experience in Australia

Bushwalking (the Australian term for 'hiking') is incredibly popular in Australia, featuring thousands of kilometers of trails winding through its national parks and wild areas, from coastal regions to the outback. These trails are great for spotting native wildlife and often pass through culturally and historically significant landscapes, complete with relics and informative markers that provide captivating insights into Australia’s unique ecology and its 65,000 years of human history.

The ideal time to lace up your hiking boots in Australia varies by region; outback hikes are best enjoyed during the cooler winter months (April–October), while Tasmania and the Australian Alps are more popular for summer hiking (November–March). As you head north, the climate becomes hotter, making the May–October dry season the best time for hiking in northern Australia.

From picturesque day hikes to epic multi-week adventures, these are some of the top trails to explore in Australia.

1. Overland Track (Tasmania)

Top Multi-Day Wilderness Hike 65km (40 miles), 5-7 days, moderate difficulty

Spanning five to seven days, the stunning alpine Overland Track in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is Australia's most renowned multi-day wilderness trek, showcasing extraordinary World Heritage-listed landscapes.

The well-marked trail winds through valleys instead of summiting peaks, making the Overland an attainable independent adventure for experienced hikers with moderate fitness. There are a limited number of dormitory beds available at seven hiking huts along the route on a first-come, first-served basis, so independent hikers must bring a tent, cooking gear, and food for the entire trek. For a more comfortable experience, Tasmanian Walking Company provides guided tours that include all meals and accommodations at the only private lodgings on the trail, discreetly located away from the main path.

Most hikers embark on the Overland Track during the warmer months from October to May, when the days are longer and you can build up enough warmth for a refreshing dip in one of the icy alpine tarns. A permit is required for hiking during this season, and the trail must be traversed in one direction: from north to south. With the permit system limiting the departure of just 35 independent hikers each day (hint: book early), the trail rarely feels overcrowded. You can enjoy the solitude and breathtaking beauty of the hike from either direction in winter, but freezing temperatures and snow make it suitable only for expert hikers.

The trail offers a diverse landscape, featuring high alpine moors, rocky scree, gorges, and towering rainforests. Notable side trips include the ascent of Mt Ossa (Tasmania’s highest peak at 1617m/5305ft) and stunning waterfalls. Wombats and pademelons are frequently spotted, so take your time to appreciate the vibrant array of colorful fungi flourishing along the paths.

2. Kosciuszko Walk (NSW)

Top Day Hike for Active Families 13km (8 miles), 4-5 hours, easy to moderate

With a reasonable level of fitness, favorable weather, and at least four hours available, nearly anyone can reach the summit of Australia’s tallest peak. Named after a Polish national hero by explorer Paweł Strzelecki, Mt Kosciuszko (2228m/7310ft) is the smallest among the world’s seven summits, and it offers a relatively easy climb, featuring raised walkways that wind up to breathtaking views of the New South Wales Snowy Mountains.

There are two paths to the summit. The more family-friendly Kosciusko Walk starts in the alpine village of Thredbo, where you can take the scenic Kosciuszko Express Chairlift before embarking on a straightforward 13km (8-mile) hike to the peak and back. Be sure to complete your walk in time for the last chairlift at 4:30 PM; otherwise, you’ll face a steep 4km/2.5-mile trek back down to the village. The more challenging option is the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk, a 16.6km (10.3-mile) return hike from the small ski town of Charlotte Pass (allow 7-9 hours), which merges with the Kosciuszko Walk at Rawson Pass for the final ascent to the summit.

Whichever route you choose, the alpine scenery is breathtaking. Aboriginal groups, including the local Ngarigo people, have maintained a spiritual connection to this rugged landscape for over 21,000 years. As you take in the wildflowers and glacial lakes on your journey to Australia’s peak, it becomes clear why this land has long inspired reverence and ceremony.

The best time to hike is from late November to February to enjoy the wildflowers; both routes to the summit are typically snowbound from June to October.

3. Larapinta Trail (Northern Territory)

Top Multi-Day Outback Trek 230km (143 miles), 14 days, moderate to difficult

The Northern Territory’s premier long-distance hike, the Larapinta Trail, runs along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges within Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park. This trail is divided into 12 segments of varying difficulty, beginning at Telegraph Station in Alice Springs and culminating at the rugged 1380m (4528ft) peak of Mt Sonder on the western edge of the ranges.

