Australia is a land of diverse landscapes and natural beauty, offering some of the best hiking trails in the world. From the rugged wilderness of Tasmania to the lush tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, there’s something for every kind of hiker.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through stunning scenery or a challenging climb up a mountain, you’ll find it here in Australia.
The Overland Track, Tasmania
This 65-kilometre hike is considered one of the finest walks in Australia, taking you through the heart of Tasmania’s World Heritage Area. The trail winds its way through rainforests, alpine meadows and past glistening lakes, culminating in the summit of Mount Ossa, Tasmania’s highest peak. The Overland Track is a demanding hike, but the views along the way make it well worth the effort.
The Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales
Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a breathtaking escape into the wild. The park is home to numerous hiking trails, each with its own unique features, but the standout is the six-kilometre Six Foot Track, which takes you through a beautiful eucalyptus forest, past cascading waterfalls, and up to the stunning lookouts over the Megalong Valley.
The Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
Stretching for 104 kilometres along Victoria’s rugged south-west coast, the Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia’s most popular multi-day hikes. The trail takes you through a range of landscapes, from pristine beaches and dense rainforests, to towering cliffs and rolling hills. The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the Twelve Apostles, a group of towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean.
The Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory
This 223-kilometre hike takes you through the heart of the Red Centre, showcasing the beauty of Australia’s arid interior. The trail takes you along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges, past towering red sandstone formations, crystal-clear waterholes and ancient rock art. The trail can be tackled in its entirety or broken up into shorter sections, making it accessible to hikers of all abilities.
The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, South Australia
This multi-day hike takes you through the pristine wilderness of Kangaroo Island, a nature lover’s paradise located just off the coast of South Australia. The trail takes you through rugged coastal landscapes, past towering sand dunes and along pristine beaches, giving you the chance to get up close and personal with the island’s abundant wildlife.
The Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia
This 135-kilometre hike takes you through some of Western Australia’s most breathtaking scenery, from the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches of the Cape Naturaliste lighthouse to the towering dunes and turquoise waters of the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse. The trail takes you through a range of landscapes, from dense forest to rolling farmland, making it a true showcase of the state’s natural beauty.
The Thorsborne Trail, Queensland
This 32-kilometre hike takes you through the lush rainforests and stunning beaches of Hinchinbrook Island, located just off the coast of Far North Queensland. The trail takes you past cascading waterfalls, through pristine rainforests and along white sand beaches, offering an escape into one of Australia’s most untouched wilderness areas.
No matter what type of hiker you are, there’s a trail in Australia that will suit your abilities and interests. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely stroll, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and breathtaking landscapes every step of the way.
