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Running was all the rage in 2024, HYROX stole the spotlight in 2025, and we’re calling it: 2026 is the year of multi-day hiking adventures. Jumping on this trend is easy in Australia, given our island nation is dotted with some of the most spectacular walking trails on Earth. However, you’ll want to bump one much-loved coastal region in Western Australia to the top of your hiking bucket list, as it’s just been named one of the world’s must-visit hiking destinations for 2026.
Margaret River may be best known for its gnarly surf breaks and world-class wineries, but AllTrails – the world’s most popular outdoor platform – has just recognised it as one of only eight destinations in its brand-new Travel-Worthy Trails guide. It was the only Aussie destination spotlighted for offering hiking experiences so incredible they’re worthy of building an entire trip around, alongside heavy hitters like Queenstown in New Zealand, the Julian Alps in Slovenia and Austria, and the USA’s Nantahala National Forest.
The Margaret River Region – also encompassing Busselton, Dunsborough and Augusta – earned its place on the global list for its unique mix of ancient karri forests, limestone caves, seasonal wildflowers and ocean-hugging trails. Here, outdoor enthusiasts can surf at sunrise, hit the trails by day and sip in the views at a winery come sunset.
For new and old hikers alike, the 140-kilometre Cape to Cape Track is the region’s longest and most famous track that’s bound to take your breath away. You can tackle it in bite-sized day hikes or commit to the full week-long walking challenge. Within the Margaret River Region, AllTrails also recommends the full-day Wadandi Track, built on a former railway; the relaxed Margaret River Explorer loop; and the shorter Cave to Coast Loop, which is particularly stunning during wildflower season.