Updated November 2024 with the latest information, tips and tricks for every hike!
Australia is packed with epic views and unforgettable day hikes. National Parks are host to everything from coastal cliffs and pristine beaches to lush bush trails and rocky summits, there’s a trail for everyone. And the best part? It’s usually free! Whether you’re chasing ocean vistas, hidden waterfalls, or the thrill of a summit, these hikes let you soak up Australia’s beauty at your own pace.
In this post we’ll take you through the top day hikes in Australia, highlighting stunning views, cultural significance, and essential tips to make the most of each trail.
Grab your boots and let’s dive into the best trails for adventure lovers, nature buffs, and everyone in between.
Image thanks to NSW National Parks
Three Sisters Walk, in Katoomba, offers some of the most iconic views in the Blue Mountains, National Park, and takes you up close to the famous Three Sisters.
The Three Sisters actually have names - ‘Meehni’,’Wimlah’ and ‘Gunnedoo’ - and the site itself is named after an Aboriginal dream-time legend from the Katoomba tribe. In the legend the sisters were transformed into rock by a witch doctor to protect them from harm during a war. The witch doctor intended to reverse the spell but died during the battle leaving the sisters to remain as these beautiful rocks for eternity.
The Three Sisters Walk is a must for anyone visiting the Blue Mountains. Starting from Echo Point in Katoomba, this short, accessible trail brings you up close to the famous sandstone rock formations known as the Three Sisters - Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo. Along the way, you’ll find several scenic lookouts, including Spooners and Lady Game, each offering sweeping views over the Jamison Valley. The path is well-maintained, making it ideal for beginners and those who want to soak up the scenery without a strenuous hike.
For those feeling adventurous, you can extend the walk down a section of the Giant Stairway, which leads to Honeymoon Bridge. This bridge allows you to get right up to the first of the Three Sisters, providing an exciting view and a sense of the area's deep connection to Aboriginal culture. It’s best to visit early to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the quiet majesty of the Blue Mountains landscape.
The Three Sisters Walk is generally rated as Easy, given its short distance (1 km return), flat terrain, and well-maintained pathways. It's ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a scenic and accessible walk with spectacular views. The optional Giant Stairway extension, however, adds a level of difficulty for those looking to descend into the valley, but the main trail itself remains an easy and beginner-friendly hike.
Distance: 1 km return
Duration: 30 min
Difficulty: Easy
Image thanks to NSW National Parks
The challenging Mount Warning Summit Hike, also known as Wollumbin, takes you through ancient rainforest to one of the highest viewpoints in New South Wales, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay. Rising from the remnants of a volcanic caldera, the 8.8-kilometre trail is steep and requires good fitness, but the reward is well worth the effort. As you near the summit, the hike ends with an exciting rock scramble assisted by a chain - a fun and thrilling finish!
Traditionally known to the Bundjalung people as Wollumbin, this site is culturally significant, with sunrise over the summit symbolising the first light touching the Australian mainland. If you’re wondering why such a stunning place is also called Mount Warning, it was named by Captain Cook to warn future sailors of offshore reefs he encountered in 1770.
The climb typically takes around four to five hours round trip, so pack plenty of water and snacks, and plan for an early start to beat the heat and catch stunning morning views. Be prepared for the final scramble, and don’t forget your camera for those iconic panoramic shots.
Distance: 8.8 km return
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging (steep and strenuous sections)
Image thanks to NSW National Parks
The Cape Byron Walking Track is a spectacular 3.7-kilometre loop that takes you to the easternmost point of Australia, offering an unforgettable experience of Byron Bay’s diverse natural beauty. Starting from Main Beach or Wategos Beach, this moderately challenging track meanders through coastal rainforest, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches, making it a favourite for sunrise chasers and nature lovers alike.
The trail offers stunning lookouts over the ocean, where lucky hikers can spot dolphins playing in the waves and, from May to November, migrating whales. Along the way, you’ll pass the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, which provides panoramic views of the Pacific and is perfect for photos. The track includes some steep sections with stairs, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Plan an early start to catch the first light of day and avoid crowds - it’s the best way to experience Australia’s easternmost beauty.
