28 August 2024
Written by Allie Voyage
Whether you're just starting out, getting back into it, or now have little ones in tow, check out this list of Australia's most beautiful bushwalks that anyone can do.
New South Wales
Bathers Way
Estimated time to complete: 2-3 hours
The Bathers Way in Newcastle is a scenic coastal walk that offers a mix of natural beauty and accessibility features, making it enjoyable for a wide range of people. The path stretches over 6 kilometers from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach, with several sections designed to accommodate people of all abilities. Lookout points along the way also have viewing platforms, where you can stop for a breather and take in the stunning ocean vistas. The Bathers Way walk typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to explore the beaches along the way.
Fairfax Heritage Track
Estimated time to complete: 30-45 minutes
The Fairfax Heritage Track in the Blue Mountains is a short yet stunning walk that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the rugged beauty of North Head. The track is only 2 kilometres long making it well suited for anyone who hasn’t strapped on the hiking boots in a while or needs an accessible path. You'll enjoy expansive views of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, including the Grose Valley, Govetts Gorge and Jungle Falls. The entire walk can typically be completed in about 30-45 minutes, making it a perfect short outdoor experience for everyone.
Overlooking Govetts Gorge in the Blue Mountains National Park. Credit: Destination NSW
Victoria
Main Yarra Trail from Candlebark Park to Tikalara Park
Estimated time to complete: 1-1.5 hours
The Main Yarra Trail from Candlebark Park to Tikalara Park is a picturesque section of a longer trail that offers a peaceful escape into nature. This portion of the trail is approximately 6 kilometres long and is perfect for novice hikers. The trail winds alongside the Yarra River and gives you plenty of chances to spot local wildlife. The walk usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, and while some sections of the path are flat, others can prove a little more challenging – a good experiment to push your beginner limits.
Gardiners Creek Trail from Canterbury Road to Burwood Highway
Estimated time to complete: 1.5 hours
The section of the Gardiners Creek Trail from Canterbury Road to Burwood Highway is different as it is an urban trail through Burwood, east of Melbourne. The hike blends natural beauty with a paved well-maintained dirt track making it an easy walk. Approximately 7-kilometres long, the trail follows a stretch of Gardiners Creek, offering a peaceful environment amidst lush greenery and parklands. Along the way there are several places to take a rest including parks and playgrounds, making it a family-friendly option.
Skeleton Creek Trail Loop
Estimated time to complete: 2-2.5 hours
The Upper Skeleton Creek Trail Loop in Victoria offers a pleasant and accessible walking experience through a mix of urban and natural landscapes. This loop is approximately 12 kilometres of off-road, shared path trail. It’s a popular track for cyclists and even for dog owners as pups are allowed on leash. The trail is relatively flat, with smooth surfaces that make it easily navigable. Along the way, there are several resting points and benches making it convenient for a leisurely walk. The loop typically takes about 2-2.5 hours to complete, providing a relaxing and inclusive outdoor activity.
Queensland
Behana Gorge Walking Track
Estimated time to complete: 2 hours
About 35 minutes south of Cairns you’ll find the Clamshell Falls via the Behana Gorge Walking Track, which takes you through lush rainforest to the stunning natural rock falls. The trail is approximately 6.6 kilometres round trip, with a mostly paved path that is suitable for walkers of varying abilities. However, there are some steep sections and inclines, making this a slightly more challenging walk than others on this list despite beingrated as “easy”. The walk usually takes about 2 hours to hike to the falls and back, depending on your pace, with the reward of beautiful views and the serene atmosphere of the falls at the end.
Maroochydore to Mooloolaba
Estimated time to complete: 1-1.5 hours
If walking along the coast is more your style, try the Maroochydore to Mooloolaba walk on the Sunshine Coast – part of the Coastal Pathway. Showcasing the pristine beaches of the area, this walk is approximately 5 kilometers long, following a mostly flat pathway. The accessible nature of the walk means everyone from bike riders to stroller pushers can enjoy it. Typically, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, and you’ll want to take your time stopping at lookouts and park benches along the way. It’s the perfect relaxing way to take in the beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
Cougal Cascades Track in Springbrook National Park
Estimated time to complete: 45 mins
The Cougal Cascades Track in Springbrook National Park is a short walk that offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls and lush rainforest. The track is approximately 1.6 kilometers return, with a well-maintained and mostly flat path. Along the way, there are interpretive signs and several lookout points that provide stunning views of the surrounding forest. It’s a perfect first sojourn into this beautiful national park and with the walk only taking about 45 minutes, it’s a great start-of-the-day hike to get your juices flowing.
