The Ultimate Guide To Hiking In Australia (2024 Guide)

Here is a detailed guide to hiking in Australia, including the best hikes in each state and general hiking trips for travellers!

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Australia. Incredible trails traverse the continent’s unique ecosystems in all 8 states, so there is no shortage of hikes to choose from.

Whether you want leisurely day hikes or multi-state trails that take months, you can do it all in Australia!

The country has some incredible mountain ranges, from the West Macdonnell Ranges to the Australian Alps to the Blue Mountains and more.

If you’re hoping to lace up your hiking boots and tackle some of Australia’s best trails, here is our ultimate guide to hiking Down Under.

The Best Hikes in Australia

Let’s kick off our guide with a list of the best Australian treks to add to your bucket list. There are some mind-blowing Australian hiking trails scattered all throughout this massive, diverse continent.

So hiking enthusiasts hoping to tackle some life-changing trails should consider some of these great walks of Australia.

Best Queensland Hikes

K’gari Great Walk (Fraser Island Great Walk)

• Distance – 90 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Dilli Village to Happy Valley
• Time – 6-8 days
• Difficulty – Moderate

K’gari, formerly known as Fraser Island, is the largest sand island in the world and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The K’gari Great Walk (Fraser Island Great Walk) is a great way to see the unique island. It’s the only place in the world where rainforests grow on sand, and the landscape consists of freshwater dune lakes, dense forests, and magical ocean views.

You can do the hike slowly in sections and camp at the remote wilderness campsites along the way, soaking in all the beauty that K’gari has to offer.

The Scenic Rim Trail

• Distance – 47 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Thornton View to Cunninghams Gap
• Time – 4 -5 days
• Difficulty – Hard

Winding through Main Range National Park, the Scenic Rim Trail is a stunning four-day hiking experience in Queensland.

This trail weaves through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, open woodlands, and towering mountain peaks within the Great Dividing Range.

The trail is managed by experienced eco-tourism operators, offering both guided and self-guided options with comfortable eco-camps along the way.

Spend more time in Queensland with our 7 Day Gold Coast Itinerary!

Thorsborne Trail (East Coast Trail)

• Distance – 32 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Ramsay Bay to George Point
• Time – 4 – 7 days
• Difficulty – Hard

The Thorsborne Trail is located on Hinchinbrook Island National Park in the north of Queensland.

The 32km trail snakes its way through lush tropical forest, cloud-covered mountains, crystal clear mountain streams and waterfalls and beautiful ocean beaches.

You must be totally self-sufficient as this is an isolated hike with designated campsites every 4 hours along the trail. A permit is required and you need to book your campsites in advance!

Explore more of the Sunshine State on one of these Queensland road trips!

Best New South Wales Hikes

Mount Gower Trek, Lord Howe Island

• Distance – 14 kilometres
• Start / Finish – far south end of Lagoon Road
• Time – 8 – 9 hours
• Difficulty – Hard

As one of Australia’s best day hikes, the Mount Gower Trek showcases the best views of Lord Howe Island. From vibrant turquoise waters, to lush cloud forests, to steep rocky cliffs, you can see it all on this epic day hike.

Rising to 875 meters, Mount Gower is a challenging hike that requires a guide due to its demanding terrain. You’ll have to tackle narrow ridges, navigate rope-assisted sections, and be mindful of changing weather conditions.

The trek’s ascent is well worth the effort for the spectacular views from the summit, making it a must-do adventure for those visiting Lord Howe Island.

Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk, Warrumbungle National Park

• Distance – 14.5 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Pincham carpark south of John Renshaw Parkway
• Time –  5 – 6 hours 
• Difficulty – Moderate

The Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk is known for its dramatic volcanic landscape and challenging terrain. You’ll get amazing views of towering spires, deep gorges, and the park’s signature feature, the Breadknife—a narrow, knife-edge rock formation rising starkly against the sky.

The walk offers panoramic views of the rugged high country and requires a steep climb to reach the Grand High Tops, where hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas over the unique, ancient rock formations.

It’s a must-do for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, capturing the rugged beauty of the only Dark Sky Park in the Southern Hemisphere.

Read our guide to the best Warrumbungles Walks!

Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk

• Distance – 18.6 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Charlotte Pass at the end of Kosciuszko Road
• Time –  6-8 hours
• Difficulty – Hard

As the highest mountain in the country, Mount Kosciuszko is a popular trek in Australia. The peak stands at 2,228 meters in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, and the summit walk offers some breathtaking alpine scenery.

A scenic chairlift ride takes hikers partway up, where they begin their journey across alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and unique flora, including snow gums and delicate wildflowers in bloom during warmer months.

Despite its elevation, the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk is accessible year-round, drawing nature lovers and adventurers seeking to reach the top of Australia. 

Check out our detailed recount of hiking Mount Kosciuszko!

Grand Cliff Top Walk, Blue Mountains

• Distance – 19 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Wentworth Falls to Katoomba
• Time –  2 days
• Difficulty – Moderate

See the best of the Blue Mountains with the Grand Cliff Top Walk! Snaking along the edge of the Jamison Valley, this easily accessible trail brings hikers past the most incredible waterfalls, lookouts, and mountain towns.

Taking only 2 days to complete, you can stay overnight in one of the charming towns of Wentworth Falls, Leura, or Katoomba.

Bring a camera because the views in Australia’s Blue Mountains are dramatic, wild, and stunning.

Best ACT Hikes

Canberra Centenary Trail

• Distance – 145 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Parliament House
• Time –  7 days
• Difficulty – Easy/Moderate

Showcasing Canberra’s natural and historical highlights, this 145-km walking track was created to celebrate the city’s centenary in 2013.

Passing through iconic sites like the National Arboretum, Black Mountain, and Mount Ainslie, the trail is accessible for walkers and cyclists, with sections that vary in difficulty to suit all fitness levels.

The Centenary Trail can be completed as a multi-day hike or enjoyed in shorter segments, each offering a unique blend of native wildlife, Aboriginal cultural heritage, and glimpses into Canberra’s diverse ecosystems.

Gibraltar Peak Hike

• Distance – 8.2 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Dalsetta Carpark
• Time –  3-4 hours
• Difficulty – Hard

The Gibraltar Peak Hike in ACT is a moderately challenging day hike through Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Winding through scenic woodlands and granite outcrops, the trail provides hikers with glimpses of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and colorful bird species.

As the trail ascends, the landscape opens up to sweeping views over the Tidbinbilla Valley and the surrounding Brindabella Range.

The hike is well-maintained and ideal for a half-day adventure, making it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a nature escape close to Canberra.

Best Victoria Hikes

Great Ocean Walk

• Distance – 110 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Apollo Bay to Twelve Apostles
• Time –  8 days
• Difficulty – Moderate

See the famous Great Ocean Road in a new light! Instead of driving along the famous route, you can take on one of Victoria’s best walking tracks and traverse the coastline on foot.

Start in the charming town of Apollo Bay and finish at the Twelve Apostles, with convenient campsites along the way.

The Great Ocean Walk is famous for showcasing the raw beauty of the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks, and it’s an amazing way to appreciate the rugged cliffs of Australia’s southern coast.

Read next: Best Day Trips from Melbourne

Grampians Peaks Trail

• Distance – 164 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Mount Zero to Dunkfield
• Time –  13 days
• Difficulty – Hard

Grampians National Park in Victoria offers some of the best hiking in Australia, with majestic canyons and lush forests abound.

The Grampians Peaks Trail is the ultimate trek in this beautiful mountain range!

The hike weaves through varied terrain, from dense woodlands and fern-filled gullies to steep ascents and rocky peaks, including iconic sites like Mount Difficult, Mount William, and Redman Bluff.

Hikers will encounter Aboriginal rock art sites and significant cultural landmarks of the local Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali people, adding a rich historical dimension to the trail.

Find more amazing hiking in Australia with these Grampians Walks!

Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing

• Distance – 37 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Falls Creek to Mount Hotham
• Time –  3 days
• Difficulty – Hard

One of the best multi day walks in Victoria is the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing. Taking you through the dramatic peaks of the Victorian Alps, this three-day trek winds through some of Australia’s most beautiful alpine scenery.

The trail passes through iconic sites like the Bogong High Plains and the summit of Mount Feathertop, the second-highest peak in Victoria, offering incredible panoramic views over the Alpine National Park.

Designed for experienced hikers, the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing includes basic camping facilities and is a true immersion into Australia’s wilderness.