Distance: 3.7 km loop
Duration: 1-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (with some steep sections and steps)
Image thanks to NSW National Parks
The Furber Steps Walk offers a thrilling descent into the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park’s Jamison Valley, combining stunning scenery with a hint of adventure. Starting at Scenic World in Katoomba, this 2.4-kilometre return trail takes you down steep, historic steps surrounded by lush rainforest, leading to the beautiful waterfalls of Katoomba Falls and offering panoramic views over Mount Solitary. As you walk, you’ll encounter Juliet’s Balcony and Vaniman’s Lookout, perfect for admiring the valley’s sweeping vistas.
For those seeking a challenge, the steep return up the steps is a rewarding workout, but you can opt for a unique experience by catching the Scenic Railway - one of the world’s steepest railways with a 52°incline - to bring you back to the top. Rated as a Grade 3 hike, it’s recommended for those with moderate bushwalking experience due to the steep gradients and numerous steps!
Distance: 2.4 km return
Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (steep with many steps)
Image thanks to Last Minute Day Tours
The Uluru Base Walk is a must-do experience, drawing visitors from around the world to get up close with one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. This popular trail forms a 10.6-kilometre loop around the entire base of Uluru, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike some other trails in this list, the Base Walk remains open year-round, making it an accessible way to connect deeply with the surroundings.
Starting at the Mala Car Park, this mostly flat trail takes you through desert woodlands and around Uluru’s red rock formations, revealing sacred sites, ancient rock art, and seasonal waterholes. Along the way, you’ll encounter culturally significant sites that hold deep meaning for the Anangu people, the traditional custodians of Uluru, adding a profound layer of respect to your journey.
This walk is best done early in the morning to avoid the crowds and high midday temperatures, and it’s ideal for those wanting to experience the beauty of Uluru at their own pace.
Distance: 10.6 km loop
Duration: 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (length and heat can be challenging)
Image thanks to Renee Baribeau
While in Kata Tjuta, get away from everyone and everything at Valley of the Winds. It’s a little bit of a challenging walk, but the views are breathtaking and worth the effort.
This 7.4-kilometre loop winds through towering domes and rocky valleys, taking you to the incredible Karu Lookout. Starting early to beat the heat is a good idea, as parts of the trail close once temps hit 36°C, and the walk includes some steep sections. But every step is worth it, with views that make you feel like you’re in another world.
If you’re up for more, press on to Karingana Lookout for a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Kata Tjuta’s surreal landscape. The entire loop takes around 3-4 hours, with plenty of spots to pause, take photos, and just soak it all in. Bring plenty of water, a hat, and maybe even a fly net to keep those desert bugs at bay.
This hike is more than just beautiful - it’s a chance to experience the epic landscapes that make the Outback so legendary.
Distance: 2.2 km return
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Challenging (rocky terrain and some steep climbs)
Image thanks to Journey Era
Whether you’re interested in cultural heritage, stunning views, or both, Ubirr Rock Lookout is an unmissable stop.
This 1-kilometre circular walk in Kakadu National Park winds through ancient Aboriginal rock art sites dating back thousands of years before leading you to the Nadab Lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view over the vast Nadab floodplains and Arnhem Land. At the top, you can soak in epic views that are particularly breathtaking at sunset when the landscape glows with hues of red, orange, and pink.
Beyond its scenic beauty, Ubirr holds deep cultural significance for the local Bininj/Mungguy people, with artworks depicting animals, ancestral figures, and x-ray-style paintings. Take your time on the ascent to appreciate these stories that add meaning to the landscape.
The trail is relatively short and moderately steep, taking about an hour to complete the loop. This hike is accessible during the dry season and can be affected by seasonal flooding, so it’s a good idea to check conditions before you visit. For a truly memorable experience, join a ranger-guided tour to hear local stories that breathe life into this timeless site.
Distance: 250 meter climb
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections to the lookout)
The Baruwei Walk offers epic views over Katherine Gorge and is perfect for those craving a bit of a workout with a big payoff. Starting from the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, this trail has two options: a shorter 1.8-kilometre loop to the Baruwei Lookout, or an extended 5-kilometre loop if you’re up for more. Either way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the gorge and river, especially if you time it right for sunrise or sunset.
The hike starts with a moderate climb, with some rocky steps and paths adding a bit of a challenge, but the view at the lookout is pure Outback magic. You’ll get a bird’s-eye perspective over the stunning cliffs of Nitmiluk, which are even more breathtaking as the light shifts over the gorge. Managed by the Jawoyn people, this trail offers a unique way to connect with the land and the history of the traditional custodians who hold the area as a sacred place.
