Are you looking for a new adventure? Australia is home to some of the most iconic hiking trails in the world. From ancient rainforests to the rugged coastline, there are hikes for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for an easy hike or something more challenging, this list has it all. These hikes are perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and want to experience some of the best nature has to offer.
So pack your good walking shoes, your thick socks, your best shade hat and your waterproof pants and get ready to explore some of the best treks Australia has to offer.
The Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia (grade 4)*
This trail starts in Kalamunda and ends at Albany on the south coast, taking hikers through forests, farmland and coastal heathland along the way. The Bibbulmun Track is perfect if you’re looking for a long walk without too much elevation change or rugged terrain.
This track stretches from Kalamunda in Perth’s foothills to Albany on the south coast, following an ancient Aboriginal trading route through some of Western Australia’s most spectacular scenery. Along the way, you’ll see towering karri trees, wildflowers blooming beside crystal-clear streams and waterfalls cascading down cliffs into deep gorges. You’ll also pass by historic sites like Beelu National Park, where you will discover Aboriginal rock art dating back more than 10,000 years.
The Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory (various grades available)
A challenging but rewarding trek from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder in Central Australia over 1000km long with stunning views across diverse landscapes, including desert plains and gorges carved by rivers flowing from distant mountains. The Larapinta Trail is not a trail suited for beginners, so make sure you’re prepared before setting out on this journey.
The Overland Track, Tasmania (grade 4)
One of Tasmania’s most popular walks traverses three national parks and private property between Cradle Mountain National Park and Lake St Clair National Park.
The Overland Track takes you on an unforgettable journey deep into the heart of Tasmania’s unspoiled wilderness. It will take you to wild and remote places that are rich in natural beauty and abundant with wildlife. Then, finally, you’ll be able to experience this untouched landscape as it was before European settlement – fording rivers, scrambling up rocky slopes and crossing vast expanses of pristine forest.
Thorsborne Trail, Queensland (grade 5)
The Thorsborne Trail is a challenging yet rewarding trek through Tropical North Queensland’s rugged coastal rainforest deep in the Hinchinbrook Island National Park on an island off Cardwell. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the ocean and lush green forest as you make your way along this beautiful trail.
Hikers can enjoy cloud-covered mountains, fragile heath vegetation, lush rainforest, tall eucalypt forest and mangrove fringes all while exploring this beautiful area.
The Australian Alps Walking Track, NSW, Victoria and ACT (grade 4-5)
This is a challenging and rewarding walk that takes you through the best of Australia’s alpine scenery. This track follows the high country from Walhalla to Kinglake, passing through some of Victoria’s most spectacular mountain ranges, including Mount Bogong in the Bogong High Plains World Heritage Area. The Australian Alps Walking Track offers an opportunity to explore remote areas of this vast continent with its rich Aboriginal heritage and diverse natural environment.
The Arkaba Walk, South Australia (grade 3-4)
This trek is a challenging, scenic walk in the Flinders Ranges that is as old as time itself. It’s not for the faint-hearted. This walk takes you through some of the most remote and rugged country in Australia. So, you’ll need to be prepared with suitable footwear, plenty of water and food, and a map or GPS device. But it will be worth it when you see this fantastic landscape on The Arkaba Walk up close.
*Grading guide:
Grade 1: Usually short hikes of 5km or less with well-formed tracks and minimal steps. Clearly signposted and perfect for beginners, most of these tracks are suitable for wheelchairs with assistance.
Grade 2: These formed tracks provide some more challenges with gentle hills and some steps. These treks are signposted, though, and suitable for trekkers of all experience levels.
Grade 3: Formed tracks that are 20km or less that will present some obstacles and challenges. Depending on the trail, there could be steep hills and large volumes of steps. Some experience is recommended.
Grade 4: Because these tracks are rough, rugged and often lack directional signposts, it is recommended that only experienced bushwalkers embark on these treks with the right equipment.
Grade 5: These are the treks that are recommended only for experienced bushwalkers with specialised skills. You will receive no assistance, and the tracks are unformed, so these are a real test of your survival and fitness skills.
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