The 11 best hikes in Australia

The 11 best hiking trails in Australia

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Australia is a continent built for walking. From ancient sandstone plateaus shaped by wind and water to rainforests older than the Amazon, and from alpine ridgelines dusted with snow to coastal cliffs dropping straight into the Southern Ocean, the country offers a staggering range of landscapes best experienced on foot. Hiking in Australia is not just a recreational activity—it is a way to understand the scale, ecology, and deep cultural history of the land.

Unlike many destinations where trails are concentrated in a single mountain range or region, Australia’s best hikes are scattered across the entire country. Each state and territory offers its own distinct walking experiences, shaped by climate, geology, and Indigenous heritage. Many of these trails traverse lands that have been walked for tens of thousands of years, following songlines and pathways that predate modern maps by millennia.

This guide brings together eleven of the best hikes in Australia, chosen not only for their scenery, but for the richness of experience they provide. Some are demanding multi-day treks through remote wilderness, while others are iconic day hikes that pack extraordinary beauty into a few hours. Together, they represent the very best of what Australian hiking has to offer.

The 11 best hiking trails

• Overland Track (Tasmania) – Australia’s most iconic multi-day wilderness hike through alpine terrain, ancient forests, and glacial valleys.

• Larapinta Trail (Northern Territory) – A world-class desert trek following the West MacDonnell Ranges, rich in dramatic landscapes and Indigenous cultural significance.

• Great Ocean Walk (Victoria) – A spectacular coastal trail combining rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean.

• Cape to Cape Track (Western Australia) – A diverse coastal walk linking two lighthouses through limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and coastal heath.

• Grand Canyon Track, Blue Mountains (New South Wales) – A short but immersive canyon loop featuring waterfalls, rainforest, and dramatic sandstone formations.

• Wilpena Pound Rim Walk (South Australia) – A challenging high-level circuit offering sweeping views across one of Australia’s oldest mountain landscapes.

• Freycinet Peninsula Circuit (Tasmania) – A scenic coastal loop showcasing pink granite peaks, turquoise bays, and the famous Wineglass Bay.

• Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island (Queensland) – A remote and demanding tropical hike across mangroves, rainforests, and tidal beaches.

• Australian Alps Walking Track (Victoria / NSW / ACT) – A long-distance alpine route traversing high plains, snow gum forests, and remote mountain ridges.

• Bibbulmun Track (Western Australia) – One of the world’s great long-distance trails, stretching nearly 1,000 kilometers through forests and coastal landscapes.

• Kosciuszko Main Range Walk (New South Wales) – A high-altitude circuit including Australia’s highest peak, glacial lakes, and expansive alpine scenery.

1. Overland Track (Tasmania)

The Overland Track is widely regarded as Australia’s premier long-distance hike, and for good reason. Stretching 65 kilometers through the heart of Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, this six-day trek showcases Tasmania’s wild alpine landscapes at their most dramatic. Ancient pencil pine forests, glacial lakes, button grass plains, and rugged mountain peaks unfold day by day.

The track is carefully managed to protect its fragile environment, with a booking system in place during peak season (October to May). Walkers travel from Cradle Valley to Lake St Clair, passing highlights such as Crater Lake, Mount Ossa (Tasmania’s highest peak), and the stunning Waterfall Valley. Side trips offer opportunities to summit mountains or explore hidden tarns.

What makes the Overland Track truly special is its sense of immersion. There are no roads, no towns, and no easy escape routes. Weather can change rapidly, adding an element of challenge that reinforces respect for the environment. For hikers seeking a classic wilderness journey, this track remains unmatched in Australia.

2. Larapinta Trail (Northern Territory)

Running 223 kilometers along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs, the Larapinta Trail is one of the world’s great desert hikes. Divided into 12 sections, it can be walked end-to-end over two to three weeks or tackled in shorter segments. Each section reveals a different face of Central Australia’s stark beauty.

