With the beautiful warm weather, there is no better time to discover the walking trails in your area. Exploring nature and local scenery is a revitalising experience, and what’s even better? You’re also getting exercise while doing it! 

Unsure where to start? We’ve listed trails around Australia for you to try this summer… 

Cape Byron, New South Wales

Distance: 3.7km loop (1-3hrs)

Boasting breathtaking views of the ocean and hinterland, this track will take you on a hike through rainforest, beach, grassland, and clifftops to the lighthouse. 

Cape Byron Light Tower

Mount Stapylton Trail, Victoria

Distance: 12km return

Keen for a challenge? The Mt. Stapylton Trail comprises steep climbs, rock hopping and scrambling, and water crossings. It’s well worth the trek as you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Grampians National Park and surrounding plains.

Mount Stapylton Loop Walk

Granite Tors, Australian Capital Territory

Distance: 7km return (3hrs)

The Granite Tors track is a steep walk through tall forest and granite boulders, leading to views of the Orroral Valley. If you’re not quite up for this trail’s level of difficulty, there’s plenty of other walking trails in Namadgi National Park to explore. 

Namadgi National Park

Mount Rooper and Swamp Bay, Queensland

Distance: 6.7km (2.5hrs)

This track climbs up through mixed forest for a view over Shute Harbour to the Conway range. You’ll also have the opportunity to savour the view of Whitsunday passage and islands at the summit. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy at Swamp Bay.

Mount Rooper Circuit

The Valley of the Winds Walk, Northern Territory

Distance: 2.2km return (1hr)

This track is a shorter one but moderately difficult. It’s steep, rocky, challenging in places and there are some loose rocks to navigate, however the views will be well worth the effort.

The Valley of the Winds Walk

Hartz Peak, Tasmania

Distance: 7.4km (3-5hrs)

Best to be undertaken in good weather conditions, on this walk, you’ll be taken to the top of the handsome dolerite mountain, Hartz Peak. The view from the peak is breathtaking, you’ll be able to see much of the south-west wilderness, including Federation Peak and Precipitous Bluff. Down below, you’ll also be able to take in the view of Hartz Lake. 

Hartz Mountains National Park

St. Mary’s Peak, South Australia

Distance: 19km circuit (9hrs)

This trail is considered moderate to hard and can be rather steep in certain areas. Although, in undertaking the walk, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Flinders Ranges, Aroona Valley, and the salt plains to the west.

St Mary Peak Hike – Ngarri Mudlanha

Nature’s Window Loop Trail, Western Australia

Distance: 9km loop (3–5hr)

This trail is challenging with steep and uneven surfaces, but it is said to be spectacular, spanning across both rocky and sandy terrain. If you’re looking for a shorter walk, Nature’s Window is an alternative 1km, moderate trail.

Nature’s Window