
Australia is known for its diverse range of animals and insect species. From koalas to kangaroos, Australia has all a nature lover could want and more! It is also rich in vibrant and unique aboriginal culture. One of the most popular characteristics of this country is the great outdoors. It has lush rainforests, beautiful tropical beaches and many mountainous areas.
Surprisingly, Australia is home to some of the world’s most lovely hiking trails. You have to try at least 1 or 2 when you find yourself down here. In fact, hiking in Australia is one of the best ways to experience the nature of this country fully. Here are 10 of the best hiking trails that you should consider tackling next time you are in Australia.
1. The Grand Canyon Track at Blue Mountains National Park

First up is the best trail of them all. The Grand Canyon Track is a fairly moderate 5.8 km track perfect for beginners. The elevation gain of this trail is 291 metres and the route type is a loop. Located in New South Wales, the Grand Canyon is a beautiful escape from the city when you just want to submerge yourself in nature. If you love birds, this is the perfect trail for you to go bird-watching.
This hike is quite short so don’t worry about sweating for too long. There are stunning viewpoints on this trail so be sure to find a picturesque spot. There are no specific equipment requirements besides hiking shoes and an eagerness to conquer this track! This trail is a world heritage site with vegetation, flora and fauna. In fact, that is one of the reasons why it comes in as number one on my list.
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2. The Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk in Victoria
Next up is the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk. The Wadawurrung people are the native owners of this land. This moderately challenging 7.6 km trail is found in Victoria. It has an elevation gain of 324 metres and the route type is a loop. Werribee Gorge is great for people who love camping and bird-watching since you can do both of these activities here. The rocks may be a bit slippery so it’s best you focus while climbing.
This trail starts at the Meikles Point Picnic Area, where it’s best to travel in an anti-clockwise direction. There are many hidden gems where you can put your swimsuit on and take a dip along the river on this trail. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed so you’re going to have to leave your furry friends at home. But don’t worry, there is enough wildlife to spot on the route.
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3. The Twin Falls Circuit in the Springbrook National Park

Next up is the Twin Falls Circuit, located in the Springbrook National Park. This trail spans a good 4.3 km and has an elevation gain of 182 metres. Safe to say, this one is shorter than the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk. It takes around an hour and 24 minutes to complete, leaving plenty of time to explore further. Like the other trails, this is a loop route. The trail is extremely popular and you will always find other people around.
You will walk through a beautiful part of a subtropical rainforest on this trail. There are insane views, massive waterfalls and beautiful birds to see. In the distance, you can see a surfer’s paradise while attempting this circuit. You will also encounter rare pink-barked trees that date back to 1500 years ago. This trail also has public toilets, a picnic area at the trailhead and info boards for your convenience.
4. Spit Bridge to Manly Walk near Sydney
Next, we have the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. It is a whopping 10 km found near Sydney. This route is considered to be moderately challenging so be prepared before you decide to do it. The elevation gain is 225 metres and this is a point-to-point route type. Spit Bridge takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes to complete, which makes it longer than the previous trails mentioned. With that said, be sure to take plenty of water to stay hydrated.
This route is extremely popular for running and walking. In fact, it is a coastal walk that can be done in any direction. It might get a little sunny so don’t forget your sunscreen. On this walk, you can see some of Sydney Harbour’s best attractions such as Castle Rock Beach and Grotto Point Lighthouse. Essentially, this route showcases what beautiful Sydney has to offer.
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5. Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk
The Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach walk spans a good 12.1 km and has an elevation gain of 183 metres. The trail is an out-and-back route that takes about 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete if you’re quick enough. However, the best part of this trail is that dogs are welcome, as long as they’re on a leash.
This coastal walk has to be on your to-do list if you’re ever in Sydney. There are sunny, sandy beaches around every corner, with most of them being accessible. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit when heading here. There are numerous water points and places to find food along the way. Therefore, this will keep you hydrated and well-fed throughout your hike. Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach is certainly a great hike if you’re looking to explore.
6. Mount Ngungun Summit Track
The next trail we have is the Mount Ngungun Summit Track. Only spanning 2.4 km, this trail is not as long as most. Essentially, Mount Ngungun is an out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 168 metres. It is a great trail for running, hiking and walking. It is not a difficult trail and is great for beginners who want to learn the basics. However, there are some steep paths as you climb further up the hills.
At the top of the hills, there are wonderful 360-degree views for you to indulge and take pleasure in. There are no pets allowed on this trail but it is definitely family-friendly. This makes it a great starter trail for anyone willing to learn.
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7. The Warrie Circuit Walk in Springbrook
AT number seven, we have the Warrie Circuit Walk. This trail is quite long, stretching 12.3 km with an elevation gain of 665 metres. This is a loop trail and will probably take you just under 5 hours to complete. Warrie is also found in Springbrook. No pets are allowed onto this trail, taking into consideration the length of it.
You will pass beautiful waterfalls and bridges on this trail, making your hike so much more memorable. There are some places where the trail is rocky and muddy, so be cautious when walking. You will further pass Twin Falls and Rainbow Falls on your hike, a magical experience. There are shaded picnic areas here for you as well as public toilets. This challenging route is ideal for avid and experienced hikers alike.
8. The Purling Brook Falls
Next is the Purling Brook Falls. This is another beautiful hike found in Springbrook. The length of this trail is 4 km and it has an elevation gain of 207 metres. Like most of the routes on this list, Purling Brook is a loop trail too. This route is moderately challenging so be prepared. It will take around an hour and 27 minutes to complete if you’re quick enough!
The Purling Brook Falls is a great hike for all members of the family. So get the kids, parents and all the cousins out when you decide to hike this picturesque trail. You will also walk through the Gondwana Rain Forest, one of Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Certainly, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
9. Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach
This next trail definitely has a unique name. No, Wineglass Bay is not shaped like a wineglass if that’s what you thought. This trail is 11.6 km long and has a 351-metre elevation gain. A bit of a long, loop route-type trail. You can go backpacking, bird-watching and running on this trail. The best way to hike here is to walk in a clockwise direction so you can reach Wineglass Lookout. Moreover, you will have great views of Coles Bay and Mount Amos.
10. The Lerderderg Gorge Circuit
Finally, we have the Lerderderg Gorge Circuit. This trail is 8 km long and has an elevation gain of 400 metres. The route is a loop, making it extremely popular. Unfortunately, there are no furry friends allowed on this trail. This trail can become quite steep towards the end so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes. Ultimately, the best way to tackle this trail is in an anti-clockwise direction.
Tackle Australia’s Finest Hiking Trails
There are extremely beautiful hiking trails to visit in Australia that will get your heart rate going. Each trail will take you on a magical journey of the history and culture of the area. And if you’re ever in the mood for the ocean in Australia, why not visit some of the secret beaches? You won’t regret it!
Psychology tip: hiking improves physical health, which further improves mental health.