Mornington Peninsula Coastal Walk

• Distance – 30 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Cape Schanck Lighthouse to London Bridge
• Time –  9 hours (1-2 days)
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

Soak in the majestic views of the Mornington Peninsula with the Coastal Walk! The track varies in difficulty, with well-marked paths and some more challenging sections over rocky terrain.

The walk is ideal for hikers of all levels, whether they choose to tackle the entire trail over a couple of days or opt for shorter, picturesque segments.

Rich in native flora and fauna, the trail also provides glimpses of local wildlife like kangaroos, echidnas, and various seabirds, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Best Tasmania Hikes

The Overland Track

• Distance – 65 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair
• Time –  6 days
• Difficulty – Hard

Starting at the iconic Cradle Mountain and ending at the gorgeous Lake St. Clair National Park, the Overland Track is definitely one of Australia’s best hikes.

The challenging trek showcases some of Tasmania’s most beautiful forests, mountains, meadows, and lakes, with quaint huts to sleep at along the way.

With its mix of breathtaking scenery and remote wilderness, the Overland Track offers a sense of solitude in the midst of Cradle Mountain Lake St. Clair National Park.

Prepare for the Overland Track with our complete guide!

Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

• Distance – 33 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Mount William National Park to Bay of Fires Lodge
• Time –  5 days
• Difficulty – Moderate

Also considered one of the Australian Great Walks, this hike immerses travelers in the natural beauty of Tasmania’s northeastern coastline.

Follow along stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant orange-lichen-covered boulders, and pristine coastal landscapes as you hike through Tassie.

The walk combines adventurous trekking with luxurious accommodation, where hikers spend their nights in the comfortable lodge and eco-camps set within the wilderness. So it’s a more upscale multi day hike option!

South Coast Track

• Distance – 85 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Melaleuca to Cockle Creek
• Time –  6-8 days
• Difficulty – Hard

This challenging and remote wilderness coast walk is known for its isolation and requires a high level of fitness and self-sufficiency.

There are no facilities or resupply points along the South Coast Track, and hikers need to be prepared for Tasmania’s notoriously unpredictable weather.

But the trail is an amazing adventure and rewards hikers with stunning vistas, a chance to disconnect, and immersion in nature.

Read next: The 25 Best Things to Do in Tasmania

The Maria Island Walk

• Distance – Around 30 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Triabunna
• Time –  4 days
• Difficulty – Easy/Moderate

One of the best hiking trails in Australia, the Maria Island Walk is a four day guided hike around this gorgeous island off the coast of Tasmania.

With knowledgeable guides who share stories about the island’s convict history, unique geology, and indigenous heritage, each day brings a new perspective on Maria Island’s remarkable environment.

The guided hikes include semi-luxury eco-accommodation, providing another upscale hiking experience!

Three Capes Track

• Distance – 48 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Port Arthur
• Time –  4 days
• Difficulty – Easy/Moderate

The Three Capes Track is a spectacular four day coastal walk along Tasmania’s rugged Tasman Peninsula.

Starting from Port Arthur, this well-maintained trail takes hikers through towering sea cliffs, wind-sculpted landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, with highlights including Cape Raoul, Cape Hauy, and Cape Pillar, which is home to the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.

Each day’s trek provides a mix of easy paths and more challenging terrain, making the walk accessible to various fitness levels while still feeling adventurous. With eco-friendly cabins at each overnight stop, hikers can enjoy comfortable accommodations amid the wilderness.

Find more details with our Three Capes Track guide!

Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit

• Distance – 11 kilometres
• Start / Finish –  Freycinet Visitor Centre
• Time –  4-5 hours
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

A must-do day walk in Tasmania is the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit!

The walk begins with a climb to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views Wineglass Bay. The crescent-shaped white sands and turquoise waters of make this one of the world’s most photographed beaches.

From there, the track descends to the bay itself, allowing for a refreshing swim or a rest on the beach before continuing to Hazards Beach on the opposite shore.

The return journey follows the coastline along the edge of Great Oyster Bay, offering views of the Hazards mountain range and the chance to spot native wildlife, including wallabies and sea birds.

Best South Australia Hikes

Heysen Trail

• Distance – 1,200 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Parachilna Gorge to Cape Jervis
• Time –  50-60 days
• Difficulty – Hard

This massive trek can take up to two months to complete, but it’s the ultimate South Australia adventure!

