You can explore Australia on epic hikes, world-class train journeys, and even scenic drives, but for the adventurous – and ambitious – one of the most immersive ways to connect with its diverse and dramatic scenes lies at your feet. Take on one of these great hikes.
Tookee Sand Blow, Fraser Island Great Walk, K’gari, QLD
A great walk around Fraser Island Stretching more than 90 kilometres (55 miles) across the world’s largest sand island, the Fraser Island Great Walk takes you through towering forests, golden dunes, and mesmerizing blue waters.
Start your journey from Dilli Village before heading through the eucalyptus forest, across sandy plains, and finally to deep freshwater lakes. Don’t miss the stunning white beaches and clear waters of stunning Lake McKenzie.
The entire trail takes about eight days to complete, but there are shorter trails for those short on time, such as the Lake Wabby Walk. Parts of the Fraser Island Great Walk are far from island villages, so bring all the necessary gear, book campsites in advance, and stay dingo safe.
Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, Kangaroo Island, SA
Full of native wildlife and windswept beaches, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s most fascinating destinations. Along the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, you can explore the island from the dense eucalyptus forests of Flinders Chase National Park to the rugged limestone cliffs of the coast. The trail is ideal for a self-guided trip, with campsites set up at the end of each day’s walk. However, you can also arrange a guided walk with secluded off-trail accommodation.
This five-day trip is an experience of a lifetime, allowing you to reconnect with nature from sunrise to sunset. Tourists must book the tour before departure.
Larapinta Trail, West MacDonnell Ranges, Red Centre, NT
One of Australia’s most epic outbacks, the Larapinta Trail follows the spine of the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory. Expect towering red rock cliffs, refreshing waterholes, and steep terrain, as well as the chance to visit sacred Aboriginal sites.
Take time to visit quiet, secluded gorges and gorges, including Simpsons Gap, Ellery Creek Big Hole, and Glen Helen Gorge. The trail starts at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station and will take between 12 and 20 days to complete the full 223 kilometres (139 mi) of the challenging trail.
Northern Rockhole, Jatbula Trail, Nitmiluk National Park, NT
Winding through the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park in the Northern Territory, the Jatbula Trail is not only a great nature walk but also a unique cultural excursion. The trail follows an old song line used by the Jawoyn natives.
You will walk from Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge to the beautiful Leliyn (Edith Falls) which is awe-inspiring with thundering waterfalls that tumble from sandstone cliffs and flow in streams bordered by monsoon forest. Along the way, you’ll swim in natural waterholes, see ancient Aboriginal rock art, and experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.
While many hikers tackle this trail on their own just like you can enjoy playing at Canadian gambling sites, you can also enlist the help of experienced guides. The Jatbula Trail is classified as moderately difficult and is best for hikers with bushwalking experience.
Other trails worth trying include the Heysen Trail, Jatbula Trail, Bibbulmun Track and the Great Ocean Walk.