Each segment of the trail requires one to two days to complete, leading you through breathtaking natural attractions in this stunning desert terrain, where you're likely to meet day visitors from Alice Springs. The most picturesque (and frequented) segments include section four (from Standley Chasm to Birthday Waterhole; 17.7km/11 miles) and section five (from Birthday Waterhole to Hugh Gorge; 16km/10 miles). Though these hikes involve some steep ascents and rocky paths, the rewards at Brinkley Bluff (section four) and between Linear Valley and Hugh Gorge (section five) are spectacular, along with the chance to refresh in secluded waterholes.

Most segments are accessible by vehicle, allowing you to join or exit the trail at various trailheads. Each trailhead features water tanks where you can refill your supply for each leg (including cooking needs). Independent hikers must carry all other supplies. While there's no public transport to this region, you can arrange transfers via Alice Wanderer.

4. Three Capes Track (Tasmania)

Ideal tent-free multi-day trek 48km (29 miles), 4 days, moderate

Competing with the Overland Track in popularity, the Three Capes Track meanders along the lofty cliffs of Tasman National Park, culminating at Cape Pillar atop the aptly named Blade rock formation in the southeastern part of the island state. While you can hike certain segments as day trips, the full one-way, three-night adventure must be reserved as a package, which includes a boat ride from the Port Arthur Historic Site to the trailhead, and a bus back to Port Arthur from the trail's end, where you can catch a bus to Hobart if you didn't drive.

The hiking fee covers dormitory accommodations at three surprisingly comfortable, eco-friendly hiking huts equipped with cooking facilities. To guarantee that each of the 48 available beds is occupied each night, only 48 hiking permits are issued daily, eliminating the need for tents. Additionally, the Tasmanian Walking Company offers a fully catered guided experience, allowing guests to stay at their exclusive lodges near the trail.

Opened in 2015, this well-maintained trail meanders through diverse ecosystems, including aromatic eucalypt woodlands, coastal heathlands adorned with rare flowers, ancient mossy rainforests, and rugged cliffs that drop hundreds of meters into the Southern Ocean. Wildlife is abundant (keep an eye out for echidnas), and the coastal vistas are breathtakingly raw and wild.

5. Great Ocean Walk (Victoria)

Top coastal trek 104km (64 miles), 7-8 days, easy to moderate

You’ve likely heard of the Great Ocean Road, a 664km scenic route that winds along Victoria’s stunning coastline southwest of Melbourne. What you might not know is that there’s also a walking trail that hugs the most picturesque segment of the coast, stretching from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles. Take your time and enjoy the changing scenery along this relatively easy trail, which guides you along dramatic clifftops, past secluded beaches, and into the lush eucalypt forests of Great Otway National Park.

You can either bring a tent and cooking gear to stay at designated campsites meant for registered hikers or venture off the trail to find various accommodations and restaurants in the coastal villages along the route. While the trail is designed to be walked from east to west, it can be easily segmented into shorter hikes. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, it's advisable to arrange for a pick-up if the local V/Line public bus schedule doesn't fit your hiking plans, as alternative transport options in the area are limited.

6. Border Track (Queensland)

Top rainforest day trek 21.4km (13.3 miles), 7 hours, moderate

The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area encompasses the largest subtropical rainforest regions globally, and the Border Track offers a prime opportunity to explore one of its finest sections in the verdant hinterland on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Connecting the Green Mountains and Binna Burra areas of Lamington National Park, this well-marked path winds through the ancient volcanic landscape of the Tweed Volcano, showcasing dramatic cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and remnants of Gondwana's unique flora and fauna. On clear days, don’t miss the steep side track that leads to the Beereenbano and Merino lookouts—an unforgettable detour. Keep an ear out for the Albert's lyrebird mimicking calls, and be sure to glance upwards to catch a glimpse of dozing koalas.

The trail, which serves as the initial segment of the three-day Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connecting Lamington National Park with Springbrook National Park, can be approached from either direction. Both trailheads offer lodges—O’Reilly’s in the Green Mountains section and Binna Burra Lodge in the Binna Burra section—providing transport options and various accommodation choices, including camping.

