When it comes to hiking destinations, Australia really is spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for an intense hike or a leisurely stroll, there’s a walk here for everyone. We’ve made a list of 10 of the best hiking destinations in Australia to set you on the path.

1. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

The Larapinta Trail is a challenging 13 to 15 day trek that covers 223km of beautiful scenery. It’s definitely not for beginners, and it’s best to walk during the cooler months from April to September.

You’ll need rest days and food drops to complete the hike, and while it’s hard, it is one-way with relatively good access at both entry points. For hikers willing to take on the challenge, the reward will be unique and stunning scenery.

You can find out more about the Larapinta Trail at Northern Territory Government.

2. Cradle Mountain Huts Walk, Tasmania

The Bay of Fires is not the only region of Tasmania that has spectacular trails.

Cradle Mountain is one of Australia’s most spectacular World Heritage Areas. It has a number of walks available. Many of them offer you the opportunity to wander through ancient rainforests, and explore waterfalls and grass plains.

You can find out more about Cradle Mountain at the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service.

3. The Arkaba Walk, South Australia

This walk traverses South Australia’s ancient, iconic Flinders Ranges and is the perfect hike to explore this unique part of the country. This experience will have you seeing native wildlife like kangaroos, wallaroos and emus, as well as rich and spectacular scenery.

The terrain reflects over 600 years of geological history and is harsh yet beautiful. Camp under endless starry skies and enjoy this unique, strangely touching part of the country.

You can find out more about the Arkaba Walk at the South Australian Government.

4. The Maria Island Walk, Tasmania

If tranquil, unspoilt beauty is something you’re after then you can’t beat the four day Maria Island Walk in Tasmania’s Maria Island National Park.
It’s just a few kilometres off Tasmania’s east coast and blends spectacular coastlines with rare wildlife and a glimpse into Australia’s convict history.

You can find out more about the Maria Island National Park at the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service. 

5. Freycinet Experience Walk, Tasmania

Another beautiful Tasmanian hike is the Freycinet Experience Walk. It’s a four day walk that takes you straight through the Hazard Mountains and the rich coast forests of Wineglass Bay.

You can find out more about the Freycinet National Park at the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service.

6. Fraser Island Great Walk, Queensland

The Fraser Island Great Walk is a five to seven-day trek covering 90 kilometres and serves as a perfect introduction to this part of Australia.

It’s a relatively easy trek although to keep cool, it’s best to walk during the colder months of the year (April to September). You’ll also need to take out camping permits for wherever you stop overnight.

You can find out more about Fraser Island at Queensland Parks and Forests.

7. South Coast Track, Tasmania

Yet another amazing coastal hike to take if you’re visiting Tasmania, the South Coast Track generally takes from six to nine days to complete and spans a distance of 85 kilometres.

It has a medium difficulty level and is easily accessible via public transport, but you should complete the trek during the warmer months of the year.

You can find out more about the South Coast Track at the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service.

8. Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia

If you ever find yourself on the West Coast of Australia, you owe it to yourself to attempt the Cape to Cape Track. You’ll discover spectacular scenery unique to this part of Australia.

Water is a little hard to find on the track, so make sure you prepare for that. The trek is relatively easy and should take you anywhere from six to eight days to complete.

You can find out more about the Cape to Cape Track at the Western Australian Parks and Wildlife Service.

9. Wilderness Coast Walk, Victoria to NSW

What better way to explore the Eastern coast of Australia than to embark upon the Wilderness Coast Walk?

The Wilderness Coast Walk is a great way to explore this beautiful part of the east coast of Australia. The walk takes around eight to ten days and has a medium level difficulty. You’ll need a permit in advance to do this walk, but the jaw-dropping scenery is worth it!

You can find out more about the Wilderness Coast Walk at Parks Victoria.

10. Thorsborne Trail, Queensland

If you ever find yourself in Hinchinbrook Island in Far North Queensland, you owe it to yourself to attempt the Thorsborne Trail. This four to five-day hike has a medium difficulty level but the views are worth the effort. You’ll also need to book in advance.

You can find out more about the Thorsborne Trail at the Queensland Parks and Forests.

Sources

https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/hinchinbrook-thorsborne/

https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/croajingolong-national-park/things-to-do/walk-the-wilderness-coast

https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/know/cape-cape-track

https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/southwest-national-park/south-coast-track

https://tourism.sa.gov.au/campaigns/tourism-champions/the-arkaba-walk

https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/maria-island-national-park

https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/cradle-mountain

https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/plan-your-visit/bushwalking-hiking/larapinta-trail/about-larapinta-trail