The trail follows ancient ridgelines, crosses wide valleys, and descends into cool gorges where permanent water supports lush pockets of vegetation. Ormiston Gorge, Serpentine Gorge, and Standley Chasm are among the most memorable locations. Sunrises and sunsets paint the ranges in deep reds and purples, creating unforgettable moments.

Beyond scenery, the Larapinta Trail is rich in cultural significance. The land belongs to the Arrernte people, and many guided walks incorporate Indigenous perspectives, stories, and ecological knowledge. Hiking here is as much a cultural experience as a physical one, offering a profound connection to Australia’s interior.

3. Great Ocean Walk (Victoria)

The Great Ocean Walk stretches 110 kilometers along Victoria’s rugged southwest coast, from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles. This trail combines dramatic ocean views with secluded beaches, coastal heathlands, and patches of temperate rainforest. It is a journey shaped by wind, waves, and constantly shifting light.

Most hikers complete the walk in seven to eight days, staying in designated campsites or eco-lodges along the route. Highlights include cliff-top views above the Southern Ocean, encounters with kangaroos and wallabies, and the chance to spot whales during migration season. The sound of waves crashing below accompanies much of the walk.

What sets the Great Ocean Walk apart is its accessibility. Well-marked trails, regular access points, and a mild climate make it suitable for hikers with moderate experience. It offers a perfect balance between comfort and wilderness, making it one of Australia’s most popular multi-day coastal hikes.

4. Cape to Cape Track (Western Australia)

Located in the Margaret River region, the Cape to Cape Track runs 135 kilometers between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin. This trail showcases Western Australia’s stunning coastline, passing limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, granite headlands, and coastal forests.

The walk can be completed in five to seven days and is highly customizable, with numerous access points allowing for shorter sections. Spring brings wildflowers, while winter offers dramatic seas and the possibility of whale sightings. The track also passes through areas rich in maritime history, including old shipwreck sites and lighthouses.

One of the unique pleasures of the Cape to Cape Track is its proximity to food and wine. Hikers can finish a day’s walk with a gourmet meal or local wine tasting, blending outdoor adventure with refined indulgence. It is an ideal trail for those who want both nature and comfort.

5. Blue Mountains Grand Canyon Track (New South Wales)

For a shorter but unforgettable hike, the Grand Canyon Track in the Blue Mountains delivers a concentrated dose of natural beauty. This 6.3-kilometer loop descends into a lush, fern-filled canyon carved by millions of years of erosion, offering a striking contrast to the open sandstone plateaus above.

Suspension bridges, narrow ledges, waterfalls, and moss-covered rock walls create a sense of adventure within a relatively compact area. The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery after rain, adding an element of challenge. It is popular, but early starts help avoid crowds.

The Grand Canyon Track is an excellent example of how Australian hikes do not need to be long to be extraordinary. It provides an immersive rainforest experience just a short drive from Sydney, making it one of the country’s most accessible world-class walks.

6. Wilpena Pound Rim Walk (South Australia)

Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater of mountains in the Flinders Ranges, is one of South Australia’s most iconic landscapes. The Rim Walk is a challenging 27-kilometer circuit that takes hikers to the highest points around the pound, offering sweeping views across the ancient ranges.

This is a demanding hike, typically completed in two days, with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and limited water sources. However, the rewards are immense. From the rim, hikers can see vast expanses of arid country, changing colors as the sun moves across the sky.

The Flinders Ranges are among the oldest mountain systems on Earth, and walking here feels like stepping back in geological time. The area also holds deep significance for the Adnyamathanha people, adding cultural depth to the experience.

7. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit (Tasmania)

The Freycinet Peninsula Circuit offers one of Tasmania’s most visually striking coastal hikes. This 30-kilometer loop takes in pink granite peaks, sheltered bays, and some of the whitest sand beaches in the country, including the famous Wineglass Bay.

Typically completed over two to three days, the circuit includes climbs to panoramic viewpoints and gentle walks along the coast. Campsites are beautifully located, often just meters from the ocean. The contrast between turquoise water and rugged mountains defines the experience.

Freycinet is ideal for hikers who want dramatic scenery without committing to a long expedition. Wildlife sightings, including wallabies and sea birds, are common, and the changing coastal light makes every section feel unique.

