Australian Hiker’s Top Favourite Hikes

Australian Hiker’s Top Favourite Hikes

Australia’s Iconic Hikes Chosen by Local Hikers

Larapinta Trail – NORTHERN TERRITORY 

Distance: ~223 km, Location: West MacDonnell Ranges, near Alice Springs, Duration: 12–16 days (sections can be done individually), Full trail: 12–16 days, Section hikes: Popular for 2–5 day walks (e.g., Section 9–12 is a favourite mini trek).

Why it’s a favourite: One of Australia’s most iconic multi-day desert hikes. Red cliffs, gorges, and sacred Aboriginal sites make this a spiritual and scenic journey.

You can tailor the experience based on time and experience — some do just the scenic western half; others take on the full challenge.

Trail Highlights

Telegraph Station to Simpson’s Gap

Starts at a historic telegraph station. Beautiful ridgelines and creek crossings.

 Ormiston Gorge

A highlight for its dramatic gorge, permanent waterhole, and abundant wildlife. Often used as a base for rest or resupply.

 Mount Sonder

Final climb to 1,380 m — the fourth highest mountain in the NT. Hikers often begin the summit hike before dawn to catch a breathtaking desert sunrise.

 Starry skies

Minimal light pollution makes this a prime location for astrophotography and stargazing.

Wildlife

Euros (rock wallabies), perentie lizards, dingoes, and dozens of bird species. Always check for snakes, especially during warmer months.

 Camping & Accommodation

Dedicated campsites at each section — many with water tanks, toilets, and tent platforms. No need to carry all supplies: Some operators offer food drops and gear transport. Alternative: Hike with a tour group or sleep at eco lodges in Glen Helen or Ormiston. Book Here, Book Here

 Overland Track – TASMANIA 

Distance: 65 km, Location: Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, Duration: 6–8 days, Best time: October to May (permits required in peak season), Typical Duration: 6 days (24–12 km per day), with options to extend trips to 7–12 days using side trips or slower pace, Start / Finish: Ronny Creek (Cradle Mountain) to Narcissus Hut and optional walk to Cynthia Bay (Lake St Clair)

Why it’s a favourite: Alpine meadows, ancient rain forest, glacial lakes. Tasmania’s premier hike offers rugged wilderness and variable weather.

Camping & Huts

Huts & Tent Platforms: Public huts (e.g., Waterfall Valley, Windemere, Pelion, Narcissus) and designated tent platforms exist along the trail. Camping is only allowed at these official sites. Huts operate on a first‑come, first‑served basis space isn’t reserved in advance. Facilities at Huts: Unpowered cabins with bunks (no mattresses), cooking tables, rainwater tanks (untreated), composting toilets, and logbooks. Campers use wooden platforms or grassy areas nearby; bring tent tie-downs due to platform fixtures

Booking Info & Season

Permits Required: Oct 1 – May 31: Mandatory Overland Track permit is required; including park pass and shuttle from Cradle Mountain. Walk direction is north → south only. Booking opens each year on July 1. Book Here

June 1 – Sept 30: No permit fee required — only need a National Parks visitor pass. Walk either direction is allowed, but winter skills are essential due to snow and cold. Book Here

Great Ocean Walk – VIC

Distance: 104 km, Location: Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, Duration: 6–8 days Terrain: Coastal hills, rain forest, heathland, beaches, and cliff-top tracks through both Great Otway and Port Campbell national parks. Wildlife: Spot koalas, wallabies, echidnas, sea birds, seals, and migrating whales between June–September.

Why it’s a favourite: Spectacular coastal cliffs, shipwreck history, remote beaches. A gentler hike with options for camping or lodges.

Route & Sections

The walk is structured in eight sections, typically spaced 10–16 km apart: Apollo Bay Visitor Centre → Elliot Ridge (~10 km), Elliot Ridge → Blanket Bay (~12 km), Blanket Bay → Cape Otway (~10 km), Cape Otway → Aire River (~10 km), Aire River → Johanna Beach (~14 km), Johanna Beach → Ryan’s Den (~14 km), Ryan’s Den → Devils Kitchen (~13 km) Devils Kitchen → Twelve Apostles (~16 km). Sections increase in difficulty after Cape Otway, with rugged coastal terrain and tidal risks, especially around Johanna and Ryan’s Den.

Camping & Booking Info

Campsites: Seven hike-in campgrounds managed by Parks Victoria: Elliot Ridge, Blanket Bay, Cape Otway, Aire River, Johanna, Ryan’s Den, and Devils Kitchen. Each of these has eight tent sites, max three campers per site, and limited capacity overall. Book Here

No permit required to walk the trail. However, campsite bookings are mandatory if you’re camping overnight. Group size limit: Max 18 walkers in early sections—larger groups need alternative camp arrangements at Cape Otway or Johanna. Book Here

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