The best walks and hikes in Australia

Australia offers a vast network of over 5,400 hiking trails. These routes cater to all levels, from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks, allowing you to explore the continent's diverse landscapes.

Hiking in Australia provides access to an incredible variety of landscapes. You can explore rugged coastlines, ancient rainforests, arid outback regions with dramatic red rock formations, and even alpine environments. Many trails also traverse culturally and historically significant areas, showcasing Australia's unique ecology and geological features.

Yes, Australia has over 2,900 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Mount Ngungun Summit Track offers a rewarding, shorter climb with great views. Many coastal walks and national park trails also provide accessible options.

The trails in Australia are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 13,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the diversity of the terrain, and the opportunity to experience unique wildlife and geological formations.

Yes, Australia features many excellent circular routes. Notable options include the Kings Canyon Rim circuit, which offers spectacular views of the canyon, and the Uluṟu Base Walk circuit, providing an intimate experience of the iconic monolith. Another popular choice is the Valley of the Winds Full Circuit in Kata Tjuta.

Absolutely. Australia's diverse landscapes include many trails with stunning waterfalls, particularly in its rainforest and mountain regions. The Overland Track in Tasmania and the Border Track in Queensland's Lamington National Park are renowned for their picturesque waterfalls. The Jatbula Trail in the Northern Territory also features numerous waterfalls and swimming holes.

Hiking in Australia offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting. You might encounter iconic native animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas. The diverse flora, including ancient eucalypt trees, also provides habitats for a variety of bird species and other unique creatures.

Australia is rich in natural landmarks. Along various trails, you can discover incredible sights like Uluru (Ayers Rock), the dramatic Mount Kosciuszko Summit, and the unique rock formations on Kangaroo Island. The Blue Mountains also offer spectacular canyons and viewpoints like Mount Coot-tha Lookout.

Yes, Australia has several fascinating cave systems. You can find highlights like Red Hands Cave, Giant's Cave, and Wells Cave, which are often accessible from nearby hiking trails. The Undara Lava Tubes also offer a unique underground experience.

For experienced trekkers, Australia offers several world-class multi-day hikes. The Overland Track in Tasmania, the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory, and the Heysen Trail in South Australia are renowned for their length, challenging terrain, and immersive wilderness experiences. The Three Capes Track in Tasmania also provides a unique hut-based coastal adventure.

Australia's extensive coastline provides numerous opportunities for stunning coastal walks. The Great Ocean Walk in Victoria offers breathtaking views of the famous Great Ocean Road, while Tasmania's Three Capes Track provides a dramatic clifftop experience. The Manly Scenic Walkway near Sydney is another excellent option, showcasing beaches and ocean vistas.

Yes, Australia features alpine hiking opportunities, particularly in the southeastern part of the continent. The Kosciuszko Walk in New South Wales leads to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak, offering high-altitude hiking with incredible views over the Snowy Mountains and through alpine meadows. The Australian Alps Walking Track also traverses peaks and open plains.