Distance: 400 m loop or return
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections)
Image thanks to Swiss Nomads
If you're up for a real Outback adventure, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is a must. This 6-kilometre loop kicks off with a challenging climb known as “Heartbreak Hill”- and yes, it lives up to the name! But once you’re up, the sweeping views over Kings Canyon make every step worth it. The rugged red cliffs, ancient rock formations, and vibrant desert landscape are unforgettable, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colours are at their most dramatic and epic.
The trail takes you along the canyon’s edge, giving you insane views down into the gorge and out across Watarrka National Park. About halfway in, you’ll reach the Garden of Eden - a hidden oasis with a shaded waterhole surrounded by lush cycads and eucalyptus trees. This is the perfect spot for a breather and some jaw-dropping photos before heading back to the rim. There’s also a short side trail to Cotterill’s Lookout for a bonus panorama over the desert.
To beat the heat, try this one from May to October. It’s a solid workout with a big payoff and will leave you with stories of Australia’s Red Centre that you’ll be telling for years.
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (that first climb is no joke!)
Image thanks to Noosa Crest Resort
The Coastal Walk in Noosa National Park is a gem for anyone looking to explore Australia’s rugged coastline up close. This 10.8-kilometre return trail takes you from Noosa Heads all the way to Sunshine Beach, winding past a string of stunning beaches, rocky outcrops, and lush lookouts that are perfect for spotting dolphins and, if you’re lucky, even a whale or two during migration season.
Kick off your adventure at Noosa Heads and follow the path through Tea Tree Bay, where you can stop for a swim, to Dolphin Point, where the name speaks for itself! For those craving a bit of a thrill, make your way to Hell’s Gates - a cliffside lookout where the ocean crashes dramatically below. Further along, the Fairy Pools await, offering a dip in crystal-clear tidal pools tucked between the rocks (though you’ll need to scramble carefully to get down there).
Take in sweeping views of Alexandria Bay, Granite Bay, and the Boiling Pot, each spot unique in its own right. From start to finish, the walk is all about exploring, soaking up the views, and letting the fresh sea air work its magic.
With epic photo ops, perfect swim spots, wildlife like dolphins and koalas, and lookout points galore, Noosa’s Coastal Walk is a backpacker’s dream on the Sunshine Coast.
Distance: 5.4 km
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (with some uneven sections)
Image thanks to Cairns to Cape
There are a large range of walk options in the Cape Tribulation - Daintree National Park area, from beach walks to rainforest walks. The most extreme is Mt. Sorrow, which gives bush walkers spectacular views of the Daintree rainforest coastline and the Great Barrier Reef in the distance. This was another place named by Captain Cook who seemed to have a penchant for depressing names (Cape Tribulation, Mount Sorrow, etc) after he almost sunk by hitting a reef and putting a big hole in his boat.
This trail is a 7-kilometre round trip that’s recommended for experienced hikers only - it’s steep, strenuous, and muddy after rain, with a climb that gains nearly 680 metres in elevation!
Starting from Cape Tribulation Road, the hike kicks off with a steady climb through the tropical forest, featuring tangled roots, tree trunks, and vibrant birdlife. You might even spot wildlife like the elusive Boyd’s Forest Dragon! About halfway up, the trail ramps up with sections that require scrambling up rocks and navigating ropes. The summit lookout provides an unbeatable panorama over Cape Tribulation and the Coral Sea, making the climb well worth it for those seeking adventure.
This is a real wilderness trek in the heart of the Daintree, so pack plenty of water, snacks, and insect repellent, and make sure you’re well-prepared for a physically demanding day. Best attempted in the dry season, this trail offers an unforgettable view and a rugged experience of one of Australia’s oldest rainforests.
Distance: 7 km return
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Challenging (steep and muddy sections)
Image thanks to We Are Explorers
If you’re up for an epic rainforest adventure, the Coomera Circuit in Lamington National Park is calling! This 17-kilometre loop through the Binna Burra section serves up everything a backpacker could want - lush rainforest, wild river crossings, and a jaw-dropping series of waterfalls, including the iconic Coomera Falls that plunge dramatically into a gorge.
Starting out, the trail winds through dense subtropical rainforest and towering trees, with wildlife like colourful birds and the occasional Lamington crayfish. As you follow the Coomera River, you’ll find hidden cascades and rock pools, ideal spots for a quick break or a photo. The terrain is rugged, with river crossings and muddy patches adding an extra element of challenge, so it’s best tackled in dry weather. But - If you go after rain, the waterfalls are sure to be at their fullest and best - the decision is yours!