8. Thorsborne Trail (Queensland)

The Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island is a remote and challenging coastal trek, often described as Australia’s most difficult marked hike. Covering 32 kilometers over four days, it demands fitness, careful planning, and respect for tropical conditions.

The trail crosses mangroves, rainforest, rocky headlands, and exposed beaches. Tides play a critical role, and some sections are only passable at low tide. Heavy rain can turn creeks into raging rivers, adding to the challenge.

For experienced hikers, the Thorsborne Trail offers a raw and unforgettable adventure. The island’s isolation and pristine environment create a sense of true wilderness rarely found elsewhere in Australia.

9. Australian Alps Walking Track (Victoria, NSW, ACT)

Spanning approximately 650 kilometers, the Australian Alps Walking Track is one of the longest continuous hikes in the country. It links Walhalla in Victoria to Tharwa near Canberra, traversing alpine national parks and some of Australia’s highest terrain.

Few hikers attempt the entire trail in one go, but even shorter sections provide access to remote ridges, snow gum forests, and high plains. Seasonal conditions are critical, with snow making parts inaccessible for much of the year.

This trail offers a different vision of Australia—one of cool climates, wildflowers, and expansive mountain views. It challenges the stereotype of Australia as purely hot and arid, revealing a quieter, subtler beauty.

10. Bibbulmun Track (Western Australia)

The Bibbulmun Track stretches nearly 1,000 kilometers from Kalamunda, near Perth, to Albany on the south coast. It passes through jarrah forests, farmland, valleys, and coastal heathlands, offering remarkable ecological diversity.

Well-maintained shelters spaced a day’s walk apart make the Bibbulmun Track accessible to a wide range of hikers. Many people walk it in sections over several years, while others undertake the full journey in six to eight weeks.

The track’s name comes from the Noongar word for the people who traditionally lived in the region. Walking the Bibbulmun is not just a physical challenge, but a journey through landscapes shaped by both ancient culture and modern conservation.

11. Kosciuszko Main Range Walk (New South Wales)

The Kosciuszko Main Range Walk is a high-altitude circuit that showcases Australia’s alpine environment at its finest. Covering around 22 kilometers, it includes Mount Kosciuszko, the country’s highest peak, as well as glacial lakes and rolling snow plains.

Most hikers complete the circuit in two days, camping at designated sites along the route. Summer brings wildflowers and clear skies, while sudden weather changes remind hikers that alpine conditions can be unpredictable.

This walk offers expansive views and a sense of space that feels far removed from urban Australia. It is a fitting conclusion to any list of the country’s best hikes, highlighting the diversity of landscapes found across the continent.

When Is the Best Time to Hike in Australia?

Australia’s vast size means there is no single “best” hiking season nationwide. Timing your hike correctly is one of the most important factors for safety and enjoyment.

In southern regions such as Tasmania, Victoria, and the Australian Alps, the prime hiking season runs from late spring to early autumn (November to April). Snow, ice, and strong winds dominate winter months, especially at higher elevations. Even in summer, alpine weather can change quickly, so preparation is essential.

In central and northern Australia, including the Northern Territory and northern Queensland, hiking is best during the dry season (May to September). During the wet season, extreme heat, high humidity, flash flooding, and cyclones can make trails dangerous or inaccessible.

Coastal hikes often remain accessible year-round, but conditions vary. Winter can bring dramatic weather and whale sightings, while summer offers calmer seas and longer daylight hours—often at the cost of higher temperatures and crowds.

Understanding Permits, Bookings, and Regulations

Many of Australia’s most iconic hikes are carefully managed to protect fragile ecosystems and ensure visitor safety. As a result, permits and bookings are increasingly common.

• Tasmania’s Overland Track requires a paid permit during peak season, which includes hut use, ranger support, and track maintenance.

• Thorsborne Trail permits are strictly limited and must be booked well in advance.

• Some national parks restrict camping locations, require fuel stove use only, or limit group sizes.

