Hiking Trails & Trails NSW
Best hikes in NSW
New South Wales has a wonderfully diverse landscape for hikers. From its stunning coastline with white-sanded beaches, to undulating and rugged mountains, sweeping valleys and peaceful lakes, it’s a paradise for hikers looking to challenge themselves and gain new skills.
Whether you’re after a day hike, overnight hike or multi-day trek, NSW has something for everyone. And when you stay at Reflections Holiday Parks you can choose a perfect base for exploring trails and immersing yourself in nature.
Best day hikes in NSW
Day hikes are usually short, scenic trails suited to all skill levels that are perfect for a relaxed adventure before returning to the comfort of lovely accommodation. Those with children will also find these paths fun and engaging.
Day hikes on the Central Coast NSW
Bouddi Coastal Walk
Distance: 8km
The Bouddi Coastal Walk in Bouddi National Park on the Central Coast is an 8-kilometre trek with stunning panoramic ocean views that will take you under four hours. The trail runs between Putty Beach and MacMasters Beach and is known as one of the most beautiful walks in the region, with wildflowers and birds galore. During whale migration season from May to November, spot the gentle giants cruising by from Gerrin Point Lookout.
Stay:
Reflections Norah Head, which is less than an hour from the Bouddi Coastal Walk, offers a unique holiday experience as guests can stay in a heritage-listed lighthouse.
Blue Mountains Day Hikes NSW
Grand Canyon Walk
Distance: 6.3km
The 6.3-kilometre Grand Canyon Walk in the Blue Mountains is a lush rainforest escape with an abundance of native flora and fauna that hikers have been enjoying since 1907.
Over 3-4 hours, wander past gushing waterfalls, cross burbling creeks, and take in the world heritage-listed landscape along the way in this nature lover’s paradise.
Mid North Coast Day Hikes NSW
Tomaree Head Summit Walk
Distance: 2.2km
In Port Stephens, the Tomaree Head Summit Walk provides sweeping coastal views on a short yet at times challenging 2.2-kilometre hike leading to Tomaree Head’s summit. Here you’ll be rewarded with uninterrupted views of Yacaaba Head, Cabbage tree Island, Broughton Island and Port Stephens.
Coffs Coast Day Hikes NSW
Dorrigo National Park
Crystal Shower Falls Walk
Distance 3.2km
The 3.2-kilometre Crystal Shower Falls Walk is straight out of a fairytale, winding through a heritage-listed rainforest, across a suspension bridge, and dipping behind the waterfall itself.
Wonga Walk
Distance: 6.6km loop
For a more challenging walk, the Wonga Walk is a popular trail that takes 2–3 hours, with the elevated walkway weaving between 600-year-old trees, colourful pockets of fungi, and curtains of thick vines. Be entertained by birdsong as you soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Stay on the Coffs Coast:
Turn your hike into a getaway when you stay overnight at a nearby Reflections Holiday Park, and enjoy a relaxing evening sharing adventures with other travellers and hikers. Reflections Nambucca Heads on the Coffs Coast is an hour’s drive from Dorrigo National Park, where you’ll find an abundance of walking options. This beachside park has a range of cabins as well as powered and unpowered campsites, with plenty of surfing, fishing, and whale watching on offer.
Best overnight hikes in NSW
Adventurers looking to challenge themselves with an immersive nature experience will love these overnight hikes, where you can camp or stay in nice accommodation nearby.
Country NSW Overnight Hikes NSW
Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk
The 18.6-kilometre Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk takes you to Australia’s highest peak, with breathtaking views in every direction at the 2,228-metre-high summit. Allow 6–8 hours for this one and note that it’s considered a hard hike.
There are two trails to choose from, both offering amazing mountain views and wildflower vistas, with historic settler huts and cool rock formations to check out on the way.
For a short joy ride, jump on the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift to start the walk in style.
Stay:
Book a cabin, powered or unpowered campsite at Reflections Tumut River, for a peaceful camping experience. Camp by the river for plenty of water-based activities, and hike river trails before setting off on a big adventure (think Hume & Hovell Trail). Only a few hours’ drive from the hike, it’s a great place to recharge and refuel in the bustling village of Tumut before undertaking one of the most rewarding walks in the country.
Green Track, Bugonia National Park
Distance: 3.5km
Green Track in Bungonia National Park is a rugged 6.7-kilometre adventure featuring dramatic gorges and impressive rock formations. It weaves through eucalypt woodlands, rocky outcrops, and past awe-inspiring lookouts. Allow around 2.5–3.5 hours and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Overnight Hikes In And Around Sydney NSW
The Coast Track
Distance: 26km
For a stunning 26-kilometre journey with beachside camping, hike The Coast Track in Sydney’s Royal National Park.
This epic trail winds from Bundeena to Otford, with coastal lookouts, hidden swimming spots and whale watching to be enjoyed along the way. Have lunch in a sheltered cove and check out heritage shacks laden with stories from days long gone.
Best multi-day hikes in NSW
For serious hikers hoping to undertake an epic journey across some of the most stunning parts of NSW, multi-day hikes are the way to go. They require planning, supplies and overnight stays, so make sure you’re prepared from the get-go.