The hike’s a solid day out, taking around 6-7 hours to complete, so pack plenty of water and snacks. The reward? Spectacular views over the Scenic Rim and a slice of Queensland’s raw natural beauty that’s worth every step.
This trail is a backpacker’s dream, offering a full day immersed in the wilds of Lamington - don’t forget the camera for those epic waterfall shots!
Distance: 17.4 km return
Duration: 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (uneven terrain and river crossings)
Conway National Park boasts a number of walking tracks, which take you through a variety of vegetation types including lowland rainforest, mangroves and open forest.
The Mount Rooper Track in Conway National Park is a rewarding 5.3-kilometre circuit that delivers spectacular views of the Whitsunday Islands. Starting from the Swamp Bay car park, the trail winds through lush rainforest, with a gradual climb up Mount Rooper, offering panoramic sights over Shute Harbour and the islands beyond. The lookout is a perfect spot to pause and soak up the beauty of the Whitsundays before descending back or extending the trek to Swamp Bay, where secluded beaches await.
Ideal for adventure seekers, this trail combines rainforest vibes with epic coastal views, making it a top pick for backpackers exploring Queensland’s coast.
Distance: 5.4 loop
Duration: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (with steady inclines)
Image thanks to Rob Dose
Nature’s Window is Kalbarri’s showstopper, offering a stunning photo op of the window into the Murchison Valley. This 1-kilometre return trail is an easy walk to the rock formation that frames sweeping views of the Murchison River and its red and white striped gorges. The natural window itself, sculpted over millions of years by erosion, is a testament to the power of the Murchison River as it carved the deep gorges below.
For the adventurous, the 9-kilometre Loop Trail picks up from Nature’s Window, challenging hikers with steep sections and rugged terrain. This loop takes you along the edge of the gorge, with breathtaking views and unique geology that highlight the park’s ancient landscape. The Loop Trail is best tackled during the cooler months (May to October), as summer heat can be intense.
Distance: 1 km return (Nature’s Window); 9 km loop (Loop Trail)
Duration: 30 minutes (Nature’s Window); 3-5 hours (Loop Trail)
Difficulty: Easy (Nature’s Window); Challenging (Loop Trail)
Image thanks to Tourism Western Australia
The Pinnacles Desert View Trail offers one of the most surreal experiences in Australia. Just a couple of hours from Perth, this 1.2-kilometre loop takes you through a desert of ancient limestone pillars, formed over 25,000 years ago and standing up to 3.5 metres tall. The eerie formations rising from the yellow sands make it feel like you’ve landed on another planet.
Start from the Discovery Centre and wind your way between the towering rocks. There’s also a 4-kilometre drive for those who’d rather soak it up from behind the wheel. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the light and shadows make for killer photos. And if you’re here during wildflower season (August to October), you’ll see pops of colour against the sandy backdrop.
Distance: 1.2 km walking trail or 4 km scenic drive
Duration: ~45 minutes (walking)
Difficulty: Easy
Image thanks to Australian Traveller
Bluff Knoll is the third highest peak in WA and as a result is one of the most popular walking trails in the state. Located in Stirling Range National Park, the trail offers some of the most spectacular and impressive vantage points from which to admire the beauty of the surrounding region.
Rising to 1,095 metres, the summit rewards with jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of rugged ranges and, on clear days, glimpses all the way to the coastline. Starting from the car park, this 6.8-kilometre return track climbs steadily through wildflowers, rocky ledges, and open forest, with a steep push toward the top that’ll get your heart pumping.
What makes Bluff Knoll especially unique is the weather - it’s the only spot in WA where snow can sometimes dust the summit. Early risers might catch a “cloud waterfall” effect as mist pours over the ridge, an otherworldly sight best viewed at dawn.
Pro Tip: Start at sunrise for quieter trails and epic morning light. Pack layers, as conditions at the top can shift fast. Visiting between August and November? You’ll also catch the wildflowers in bloom, adding even more colour to this already spectacular hike.
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 1-3 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Image thanks to AdventureMe
If you’re chasing coastal views and a solid workout, the Darby River to Tongue Point track is for you. This 8.4-kilometre return trail kicks off at Darby River and takes you through classic Aussie coastal bushland, offering up views over Darby Swamp and the rugged Vereker Range. The terrain has a bit of everything - gravel paths, native plants, and some decent uphill climbs to keep things interesting. The best part? As you get closer to Tongue Point, you’ll hit some dramatic cliffs and granite rock formations, making it feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world.
