10 Unforgettable Walks And Hikes In Australia

These memorable walks and hikes offer stunning vistas, pristine beaches, and adorable wildlife.

From alpine peaks to red desert and rainforest, the walks and hikes here are a testament to the diversity of landscape in Australia. If you even manage to do half of what’s on this top 10, you can say that you’ve seen some of the most remote, spectacular and wild places on the planet, and some of this country’s pristine World Heritage areas.

1. Bridle Gap hike, Wilpena Pound, South Australia

While there are many walks you can do in and around the geological wonder that is Wilpena Pound , this one takes you right across its floor from the top of one side to the other. Part of the famous 1200-kilometre Heysen Trail, it’s a six-hour return hike across 19 kilometres. The floor of the Pound is a bird-lover’s dream with a variety of raptors and parrots, wrens and robins making their home among the native pines, eucalyptus and heath.

Walk highlight: The view of the mountain-ringed natural amphitheatre from Bridal Gap.
Distance: 19 kilometres
Level: Grade 3 (moderate)

2. Grand Canyon Track, Blue Mountains, New South Wales

The Blue Mountains National Park is an arresting wonderland of verdant forest surrounded by giant sandstone buttresses. A six-kilometre loop that leaves from near the quaint village of Blackheath at Evans Lookout, the Grand Canyon Track affords mind-blowing views of Grose Valley. The trail takes you along the clifftops of the Blue Mountains dropping down into sub-tropical forest, beautiful Beauchamp Falls and fern-filled prehistoric gullies. The Grand Canyon itself is a 180-metre deep cut through the sandstone and makes for a dramatic ascent out of it to complete this short four-hour, yet epic, journey.

Grand Canyon Walk — Walk along the clifftops of the Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Walk highlight: Regular breaks in the bush along the top of the valley offer views of lush, forest-filled Grose Valley making it easy to see why this is a World Heritage Area.
Distance: 6.3 kilometres
Level: Grade 3 (moderate)

3. K’gari Great Walk, Queensland

The world’s largest sand island should be something of a pilgrimage for Australians. K’gari is a paradise of white beaches and over 100 freshwater lakes including the spectacular Lake McKenzie, mangroves and rainforest-lined creeks, all of which have given it World Heritage status. The six- to eight-day, 90-kilometre Great Walk takes in the best of the island, from the towering forest known as the Valley of the Giants to the famous swimming hole that is Lake Wabby.

Walk highlight: Keep an eye out for dingoes, one of the best places to spot this iconic animal.
Distance: 75 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

4. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

This route is fast becoming the must-do walk in the country, taking you into the remote desert from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder. You’ll stride out across vast flood plains, along the dramatic ridges of the West MacDonnell Ranges and through spectacular canyons. Walk the whole 223 kilometres of the Larapinta, which takes 15 to 16 days, or simply do a day section, like the Mount Sonder Return or Counts Point Return. Along the way, you’ll admire rare desert flora and spot black-footed rock wallabies.

Walk highlight: Simpsons Gap is a dramatic red-rock passage sheltering a welcome waterhole.
Distance: 75 kilometres
Level: Grade 5 (difficult)

5. Mount Bogong Ascent, Victorian Alps, Victoria

To witness perhaps Australia’s most unlikely landscape, that of its alpine wilderness, you have to get up into the mountains. Now you can walk the entire length of the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track to achieve this, or you can cheat and do a fairly arduous one-day walk that takes you up into the high plains and the summit of Mt Bogong (‘Big-fella’, in Aboriginal tongue), Victoria’s highest at 1986 metres. The trail starts at the Mountain Creek picnic area and follows a steep 16-kilometre route known as Staircase Spur. You’ll pass through beautiful peppermint and snow gums before reaching the top of Mt Bogong and some awesome views of the Alpine National Park.

Walk highlight: Since this is a steep climb, you’ll be thankful for the sight of the charming Bivouac Hut, great for a spot of lunch.
Distance: 21.5 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

6. Overland Track, Tasmania

Tasmania’s wilderness is a World Heritage Area, and there’s no better way to see it than on this 65-kilometre, six-day walk. A once-in-a-lifetime trek, in the walking season from October to May you make your way from the base of Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair passing through ancient rainforests, glacial valleys, meadows and a dramatic skyline of peaks. This walk is popular; you’ll need to book in advance to walk in the summer months (advisable!) staying at campsites and huts along the route.

Walk highlight: The Overland is ripe with side trips; take your time, go off the beaten track and make an ascent of Mt Ossa, Tasmania’s tallest at 1617 metres.
Distance: 65 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

7. Cape to Cape Walk, Margaret River, Western Australia

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the beauty of this iconic region in all its glory, the Cape to Cape Walk is the way to do it. This diverse walk takes you through undulating forests and along the picturesque coastline that features some of Australia’s most pristine beaches. Taking approximately five to seven days to complete, you’ll traverse the full length of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park following the coast from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.

Walk highlight: The afternoon sunlight that streams through the towering Karri trees in Boranup Forest is something to behold.
Distance: 123 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

8. Great Ocean Road Walk, Victoria

The rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road promises hikers untamed beaches, shipwrecks, spectacular ocean views, and an abundance of native flora and fauna. Stretching about 104 kilometres, you can pack a tent and choose to sleep under the stars, or give yourself a bit of luxury and stay at any of the many hotels along the route. If you prefer to join a guided tour, The Tas Walking Co ‘s Twelve Apostles Signature Walk is a fantastic four-day expedition where you will return each evening to their private eco-lodge.

Walk highlight: Unsurprisingly, the reward at the end is that you’ll get to marvel at the limestone monuments that are the Twelve Apostles.
Distance: 44 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

9. Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit Walk, Victoria

Also known as the ‘Great Prom Walk’, the Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit Walk in the idyllic Wilsons Promontory National Park is considered one of Australia’s most spectacular coast walks. The three to five-day hike ticks all the boxes with picturesque beaches, temperate rainforests, and wildlife spotting opportunities (emus, kangaroos, wombats). The beaches you will visit during this trail are as pristine as they come.

Walk highlight: The boulder-strewn beaches and turquoise waters of Sealers Cove and Waterloo Bay.
Distance: 35.5 to 52.8 kilometres depending on which route you take
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

10. Snowies Alpine Walk, New South Wales

It might be mainland Australia’s tallest mountain, but Mount Kosciuszko is very achievable to summit. Later this year, the 55-kilometre Snowies Alpine Walk will open so you can extend your time hiking the breathtaking alpine landscape. Along the way, you’ll see the iconic Snowy River, historic settler huts, alpine vistas, weathered snow gums and wildflowers. The trail can be walked over four days, with a range of accommodation options available throughout.

Walk highlight: The marvellous views from Hanson’s Peak and Marion’s lookout.
Distance: 55 kilometres
Level: Grade 4 (moderate)

Check out more spectacular walks and hikes in Australia.

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

10 of Australia’s most unforgettable walks and hikes