Serious backpackers can tackle the entire Heysen Trail, whereas the average hiker can just enjoy sections of the trail.

It’s one of Australia’s longest and most diverse hiking trails, passing through the wild beauty of the Flinders Ranges, the peaceful vineyards of the Barossa Valley, the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Fleurieu Peninsula, and so much more.

The Arkaba Walk

• Distance – 45 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Wilpena Pound to Arkaba Homestead
• Time –  3 days
• Difficulty – Moderate

 Also considered one of the Great Walks of Australia, the Arkaba Walk takes you through the heart of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia.

This private conservation reserve is home to a wealth of native wildlife, with frequent sightings of emus, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species.

Each day, knowledgeable guides share insights into the unique ecology, geology, and Indigenous history of the region, adding depth to the experience.

Evenings are spent in beautifully restored shepherd’s huts and an exclusive luxury camp, where guests enjoy gourmet meals under the stars.

The Murray River Walk

• Distance – 40 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Renmark
• Time –  3-4 days
• Difficulty – Easy

Another one of the best trails in South Australia is the Murray River Walk, showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of Australia’s iconic Murray River.

This long but relatively flat trek meanders along the river’s banks, red gum forests, and wetlands, allowing hikers to explore rich ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

From towering limestone cliffs to peaceful river bends, this is an amazing way for hikers of all fitness levels to get outside and enjoy nature.

Read next: The Perfect Murray River Road Trip Itinerary

Best Western Australia Hikes

Cape to Cape Track, Margaret River

• Distance – 123 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse
• Time –  5-8 days
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

The Cape to Cape Track is a breathtaking coastal trail that stretches along Western Australia’s stunning Margaret River coastline, from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. 

Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic ocean views, secluded swimming spots, and a chance to spot dolphins, whales, and seabirds.

The Cape to Cape Track can be tackled in shorter sections or as a full multi-day trek, with campsites and nearby accommodations available for overnight stays.

The Bibbulmun Track 

• Distance – 1,000 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Kalamunda to Albany
• Time –  6-8 weeks
• Difficulty – Moderate

 An excellent option for long-distance hikers, the Bibbulmun Track takes you through an extraordinary variety of terrain in southwest Australia. You’ll see towering karri and tingle forests, wildflower-dotted heathlands, serene river valleys, rugged coastal cliffs, and lots of wildlife.

Take on the entire end-to-end trek and stay at the basic shelters and campsites along the way (make sure you plan this in advance), or just walk smaller sections as day walks.

Cape Le Grand Coastal Track

• Distance – 15 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Le Grand Beach to Rossiter Bay
• Time –  8-9 hours
• Difficulty – Moderate

The Cape Le Grand Coastal Track showcases some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal landscapes and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Esperance region.

This is an amazing way to appreciate the bright turquoise beaches and pristine wilderness of southwest Australia. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos at places like Lucky Bay!

See more of this gorgeous area on a Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary.

Manning Gorge Walk

• Distance – 5.6 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Mount Barnett Campsite
• Time –  2-3 hours
• Difficulty – Moderate

A highlight of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, this walk leads to the stunning Manning Gorge and its picturesque waterfall.

Starting from the Manning Gorge campground, the walk begins with a refreshing swim or wade across the Manning River (depending on water levels), followed by a hike through rugged bushland, rocky outcrops, and vibrant red earth characteristic of the Kimberley.

The trail can be challenging under the hot sun, but the reward at the end is worth it: the beautiful, shaded gorge with its deep swimming hole and waterfalls.

Piccaninny Gorge Trek

• Distance – 20 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Purnululu National Park Visitor Centre
• Time –  2-3 days
• Difficulty – Hard

The Piccaninny Gorge Trek is an adventurous, multi-day hiking journey through the remote and rugged terrain of Purnululu National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia’s Kimberley region is known for its stunning, beehive-shaped sandstone formations, called the Bungle Bungles.

The trail takes hikers through the heart of the gorge, past dramatic cliffs, narrow chasms, and unique rock formations.

Typically undertaken as an overnight hike, the trek demands good preparation and self-sufficiency, as it traverses a wilderness area without marked trails or facilities.