Feeling extra adventurous? Make a detour to Fairy Cove, a secluded beach perfect for cooling off, or extend your hike to finish at Darby Saddle for a different perspective.
Trail Tip: Early riser? Hit the trail in the morning to catch softer lighting and fewer crowds. Spring is a great time to visit, as wildflowers add pops of colour to the landscape.
Distance: 3.8 km
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Image thanks to Snowys
If you’re looking to experience some of South Australia’s most dramatic views and rugged terrain, St. Mary Peak is for you! This challenging trail rises to 1,189 metres, making it the tallest peak in the Flinders Ranges and a prime spot for panoramas over Wilpena Pound and the Outback stretching far beyond. The journey offers a choice of routes: the 14.6-kilometre Outside Trail, which gives a shorter but steep ascent, or the 21-kilometre Loop Trail for a more gradual but equally scenic route through Wilpena’s unique rock formations and landscapes.
The climb has more to it than just views - the peak is a sacred site for the Adnyamathanha people, and visitors are encouraged to pause at Tanderra Saddle, just before the summit. This spot still offers incredible views and honours the traditional owners' connection to the land.
Start at sunrise to beat the heat and pack plenty of water. Whether you choose the Outside Trail or the Loop, St. Mary Peak offers an unforgettable slice of the Australian Outback and a taste of its deep cultural roots.
Distance: 19 km loop
Duration: 9 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Image thanks to East Coast Tasmania
Nestled in the stunning Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural landmarks. The walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout is a relatively short but steep journey, giving hikers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay’s white sand and vibrant blue waters, framed by the Hazards granite mountains. For many, this lookout alone is a highlight, but those willing to go further can descend the 1,000 steps down to Wineglass Bay Beach. Once there, the beach offers a peaceful escape where visitors can relax on the sand or take a dip in the pristine waters (although the water can be chilly most of the year).
For those seeking a bit more adventure, continuing onto the 11-kilometre Hazards Beach Circuit rewards with a quieter trail, passing through diverse landscapes of coastal woodland, sandy isthmuses, and ocean views.
Trail Tips: Start early, especially in summer, to avoid crowds and make the most of the cooler morning hours. Be prepared with water and sun protection, as parts of the trail are exposed.
Distance: 3 km return
Duration: 1 1/2-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Image thanks to Let's Go Caravan And Camping
Dove Lake Circuit is a go-to hike for anyone wanting a taste of Tasmania’s wild beauty. This 6-kilometre loop around Dove Lake offers nonstop scenery, with Cradle Mountain looming above, giving you the perfect backdrop at every turn. Starting from the carpark, the well-maintained path takes you through ancient forests, open boardwalks, and rocky shores, so you’re constantly immersed in nature.
Along the way, you’ll find highlights like Glacier Rock, where you can stop for panoramic views of the lake, and the Ballroom Forest, a section of lush, moss-draped trees that feels like stepping into another world. Don’t miss the historic Boat Shed near the end of the loop - this rustic spot is an ideal place to pause and soak in the views.
Pack for all kinds of weather, as the conditions change fast here. An early start helps you avoid crowds, and a shuttle from the visitor centre can save you the hassle of finding parking. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and unbeatable photo ops, Dove Lake Circuit is a must when in Tassie!
Distance: 6 km return
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Australia’s got more epic hikes than you can shake a trekking pole at, and we’ve just scratched the surface! From dramatic coastlines and hidden beaches to wild mountain trails and rainforest escapes, there’s a hike out there for every type of adventurer. While some of these trails make you earn the view, the payoff is always worth it. Every step, climb, and scramble takes you deeper into Australia’s incredible landscapes, offering up sights and experiences that stay with you long after the boots come off. And for backpackers, these hikes are just the beginning of your adventure…
If you’re ready to dive into Australia’s incredible landscapes but want to pair your hikes with local tours, unique experiences, and a chance to meet fellow travellers, check out our range of backpacker tours. With curated itineraries, we make it easy to explore Australia’s best spots without missing a beat - plus, we’ve got the hookups on budget-friendly packages that let you experience it all. So grab your pack, lace up your boots, and let’s hit the trail together!
So, whether you’re out for a challenge, a scenic stroll, or just an unforgettable adventure, Australia’s trails are calling - time to get out there and see what’s waiting!
Did we miss your favourite spot? Let us know on our Facebook!
Related Articles
