Hiking in Australia: 15 Trails You Need to Explore

Australia is a hiker’s paradise. With an incredible diversity of landscapes, from misty rainforests to arid deserts, the Land Down Under offers some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world.

Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a casual walker, hiking in Australia is an adventure you won’t forget. In this guide, we’ll take you through the 15 best hiking trails in Australia, with all the info you need to plan your next outdoor escapade.

15 Best Hiking Places in Australia

From the snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps to the red sand dunes of the Outback, hiking in Australia takes you through some of the most diverse and dramatic landscapes on the planet.

Here’s a closer look at Australia’s top 15 hikes, with all the essential info you need to plan your adventure.

1. Overland Track, Tasmania

The Overland Track is the granddaddy of Australian hikes. This iconic 65km trail winds through the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness, taking in everything from misty rainforests to alpine plateaus.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Distance: 65km one way

• Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

• Cost:A permit is required, which costs around Rs. 11,600 per person during peak season (1 October – 31 May) + hut/campsite fees. Guided hikes are extra.

• Great for: Experiencing Tasmania’s raw wilderness

• Key Tips:

  • Book ahead for peak season (October-May).

  • Prepare for all weather conditions.

  • Pack light but smart.

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2. Kosciuszko Walk, New South Wales

Climb to the top of Australia on this classic day hike to Mount Kosciuszko, the continent’s highest peak at 2,228m. The summit walk starts from the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift at Thredbo.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Distance: 13km return

• Location: Kosciuszko National Park, NSW

• Cost: Park entry fees + chairlift pass

• Great for: Reaching Australia’s highest point

• Key Tips:

  • Check weather conditions before you go.

  • Wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks.

  • Take the chairlift up and walk down to save your legs.

3. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

Trek through the heart of the Red Centre on this challenging long-distance hike. The Larapinta Trail traverses the West MacDonnell Ranges, linking up several of the area’s most spectacular natural wonders.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Distance: 223km one way

• Location: West MacDonnell National Park, NT

• Cost:No permit is required, but camping fees apply at some campsites along the way

• Great for: Outback scenery and solitude

• Key Tips:

  • Plan your water and food drops in advance.

  • Be prepared for hot days and cold nights.

  • Consider hiking in the cooler months (April-September).

4. Heysen Trail, South Australia

Stretching a whopping 1,200km from the Fleurieu Peninsula to the Flinders Ranges, the Heysen Trail is Australia’s longest dedicated walking trail. Most hikers tackle it in sections, but hardy souls can thru-hike the whole thing.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Distance: 1,200km one way

• Location: Fleurieu Peninsula to Flinders Ranges, SA

• Cost: Free, but fees apply for some campsites/huts

• Great for: Long-distance hiking and varied scenery

• Key Tips:

  • Plan your logistics carefully.

  • Resupply options are limited in the remote sections.

  • Avoid the peak of summer.

5. Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia

Following an old Aboriginal trade route, the Bibbulmun Track runs for nearly 1,000km from the Perth hills to Albany on the south coast. Along the way, it passes through towering karri forests, tranquil valleys, and along wild beaches.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Distance: 1,003km one way

• Location: Kalamunda to Albany, WA

• Cost: Free, but some campsites charge small fees

• Great for: Long-distance hiking and forest scenery

• Key Tips:

  • Break the track up into sections.

  • Plan rest days.

  • The best time is spring (September-November) for wildflowers and mild weather.

6. Great North Walk, New South Wales

Linking Sydney with Newcastle, the Great North Walk covers a diverse mix of terrain, from harbor-side tracks and coastal rainforests to the rugged bushland of the Hunter Valley. It’s a rite of passage for NSW hikers.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 250km one way

• Location: Sydney to Newcastle, NSW

• Cost: Free, but national park entry fees may apply

• Great for: Accessible multi-day hiking

• Key Tips:

  • The walk can be completed in sections or as a multi-day hike.

  • Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are the best times to hike.

  • Bring a decent map/GPS.

  • Avoid the height of summer.

7. Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, Tasmania

This guided hike combines active days on the trail with comfortable nights in a series of architect-designed lodges. Enjoy fine Tasmanian food and wine as you walk the idyllic East Coast.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Distance: 33km over 4 days

• Location: Mount William National Park, Tasmania

• Cost:The walk is a guided tour and costs around Rs. 1,50,000 per person, which includes accommodations, meals, and transfers

• Great for: Guided hiking with creature comforts

• Key Tips:

  • Pack light as you only carry a day pack.

  • Book early as spaces are limited.

8. Cradle Mountain Huts Walk, Tasmania

One of Tasmania’s famous ‘Great Walks’, this six-day hike covers the most scenic sections of the Overland Track. Stay in comfy huts each night and indulge in hearty meals and Tasmanian wines.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 60km over 6 days

• Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania

• Cost:The walk is a guided tour and costs around Rs. 2,00,000 per person, which includes accommodations, meals, and transfers

• Great for: Experiencing the Overland Track in comfort

• Key Tips:

  • The walk operates from October to May and is limited to small groups.

  • Be prepared for all weather conditions, including snow and heavy rain.

  • A good level of fitness is required.

9. Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland

This new multi-day hike explores the lush forests and mountains of the Scenic Rim region in southeast Queensland. Stay in eco-camps and learn about the area’s natural and cultural heritage from expert guides.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 47km over 5 days

• Location: Main Range National Park, Queensland

• Cost:The walk is a guided tour and costs around Rs. 1,20,000 per person, which includes accommodations, meals, and transfers

• Great for: Rainforest scenery and wildlife

• Key Tips:

  • Reasonable fitness is required.

  • Prepare for subtropical weather conditions.

