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For outdoor enthusiasts, nothing beats days spent deep in the wilderness, fuelled by instant noodles, sleeping under a million stars and tracing the ancient footpaths of those who came before us. Fortunately, Australia’s diverse landscapes are home to some of the most incredible hikes on Earth, spanning from breathtaking coastline to lush rainforests and arid deserts. If a few hours on the track just isn't cutting it anymore, AllTrails has just revealed the ten most popular overnight hikes in Australia. Pack the tent, dust off those boots and stock up on that freeze-dried risotto. It’s time to go hiking!
1. Snowies Alpine Walk: Main Range Walk, NSW
The ridiculously scenic 24-kilometre hike serves as the second leg of the four-day Snowies Alpine Walk. It takes you to the top of Mount Kosciuszko – Australia’s highest mountain, no less – with side treks to Blue Lake and Mount Townsend’s summit.
Distance: 24.1 kilometres
Duration: 7.5-8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
2. Mount Feathertop via The Razorback, VIC
This spectacular journey starts deep within the Alpine National Park, aiming straight for Mount Feathertop – Victoria’s impressive second-highest peak, standing tall at 1,922 metres. You’ll gain 896 metres of elevation while traversing the famous Razorback, a dramatic, exposed rocky spine joining Mount Feathertop to Mount Hotham.
Distance: 22.7 kilometres
Duration: 7.5-8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
3. Arm River Track to New Pelion Hut, TAS
If you’ve been tempted by Cradle Mountain’s legendary six-day Overland Track, but want to test your endurance first, consider the Arm River Track your warm-up. As you cross the moorlands, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views that Cradle Mountain-Lake Saint Clair National Park is known for.
Distance: 23.8 kilometres
Duration: 7-7.5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
4. Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk, NSW
It’s wild that you can summit Australia’s highest mountain in just one day – but why not extend your Snowy Mountains adventure? Conquer the Mount Kosci Summit Walk over two days by connecting it to the more remote Main Range Walk (starting from Charlotte Pass) or hiking to a designated campground along the Snowy River.
Distance: 18.3 kilometres
Duration: 5-5.5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
5. Northbrook Mountain, QLD
Although achievable in a day, the popular move is to turn this challenging summit walk into a two-day adventure. The reward? An overnight stay at the Northbrook Mountain bush camp, which offers spectacular views overlooking Kipper Creek.
Distance: 9.2 kilometres
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
6. Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk, NSW
To fully appreciate this spectacular Warrumbungle National Park hike, you’ll want to stay the night. Along the track, you’ll encounter ancient volcanic formations, wonderful wildflowers (in spring) and abundant wildlife, all with the convenience of passing multiple established campgrounds.
Distance: 13 kilometres
Duration: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
7. Mount Bogong Loop via Staircase Spur and Eskdale Spur Trail, VIC
Standing at 1,986 metres above sea level, Victoria's tallest mountain is a thrill-seeker's paradise for hikers and skiers alike. This rugged trail passes by Bivouac Hut and Mitchell Hut.
Distance: 19.6 kilometres
Duration: 10-12 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
8. Cape to Cape Track: Cape Naturaliste – Smiths Beach, WA
This coastal trek marks the starting point of the infamous Cape to Cape Track, which spans roughly 130 kilometres from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin. Camp in Yallingup or just past Smiths Beach.
Distance: 16.7 kilometres
Duration: 4.5-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
9. Mount Jerusalem Trail – The Temple and Solomon's Throne, TAS
Head to the Walls of Jerusalem National Park for a scenic walk that will genuinely transport you to the landscapes of Africa. Think shallow lakes, rocky paths and boardwalks over bogs.
Distance: 20.3 kilometres
Duration: 7-8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
10. Two Bays Trail, VIC
Stretching from Dromana on Port Phillip Bay to Bushrangers Bay near Cape Schanck, this is the longest continuous walking track on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. For your essential mid-point stop, stay at the Lightwood Creek Camping Area.
Distance: 25.4 kilometres
Duration: 7-7.5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging