Australia is one of the best destinations for bushwalking, offering diverse natural beauty and rugged landscapes. The top 10 bushwalking destinations include the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania, Blue Mountains National Park in New South Wales, Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, Grampians National Park in Victoria, Lamington National Park in Queensland, Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria, Queenstown in Tasmania, Carnarvon Gorge in Queensland, Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, and The Kimberley in Western Australia. Each park offers a range of trails for different fitness levels, with some popular walks including the Overland Track and Sealers Cove walk. It is important to bring proper gear, and guided tours are available for those seeking advice on where to go.
Introduction:
Australia is undoubtedly one of the best countries in the world for bushwalking, also known as hiking or trekking. With its diverse natural beauty and rugged landscapes, bushwalking in Australia is an amazing way to explore the country’s striking scenery. From coast to outback, there is no shortage of destinations for hikers to explore. To help you plan your next bushwalking adventure, here are the top 10 bushwalking destinations in Australia you need to visit.
1. Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania:
Located in Tasmania, Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park is undoubtedly one of the best bushwalking destinations in Australia. The park is known for its iconic Cradle Mountain and its picturesque surrounds. There are many walking trails to explore depending on your level of fitness. The Overland Track is the most famous walk in the park, taking around 5-6 days to complete. However, if you’re looking for something shorter, the Dove Lake Circuit is a beautiful 6km walk that provides stunning views of Cradle Mountain.
2. Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales:
The Blue Mountains is a stunning national park located just outside of Sydney and is known for its spectacular scenery, including the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. There are numerous bushwalking trails to explore in the park, catering to all levels of fitness. The National Pass is a popular trail and offers hikers amazing views of the Jamison Valley and waterfall. Hikers can also take the Scenic Railway to explore the park.
3. Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory:
Located in the Northern Territory, Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s largest and most iconic national parks. Home to incredible Aboriginal rock art sites, massive waterfalls, and a diverse range of wildlife, this national park offers endless options for bushwalking enthusiasts. The Jim Jim Falls walk is probably the most famous and involves hiking through monsoonal rainforest to reach the impressive waterfall.
4. Grampians National Park, Victoria:
The Grampians is a beautiful national park located in Victoria. This park is known for its unique rock formations, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. If you’re looking for a short walk, the Balconies Walk is a stunning 2km return walk that offers amazing views of the park. For those seeking something more challenging, the Grampians Peaks Trail offers hikers a challenging multi-day trek.
5. Lamington National Park, Queensland:
Located on the Gold Coast hinterland, Lamington National Park is a beautiful rainforest park with over 160km of walking trails to explore. The park is known for its stunning waterfalls and lush vegetation. The Coomera Circuit is probably the best-known walk in the park and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. This trail provides stunning views of the park’s waterfalls.
6. Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria:
Located in Victoria, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a prime destination for bushwalkers. This spectacular park boasts breathtaking granite mountains, beautiful beaches, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Sealers Cove walk is a popular hike in the park. This 19km hike will take your breath away as you make your way through undulating terrain filled with giant tree ferns and native wildlife.
7. Queenstown, Tasmania:
If you’re looking for a short hike with great views, Queenstown in Tasmania is the perfect destination. The Iron Blow Lookout Walk is a 20-minute return walk that takes hikers to the stunning Iron Blow lookout. The lookout provides incredible views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains.
8. Carnarvon Gorge, Queensland:
Located in Queensland, Carnarvon Gorge is a stunning national park with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The Carnarvon Gorge Circuit is a 27km walk that takes hikers through the heart of the gorge, offering stunning views of the rugged terrain.
9. Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia:
Located in South Australia, Fleurieu Peninsula is a visually stunning destination for bushwalking. With over 1,000km of walking trails, this area is perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. The Deep Creek Conservation Park is a popular area for bushwalking and offers hikers incredible views of the Southern Ocean.
10. The Kimberley, Western Australia:
The Kimberley region in Western Australia is an outback destination that offers rugged terrain, waterfalls, and stunning scenery. The El Questro Wilderness Park is a popular destination for bushwalking enthusiasts. The Emma Gorge walk is one of the best-known walks in the park, taking hikers through rocky terrain to reach the gorge’s stunning waterfall.
FAQs:
1. What should I bring on a bushwalk?
It is essential to bring the right gear on a bushwalk. This includes sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, a map, a GPS, a first aid kit, and plenty of water and snacks.
2. What level of fitness is required for bushwalking?
The level of fitness required for bushwalking depends on the trail. Some walks are easy and only take a few hours, while others can take several days and require a high level of fitness.
3. Are there guided bushwalking tours available?
Yes, there are many guided bushwalking tours available in Australia. These tours are perfect for those who want to explore a new area without the need for extensive planning.