10. The Arkaba Walk, South Australia

Journey through the ancient and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Flinders Ranges on this guided walk. Learn about the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage and unique wildlife as you hike scenic trails.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 45km over 4 days

• Location: Flinders Ranges, South Australia

• Cost:The walk is a guided tour and costs around Rs. 1,80,000 per person, which includes accommodations, meals, and transfers

• Great for: Outback scenery and wildlife

• Key Tips:

  • The best time is April-October.

  • Prepare for warm days and chilly nights.

11. Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Victoria

This spectacular coastal hike links Apollo Bay with the iconic Twelve Apostles. Stay in eco-luxe villas, explore remote beaches and lookouts, and cap off each day with gourmet meals and local wines.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 55km over 4 days

• Location: Great Ocean Road, Victoria

• Cost:The walk is a guided tour and costs around Rs. 1,70,000 per person, which includes accommodations, meals, and transfers

• Great for: Coastal scenery and comfortable hiking

• Key Tips:

  • Pack for variable weather.

  • Moderate fitness is required.

12. Wilderness Coast Walk, Victoria to NSW

This remote coastal hike follows the Wilderness Coast from Mallacoota in East Gippsland to Wonboyn in the far southeast of NSW. Wild beaches, secluded campsites, and abundant wildlife make it an unforgettable adventure.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Distance: 100km one way

• Location: Croajingolong National Park, Victoria to Ben Boyd National Park, NSW

• Cost: Park entry fees + campsite fees

• Great for: Remote coastal hiking and solitude

• Key Tips:

  • Careful planning is required for food/water.

  • May involve river crossings.

  • Best in autumn or spring.

13. Australian Alps Walking Track, Victoria/NSW/ACT

Stretching for 655km through the High Country of Victoria, NSW, and the ACT, the Australian Alps Walking Track is the ultimate alpine hiking challenge. It links up ski resorts, old cattle huts, and mountain peaks.

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Distance: 655km one way

• Location: Walhalla, Vic to Tharwa, ACT

• Cost: Park entry fees + campsite fees

• Great for: Alpine scenery and multi-week hiking

• Key Tips:

  • Extensive logistics planning is required.

  • Some sections may be snowbound in winter.

  • Best November-April.

14. Thorsborne Trail, Queensland

Located on spectacular Hinchinbrook Island off the coast between Townsville and Cairns, the Thorsborne Trail winds through lush rainforest and along pristine beaches. It’s a tropical hiking paradise.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 32km one way

• Location: Hinchinbrook Island National Park, Queensland

• Cost: Park entry fees + camping fees + ferry transfers

• Great for: Coastal rainforest scenery and wildlife

• Key Tips:

  • Strict permit system & camping restrictions apply.

  • No bookings in the wet season (Dec-Mar).

15. Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia

This stunning coastal track runs for 123km along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge in the far southwest of WA. It links the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin via clifftop trails, beaches, and karri forests.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Distance: 123km one way

• Location: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, WA

• Cost: Free, but park entry fees apply

• Great for: Coastal scenery and day hikes

• Key Tips:

  • Can be walked in sections.

  • Spring is best for wildflowers.

  • Avoid the peak of summer.

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FAQs

What are the different types of hiking trails in Australia?

Australia offers a huge variety of hiking trails, from short half-day walks to epic long-distance tracks stretching hundreds of kilometers. Some key types:

• Coastal walks – e.g. Cape to Cape Track, Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk

• Alpine hikes – e.g. Kosciuszko Walk, Australian Alps Walking Track

• Outback treks – e.g. Larapinta Trail, The Arkaba Walk

• Rainforest walks – e.g. Thorsborne Trail, Scenic Rim Trail

• Guided lodge-based hikes – e.g. Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain Huts Walk

• Long-distance tracks – e.g. Bibbulmun Track, Heysen Trail

What is the best time for hiking in Australia?

The best hiking times in Australia vary by region: the dry season (May-October) in the tropical north, mild autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) in the south, and summer for alpine areas. Always check local conditions.

What is the longest trail in Australia?

The Bicentennial National Trail, Australia’s longest at 5,330km, stretches from Cooktown (QLD) to Healesville (VIC) and is open to hikers, horse riders, and mountain bikers. The Heysen Trail in South Australia is the longest dedicated walking trail at 1,200km.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Australia?

The Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory spans 223km with an elevation gain of 8,000m, including a climb to Mount Sonder’s 1,380m summit. The Australian Alps Walking Track crosses 10 peaks over 2,000m, with challenging ups and downs.

What is the most popular and difficult trail in Australia?

The Overland Track in Tasmania is a 65km trek through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, known for its challenging terrain and popularity. Hikers must be well-prepared, as the weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.

Are there camping trails available in Australia?

Yes, many of Australia’s long-distance hiking trails have basic campsites or huts for overnight stays. Some popular camping trails include:

• Larapinta Trail (NT) – basic campsites with water tanks

• Bibbulmun Track (WA) – free campsites with three-sided shelters

• Australian Alps Walking Track (Vic/NSW/ACT) – a mix of huts and campsites

Always check local regulations and book ahead where necessary.

Are there running trails available in Australia?

Many Australian trails are perfect for trail running, including the 45km Six Foot Track in NSW, the 20km Wonderland Run in Victoria, and the Rapid Ascent Trail Run Series with events across various locations. Always follow minimum impact principles and give way to walkers.

Are there biking trails available in Australia?

Australia offers a vast network of mountain biking trails alongside hiking in Australia, from cross-country rides to downhill tracks. Popular biking trails include the 125km Blue Derby (Tasmania), Mount Buller (Victoria) with both downhill and cross-country routes, and the 1,000km Munda Biddi Trail (WA). Always check if bikes are permitted on walking tracks.