Best Northern Territory Hikes

The Larapinta Trail

• Distance – 221 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mount Sonder
• Time –  20 days
• Difficulty – Hard

The Larapinta Trail is one of the most famous hikes in Australia. Winding through the rugged and breathtaking scenery of the Red Centre, this hike allows you to see the best of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Known for its stunning scenery, the Larapinta Trail offers panoramic views, especially from high points like Euro Ridge and Brinkley Bluff, where the rocky landscape and red desert hues create dramatic vistas.

The trail is divided into 12 sections, allowing hikers to tackle either short day walks or longer multi-day treks, with facilities like campgrounds and water tanks at certain points.

 Read our guide to hiking the Larapinta trail in the Northern Territory!

Kings Canyon Rim Walk

• Distance – 6 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Kings Canyon Car Park
• Time –  3-4 hours
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

Another spectacular gem of the Red Centre is Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. This hike takes you around the rim of the sandstone canyon, offering dramatic overlooks, narrow chasms, and unique rock formations, including the “Lost City” domes, which resemble ancient ruins.

Halfway through the trail, hikers can descend into the Garden of Eden, a lush oasis with a waterhole surrounded by rare plants.

Uluru Base Walk

• Distance – 10.6 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Mala Car Park
• Time –  3-4 hours
• Difficulty – Easy/Moderate

 If you’re visiting the iconic monolith of Uluru, circumnavigate the colossal red rock by taking on the Uluru Base Walk.

The trail loops around the entire base of Uluru, taking hikers through desert woodlands, shaded waterholes, and sacred Aboriginal sites.

Unlike climbing Uluru, which is discouraged due to its sacred status, the Base Walk offers a respectful way to connect with the land, observe ancient rock art, and learn about the Tjukurpa (Dreaming) stories of the Anangu people.

Jatbula Trail

• Distance – 62 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Nitmiluk Gorge to Edith Falls
• Time –  5-6 days
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

 This remarkable trek in Nitmiluk National Park showcases the lush beauty of Australia’s Top End. You’ll get to see cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, lush monsoon forests, and striking sandstone escarpments.

With campsites set along the trail near water sources, it’s a self-guided trek that requires good preparation, rewarding hikers with a rare, unforgettable Outback experience.

Tabletop Track

• Distance – 39 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Circuit which you can start at Florence Falls, Wangi Falls or Walker Creek
• Time –  3-5 days
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

The Tabletop Track through Litchfield National Park is another amazing hike in the Australian Top End.

Highlights along the track include natural plunge pools, cascading waterfalls like Wangi Falls and Florence Falls, and unique rock formations.

Generally taking 3-5 days to complete, this exhilarating hike allows you to escape the tourist spots in the lush Litchfield National Park near Darwin.

Read next: The Best Australia Travel Tips

Best Multi-State Hikes in Australia

Now let’s dive into a few of the magnificent Australian hikes that cross state borders!

Australian Alps Walking Track – Victoria, ACT, New South Wales

• Distance – 650 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Walhalla to Canberra
• Time –  10 weeks
• Difficulty – Hard

The Australian Alps Walking Track is a challenging and scenic long-distance trail stretching through the rugged mountain ranges of southeastern Australia.

The trail winds through some of Australia’s most beautiful alpine environments, starting near Walhalla in Victoria and ending at Tharwa, near Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory.

Hikers will cross iconic national parks like Kosciuszko, Alpine, and Namadgi, experiencing a range of diverse ecosystems.

Wilderness Coast Walk – Victoria to New South Wales

• Distance – 100 kilometres
• Start / Finish – Sydenham Inlet to Wonboyn
• Time –  8-10 days
• Difficulty – Moderate/Hard

Running from Victoria’s Croajingolong National Park to New South Wales’ Nadgee Nature Reserve, the Wilderness Coast Walk is another iconic multi-state trek.

Nature lovers can immerse themselves in a region recognized for its rich biodiversity and unspoiled beauty.

Hikers may encounter unique wildlife, including kangaroos, seals, and diverse bird species while navigating sand dunes, river crossings, and tide-affected stretches.

Explore more of the country with these amazing places to visit in Australia!

Tips for Hiking in Australia

To help you plan your Australian hiking adventure, we’ve compiled some handy travel advice such as when to hike, what to pack, and general safety tips.

Best Time for Hiking in Australia

The best time to hike depends on the region of Australia you’re visiting. Here is a breakdown of the different months and where you’ll find the best conditions for trekking!

Summer (December, January, February)

Summer in Australia means higher heat and humidity. It also brings tropical rains in the north, so summer is the best time to head south!

The cooler climates in Tasmania, Victoria, and southern New South Wales or Western Australia will have lovely warm weather that is perfect for hiking.

You’ll want to avoid hiking in the Outback or in the tropical north, because the heat and rains will be too intense.

Winter (June, July, August)

Winter is the best time to head north and experience the beauty of the tropics!

Places with warm climates like northern Queensland or Western Australia and the Northern Territory will have more comfortable temperatures and dry weather in winter.

You can still hike in southern areas in winter, just be sure to pack warm clothes especially if you’re camping.

Read next: The Ultimate Western Australia Road Trip Itinerary

Spring (September, October, November) and Autumn (March, April, May)

Spring and Autumn are both shoulder season, which offers suitable hiking conditions for most areas around the country.

You should be able to find mild weather, clear skies, and vibrant natural beauty in all states of Australia!

No matter where you go, check local weather alerts just in case of any inclement weather or trail closures.

Best Hiking Gear

It’s a good idea to equip yourself with high-quality hiking gear, especially if you’re trying one of the longer walks in Australia.

Sturdy, waterproof, comfortable gear will make your hikes that much more enjoyable. You can even keep yourself safe and free from injury with proper gear.

Check out our list of hiking essentials to get a sense of what you should wear and pack for your hikes.

Choosing the right type of gear can be overwhelming, so you can also browse our detailed buyer’s guides for our top hiking gear recommendations!

• Best Trekking Poles
• Best Hiking Boots
• Best Hiking Backpacks

If you’re doing any of the multi day hikes that require camping, you’ll need to level up your Australia packing list. It’s so important to have all the camping essentials with you if you’re spending days or weeks out in the remote bushland of Australia.

Check out our buyer’s guides for the following camping essentials!

• Best Backpacking Tents
• Best Camping Air Mattresses
• Best Camping Stoves
• Best Camping Sleeping Pad
• Best Backpacking Water Filters

General Hiking Tips

Once you’ve planned the dates of your Australian hiking trip and prepared your gear, you’re almost ready to get out there and enjoy some epic treks.

Here are some general hiking tips that will help you stay safe and comfortable while hiking in Australia.

Have travel insurance

You should always have travel insurance for a trip abroad. But if you’re hiking or camping out in the wilderness, you should definitely have travel insurance!

You never know what can go wrong in life, so make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.

Check the weather

This goes for hiking anywhere in the world, but it’s essential to check the local weather before setting off into the wilderness.

Especially in Australia’s more extreme climates, weather can change in a heartbeat and get hikers into some strife if they are unprepared.

Whether you’re in Tasmania’s mountains, where coastal storms can roll in quickly, or you’re in the Outback, where days can be scorching and nights can be freezing, take a good look at the forecast to ensure you’re prepared.

Avoid hiking alone

Also an applicable tip to any hike in the world, hiking with a buddy is always better than hiking alone.

Not only will you enjoy some company, but you’ll also have an extra set of hands if something crazy happens.

Having a hiking buddy also makes it easier to manage gear, share essentials like water and food, and navigate challenging terrain together.

Prepare for your hikes with our 12 BEST Hiking Tips (From 15 Years Trekking)!

Prioritise sun protection

Australia’s sun is super strong, so always wear sun protection. That means a hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses, and long, lightweight layers if possible.

Especially at high altitudes or in particularly hot locations like the Northern Territory or Queensland, sun protection is so important.

Don’t forget sun protection even when it’s cloudy, or if the weather is cool.

Respect native flora and fauna

The native wildlife and plant life in Australia are incredibly special, so hikers should always respect the natural world here. Many national parks are dedicated to preserving their wilderness, and you may see signs about the endangered or protected species in a given area.

Never approach any wild animals and avoid touching delicate plant life as well. Just admire and observe from afar!

Get lots of photos

Don’t forget to stop and take some photos while hiking in Australia! The views are insane, and you’ll want to capture those memories.

Check out our guide to the best cameras and camera accessories to enhance your travel photos.

And if you’re looking for the perfect bag to store all your camera gear while hiking, we love Peak Design’s camera bags!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!