Whether you’re chasing alpine peaks, coastal cliffs or outback ridges, Australia offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. From Tasmania’s wild terrain to Victoria’s ocean walks, these hikes showcase the country’s natural diversity, and all you need is the right pack and a sense of adventure.
Grab your Henty bag, lace up your boots, and explore our list of Australia’s top hikes for every skill level.
1. Overland Track, Tasmania
Photograph: Posnov/Getty Images
Location: Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park
Distance: 65 km | Duration: 6 days | Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
The Overland Track is Tasmania’s crown jewel. Traversing alpine plains, waterfalls and rainforest, it’s one of the best multi-day hikes in Australia — often ranked among the great walks of the world.
Why it’s one of the best
This world-famous route offers an immersive six-day experience through dramatic mountain landscapes and pristine lakes. Huts are spaced for steady pacing, allowing hikers to enjoy the scenery without rushing.
Highlights
- Climb Cradle Mountain or Mount Ossa
- Spot wombats at Waterfall Valley Hut
- Visit Dove Lake and its mirror reflections
- Cross vast moorlands filled with button grass
For a list of frequently asked questions related to this track, head here.
2. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory
Image credit: Mike Ellott
Location: West MacDonnell Ranges
Distance: 223 km | Duration: 12–20 days | Difficulty: Challenging
For those seeking solitude, the Larapinta Trail captures the spirit of the Red Centre, red earth, open sky and endless ridgelines.
Why it’s one of the best
Stretching across central Australia, the Larapinta is a test of endurance and reward. It’s often listed among the best multi-day hikes in the world, offering unbroken desert views and unforgettable night skies.
Highlights
- Sunrise from Mount Sonder
- Standley Chasm glowing at midday
- Desert wildflowers after rain
- Stargazing with zero light pollution
3. Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
Image credit: Sasha Brown
Location: Apollo Bay → Twelve Apostles
Distance: 100 km | Duration: 6–8 days | Difficulty: Moderate
Following one of the most scenic coastlines in Australia, the Great Ocean Walk combines lush rainforest, open headlands and rugged beaches.
Why it’s one of the best
This flexible trail can be done as a full multi-day trek or broken into sections perfect for weekend hikers. You’ll pass through towering eucalypt forests, quiet beaches and historic lighthouses.
Highlights
- End at the Twelve Apostles by foot
- Spot koalas near Cape Otway Lightstation
- Hike secluded beaches between Johanna Beach and Princetown
For a list of frequently asked questions related to this walk, click here.
4. Three Capes Track, Tasmania
Photo credit: Jason Charles Hill
Location: Tasman Peninsula
Distance: 48 km | Duration: 4 days | Difficulty: Moderate
Designed for comfort and scenery, the Three Capes Track blends well-built paths, eco-huts and dramatic cliffs.
Why it’s one of the best
It’s one of the best walks in Australia for those who want dramatic coastal landscapes without carrying heavy camping gear. Each day offers stable walking surfaces and safe, comfortable hut stays.
Highlights
- Views from Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy
- Sheer sea cliffs among the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere
- Interpretive signs sharing Aboriginal and geological history
For a list of frequently asked questions related to this track, you can go here.
5. Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk, New South Wales
Picture: Thredbo Alpine Village Mt Kosciusko
Location: Thredbo Village
Distance: 13 km | Duration: 4–5 hours | Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Australia’s highest peak is surprisingly accessible. The Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk offers wide boardwalks and panoramic alpine views.
Why it’s one of the best
Perfect for families and casual hikers, this half-day trail leads you 2,228 metres above sea level, the highest point on the continent. The path starts via chairlift from Thredbo, making it one of the best day hikes in Australia.
Highlights
- Summit Australia’s tallest mountain
- See summer wildflowers and alpine streams
- Experience vast Snowy Mountains panoramas
Click here for a map of the walk.
Essential Gear for Australian Hiking Trails
20L Day Pack Colour Range (L-R) Blue, Black, Green and Red.
Enduro MTB hydration pack
Great hikes start with smart packing. At Henty, we design gear built for movement and endurance, whether it’s a short walk or a multi-day trek.
- For day adventures, try our 20L hiking backpack, perfect for carrying water, snacks and layers.
- For longer treks, our enduro backpack or enduro hydration pack keeps you hydrated and balanced on tough terrain.
- Mountain bikers and hybrid trail users love our mtb hydration systems for hands-free control on rugged paths.
Whatever pack you choose, your Henty gear should feel like part of the journey, comfortable, durable, and built for adventure.
Conclusion
From Tasmania’s alpine lakes to the red deserts of the NT, these trails represent the best hikes in Australia. a showcase of landscapes, wildlife and freedom. Each path offers something different: solitude, challenge or perspective.
Pack your Henty bag, take that first step, and discover why the best views in life are earned one trail at a time.