Discover the best of New South Wales with our top 10 favourite hikes. From the iconic Blue Mountains to the coastal strolls along Sydney's beaches, these trails offer diverse landscapes, stunning vistas, and unforgettable adventures for hikers of all levels.
Caution: Before any hike, always check relevant park management websites for updated information on track conditions, closures, or dangers.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Length: 2.7 km loop track
- Elevation Gain: 259 m
- Need to know: The track is open year-round. Not dog-friendly. We recommend visiting early morning as this is a very popular track.
Be prepared for the Wentworth Falls walk to take your breath away — in more ways than one. Lookouts galore provide breathtaking views, but you'll have to climb up and down a lot of stairs to see them! Don't be deterred, however, as most find the walk relatively easy and the views well worth it. If you time your walk a few days after a big downpour, you'll be treated to Wentworth Falls in all its glory, so plan accordingly! Bring your togs if you're looking to take a dip in some of the area's swimming spots!
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Length: 4.8 km loop track
- Elevation Gain: 191 m
- Need to know: Dogs are not allowed on the trail. Bring your togs and a picnic for a snack and swim break along the way.
The Aboriginal Heritage Walk in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers a captivating journey into Australia's Indigenous culture. This short trail immerses visitors in ancient rock engravings, demonstrating the rich heritage of the local Aboriginal people. Winding through scenic bushland, the walk unveils sacred sites, traditional artworks, and insightful interpretive signage. This cultural exploration provides a unique and educational experience, connecting visitors with the profound history and spirituality of the land.
- Duration: 4 hours one way
- Length: 13.8 km one way
- Elevation Gain: 453 m
- Need to know: Lovely coastal walk within reach of Sydney. No dogs are allowed on the track. Bring your togs for a quick dip. There are rocky and steep sections and long stretches without shade, so bring a hat and sunscreen.
The Bouddi Coastal Walk offers a stunning coastal experience along the New South Wales shoreline. The trail winds through lush bushland, showcasing diverse landscapes and breathtaking ocean views. From Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach, hikers traverse scenic cliffs, golden beaches, and tranquil coves. Encounter rich flora and fauna, including eucalypt forests and vibrant wildflowers. With its moderate difficulty, the Bouddi Coastal Walk provides a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and coastal beauty for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Duration: 2.5-3 hours
- Length: 5.8 km loop track
- Elevation Gain: 283 m
- Need to know: Going clockwise is recommended to avoid the steepest uphill. Well-marked track, with many lookouts into the Canyon. Dogs have to stay at home.
The Grand Canyon Track in the Blue Mountains is a stunning 5.8 km circuit that showcases the region's natural beauty. Beginning at Evans Lookout, it descends into the heart of the Grand Canyon, surrounded by towering sandstone walls adorned with ferns and waterfalls.
The trail winds through lush eucalyptus forests, crossing picturesque bridges and stone steps. Spectacular viewpoints, such as Horseshoe Falls and Rocky Creek Cascades, offer breathtaking panoramas. The track is of moderate difficulty, providing a rewarding adventure for hikers with diverse landscapes and a chance to witness the unique charm of the Blue Mountains.
- Duration: 2.5-3 hours one way
- Length: 12.7 km one way
- Elevation Gain: 143 m
- Need to know: Dogs allowed on leash. A great trail to discover some of Sydney's famous beaches.
Starting at iconic Bondi Beach, this track winds along stunning cliffs, showcasing panoramic ocean views. Encounter Tamarama's intimate cove before reaching Bronte Beach's family-friendly atmosphere. Continuing on, you'll discover rock pools and parks, culminating in Coogee's vibrant atmosphere. With picturesque landscapes and diverse beaches, this walk is a perfect blend of nature and coastal charm.
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours one way
- Length: 8.4 km return (via same track)
- Elevation Gain: 277 m
- Need to know: Steep sections and the Giant Stairway, which includes roughly 900 stairs. To avoid the steepest climb, continue from Katoomba Falls to Federal Pass to catch the Scenic Railway up to Scenic World.
The Echo Point to Scenic World via Giant Stairway trail offers a thrilling adventure through breathtaking landscapes.
Located in the Blue Mountains and beginning at Echo Point, the trail descends into the Jamison Valley, leading you through the iconic Giant Stairway with its steep steps (about 900!) and stunning rock formations. Traverse lush rainforests, witness panoramic views of the Three Sisters, and arrive at Scenic World for a unique cable car experience. This short but exhilarating journey combines natural beauty and adventure in the heart of the Blue Mountains.
- Duration: 5-6 hours one way
- Length: 9.2 km one way
- Elevation Gain: 1074 m
- Need to know: Only accessible by guided tour, Mondays and Thursdays. Book in advance: www.lordhoweislandtours.net/mount-gower-tours Best times to visit are August through September.
The Mount Gower Track on Lord Howe Island is an exhilarating climb, considered one of Australia's best day hikes. Begin at sea level in lush forests, navigating challenging terrain to reach the summit. The trail offers diverse landscapes, from subtropical rainforest to exposed mountain slopes. Expect steep ascents, hand-over-hand climbs, and a thrilling 360-degree view of the island and surrounding ocean at the summit. Only accessible with a guided tour due to the trail's difficulty.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Length: 3.9 km loop track
- Elevation Gain: 97 m
- Need to know: The best times to visit is January through October. Not dog-friendly.
Winding through lush eucalyptus forests and along coastal cliffs, the trail provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. With a moderate difficulty level, it's suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
Along the short route, you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna, and may even spot native bird species. Don't miss the captivating ocean panoramas at designated lookout points. Well-maintained paths and informative signages make it an enjoyable hike for nature enthusiasts, providing a refreshing escape just outside the bustling city.
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Length: 20.6 km one way
- Elevation Gain: 975 m
- Need to know: Part of this route on Merritts Nature Walk/Traverse is temporarily inaccessible, but you can still enjoy other sections of this trail (use Meadows Nature Trail as a detour). Not dog-friendly.
The Kosciuszko Walk from Thredbo to Mount Kosciuszko offers a scenic alpine experience. Begin at Thredbo and ascend through picturesque meadows, passing the iconic Snowy River. The trail weaves through alpine vegetation, leading to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Snowy Mountains. The well-maintained track is suitable for hikers of various skill levels, providing a rewarding journey to the summit.
- Duration: 7.5-8.5 hours one way
- Length: 32 km one way
- Elevation Gain: 701 m
- Need to know: Usually a 2-day hike but can be done in a day if you're fit and ready for a challenge.
The Light to Light Walk in Ben Boyd National Park offers a mesmerizing multiday hiking experience along the stunning Sapphire Coast. Traversing 30 kilometers of coastal beauty, the trail winds through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to pristine beaches.
Encounter panoramic ocean views, historical sites, and native wildlife. With well-maintained tracks and designated campsites, this hike immerses hikers in the untouched natural beauty of Beowa National Park. An unforgettable journey for those seeking a coastal escape and a connection with Australia's rugged landscapes.