What is Hiking? Best Scenic Hiking Trails in Australia

Hiking is a recreational outdoor activity that is a kind of natural exercise. It is full of entertainment and adventure at the same time. In the past, it was not a special activity because people used to walk for different purposes for as long as they could.

However, it has become very popular nowadays. Hikers especially find different hiking places in their country and other countries as well and visit those trails in different groups. Besides, they carry special hiking equipment and spend plenty of days there.

In simple words, walking in different natural environments like mountains and forests without any special exercise equipment. In this guide, we will cover different types of hiking, hiking gear, and scenic hiking spots in Australia. Let’s get started…

What are the Different Types of Hiking?

Below is some popular type of hiking:

• Short Hike: This type involves shorter distances up to 2 miles. Hikers don’t need any hiking gear or supplies even footwear or water.

• Overnight Hike: In this type, hikers have to spend one night outdoors. This hike requires some light gear and supplies. For example, Bringing items like food and light sources can create ease for you.

• Distance Hike: Distance hike or weekend hike lasts longer than 2 or 3 days. For this activity, proper planning and the right hiking equipment are very crucial. You are looking for some popular hiking spots in Australia. Are you intending to go to Australia for a distance hike?

• Trail Runs: As the name suggests, this hike is all about running instead of walking. You should arrange some calories and water for trail runs because your body may become depleted during exercise.

• Fast-Light Hike: The timespan of this hike consists of more than one day. It takes place in the form of events when different hikers compete with each other. A hiker who covers the specified distance in a short amount of time wins the competition.

• Thru-Hikes: This type includes serious or professional hikers. Because they have to spend even several months outdoors on the walking trails. Effective planning is extremely crucial before you leave for thru-hikes. Therefore, if you are not an advanced hiker, you should choose any of the aforementioned types instead of this. Otherwise, you’d be putting yourself into the mouth of death.

Necessary Hiking Equipment and Other Considerations

First thing first, some famous hiking spots in Australia allow a limited number of backpackers each day. That’s why they book out quickly most of the time. Therefore, it’s worth booking them in advance before leaving for your mission.

Plus, you should also pack all essential hiking equipment to make your adventure more memorable. We can categorize the gear into two main categories.

The first category includes primary hiking items like trail shoes, a first aid kit, etc. And, the second category includes secondary items like a camera for capturing some of the memorable moments.

Below is the list of all necessary hiking gear you should carry:

• Backpack
• Headlamp
• Food and water bottles
• Comfortable trail shoes for a long journey
• Emergency and hygiene supplies
• First aid kit with all necessary painkillers, bandages, etc.
• Kitchen supplies and knife
• Navigation tools
• Sun protection if visiting hot places
• Stove and fuel to speed up the cooking process
• Tent
• Weather appropriate clothing
• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Comfortable clothes, etc.

Eye-Catching Hiking Trails in Australia

Australia has plenty of mind-blowing spots that’d woo your sense for sure. Below are some picturesque hiking trails:

1. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

Larapinta trail is a challenging hiking spot that is situated in the West MacDonnell Range. Cragsmen take 16 to 20 days to cover this trail because it covers almost 223km. This beautiful scenery is not suitable for beginners. Never go there for hiking without effective planning and full preparation. Cooler months, April to September, are better for hiking.

2. Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, Tasmania

This hiking spot is famous for Mount William National Park and covers the coastline in north-eastern Tasmania. It offers an exotic and serene view of an untouched idyllic hike. This hike is also famous for pure water and a dramatic backdrop.

Some other popular hiking trails in Tasmania include Western Arthur Range Traverse, Freycinet Experience Walk, South Coast Track, Cradle Mountain Huts Walk, and The Maria Island Walk.

3. Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland

Scenic Rim Trail is an excellent place to explore while hiking in Australia. You will have to spend almost four days exploring unique vegetation and exotic wildlife along the way. This place is also famous for its indigenous tribes due to their friendly behavior with visitors.

You will find here wonderful mountains and fascinating ancient volcanic plateaus. Queensland is also famous for plenty of other hiking spots including Fraser Island Great Walk and Thorsbrone Trail.

4. Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Victoria

The next entry in the list of hiking in Australia includes Twelve Apostle Lodges Walk in Victoria. It is an ideal place for an animal lover because this place is full of exotic wildlife. Wilderness Coast Walk and Australian Alps Walking Track are also striking hiking spots in Victoria.

5. The Arkaba Walk, South Australia

If you are looking for a few days of hiking trails, the Arkaba Walk is the finest option for you. It’s a great opportunity to explore ancient lands in the middle of the iconic Flinders Ranges. This place is famous for Kangaroos, emus, and wallaroos. Don’t forget to capture the amazing scenery if you have a camera.

6. Cape to Cape Track, Western Australia

Cape to Cape Track is another must-to-visit place that is waiting for you in Western Australia. If you want a unique trekking experience, do visit this place. This trail is neither too long nor too short. It is ideal for 1-week trails because it won’t take more than 7 or 8 days to finish the trek.

Wrapping Up

If you are planning for hiking in Australia, we have enlisted some of the remarkable places on the continent. Hopefully, after reading this guide, you will be able to make up your mind about the hiking spot easily. Before visiting these places, you must have some prior knowledge for your ease. It helps you to take all necessary hiking gear along with you. Before leaving for your destination, double-check your gear lest you forget the necessary item in excitement.

Comment your experience, we love to hear some.