Epic Hiking Adventures in Australia and New Zealand
Mesmerizing waterfalls, active volcanoes, stunning coasts: Australia and New Zealand are an adventurer’s playground, perfect for those seeking unforgettable hiking experiences.
Feel the Heat on These Best Volcano Hikes
Mt Taranaki: North Island, New Zealand
Start/Finish: Taranaki/Egmont National Park Visitor Centre
Distance: 12.6km (8 miles)
Duration: 8-10hr
Located on the North Island, Mt Taranaki boasts an impressive summit of 2518m (8261ft) and offers challenging trails that reward hikers with breathtaking views. The summit area is sacred to the Māori, and while hikers are invited to enjoy the beauty, they are asked not to stand right at the very top. Embark on an exhilarating climb of nearly 1600m (5249ft) from the park visitor center, with the reward being striking panoramas over the Tasman Sea and the Tongariro volcanic mountains.
Maunga Kakaramea/Rainbow Mountain: North Island, New Zealand
Start/Finish: Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve car park
Distance: 7km (4 miles)
Duration: 3hr
Discover the vibrant geothermal activity at Maunga Kakaramea/Rainbow Mountain, a colorful volcanic destination located just outside Rotorua. The trail takes you past the Crater Lakes, two stunning azure bodies of water, before leading you to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Mt Tibrogargan: Queensland, Australia
Start/Finish: Tibrogargan trailhead, Barrs Rd
Distance: 3km (2 miles)
Duration: 2-3hr
This challenging yet rewarding hike at Mt Tibrogargan, known as the Gorilla, is part of the surreal Glass House Mountains in Queensland. Enjoy stunning views from the summit with plenty of steep scrambling along the route. For those looking for an easier climb, nearby peaks such as Mt Beerburrum and Mt Ngungun provide great alternatives for less experienced hikers.
Go Far and Wide on These Best Long-Distance Treks
Old Ghost Road: South Island, New Zealand
Start: Lyell Campground
Finish: Rough & Tumble Lodge
Distance: 85km (53 miles)
Duration: 5 days
The Old Ghost Road, a testament to trail perseverance, opened in 2015 and offers hikers an extraordinary experience through the rugged wilderness of the West Coast. This trail features incredible mountain views, deep gorges, and unique huts. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers looking to face challenges head-on.
Light to Light Walk: New South Wales, Australia
Start: Boyds Tower
Finish: Green Cape Lighthouse
Distance: 30km (18 miles)
Duration: 2-3 days
Walking along the scenic coastal route from Boyds Tower to Green Cape Lighthouse, hikers will encounter stunning cliffs, pristine beaches, and glimpses into the area’s maritime history. With portions of the trail affected by the Black Summer bushfires, nature’s resilience is evident as life returns to the landscape.
Wangetti Trail: Queensland, Australia
Start: Palm Cove
Finish: Port Douglas
Distance: 94km (58 miles)
Duration: 5-6 days
The Wangetti Trail, a breathtaking coastal hike in far north Queensland, takes you through lush landscapes, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. The fully developed trail includes camping areas and promises an immersive experience in the tropical environment.
Discover the Riches of the Rainforest on These Top Hikes
Twin Falls Circuit: Springbrook, Australia
Start/Finish: Tallanbana Trailhead
Distance: 4km (2.5 miles)
Duration: 2hr
This short yet picturesque hike in Gold Coast hinterland takes you past two magnificent waterfalls set amid ancient rainforests. Ideal for those short on time, the Twin Falls Circuit offers an accessible glimpse into the beauty of the Gondwana Rainforests, which are teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
Coomera Circuit: Lamington, Australia
Start/Finish: Binna Burra upper day-use area
Distance: 17.4km (10.8 miles)
Duration: 7hr
One of Queensland’s top hikes, the Coomera Circuit features dramatic landscapes with rainforest-covered cliffs and mesmerizing waterfalls. The trail includes some river crossings and provides a rare opportunity to witness the unique wildlife native to the region, all while exploring the breathtaking Lamington National Park.
Brindle Creek Walking Track: Border Ranges National Park, Australia
Start: Brindle Creek picnic area
Finish: Antarctic Beech picnic area
Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
Duration: 3-4hr
Renowned for its beauty, the Brindle Creek Walking Track meanders through the misty rainforest, showcasing the best of the Border Ranges National Park. Enjoy the notable Antarctic beech trees and the chance to swim at Evan Falls while taking in exceptional scenery.
Epic Trails of National Parks
O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail: Yarra Ranges National Park, Australia
Start: East Warburton
Finish: Don Valley
Distance: 35km (22 miles)
Duration: 2 days
The O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail is a level and scenic trek through Victoria’s Yarra Ranges National Park, perfect for runners and hikers alike. Experience the beauty of temperate rainforests characterizing this area and enjoy a trek among some of Australia’s tallest trees.
Djagany (Goanna) Walk: Girringun National Park, Australia
Start: Wallaman Falls camping area
Finish: Henrietta gate pick-up point
Distance: 56.8km (35.3 miles)
Duration: 3 days
Offering stunning views of Wallaman Falls, Australia’s highest single-drop waterfall, the Djagany Walk travels through diverse forestry areas in the UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. This immersive experience embraces the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
New England Wilderness Walk: New England National Park, Australia
Start: Robinsons Knob Trail car park
Finish: Darkwood Rd
Distance: 33km (20.5 miles)
Duration: 2-3 days
Seek adventure in one of New South Wales’ most diverse wilderness areas on the New England Wilderness Walk. With pathways that weave through lush forests and historic farmlands, this hike invites you to immerse in the evocative beauty of Australia’s high country.
Top Trails That Lead to Incredible Waterfalls
Meander Falls: Great Western Tiers Conversation Area, Tasmania
Start/Finish: Meander Falls Rd car park
Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
Duration: 6hr
Meander Falls is another gem in Tasmania, located in the stunning Great Western Tiers Conservation Area. The trail climbs through lush forests leading to dramatic waterfalls, offering rewarding views and invigorating experiences.
Warrie Circuit: Springbrook National Park, Australia
Start/Finish: Canyon Lookout or Tallanbana Trailhead
Distance: 14km (8.9 miles)
Duration: 5-6hr
Offering a glimpse into the beautiful rushing waters of Goomoolahra Falls, the Warrie Circuit takes hikers through serene rainforests and across sparkling creeks. This well-marked path makes for a delightful and captivating hike.
Wheel of Fire Track: Eungella National Park, Australia
Start/Finish: Finch Hatton Gorge car park
Distance: 4.2km (2.6 miles)
Duration: 1.5-2hr
The Wheel of Fire Track delivers an ultra-scenic hiking experience featuring stunning waterfall swimming spots. This brief hike showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Finch Hatton Gorge section while delivering gorgeous water views.
