Australia is a vast island continent known for its stunning natural wonders, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Outback's red deserts. With vibrant cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne, unique wildlife including kangaroos and koalas, and world-class beaches, Australia offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Overland Track
Australia's most iconic long-distance hike traversing Tasmania's spectacular alpine wilderness past ancient rainforest, alpine moorland, glacial lakes, and jagged dolerite peaks. Bookings essential for the southbound direction October-May.
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2
Kokoda Track
One of the world's most challenging and historically significant treks following the WWII route where Australian soldiers fought the Japanese in 1942. The track traverses rugged rainforest-covered mountains connecting the north and south coasts of Papua New Guinea.
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3
Three Sisters Walk (Echo Point)
The Blue Mountains' most popular short walk along the clifftop from Echo Point to the Giant Stairway with spectacular views of the Three Sisters rock formation and Jamison Valley. The optional Giant Stairway descent adds significant steps but incredible valley floor access.
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4
Grampians Peaks Trail
Victoria's premier long-distance trail connecting Dunkeld to Halls Gap through spectacular sandstone ranges with Aboriginal rock art sites, wildflowers, and kangaroos. A new trail completed in 2021 with dedicated campsite infrastructure.
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5
Valley of the Winds Walk
A spectacular walk through the domes of Kata Tjuta passing through gorges and climbing to sweeping desert views at Karingana Lookout. The full loop passes the Valley of the Winds vista at sunrise when the domes glow in vivid reds and oranges.
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6
Thorsborne Trail
Australia's most biodiverse island walk following Hinchinbrook's east coast through mangroves, rainforest, and pristine beaches. Limited to 40 walkers at a time to protect the wilderness, with camping among estuarine crocodile country.
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7
Cape to Cape Track
Western Australia's premier coastal trek connecting Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin through wildflower heathland, coastal cliffs, and secluded beaches. The Margaret River wine region is accessible from the trail with cellar doors providing unique resting points.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Australia.
- Spring
- September-November is ideal for most Australian hiking. Wildflowers blanket the Grampians and Stirling Ranges. Temperatures moderate before summer heat. Snowmelt in alpine areas can cause creek crossings. Tasmania weather unpredictable.
- Summer
- December-February excellent for Tasmania and southern alpine areas when snow clears. Very hot and unsuitable for outback and central Australian hiking without careful preparation. Water sources unreliable. Watch for thunderstorms in alpine zones.
- Fall
- March-May is superb for Queensland and Northern Territory hiking as tropical wet season ends. Cooler temperatures, full waterfalls, and greener landscapes. Best time for Kakadu, Hinchinbrook Island, and Cape York. Australian Alps still accessible.
- Winter
- June-August is peak season for outback and northern Australia hiking. Mild, dry conditions in Northern Territory, Western Australia, and Queensland. The Overland Track closes in winter. Excellent for Uluru, Kakadu, and Cape York treks.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Extreme heat and sun exposure — Australia has one of the world's highest UV indexes. Always wear SPF 50+ sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat, and carry at least 3 litres of water per person per day in summer.
Hazard: Venomous snakes — Australia hosts many of the world's most venomous species. Stay on marked trails, watch where you step and place your hands, wear long trousers in bush, and back away slowly from any snake encountered.
Hazard: Crocodile danger in northern Queensland and Northern Territory waterways — never swim in unmarked waterways north of Rockhampton. Check for warning signs at all freshwater crossings.
Hazard: Getting lost in the outback — carry a satellite communicator (Garmin inReach recommended), paper map and compass as backup. Mobile phone coverage disappears rapidly outside cities.
Hazard: Bushfire risk November-April — always check fire danger ratings (NSW RFS, CFA, Parks Victoria apps) before heading out. Hike early morning and have clear exit plans.
Hazard: Box jellyfish and Irukandji in tropical coastal waters October-May — stick to stinger-netted areas or full-body lycra suits.
Hazard: Dehydration and hyponatremia — in intense heat, drink water regularly even without feeling thirsty. Carry electrolyte tablets for multi-day hikes.