Australia’s top-rated hikes of the year revealed

Which hikes are you adding to your list in 2026?

Australia’s walking tracks are having a moment, and the latest data from AllTrails reveals exactly where hikers went in 2025. Based on user ratings from millions of walkers, the list highlights the highest-rated hikes in Australia right now, from alpine Tassie circuits to outback canyon climbs, and coastal cliff walks.

If you’re planning a hiking trip this year, these are the trails earning near-perfect scores.

1. Crater Lake, Marion’s Lookout, Lake Lilla and Dove Lake Loop, Tas

Crater Lake and Cradle Mountain — This Cradle Mountain classic packs a lot into one walk. (Image: Tourism Tasmania / Luke Tscharke)

Distance: 9.2km loop
Difficulty: Grade 3

One of Tasmania’s most scenic alpine circuits, this Cradle Mountain classic packs a lot into one walk. Expect glacial lakes, button grass plains and a steep climb to Marion’s Lookout, where jagged peaks and alpine valleys stretch into the distance. It’s demanding in sections, but the views make it one of the most rewarding day walks in the country.

2. Kings Canyon Rim Walk, NT

Would you stand on the edge of this breathtaking Australian landscape? It's all part of a guided Kings Canyon Rim Walk, through ancient red domes and towering cliffs in the heart of the Northern Territory.

Distance: 6km loop
Difficulty: Grade 4

This iconic Red Centre hike climbs out of the canyon via a steep staircase before tracing the rim high above the sandstone walls. Along the way, walkers pass waterholes and ancient rock formations, with sweeping desert views the whole way around. It’s short but challenging, especially in the heat.

3. Cradle Mountain Summit and Hansons Peak via the Overland Track, Tas

The Cradle Summit Walk is for more experienced walkers. (Image: Tourism Tasmania / Matty Eaton)

Distance: 13km return
Difficulty: Grade 5

A tougher option for experienced walkers, this route uses sections of the Overland Track to reach two of the region’s most impressive lookouts. Weather can change quickly here, but on a clear day, the panoramic views over alpine wilderness are hard to beat.

4. North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Qld

North Gorge Walk on North Stradbroke Island — The North Gorge Walk is an easy stroll. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland / Jesse Lindemann)

Distance: 1.2km
Difficulty: Grade 2

This self-guided coastal circuit delivers big pay-off for relatively little effort. Clifftop boardwalks and rocky headlands frame turquoise water below, making the North Gorge Walk one of Queensland’s most photogenic short walks and a standout for travellers chasing scenery over distance. There are some sections with steps along the boardwalk and viewing platforms.

5. The Pinnacle, Grampians National Park, Vic

The Pinnacle in Grampians National Park at sunset — The Pinnacle is striking at sunset.

Distance: approx. 4.2km return
Difficulty: Grade 4

A steep climb through bushland leads to one of Victoria’s most dramatic viewpoints in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. From the summit, the rocky outcrop looks out over deep valleys and layered ridgelines, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

6. Bald Head Walk Trail, Torndirrup National Park, WA

Bald Head Trail and Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range National Park — Bald Head Walk Trail is a memorable hike. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Distance: 12.5km return
Difficulty: Grade 4

This rugged coastal walk near Albany follows a narrow ridge between two beaches, with constant ocean views and wild southern coastline scenery, and during wildflower season, it’s covered in blooms. It’s exposed and windy in places, but it’s easily one of Western Australia’s most memorable day hikes.

7. Bungoona Walk, Bald Rock National Park, NSW

The Bungoona Walk in Bald Rock National Park, NSW — The Bungoona Walk rewards hikers with sweeping views. (Image: Leah Pippos / DCCEEW)

Distance: 5.7km return
Difficulty: Grade 3

Climbing Australia’s largest exposed granite rock, the Bungoona Walk rewards hikers with sweeping views across the New England region. 30 kilometres outside of Tenterfield, the final ascent is steep but well worth it, especially on clear days when the surrounding countryside stretches endlessly.

8. Grand Canyon Track, Blue Mountains, NSW (Second year in a row)

The scenic Grand Canyon Walking Track in the Blue Mountains National Park, Blackheath. — The Grand Canyon Track is always a favourite. (Image: Destination NSW)

Distance: 6.3km loop
Difficulty: Grade 3

A long-time Blue Mountains favourite, this shaded loop winds through lush rainforest, sandstone walls and fern-filled gullies. Waterfalls, creek crossings and cool canyon air make it a popular choice year-round. It is also the only walk on the list to have been awarded a spot on the most loved list for two consecutive years.

9. Bishop and Clerk Track, Maria Island, Tas

Views from Bishop and Clerk peak in Maria Island, Tasmania, Australia — The views from the Bishop and Clerk Track are unbeatable. (Image: Getty Images / estivillml)

Distance: 11km return
Difficulty: Grade 4

One of Maria Island’s most rewarding hikes, this track climbs steadily from the Darlington settlement to a rocky summit with sweeping views across the island and out to the Tasman Sea. Expect a mix of open woodland, coastal vistas and a final steep scramble to the top. Wildlife sightings, including wombats and kangaroos, are common along the way, making this a standout hike for walkers visiting the island.

10. The Pinnacle via Wonderland Car Park, Grampians National Park, Vic

The Pinnacle in Grampians National Park — This slight variation of The Pinnacle also made the list.

Distance: approx. 4km return
Difficulty: Grade 4

A more demanding variation of The Pinnacle walk , this route adds steep rocky areas, which can be slippery in the wet and extra elevation before reaching the same jaw-dropping lookout. Ideal for walkers wanting a fun challenge.

The most popular hikes Australians are walking right now

Couple enjoying the coastal view, Tamarama — The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is Australia’s most popular hike. (Image: Destination NSW)

While the highest-rated hikes lean towards more remote and challenging terrain, AllTrails data also shows which walks Australians are actually tackling in huge numbers. These are the most popular trails of 2025.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, NSW
Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit, Tas
Grand Canyon Track, NSW
Cape Byron Walking Track, NSW
Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, Vic
Cape Woolamai Circuit, Vic
Mount Ngungun Summit Track, Qld
Twin Falls Circuit, Qld
Lyrebird Loop Track, Vic
Mount Lofty Loop, SA

Whether you’re chasing five-star ratings or well-worn favourites, this year’s AllTrails list proves Australia’s best hikes range from easy classics to serious wilderness adventures.

No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm , you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

2. The Oxley Estate

A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

3. Oneday Estate

Oneday Estate is a must-visit, featuring a restaurant, winery and bar. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot in an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

5. Bellarine Railway

If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway . The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and The Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

6. The Dunes

waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine — Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

dolphins playing in The Bellarine — Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

8. Jack Rabbit

aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard — Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

Australia’s most loved hikes of the year revealed