The cooler months, particularly from April to October, typically provide the most pleasant weather for hiking, although keep in mind that the trail may become muddy after rainfall.

7. Heysen Trail (South Australia)

Best long-distance hike 1200km (746 miles), 50-60 days, moderate

The Heysen Trail, stretching from Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges, is the longest walking trail in Australia, following the extensive 5330km/3312-mile Bicentennial National Trail in eastern Australia.

As it heads north from the coastline, the Heysen Trail traverses some of South Australia's most stunning landscapes, including national parks and popular tourist attractions like Wilpena Pound, a vast natural amphitheater located in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, and the lush vineyards of the Barossa Valley wine region, northeast of Adelaide.

Numerous campsites and huts are distributed along the trail, with some necessitating advance reservations. The route also passes through or near towns, allowing hikers to replenish supplies, indulge in comfortable overnight stays at various accommodations, or access shorter hiking options.

The southern portion of the trail, from Cape Jervis to Spalding just north of the Clare Valley wine region, is less demanding and suitable for families. In contrast, hikers seeking a tougher challenge and greater solitude may prefer the more rugged and remote northern stretch from Spalding to Parachilna Gorge. Note that fire restrictions may close some areas during the peak summer months from December to April.

8. Thorsborne Trail (Queensland)

Best multi-day island hike 32km (19 miles), 3-5 days, difficult

Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park, spans 399 square kilometers and is renowned for its untouched wilderness. Its granite peaks rise dramatically from the sea off the northern Queensland coast, positioned between Townsville and Cairns. The island’s mainland side, known as Munamudanamy by the Bandjin and Girramay peoples, features dense tropical foliage, while its eastern shores are lined with sandy beaches and mangrove forests. The Thorsborne Trail, which winds along the eastern coastline, offers a challenging, unmaintained path. Those who brave its rugged sections will experience an extraordinary tropical wilderness filled with creek crossings, dense rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Just a reminder, the area is inhabited by crocodiles, so be sure to stay crocwise.

Commercial ferries provide transport for hikers at both ends of the trail, with many choosing to trek from north to south to benefit from the sun at their backs. To preserve the island's natural environment, permits are limited to a maximum of 40 people at any given time (with groups not exceeding six). Consequently, obtaining Thorsborne Trail camping permits can be challenging during the peak hiking season from April to September.

9. Bibbulmun Track (Western Australia)

Best hike for those who cherish the journey 963km (598 miles), 6-8 weeks, moderate

Beginning in Kalamunda, just west of Perth, and stretching to Albany on Western Australia’s southern coast, the Bibbulmun Track is regarded as one of the country’s premier long-distance hikes, often likened to the Appalachian Trail in the eastern United States. This trail meanders through the picturesque South West region of the state. Although it isn’t overly strenuous, its length and occasional remoteness can be challenging. The trail is divided into nine sections, each linked by charming towns that serve as access points for shorter hikes and provide opportunities to replenish supplies.

Thru-hikers might find the bush scenery somewhat repetitive in areas affected by bushfires, yet numerous highlights keep the trek engaging, including majestic jarrah and marri forests and rugged coastlines that come into view between Northcliffe and Walpole (section seven). The trail's appeal also lies in the frequent encounters with fellow hikers, both on the paths and at campsites. With an impressive 49 basic sleeping shelters positioned along the route (available on a first-come, first-served basis), you’ll seldom need to set up your tent.

The ideal time to embark on the trail is from September to November, when wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather is typically pleasant. Long hikes in December are discouraged due to the heightened risk of bushfires.

10. Coast Track (NSW)

Best easily accessible overnight hike 26km (16 miles), 2 days, moderate

The popular Coast Track follows the stunning coastline of Royal National Park, linking Bundeena and Otford, just south of Sydney, both reachable by public transport. Typically completed over two days with an overnight stay at the basic North Era campground (book in advance via the NSW National Parks website and bring your own cooking gear), this moderately challenging trail (expect many steps) is usually hiked from north to south for the best views of the soaring sandstone cliffs while keeping the sun out of your eyes.

