Looking for the Best Hiking in Australia? Look nowhere else!

Hiking in Australia has been a paradise for outdoor Adventures and offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the world. From stunning coastal cliffs to lush rainforests, rugged mountains, and desert plains, Australia’s hiking trails showcase its varied terrain and unique wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a quick day hike or a challenging multi-day trek, here are the 10 best places for hiking in Australia that you shouldn’t miss.

For more mountain Trails in the region check our Australia & Oceania Guide.

10 Best Trails For Hiking In Australia

1. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

• Length: 223 km (12-14 days)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: May to August

The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s most famous long-distance treks, running through the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory. The trail offers stunning views of red desert landscapes, dramatic ridges, and ancient riverbeds. The full trail takes around 12-14 days to complete, but many hikers opt for shorter sections of the track. With its remote location, rocky terrain, and extreme temperatures, the Larapinta Trail is best suited for experienced hikers. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore Aboriginal rock art and sacred sites, adding a cultural element to the adventure.

2. Overland Track, Tasmania

• Length: 65 km (6-7 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: November to April

The Overland Track is one of Australia’s premier multi-day hikes, taking you through the stunning landscapes of Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This World Heritage-listed trail offers a diverse range of scenery, from alpine meadows and ancient rainforests to towering peaks and glacial lakes. The track can be hiked in either direction, but most hikers start from Cradle Mountain and finish at Lake St Clair. The trail is well-maintained, with basic huts available along the way, but it’s still a challenging hike due to the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The Overland Track is a must-do for anyone looking to experience Tasmania’s wild beauty.

3. Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

• Length: 100 km (7-8 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: March to November

Stretching along the rugged coastline of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, the Great Ocean Walk offers breathtaking views of towering sea cliffs, secluded beaches, and the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations. The walk takes you through diverse landscapes, including eucalyptus forests, heathlands, and coastal dunes. There are numerous campsites along the route, making it easy to break the trek into manageable sections. For those short on time, several shorter day hikes are also available. With the Southern Ocean as your constant companion, the Great Ocean Walk is a perfect way to experience one of Australia’s most famous coastal regions.

4. Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia

• Length: 135 km (6-8 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: September to November, April to May

The Cape to Cape Track runs along the stunning coastline of Western Australia’s Margaret River region, from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. The trail offers spectacular ocean views, dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and coastal heathland. Along the way, you’ll also pass through towering karri forests and picturesque vineyards. The track can be walked in sections or completed as a multi-day hike, with campsites and accommodations available along the route. Spring is the best time to hike, as the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild.

5. Kosciuszko Summit Walk, New South Wales

• Length: 18.6 km (5-7 hours)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: December to March

The Kosciuszko Summit Walk takes you to the top of Mount Kosciuszko, the highest peak in Australia at 2,228 meters. The hike starts from Thredbo Village, where you can take a chairlift up to the trailhead, making the ascent more accessible. The trail winds through alpine meadows, past glacial lakes, and offers panoramic views of the Snowy Mountains. While the elevation gain is moderate, the high altitude can make the hike more challenging, especially in adverse weather conditions. In summer, the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom, adding to the beauty of the hike.

6. Kings Canyon Rim Walk, Northern Territory

• Length: 6 km (3-4 hours)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: May to September

The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is one of the most popular hikes in Australia’s Red Centre, offering spectacular views of the rugged sandstone cliffs and the lush Garden of Eden below. The hike begins with a steep climb known as “Heart Attack Hill,” but once you reach the rim, the trail flattens out, offering stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding desert. Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations, ancient cycads, and Aboriginal rock art. The early morning is the best time to hike, as the temperatures are cooler and the lighting enhances the dramatic landscape.

7. Fraser Island Great Walk, Queensland

• Length: 90 km (6-8 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: April to September

Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, is home to the Fraser Island Great Walk, a multi-day trek that takes you through rainforests, sand dunes, and freshwater lakes. The trail showcases the island’s diverse ecosystems, from towering satinay forests to crystal-clear lakes like Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby. The walk is mostly flat, but the sandy terrain can make it challenging in sections. Fraser Island is also known for its wildlife, including dingoes, turtles, and migratory birds. Hikers can camp at designated campsites along the route or stay in eco-friendly accommodations.

8. Wilsons Promontory Circuit, Victoria

• Length: 59 km (3-4 days)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: March to May, September to November

Wilsons Promontory, or “The Prom,” is a stunning coastal national park at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. The Wilsons Promontory Circuit is a multi-day hike that takes you through lush rainforests, granite headlands, and secluded beaches. The track offers spectacular views of Bass Strait, as well as opportunities to spot native wildlife such as wombats, kangaroos, and emus. The campsites along the track are well-equipped, and the hike is suitable for moderately experienced hikers. The park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make this one of the best hiking experiences in Australia.

9. Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales

• Length: Varies (many day hikes available)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Best Time to Hike: March to May, September to November

Blue Mountains National Park, located just outside of Sydney, offers a range of hiking options, from easy walks to challenging full-day treks. The park is famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. One of the most popular hikes is the Wentworth Falls Track, which offers panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the impressive Wentworth Falls. Another favorite is the Grand Canyon Walk, a loop trail that takes you through fern-filled gorges and along sandstone cliffs. With so many trails to choose from, the Blue Mountains is a perfect destination for hikers of all levels.

10. Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia

• Length: 1,000 km (6-8 weeks)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Hike: April to November

The Bibbulmun Track is one of the longest hiking trails in Australia, stretching 1,000 kilometers from Kalamunda in the Perth Hills to Albany on the south coast. The track takes hikers through a diverse range of landscapes, including jarrah forests, wildflower-strewn plains, and coastal cliffs. The trail is well-marked, with campsites along the way, making it suitable for both multi-day hikes and shorter sections. The track passes through several small towns, so it’s possible to resupply and stay in accommodations along the route. The Bibbulmun Track is perfect for long-distance hikers looking for a remote and scenic adventure.

Tips for Hiking in Australia

• Best Time to Hike: The season for hiking in Australia depends on the region. In the northern parts, the dry season (May to October) offers the best conditions, while southern areas are best hiked in the cooler months (March to May, September to November).
• Wildlife: hiking in Australia is home for unique wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and a variety of bird species. Be mindful of snakes and other potentially dangerous animals, especially in remote areas that’s make hiking in Australia is unique.
• Weather: Australia’s weather can be extreme, especially in desert regions. Always carry plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate gear for changing conditions.
• Permits and Fees: Some national parks and hiking routes require permits or fees, so be sure to check ahead of time and plan accordingly.
• Respect the Environment: Australia’s landscapes are delicate, especially in remote or protected areas. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and be respectful of Indigenous cultural sites.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring the remote outback, the rugged coastlines, or the lush rainforests, hiking Australia offers some of the best hiking experiences in the world. These 10 hikes showcase the country’s incredible diversity, allowing you to connect with nature and experience the wild beauty of the land Down Under.