Australia’s hiking scene is booming, with nearly four million people bushwalking annually, making it the third most popular physical activity. The AllTrails app recorded a 300% year-on-year increase in distance walked by Australian users in 2025, with long-distance hikes seeing the largest growth. Multiple major trails are planned for 2026, including a three-day hike through Tasmania’s Tyndall Range and the 76km Great Ocean Road coastal trail in Victoria.
In New South Wales, the Gidjuum Gulganyi walk follows the southern rim of the Tweed volcano for 42km over four days, passing through subtropical Gondwana rainforest. A cultural experience at the walk’s terminus, featuring the Widjabul Wia-bal and Minjungbal traditional owners, is set to open later this year.
The Whitsundays’ new 32km Ngaro track, launching in May, allows only 15 walkers per day. It begins at Whitehaven Beach and traverses coastal landscapes, open forest and rocky peaks. Developed with Ngaro traditional owners, it includes art installations and cultural information. Independent bookings are nearly sold out, but guided trips remain available.
The ACT’s Tidbinbilla Mindjagari track network gained 14km of grade 5 trails at the end of 2025, including the Short ‘n’ Brutal loop. These routes lead to the Tidbinbilla Range with views over Brindabellas and Kosciuszko national park.
Adelaide’s long-planned 100km trail is nearing completion, with a continuous 70km section winding through the Mount Lofty foothills, along the River Torrens and past coastal dunes. Accessible via public transport, the trail offers toilets, accommodation and food options for through-hikers.
In Western Australia, the 3km Leeuwin Biddi trail is an accessible path linking Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse to Augusta Boat Harbour. Meanwhile, a new 56km, four-day Great Walk in NSW connects alpine meadows, historic huts and snow gums, culminating in a summit of Mount Kosciuszko.
