Australia's Hiking Boom Continues to Gain Momentum as New Trails Latch On to Popularity.
Over 4 million Australians lace up their hiking boots every year, making it the third most popular form of physical activity in the country. And with more than 300 new trails being constructed across the nation in 2025 alone, it's no wonder that the trend is showing no signs of slowing down.
In Tasmania, a three-day hike through the rugged Tyndall Range on the island state's west coast is set to be completed this year. The 42km Gidjuum Gulganyi walk follows the southern rim of the Tweed volcano and offers a unique glimpse into the region's biodiverse ecosystem and rich cultural heritage.
In New South Wales, hikers can look forward to tackling the challenging Snowies Alpine walk, which spans an impressive 56km across the highest peaks in the state. The trail takes walkers through alpine meadows, historic mountain huts, and stands of sinuous snow gums overlooking glacial lakes.
For those seeking a more leisurely pace, the recently opened Leeuwin Biddi trail in Western Australia offers a scenic 3km section that follows the coast and links with existing trails to connect Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse with Augusta Boat Harbour.
The Tidbinbilla Mindjagari track network in the Australian Capital Territory has also been updated with 14km of fresh trails, including the challenging Short 'n' Brutal loop. The trail takes walkers to the top of the Tidbinbilla Range, offering breathtaking views over the Brindabellas and Kosciuszko national park.
Queensland's North East is set to welcome two new hiking trails this year - the 18km Twin Bridges track, which connects the communities of Wangetti and Mowbray, and the Ngaro track, a three-day journey that traverses coastal landscapes, open forest, and rocky peaks on Whitsunday Island.
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta signature walk in the Northern Territory is set to become one of the most luxurious hiking experiences in Australia when it launches this year. The 54km trail will allow walkers to stay overnight in Uluru-Kata Tjuta national park for the first time and includes cultural workshops, chef-prepared meals, and stunning desert landscapes.
International hikers can also look forward to tackling some incredible trails abroad. In South Korea, the Dongseo trail is set to become a 850km coast-to-coast route that connects ancient Buddhist temples with beautiful mountain scenery and village "base camps". New Zealand's Kawarau Gorge trail promises to be an adrenaline junkie's paradise with its swing bridges, cantilevered catwalks, and scenic views. Meanwhile, the Transcaucasian trail is set to become a 3,000km epic journey across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, taking in alpine scenery, religious sites, and secluded mountain lakes.
With so many new trails on offer, it's no wonder that hiking has become one of Australia's most popular pastimes. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, there's never been a better time to lace up your boots and hit the trail.
Over 4 million Australians lace up their hiking boots every year, making it the third most popular form of physical activity in the country. And with more than 300 new trails being constructed across the nation in 2025 alone, it's no wonder that the trend is showing no signs of slowing down.
In Tasmania, a three-day hike through the rugged Tyndall Range on the island state's west coast is set to be completed this year. The 42km Gidjuum Gulganyi walk follows the southern rim of the Tweed volcano and offers a unique glimpse into the region's biodiverse ecosystem and rich cultural heritage.
In New South Wales, hikers can look forward to tackling the challenging Snowies Alpine walk, which spans an impressive 56km across the highest peaks in the state. The trail takes walkers through alpine meadows, historic mountain huts, and stands of sinuous snow gums overlooking glacial lakes.
For those seeking a more leisurely pace, the recently opened Leeuwin Biddi trail in Western Australia offers a scenic 3km section that follows the coast and links with existing trails to connect Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse with Augusta Boat Harbour.
The Tidbinbilla Mindjagari track network in the Australian Capital Territory has also been updated with 14km of fresh trails, including the challenging Short 'n' Brutal loop. The trail takes walkers to the top of the Tidbinbilla Range, offering breathtaking views over the Brindabellas and Kosciuszko national park.
Queensland's North East is set to welcome two new hiking trails this year - the 18km Twin Bridges track, which connects the communities of Wangetti and Mowbray, and the Ngaro track, a three-day journey that traverses coastal landscapes, open forest, and rocky peaks on Whitsunday Island.
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta signature walk in the Northern Territory is set to become one of the most luxurious hiking experiences in Australia when it launches this year. The 54km trail will allow walkers to stay overnight in Uluru-Kata Tjuta national park for the first time and includes cultural workshops, chef-prepared meals, and stunning desert landscapes.
International hikers can also look forward to tackling some incredible trails abroad. In South Korea, the Dongseo trail is set to become a 850km coast-to-coast route that connects ancient Buddhist temples with beautiful mountain scenery and village "base camps". New Zealand's Kawarau Gorge trail promises to be an adrenaline junkie's paradise with its swing bridges, cantilevered catwalks, and scenic views. Meanwhile, the Transcaucasian trail is set to become a 3,000km epic journey across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, taking in alpine scenery, religious sites, and secluded mountain lakes.
With so many new trails on offer, it's no wonder that hiking has become one of Australia's most popular pastimes. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, there's never been a better time to lace up your boots and hit the trail.
we did the Gidjuum Gulganyi walk and it was soooo worth it - the views were insane!!! 
I think what's making hiking so popular right now is that everyone's looking for a way to escape the city stress and get some fresh air. me too tbh i've been feeling super burnt out lately 
anyone else love getting outside and being in nature?
im literally counting down the days till the new uluru-kata tjuta signature walk opens up i need to stay overnight in the park and do a cultural workshop it sounds like a dream come true 
has anyone else heard about the leeuwin biddi trail in western australia its 3km long but takes you along the coast i need to try that out ASAP 
what are your fave hiking spots aussie trails for life 
australia's really stepping up its outdoor game and it's awesome. personally, i'm super stoked about the leeuwin biddi trail in western australia - 3km coastal section sounds like a dream come true 
plus, who doesn't love hiking with stunning views of glacial lakes? 
& have you guys seen the uluru-kata tjuta signature walk? it's like they're taking luxury hiking to the next level 
chef-prepared meals and cultural workshops... yeah, sign me up! 
what's your favorite trail so far?
I'm definitely thinking of doing the Leeuwin Biddi trail with some friends over the holidays, or maybe the Snowies Alpine walk if we're feeling adventurous 
i mean its cool that ppl are getting active and stuff but have you seen how much money they're charging for those fancy uluru hikes? $10k for a 3 day stay? lol what a rip off 
and btw 300 new trails in one year? thats like, really easy to do if ur from australia or sumthin...