Sapphire Coast Multi-Day Hikes
Light to Light Walk
Distance: 2-3 days
The Light to Light Walk is a spectacular 2–3-day coastal hike along the beautiful Sapphire Coast near the Victorian border. Covering an impressive 30 kilometres, the trail links Green Cape Lighthouse near Eden, to Ben Boyd Tower at Boydtown.
The walk boasts pristine wilderness, sandy beaches, and plenty of lookouts perfect for whale watching. You can also explore with a tour company, where knowledgeable hosts share the fascinating history of the region.
Stay:
Before starting the Light to Light Walk, spend a night at Reflections Eden where there’s a great range of cabins and campsites. Kayak across the lake at sunset, go fishing, or just unwind by the campfire and rest your tired feet.
Country NSW Multi-Day Walks
The famous Hume and Hovell Track is a hiking odyssey spanning 426 kilometres, which can be walked in one go across 18 to 26 days, or broken up into smaller pieces. Stretching from Yass to Albury, there are several rivers, forests, lookouts and campsites along the way.
Steeped in history, the walk follows the trail taken by early explorers Hume and Hovell in 1824, when they were tasked to lead an expedition in search of new grazing land. This area retains both colonial and Indigenous significance.
Stay:
For those on the Hume and Hovel Track, Reflections Wee Jasper is an ideal stop-off point for an overnight campsite stay, with BBQs, picnic tables, a handy kiosk, and plenty of creeks and swimming holes perfect for cooling off.
Sydney Multi-Day Sydney - Newcastle
The Great North Walk
Distance: 260km
The Great North Walk links Sydney to Newcastle via a 260-kilometre bushwalk. This legendary trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful bushland in the country, which is home to an abundance of native wildlife.
Some hikers choose to follow one of the ‘inn-to-inn trails’, which combine the challenge of an overnight hike with the luxury of a shower and a cosy bed, while others camp along the way and gather supplies from nearby stores. No matter how you to do it, it’s one for the bucket list.
Planning your NSW hiking adventure
When packing for a hike, bring a sturdy pair of shoes and plenty of water. Those undertaking multi-day hikes should take a large, sturdy pack, a comfortable tent, and a good sleeping set-up – think sleeping bag, mattress and pillow.
Most national parks recommend not hiking in summer due to the increased risk of bushfires. Starting your trek in spring or autumn means cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery and a more comfortable journey.
Check weather conditions before setting out, and in case of an emergency, always let someone know where you’ll be at all times.
For a great home base to kickstart an unforgettable experience on some of the best hikes in NSW, BOOK a stay at Reflections Holidays. You’ll no doubt continue to add more challenges and stays to your list!
Happy, and safe trails...
The choice of trail is yours
Unwind with Coastal Delights
Picture yourself strolling along the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, soaking up views of the Pacific Ocean from stunning cliff tops. It's a chill walk, perfect for a laid-back day out. Stop whenever you fancy to admire the coastal beauty or take a refreshing dip in one of the secluded beaches along the way.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Give the Royal National Park Coastal Track a go. This multi-day hike from Bundeena to Otford is a real gem, with its pristine beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs. Get ready for some jaw-dropping coastal views!
Get Lost in Verdant Rainforests
Escape into the heart of NSW's rainforests and discover a world of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and quirky wildlife. The Blue Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering trails for all levels. From the iconic Three Sisters to the magical Wentworth Falls, there's something for everyone in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonderland.
Another rainforest hotspot is Dorrigo National Park, home to the famous Skywalk and Crystal Shower Falls. The Wonga Walk is a chill stroll through ancient Gondwana rainforest, where towering trees and colorful birdlife will make you feel like you're in a fairy tale.
Conquer epic peaks
Ready to conquer some serious peaks? NSW has you covered. Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak, is waiting for you to tackle its Main Range Track in Kosciuszko National Park. The views from the top? Simply breathtaking!
Feeling up for a challenge? Head to Barrington Tops National Park and take on the Corker Trail to the summit of Mount Barrington. Along the way, you'll be treated to wild landscapes, ancient forests, and maybe even a glimpse of elusive wildlife like lyrebirds and wallabies.
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Frequently asked questions
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How are hiking trails graded?
- Grade 1: No experience is required with a flat and even surface. Walks are no greater in length than 5kms
- Grade 2: No experience required, may have gentle hills and steps, and walks are no greater in length than 10kms
- Grade 3: Appropriate for all, but some bushwalking experience is beneficial. Trails may feature brief, steep inclines, uneven terrain, and numerous steps. Distances up to 20km.
- Grade 4: Prior bushwalking experience is advised. Trails can be lengthy, rugged, and exceptionally steep. Directional signage may be sparse.
- Grade 5: Highly skilled bushwalkers with specialized expertise, including navigation and emergency first aid, are recommended for these trails. The terrain is anticipated to be extremely rugged, steep, and lacking in clear markings. Distances may exceed 20 kilometers.
What should I take on a hike?
Kathmandu suggests a backpack, non-cotton clothing, water, sunscreen, bug spray, medication, a torch, and batteries. See the full list here
What hikes are family-friendly?
Depending on the age and stage of your kids, we recommend sticking to grade 1 and grade 2 hiking trails.