From mountain peaks to islands to outback tracks, here’s our list of the best long-distance trails in Australia.
A one-day stroll in the bush is one thing – but committing to several days in the wilderness with everything you need on your back is another experience altogether. Multi-day hiking unlocks Australia’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes, often accessible by no other means.
So grab your boots, load up your pack, and don’t forget to pack Blister Wool – here’s our pick of Australia’s top 10 multi-day hikes, in no particular order.
1. Larapinta Trail, NT
📍 Location: West MacDonnell Range, Northern Territory ⏳ Length: 16–20 days (including rest days) 🚶 Distance: 223 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Hard 🛣️ Access: One-way walk; good road access along track, including at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: April–September (cooler months); food drops required
Spanning 223 km through the West MacDonnell Ranges, the Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s premier long-distance hikes. Divided into 12 sections, it offers breathtaking ridgelines, deep gorges, and sacred sites of the Arrernte people. The tough terrain features steep climbs and rocky descents, but hikers are rewarded with stunning views, star-filled night skies, and unique desert flora and fauna.
2. Thorsborne Trail, QLD
📍 Location: Hinchinbrook Island, Far North Queensland ⏳ Length: 4–5 days 🚶 Distance: 32 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Moderate 🛥️ Access: One-way; boat transport required at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: April–September; permits required, book in advance
A remote island paradise, Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island is an untouched coastal wonderland. The trail winds through dense rainforests, over rugged mountains, and along pristine beaches, offering spectacular scenery. With no facilities, hikers must carry all supplies, making it a true wilderness experience. Limited permits ensure the trail remains unspoiled and serene.
3. Australian Alps walking track, VIC/NSW/ACT
📍 Location: High Country of ACT, NSW, and Victoria ⏳ Length: 45–60 days (including rest days) 🚶 Distance: 655 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Hard 🛣️ Access: One-way; road access at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: Warmer months; food drops required
This 655 km trail winds through Kosciuszko, Alpine, and Namadgi National Parks, traversing snow-capped peaks, rugged mountain terrain, and pristine alpine forests. The Australian Alps Walking Track is for serious trekkers who are prepared for rapidly changing weather and complete self-sufficiency. Expect challenging climbs, remote camping, and unforgettable views.
4. Fraser Island Great Walk, QLD
📍 Location: Fraser Island, Queensland ⏳ Length: 5–7 days 🚶 Distance: 84 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy 🛥️ Access: One-way; boat required to the island, road access at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: April–September; permits and campsite bookings required
The Fraser Island Great Walk crosses the world’s largest sand island, leading hikers through ancient rainforests, past freshwater lakes, and across towering dunes. Side trips to Lake McKenzie and the Maheno shipwreck make this a bucket-list adventure. While the walk is considered easy, hikers must carry supplies, as facilities are limited along the track.
5. Wilderness Coast Walk, VIC/NSW
📍 Location: South Coast of NSW and Victoria ⏳ Length: 4–5 days 🚶 Distance: 61 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Medium 🛥️ Access: One-way; boat transport required at one end, road access at the other ℹ️ Best time to go: Permit required, book in advance
Stretching along a wild, remote coastline, the Wilderness Coast Walk offers dramatic cliffs, deserted beaches, and pristine forests. Hikers must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for river crossings and changing tides. This is a trek for those seeking solitude and raw coastal beauty.
6. Overland Track, TAS
📍 Location: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania ⏳ Length: 5–8 days 🚶 Distance: 74 km (plus side trips) ⛰️ Difficulty: Medium 🛣️ Access: One-way; public transport available at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: November–May (permit required)
Tasmania’s Overland Track is an iconic journey through alpine meadows, ancient rainforests, and glacial valleys. Marvel at Cradle Mountain, take side trips to waterfalls, and keep an eye out for Tasmanian devils. Unpredictable weather means hikers should be well-prepared for all conditions.
7. Eastern Arthur Range, TAS
📍 Location: Southwest Tasmania ⏳ Length: 7–9 days 🚶 Distance: 65 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Hard 🛣️ Access: Return walk; Trackhead accessible by road, with public transport links in summer ℹ️ Best time to go: Summer recommended; steep and technical terrain requires experienced hikers
The Eastern Arthur Range Traverse is one of Tasmania’s most demanding and rewarding hikes. This challenging route takes trekkers through jagged peaks, alpine plateaus, and remote valleys. Steep ascents, exposed ridgelines, and unpredictable weather make this a serious challenge, but the rewards include jaw-dropping alpine scenery and remote, untouched wilderness. This route is best suited for experienced trekkers prepared for extreme conditions, river crossings, and complete self-sufficiency.
8. Western Arthur Range Traverse, TAS
📍 Location: Southwest Tasmania ⏳ Length: 8–11 days 🚶 Distance: 75 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Hard 🛣️ Access: Circuit walk; road access and public transport links in summer ℹ️ Best time to go: Summer recommended; requires excellent navigation skills
Considered one of Australia’s most spectacular and technical multi-day hikes, the Western Arthur Range Traverse is a test of endurance, skill, and determination. The track follows an exposed ridgeline with steep climbs and rocky terrain. Hikers must navigate narrow ledges and ascend challenging peaks, all while carrying full gear. The effort is well worth it—dramatic mountain scenery, pristine alpine lakes, and incredible solitude make this a bucket-list adventure for seasoned hikers.
9. Cape to Cape Track, WA
📍 Location: Southwest Western Australia ⏳ Length: 6–8 days 🚶 Distance: 135 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 🛣️ Access: One-way; road access at both ends ℹ️ Best time to go: Spring wildflowers are a highlight; water may be scarce
Stretching between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, the Cape to Cape Track follows the stunning coastline of Western Australia’s Margaret River region. Hikers are treated to breathtaking ocean views, rugged limestone cliffs, and long sandy beaches. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to walk, with vibrant wildflowers in bloom. The trail offers a mix of camping and accommodation options, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a balance of adventure and comfort.
10. South Coast Track, TAS
📍 Location: Southwest Tasmania ⏳ Length: 6–9 days 🚶 Distance: 85 km ⛰️ Difficulty: Medium to Hard 🛣️ Access: One-way; charter flight or additional 70 km walk required ℹ️ Best time to go: Warmer months recommended; extremely remote
Tasmania’s South Coast Track is a remote and rugged journey through some of the most pristine wilderness in Australia. Hikers must be fully self-sufficient, tackling river crossings, steep ascents, and muddy terrain. The track passes through lush rainforests, wild beaches, and windswept plains, offering a true off-the-grid experience. For those willing to embrace the challenge, the reward is an unforgettable trek through one of the last great wild frontiers. Final Thoughts
Australia’s multi-day hikes offer some of the most unforgettable trekking experiences in the world. Whether you're traversing mountains, crossing ancient rainforests, or walking alongside pristine beaches, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
Before you set off, make sure to pack Blister Wool to keep your feet in top shape on the trail.
Which trek is on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
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