Ignoring permit requirements can result in fines and, more importantly, place additional strain on sensitive environments. Always check the relevant state park or national park website before planning your hike.

Essential Gear for Australian Conditions

Australian hiking conditions can be deceptive. Trails may appear straightforward, but weather, terrain, and remoteness demand respect.

Key gear considerations include:

• Sun protection: Wide-brim hat, UV-rated sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential, even in cooler climates.

• Water capacity: Carry more water than you think you need. In arid regions, water sources may be unreliable or nonexistent.

• Navigation tools: GPS devices, offline maps, and a physical map and compass provide redundancy. Another optional option is a rugged smartphone - the special smartphone for harsh environments.

• Footwear: Trails range from sandy beaches to sharp limestone and alpine scree. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are recommended for most multi-day hikes.

• Weather protection: Lightweight rain jackets, thermal layers, and windproof shells are vital, particularly in Tasmania and alpine regions.

For remote hikes, a personal locator beacon (PLB) is strongly recommended and, in some parks, considered essential.

Read more: How to find north without a compass? and, "How to make a simple compass outdoors?"

Safety Considerations and Risk Awareness

Australia’s wilderness areas are generally safe, but they are often remote, with limited mobile coverage and long response times for rescue services.

Common risks include:

• Heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in desert and coastal environments.

• Sudden weather changes, especially in alpine and southern regions.

• River crossings after rain, which can become dangerous quickly.

• Tidal exposure on coastal hikes such as the Thorsborne Trail.

Wildlife encounters are rarely dangerous, but hikers should remain cautious around snakes, avoid feeding animals, and store food securely. Dingoes, in particular, should be treated with respect and distance.

Before setting out, always log your intentions with park authorities or a trusted contact and understand local emergency procedures.

Indigenous Culture and Respect for Country

Many of Australia’s greatest hikes traverse lands with deep cultural significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These landscapes are not just scenic—they are living cultural places.

Hikers are encouraged to:

• Learn about the Traditional Owners of the land they are visiting.

• Respect sacred sites, rock art, and cultural restrictions.

• Follow Leave No Trace principles, including staying on marked trails and removing all waste.

Where possible, consider guided walks led by Indigenous rangers or operators. These experiences provide insight into land management, bush foods, seasonal knowledge, and storytelling that enrich the hiking experience far beyond physical scenery.

Choosing the Right Hike for Your Experience Level

Not all “best hikes” are suitable for all hikers. One of the strengths of Australia’s trail network is its variety.

• Beginner to intermediate hikers may enjoy trails such as the Grand Canyon Track, Freycinet Peninsula Circuit, or sections of the Great Ocean Walk.

• Experienced hikers seeking challenge and isolation will find it on the Larapinta Trail, Thorsborne Trail, or Wilpena Pound Rim Walk.

• Long-distance enthusiasts can commit to epic journeys like the Bibbulmun Track or Australian Alps Walking Track, either in sections or full thru-hikes.

Being honest about your fitness, navigation skills, and comfort with remote environments is critical. Australia rewards preparation—and punishes complacency.

Environmental Responsibility and Leave No Trace

Australia’s ecosystems are often fragile and slow to recover from damage. Hikers play a vital role in protecting these landscapes.

Key principles include:

• Stay on established tracks to prevent erosion.

• Pack out all rubbish, including food scraps.

• Minimize campfire use or avoid fires entirely where prohibited.

• Respect wildlife by observing from a distance.

Many Australian trails remain pristine because of strong conservation practices. Responsible hiking ensures these experiences remain available for future generations.

Australia’s best hikes are united by more than just scenic beauty. They offer opportunities for reflection, challenge, and connection—to land, history, and self. Whether crossing a desert ridge at dawn or following a coastal trail above crashing waves, hiking here fosters a deep appreciation for the country’s natural and cultural richness.

From short canyon loops to epic multi-week journeys, these eleven hikes represent the breadth of what Australia has to offer walkers of all experience levels. Each trail tells a different story, but all reward those willing to slow down, step outside, and explore the land one footstep at a time.