Australia has some of the most diverse hiking opportunities anywhere on earth.
From scenic coastal tracks to high mountain passes, those who make the effort will be rewarded handsomely.
Read on as we take a look at 5 of the best hiking trails our country has to offer.
1. the Overland Track
As Australia’s most iconic multi-day hike, The Overland Track provides walkers with a spectacular variety of terrain and scenery.
Highlights include views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake, myrtle-beech rainforest, and Australia’s deepest lake, Lake St Clair.
There are also several amazing side trips available, such as scaling Tassie’s highest peak, Mt Ossa (1617m).
Booking through the Parks & Wildlife Service is necessary for the months October – May.
A bus transfer is required to access the start of the trail head, while a ferry (which must be booked in advance) is required on the last day to cross Lake St Clair.
Location: Tasmania
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 65km
Days to complete: 6
More information:parks.tas.gov.au
2. Cape to Cape Track
Located in the far south-west corner of Australia, the Cape to Cape Track offers a very impressive array of coastal and forest scenery.
Running from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, visitors will be rewarded with stunning ocean and inland views, and a range of dramatic geographical landscapes.
This walk is possible year-round however walkers need to ensure they are prepared for the conditions. It can be completed in either direction however north to south is recommended.
Location: Western Australia
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 135km
Days to complete: 6-7
More information:trailswa.com.au
3. Larapinta Trail
One of Australia’s best-known, and most epic multi-day hikes, the Larapinta Trail is a unique yet challenging walk through the depths of the Australian interior.
Starting near Alice Springs the trail path follows the spine of the West MacDonnell Range and finishes at Mount Sonder.
Hikers can choose to complete all or a selection of the 12 sections making up the Larapinta Trail, with each one having vehicle access at the trailhead.
The cooler months of the year are recommended for this walk.
Location: Northern Territory
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 223km
Days to complete: 16-20
More info:nt.gov.au, northernterritory.com
4. Wilderness Coast Walk
The best way to explore the south-east coast of Australia is on the 100km Wilderness Coast trail, stretching from Sydenham Inlet in Croajingolong National Park, Victoria, all the way to Wonboyn in the Nadgee Nature Reserve, NSW.
Offering a dramatic range of scenery, fauna, and wildlife, this track hugs the coastline and provides hikers with a unique combination of beaches and bush during their multi-day adventure.
While there are few challenging hills, the distances on this walk are significant. There is also limited water and facilities so make sure you prepare adequately.
Location: Victoria and NSW
Difficulty: Medium/hard
Distance: 100km
Days to complete: 9
More information: parkweb.vic.gov.au
5. Bay of Fires Lodge Walk
This beautiful coastal walk will take you on a tour of some of the most impressive scenery Tasmania has to offer.
With dramatic beaches and coves, a variety of fauna and wildlife, combined with luxury accommodation, the bay of fires walk is not one to miss.
This hike is possible year-round however it is recommended to avoid the winter months. Also note that the multi-day hikes are generally only available through guided tours.
Location: Tasmania
Difficulty: Easy
Days to complete: 3-4
More information: parks.tas.gov.au
