Australia’s top hiking trails

You can explore Australia on epic road trips, world-class train journeys and even scenic flights, but for the adventurous, one of the most immersive ways to connect with the diverse and dramatic landscapes is on your own two feet.

Take to the trail on one of these extraordinary walks.

Fraser Island Great Walk

Stretching across the world’s largest sand island, the Fraser Island Great Walk takes in tall forests, golden sand dunes and mesmerising blue lakes. It takes about eight days to complete the entire trail, but there are shorter trails for those short on time, too, like the Lake Wabby Walk. Parts of the Fraser Island Great Walk are far from the island’s villages, so be sure to bring along all necessary gear, book campsites in advance and stay dingo safe.

Heysen Trail

The Heysen Trail is Australia’s longest dedicated walking trail, as well as one of the wildest. It follows the vivid South Australian landscapes from the wildlife and wine regions of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the craggy peaks of the Flinders Ranges, winding through native bushland, coastal plains and historic towns. Spot kangaroos, rock wallabies and echidnas as you traverse deep gorges and cross trickling creeks. Most hikers tackle the trail in sections, and there are a variety of shorter walks for hikers of all abilities.

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail

Full of native wildlife and windswept coastline, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s most intriguing destinations. Along the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, you’ll have the chance to explore the island from the dense eucalypt woodland of Flinders Chase National Park. This trek is the experience of a lifetime, allowing you to reconnect with nature from the moment the sun rises until the stars come out. Hikers must book their walk prior to departure.

Larapinta Trail

One of Australia’s most epic outback treks, the Larapinta Trail follows the spine of the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory. Expect towering red rock escarpments, refreshing waterholes and steep terrain, as well as the opportunity to visit sacred Aboriginal sites. It can take between 12 and 20 days to complete the entire track. If you’d rather tackle a shorter section, embark on a day walk like the Counts Point walk. 

Jatbula Trail

The Jatbula Trail, which winds through the Northern Territory’s Nitmiluk National Park, isn’t only a stunning nature hike but also an incredible cultural excursion. The trail follows an ancient Song Line used by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people. You’ll trek from Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge to the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls), marvelling at thunderous waterfalls as they tumble over sandstone cliffs and flow into creeks bordered by monsoon forest. This trail is best for hikers with some bushwalking experience.

Bibbulmun Track

Known as one of Australia’s greatest walking trails, the Bibbulmun Track stretches through the heart of Western Australia’s stunning south-west corner. Here, you’ll find forests of karri trees, which are found nowhere else in the world, as well as soft sand dunes, coastal lookouts and the wild southern ocean. Hikers can take a day walk from one of several towns along the route, or embark on an incredible eight-week journey to complete the entire trail. 

Cape to Cape Track

The Cape to Cape Track offers an exhilarating mix of coastal cliffs, cave networks, breezy forests and sandy beaches. The 123km (76mi) track begins at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse within the stunning Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. One of the best ways to dive into the breathtaking beauty of the Margaret River region is to embark on the award-winning Cape to Cape Track with Walk into Luxury. This guided, four-day journey combines small-group hiking, villa accommodation and gourmet food and wine for an unforgettable walking experience.

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most remarkable and famous road trips, and it’s on-foot equivalent, the Great Ocean Walk, is equally impressive. Beginning at the charming fishing village of Apollo Bay in Victoria, you’ll trek along diverse national park, coastal cliffs and breezy beaches. This walk can be done on your own, or with a range of guided group treks.

Overland Track

Tasmania is spoiled with incredible walking trails, but few are as iconic as the Overland Track. The trail weaves through grassy plains and past towering bluffs and peaks. After a thrilling six days, you’ll end the journey at the tranquil Lake St Clair. Embark on your own, or take on the Overland Track in style with the Cradle Mountain Huts Walk. The weather in Tasmania can change rapidly, so be prepared for wet and cold conditions. All walkers are required to book online in advance.

Three Capes Track

Tasmania’s Three Capes Track in Australia’s far south-east is the last slice of southern land before you reach Antarctica. The remote location is apparent as you traverse the striking clifftop coastline on the four-day Three Capes Track, with only the waves below to break the serene silence. The track can be tackled independently or join an expert on the Three Capes Lodge Walk. The journey begins at Port Arthur Historic Site before a ride to the trailhead aboard a Pennicott Wilderness Journeys boat. Walker numbers are limited, so be sure to book far in advance. 

Bondi to Coogee Coastal walk

One of Sydney’s most stunning coastal treks, the Bondi to Coogee walk winds around the beaches and headlands of the city’s eastern suburbs. The trail takes about two hours to complete, but you might be tempted to stop at one of the walk’s beautiful beaches, including Tamarama and Bronte Beach, along the way. 

Australian Alps Walking Track

The Australian Alps Walking Track is often regarded as the country’s best long-distance walking trail, weaving through the high country of Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. The trek can take weeks to complete in its entirety, but walkers can also take on shorter sections, like those offered within beautiful national parks like Kosciuszko and Namadgi. Weather can change without warning, so be sure to prepare for wet and windy weather no matter when you walk.