Best wildlife trails in Australia

Users have reported that this trail is now a one way circuit from Evans Lookout to Neates Glen. So be sure to follow the signs and do it in the recommended direction. Waterfalls, ferns, and amazing views define the popular Grand Canyon Track. This is a challenging but short hike through lush vegetation that takes you along a series of ledges that make up this World Heritage listed landscape. Be sure to check the weather before you head out as the creek may flood after heavy rains. Show more

The Bundjalung and Yugambeh Peoples are the Traditional Owners of these lands. This is a beautiful route passing multiple waterfalls. It is mostly shaded and can be done in either direction. It can be muddy and rocky in some sections so exercise caution especially with young ones. Some folks choose to go swimming in the creeks and ponds along the route, but beware of leeches. If you follow the route counter-clockwise as shown in the map you will leave the canyon lookout and slowly loose elevation through dense rainforest. Passing Twin Falls, Rainbow Falls, and below Goomoolahra Falls before reaching the junction at 3.4 kms where you turn sharply left, below Ngarri-dhum Falls and to the half-way point at the meeting of the waters. From here you have to climb back out of the canyon up quite a few switchbacks so watch your footing, especially in wet conditions. Nearing the top of the canyon you'll pass a few more waterfalls, one of which you can walk behind - don't miss it! Return along the Twin Falls Track to the carpark.Show more

The Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Peoples are the Traditional Owners of the region where the Werribee Gorge is nestled. This circuit is a beautiful route along the Werribee River and is well-signed. There are a few technical areas requiring some scrambling and a short cliff section with cables, but they’re not that difficult to manoeuvre. The area is generally heavily trafficked especially on weekends given its proximity to Melbourne, only one hour north-west. There are even some areas to go swimming to take in the picturesque gorge.Show more

Note: As of August 16, 2020, partial trail closures have been reported around Walkabout Creek Visitor Centre and Araucaria Circuit for planned burn operations. Please consult the park's website before visiting. This loop is great for trail running and normally takes 1-3 hours. There is mix of narrow trails and wide fire trails. Relatively hilly but enough of a break between climbs to keep well rested. Section 1: Walkabout Creek to Fire Trail This section is a nice single track trail that winds it's way along the water edge through trees Grade: Easy non technical well maintained and flat Section 2: Fire Trail around lake Relatively easy with a few steep ascents and descents but plenty of separation to get your breath back. Steeps sections can be rutted out and stoney but mostly good under foot. Few creek entries and while not flooded be aware in the wet. Grade: Easy mildly technical fire trail all the way Section 3: Around Reservoir wall to Walkabout Creek Road section which is a shame after such a nice forested trail Grade: Easy slight uphill on grass, road and pavementShow more

Great for those who want to build up to the more challenging mountains. Can be challenging. The path can be slippery and a little muddy just after rain and there are a few steep sections. Amazing views at the top but take care near the edges and be sure to supervise children.Show more

Permits required from October to May. During these months, the walk must be completed north to south and you will need to reserve in advance. Around 8000 people from all around Australia and the world walk the track each year. It is a challenging hike that requires good physical fitness. The weather along the route can be unpredictable, so bring cold weather gear and waterproof shoes. Show more

This is a great family friendly walk around the Sugarloaf Reservoir. There are plenty of kangaroos and lizards to see. Make sure to bring sunscreen and enough water! This area is particularly buggy so consider bringing bug spray as well.Show more

This legendary track spans over 76 miles from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. The route traverses the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge in southwestern Australia. There is seasonal water and camping spots along the way. Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park stretches 120km from Bunker Bay in the north to Augusta in the south. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridge, a geological formation of ancient granite capped by limestones and sand dunes runs for the length of the park. This ridge accounts for some of the features for which the area is best known. Rugged sea cliffs, windswept granite headlands, and formations such as Canal Rocks and Sugarloaf Rock dominate the coastline, interspersed by curving beaches, sheltered bays and long, rocky shorelines. On the northern shores of Cape Naturaliste, a series of quiet bays lead to the Cape. Protected from the prevailing south-westerly winds, these areas are popular for swimming, fishing or beachcombing. Surfing is also popular at many well-known breaks on the western coast, such as Smiths Beach and Yallingup. Coastal walk trails and steps down sand dunes have been provided at many places to help prevent erosion. This walk focuses on the northern section of the park, and is designed for people exploring the park from the nearby towns of Busselton, Dunsborough and Yallingup.Show more

This is a great day-hike out to Flinders Peak with spectacular views from the upper slopes toward the nearby rugged mountain peaks of the Scenic Rim and the Bremer River catchment. Keep your eyes out as Flinders Peak supports native fauna including the brush-tailed rock wallaby, peregrine falcon and the wedge-tailed eagle. This is graded as a difficult trail as the terrain is unmodified, the alignment is indistinct, and a high level of fitness and level of specialised outdoor skills including navigation are required. There are also steep rock scrambling sections that shouldn't be attempted when wet. Signage is for management purposes only so be sure to carry appropriate GPS equipment with you.Show more

This is a great route for the experienced hiker. You'll have a chance to see waterfalls, so going after a rain isn't a bad idea. That being said, the trail can get quite muddy! Allot for 5 - 6 hours for this trek.Show more