Australia’s diverse landscapes, surreal rock formations and endless coastline take hiking to new heights. If you weren’t a hiker before, you will be soon. These incredible hikes – ranging from easy to challenging – will open up your eyes to nature in a new way. Follow in the footsteps of Australia’s first inhabitants, climb to the highest peak and traverse the Jurassic-like rainforest. Here are 5 unique hikes in Australia.
Larapinta Trail
Great for: Ancient culture and an outback adventure
- Distance: 230km (143 miles),14 days
- State: Northern Territory
- Difficulty: Difficult
National Geographic dubbed the Larapinta Trail as one of the ‘100 Hikes of a Lifetime’ and they weren’t wrong. If you’re looking for a real outback hiking adventure, then add this to your bucket list. Spanning a mighty 230km, this walk offers an immersive cultural experience as you quite literally follow in the footsteps of Australia’s first inhabitants. Expect to hike past ancient chasms and gorges, swim in remote waterholes, spot unique wildlife and come evening, glance up at one of the world’s most dazzling celestial skies. Though the 14-day expedition is only recommended for seasoned walkers, you can still experience the outback’s magic for a couple of days along the trail.
Wineglass Bay Circuit
Great for: Sweeping views across one of Australia’s best beaches
- Distance: 12km (7.4 miles), 3 hours
- State: Tasmania
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
With its dazzling white sands, azure blue ocean and pink-tinged peaks, it’s not difficult to see how Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay has been crowned one of Australia’s best beaches. It’s not just the beach that’s spectacular. Take the Wineglass Bay Circuit to find native wildlife, flora and fauna and of course, the jaw-dropping vantage points of Wineglass Beach, Coles Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula coastline. Be sure to continue the loop on to the remote Hazards Beach – you won’t regret it.
Kosciuszko Walk
Great for: Ticking off Australia’s highest peak and fresh mountain air
- Distance: 13km (8 miles), 4 to 5 hours
- State: New South Wales
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Hiking to Australia’s highest peak is a must during the warmer months of the year when the snow melts, the flowers come out and the views are spectacular. While most people will tell you to grab the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and take the easy walk up to the summit from there, if you’ve got the fitness and willingness, I highly recommend ignoring that advice. While the views at the top are breathtaking (to say the least), some of the most beautiful sections of the track are between Thredbo and the chairlift. Do yourself a favour and start your hike with the 4km (2.4-mile) Merritts Nature Track. It’s steep, but it’s so worth it.
Cape to Cape Track
Great for: Taking in Margaret River’s awe-inspiring coastline
- Distance: 126km (78 miles), 5 to 7 days
- State: Western Australia
- Difficulty: Moderate
World-class surfing waves, breweries and wineries galore, and a coastline that could rival the world’s best. There’s plenty to love about Margaret River, including the Cape to Cape Track. This multi-day hike follows Western Australia’s rugged coastline; you’ll pass ancient forests, powder-white sand beaches and gorgeous lagoons. Lace up your trainers in spring to see Western Australia’s famous wildflowers in full bloom or plan to hike between June and September to watch whales during their annual migration.
Grand Canyon Track
Great for: Immersing yourself in nature
- Distance: 6.3km (3.9 miles), 3 to 4 hours
- State: New South Wales
- Difficulty: Moderate
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a region bursting with hikes, from the iconic Three Sisters to the thundering Wentworth Falls. These ‘tourist’ hikes are extraordinary, but in my opinion, the best trail is just a stone’s throw away. The Grand Canyon Track is in one word, epic. Start your hike soaking in the 180-degree views of the canyon before wandering down into the enchanting rainforest. Walk past trickling streams, waterfalls and incredible caves. Just try not to say ‘wow’. This hike (which tends to be crowd-free) is the ultimate nature escape.