During the cooler months from May to November, you may catch glimpses of migrating whales from clifftop lookout points. Summer hikers can treat themselves to a refreshing swim at one of the many beaches and rock pools along the route—about 2.5 hours' walk from Bundeena, Wattamolla Beach features a beautiful lagoon. There’s a kiosk at Garie Beach (before North Era Campground) usually open on weekends, but no official water sources along the trail, so bring ample supplies and consider packing purification tablets for creek water. With limited shade on this coastal bushwalk, effective sun protection is also essential.

11. Australian Alps Walking Track (Victoria, NSW & the ACT)

Best alpine traverse 655km (5-8 weeks), difficult

Meandering through the highlands of Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory, the Australian Alps Walking Track showcases some of the country’s most spectacular alpine national parks, featuring expansive high-altitude vistas and historically significant sites, including over 30 mountain peaks (such as Mt Kosciuszko) and numerous historic huts along the way.

As an extension of the Victorian Alpine Walking Track developed in the 1970s, this challenging and isolated thru-hike combines 4WD tracks, fire trails, logging roads, and old grazing paths, along with brumby trails made by wild horses, which you’ll encounter frequently. Designed for seasoned, self-sufficient bushwalkers with solid navigation skills, the trail can be tough to follow. While it passes some ski resorts, it lacks nearby towns, so be sure to arrange food drops ahead of time. Prepare for days, even weeks, without encountering another person.

Plan your journey for after the spring snow melt to experience the wildflower season. Many opt to hike shorter sections found in areas like Baw Baw National Park and Alpine National Park in Victoria, Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales, and Namadgi National Park near Canberra.

12. Great North Walk (NSW)

Best urban hike 250km (160 miles), 12-18 days, moderate

Established during Australia’s bicentennial celebrations in 1988, the Great North Walk connects Sydney to Newcastle, linking a variety of beautiful national parks, conservation areas, and lush green spaces surrounding these coastal cities in New South Wales.

The inland trail, featuring a boat ride across the Hawkesbury River, can be trekked in either direction year-round, although summer can be quite hot. Overnight options range from campsites to more luxurious lodgings, and the entire trail can also be completed as a 30-day hike.

While much of the trail runs alongside suburban areas and includes stretches along busy roads, many segments, such as the Benowie Walking Track in Berowra Valley National Park, immerse you in a stunning natural and cultural landscape. Keep an eye out for Aboriginal rock engravings in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park section, and watch for wildlife like powerful owls, swamp wallabies, and laughing kookaburras throughout the journey.

Tips for hiking in Australia

Before embarking on Australia's trails, ensure you're in a region and on tracks suited to your experience and preparation. Consult local authorities and national park websites for weather and trail updates, as seasonal changes can significantly impact your hiking experience. Always inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

To help protect the ecology and beauty of Australia, which has been sustainably managed for thousands of years by its Traditional Custodians, please adhere to the following advice:

• Always take your trash with you. Burying waste can lead to erosion, and animals may dig it up, potentially injuring or poisoning themselves.

• If a toilet is unavailable, dig a hole for your waste (including biodegradable toilet paper, but not sanitary products). The hole should be 15cm (6in) deep and at least 100m (320ft) from any water source, then cover it with soil and a rock. In snowy conditions, dig down to the soil level.

• Avoid using detergents or toothpaste near water sources. If using toothpaste, spit it out 50m away from rivers.

• For washing, use biodegradable soap and do so away from watercourses. Spread wastewater widely to allow natural filtration by the soil.

• Wash cooking gear 50m from water bodies using a scourer, sand, or snow instead of detergent.

• Familiarize yourself with local fire regulations. Since campfires are often prohibited on Australian trails for part of the year, bring a lightweight, portable stove for multi-day hikes.

• Do not feed wildlife, as this can disrupt populations, cause animals to rely on humans, or spread diseases.

• Refrain from taking souvenirs from the trail, including rocks and seed pods.

• Pay track fees and obtain permits, especially since many are based on an honesty system, to support vital services and maintenance efforts.

• Bring sufficient food and water for your hike, along with the necessary gear (including a first aid kit), and know how to use everything. Long, lightweight clothing is recommended to shield yourself from Australia’s intense sun and various insects.

• Stick to marked paths and avoid shortcuts. Walking around muddy areas only enlarges them—just go through.

• Make noise as you walk to deter snakes. If you encounter one—common on bushwalks—remain still to observe its behavior before moving away slowly.