Australia is a land of breathtaking contrasts, from ancient rainforests and red desert plains to rugged coastlines and alpine national parks. For those who love to travel on foot, this vast continent offers an unparalleled playground of trails that weave through some of the most unique landscapes on Earth. Whether you’re seeking a multi-day wilderness adventure or a stunning day walk, there’s a path here with your name on it. To help you find your next great walk, we’ve compiled a list of the 11 Best Hiking Trails in Australia that showcase the very best of the country’s natural beauty.
Each trail on this list tells a different story of Australia. You can trace the footsteps of early settlers, walk paths used by Indigenous peoples for millennia, or simply lose yourself in the raw power of nature. The diversity is astounding, ensuring that every type of hiker, from the casual stroller to the seasoned trekker, can find a route that inspires them. Lacing up your boots for one of these journeys is more than just exercise; it’s a chance to connect with the heart of the Australian wilderness.
The Ultimate List: 11 Best Hiking Trails in Australia
From the east coast to the west, and the island state in the south, here are some of the most incredible hiking trails Australia has to offer.
Overland Track, Tasmania
Often considered Australia’s premier alpine walk, the Overland Track in Tasmania is a 65-kilometer, six-day journey through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Starting at Cradle Mountain and ending at Lake St Clair, you’ll pass ancient rainforests, alpine moors, and majestic mountain peaks. It’s a challenging but profoundly rewarding experience that requires good preparation, but the sense of accomplishment is unmatched.
Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory
For a true outback adventure, the Larapinta Trail is in a class of its own. This 223-kilometer trail is divided into 12 sections, tracing the West MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs. The terrain is rugged and the climate is arid, but the rewards are immense: stunning gorges, panoramic ridgeline views, and deep cultural significance. Walking the full trail is a major undertaking, but many of its most beautiful sections, like Ormiston Gorge and Standley Chasm, can be enjoyed as spectacular day walks.
Three Capes Track, Tasmania
A more accessible but no less dramatic Tasmanian trek, the Three Capes Track is a 48-kilometer, four-day guided journey along the southeast coast. This trail is known for its impeccable infrastructure and breathtaking coastal scenery, featuring the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. With comfortable overnight huts and a well-formed path, it’s a fantastic option for those who want a immersive experience without the heavy pack.
Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
Why just see the Twelve Apostles from a lookout when you can walk to them? The Great Ocean Walk stretches 104 kilometers from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles. Over several days, the trail winds along clifftops, through temperate rainforest, and onto deserted beaches, offering constantly changing perspectives of Victoria’s famous shipwreck coast.
Bibbulmun Track, Western Australia
One of the world’s great long-distance walks, the Bibbulmun Track spans an incredible 1000 kilometers from Kalamunda in the Perth hills to the historic town of Albany on the south coast. You can tackle a short section or commit to the two-month end-to-end journey. The track passes through towering karri and tingle forests, wild coastal heath, and tranquil inlets, providing a deep immersion into the unique ecosystems of Western Australia.
Thorsborne Trail, Queensland
Located on Hinchinbrook Island, the Thorsborne Trail is a 32-kilometer coastal hike through a pristine, uninhabited island paradise. This is a true wilderness experience where you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient, carrying all your food and supplies. In return, you’re treated with crystal-clear creeks, secluded beaches, and the chance to see dugongs, turtles, and a huge variety of birdlife.
Six Foot Track, New South Wales
This historic 45-kilometer track runs from Katoomba in the Blue Mountains to the Jenolan Caves. Originally built as a horse track in the 19th century, it now serves as a classic three-day hike. You’ll descend into the Megalong Valley, cross rivers, and climb through beautiful bushland, finishing at the magnificent limestone formations of the Jenolan Caves.
Heysen Trail, South Australia
Stretching 1,200 kilometers from the rugged cliffs of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the ancient Flinders Ranges, the Heysen Trail is another of Australia’s epic long-distance routes. While walking its entire length is a major project, its diverse sections offer everything from coastal views to dramatic inland ranges. The section through Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, with its stunning Wilpena Pound, is a particular highlight.
Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit, Victoria
“The Prom” is a beloved national park, and its multi-day Southern Circuit is a fantastic way to experience its best features. This roughly 60-kilometer loop takes you to pristine white-sand beaches like Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove, through lush gullies, and up to granite peaks with breathtaking views over the coast and islands.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, New South Wales
Not all great hikes are multi-day epics. The Bondi to Coogee walk is a 6-kilometer urban coastal path that packs a serious scenic punch. Perfect for a morning or afternoon, the well-paved path winds past famous beaches, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and picturesque parks. It’s a wonderful way to experience Sydney’s vibrant coastal culture while getting some fresh air and exercise.
Australian Alps Walking Track
For the truly ambitious, the Australian Alps Walking Track is a 655-kilometer journey through the high country of Victoria, New South Wales, and the ACT. This is a serious, remote, and challenging trek that follows the Great Dividing Range, traversing through iconic national parks like Kosciuszko, Alpine, and Namadgi. It’s an adventure that demands experience and resilience, offering solitude and a profound connection with the Australian alpine environment.
Preparing for Your Australian Hiking Adventure
Before you set off on any of these incredible trails, a little preparation goes a long way. The Australian environment can be unpredictable, and many of these walks are in remote locations.
Always check the weather forecast and park alerts before you go. Conditions can change rapidly, especially in alpine and desert regions. It’s also essential to carry plenty of water—more than you think you’ll need—as well as a water purification method for longer trails. Sun protection is non-negotiable; a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are your best friends on the trail.
For multi-day hikes, ensure you have the right gear, including a reliable tent, a warm sleeping bag, and a stove. And finally, always let someone know your plans, including your intended route and your expected return time. Respect the environment by following the principle of “Leave No Trace,” packing out all your rubbish to help preserve these beautiful places for future generations of hikers.
From the coastal cliffs of Tasmania to the red heart of the outback, the 11 Best Hiking Trails in Australia offer a lifetime of adventure. Each path provides a unique window into the soul of this ancient land, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and witness its raw, untamed beauty one step at a time. So, find the trail that calls to you, pack your bag, and start exploring.