Australia's hiking trails are thriving. In fact, almost four million Australians hit the trails every year, making it one of the country's most popular forms of physical activity.
While long-distance hikes have seen significant growth, there are plenty of shorter tracks to suit all abilities.
One such track is the Gidjuum Gulganyi walk in New South Wales, a 42km hike that explores the state's rugged west coast and offers a unique cultural experience with traditional owners' stories and insights.
Another trail worth trying out is the Ngaro track on Whitsunday Island in Queensland. Spanning 32km, this new trail takes walkers through lush forest, rocky peaks, and along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the island group.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Leeuwin Biddi trail in Western Australia offers an accessible 3km path that connects Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse with Augusta Boat Harbour. This shorter hike still provides stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
Those looking to tackle longer hikes will enjoy the Snowies Alpine walk in New South Wales, a challenging four-day trek that takes walkers across the state's highest mountain range.
Meanwhile, international hiking trails are also worth watching, including Australia's own routes. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta signature walk in the Northern Territory promises to be a highlight of 2026, with five days of guided hiking through desert landscapes and cultural workshops on offer.
A new addition to the list is the Dongseo trail in South Korea, which will stretch almost 850km when completed later this year. The trail will connect ancient Buddhist temples, mountain scenery, and village 'base camps' where walkers can access food and accommodation.
The Kawarau Gorge trail in New Zealand is another international hiking route worth watching, set to open in late summer. Spanning 32km, the trail will link Queenstown and Cromwell via several swing bridges and cantilevered catwalks.
Finally, the Transcaucasian trail across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan is an ambitious 3,000km project still under construction. When completed, it promises to take walkers through spectacular alpine scenery, fascinating religious sites, and secluded mountain lakes.
While long-distance hikes have seen significant growth, there are plenty of shorter tracks to suit all abilities.
One such track is the Gidjuum Gulganyi walk in New South Wales, a 42km hike that explores the state's rugged west coast and offers a unique cultural experience with traditional owners' stories and insights.
Another trail worth trying out is the Ngaro track on Whitsunday Island in Queensland. Spanning 32km, this new trail takes walkers through lush forest, rocky peaks, and along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the island group.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Leeuwin Biddi trail in Western Australia offers an accessible 3km path that connects Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse with Augusta Boat Harbour. This shorter hike still provides stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
Those looking to tackle longer hikes will enjoy the Snowies Alpine walk in New South Wales, a challenging four-day trek that takes walkers across the state's highest mountain range.
Meanwhile, international hiking trails are also worth watching, including Australia's own routes. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta signature walk in the Northern Territory promises to be a highlight of 2026, with five days of guided hiking through desert landscapes and cultural workshops on offer.
A new addition to the list is the Dongseo trail in South Korea, which will stretch almost 850km when completed later this year. The trail will connect ancient Buddhist temples, mountain scenery, and village 'base camps' where walkers can access food and accommodation.
The Kawarau Gorge trail in New Zealand is another international hiking route worth watching, set to open in late summer. Spanning 32km, the trail will link Queenstown and Cromwell via several swing bridges and cantilevered catwalks.
Finally, the Transcaucasian trail across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan is an ambitious 3,000km project still under construction. When completed, it promises to take walkers through spectacular alpine scenery, fascinating religious sites, and secluded mountain lakes.
! I've always been a fan of getting outdoors and exploring nature, and now there are even more options than ever before 
. The thought of tackling the Uluru-Kata Tjuta signature walk in the Northern Territory or the Transcaucasian trail across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan is giving me major FOMO 
. But I'm also loving the fact that there are shorter trails like the Leeuwin Biddi path in Western Australia that are perfect for a fun day out with friends 
. And can we talk about how amazing it is to see all these new international hiking routes being developed? It's really inspiring to think about all the incredible landscapes and cultural experiences waiting to be explored 
And I'm loving that there are shorter tracks for all abilities too - no need to be a hardcore hiker to get out and enjoy nature. 
The Gidjuum Gulganyi walk in NSW & Ngaro track on Whitsunday Island sound like must-trys to me, all the cultural insights & stunning views? Yes please! 
And international trails are getting more attention too - Dongseo trail in South Korea is gonna be EPIC when it's done, 850km of temples, mountains & village 'base camps'? That sounds like a dream come true for many hikers! 
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. It would be great if more trails offered accommodations and amenities for walkers with mobility issues, so everyone can enjoy the outdoors 
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. Im excited to see more routes being developed that showcase unique cultural experiences and stunning landscapes 
The thought of walking along the rugged west coast in NSW or exploring ancient temples in Korea is giving me major wanderlust vibes 
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. And it's great to see that many of these trails offer cultural insights and workshops - it's such a great way to learn about different countries and their histories.
As a parent, I always worry about my kids' safety when we're out on an adventure!