Springbrook National Park. Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
South Australia
Tanunda to Rowland Flat via the Barossa Trail
Estimated time to complete: 3 hours
The walk from Tanunda to Rowland Flat is a part of the Barossa Trail in South Australia and is a scenic and accessible route through the heart of the Barossa Valley's wine country. This section of the trail is approximately 17 kilometers long and it winds through vineyards and stunning landscapes, offering beautiful views of the countryside and the opportunity to explore the region's famous wineries. It’s a solid walk, taking about 3 hours to complete, but there’s nothing to stop you from shortening the walk and stopping into one of the wineries for a cheeky tipple.
Angas River Walk
Estimated time to complete: 1 hour
For a tranquil, short walk, try the Angas River Walk in South Australia. It’s a gentle 3-kilometre trail through the flow of the calming countryside along the Angus River. This short hike offers a piece of nature without having to trek far into the outback. You’ll be surrounded by native flora and fauna and with rest areas along the path, you can take as much time as you’d like to bathe in nature.
Western Australia
Rockingham Foreshore Principal Shared Path
Estimated time to complete: 2.5 hours
For another stunning coastal walk, try the Rockingham Foreshore Principal Shared Path. This 10 kilometre path is popular for bird watchers and cyclists and is fully paved making the hike not too strenuous. The trail offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, with several access points to the beach, parks, and picnic areas along the way. If you’re looking for a flat but long walk with gorgeous views and sea air, this is the one for you.
Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock
Estimated time to complete: 1-1.5 hours one way
An easy 3.5 kilometres, the walk from Cape Naturaliste to Sugarloaf Rock in Western Australia is a breathtaking coastal trail that highlights the rugged beauty of the coastline. As you follow the path, you'll be treated to stunning ocean views, native vegetation, and the striking sight of Sugarloaf Rock, a dramatic granite island jutting out of the sea. The trail also offers several lookout points with accessible viewing platforms, perfect for taking in the panoramic coastal scenery. The walk typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, providing a serene and accessible way to experience one of Western Australia's most iconic coastal landscapes.
Sugarloaf Rock, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Tasmania
Blue Tier Big Tree Loop
Estimated time to complete: 1-1.5 hours
The Blue Tier Big Tree Walk in Tasmania is a 3.5-kilometre loop that takes you through ancient rainforest to some of the island's most impressive giant trees. The trail is mainly smooth and relatively easy to navigate, but it is interspersed with natural terrain features, such as roots and slight inclines giving you a little sense of adventure. This walk is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Tasmania's lush, old-growth forests, with opportunities to see towering trees that have stood for centuries. The loop typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete and gives you a deep insight into the stunning nature of our most southern state.
Bridgewater Foreshore Trail
Estimated time to complete: 45 minutes – 1 hour
A cruisy walk along the Derwent River, the Bridgewater Foreshore Trail is approximately 5 kilometers long. The trail offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls and picnics. The walk typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete, and as a bonus, it is dog –friendly, providing a peaceful and enjoyable way to explore the natural beauty of the Bridgewater area.
Launceston Urban Fringe Trail (LUFT)
Estimated time to complete: Various times
Australia’s longest urban pedestrian walk, the The Launceston Urban Fringe Trail (LUFT) is approximately 110 kilomteres and is best done in smaller portions. While the trail is extensive, it is divided into shorter sections that cater to different abilities, with paths that are suitable for walkers, cyclists, and those with strollers or wheelchairs. The LUFT features a mix of flat and gently sloping terrain, with some sections offering paved surfaces and others more natural, but still navigable, tracks. Along the way, there are numerous rest areas, parks, and scenic spots where visitors can take in views of the Tamar River, bushland, and city outskirts. Depending on the section you choose, the time to complete a walk can range from 30 minutes to several hours, making the LUFT a versatile and accessible option for exploring the Launceston area.
Northern Territory
Uluru Base Walk
Estimated time to complete: 3-4 hours
Though climbing Uluru is no longer permitted, you can still experience its majesty from the Uluru Base Walk. There are several hikes you can do around Australia's most iconic landmark, but the base walk is a flat and easy 10km that will allow you to experience the awe-inspiring presence of Uluru up close, with opportunities to explore ancient rock art, waterholes, and unique flora and fauna. The path includes several shaded rest areas and accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience as you take in the cultural and natural significance of the area. The walk typically takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, offering a profound and accessible way to connect with the spiritual and natural beauty of Uluru.
