Hiking hype in Victoria is showing no signs of slowing down, and according to research, it’s not just the boomers who are lacing up and taking to the great outdoors.
According to news just in from AllTrails, more than half of Gen Z (51 per cent) are turning to hiking to combat “feed fatigue” – the weariness that comes from endless scrolling. Despite being digital natives, 46 per cent of Gen Z agree with the statement that “nothing compares to being there” when it comes to experiencing locations in person, and 58 per cent of Gen Z have travelled specifically to hike.
Research from the hiking guide platform also found that 39 per cent of Gen Z have a hiking bucket list, with 35 per cent wanting to make one soon. Of those with a list already, 56 per cent said that most of their dream hikes are here in Australia. Wondering where the emerging generation of hikers are headed? The AllTrails team have helpfully put together a list of the best scenic hikes in Victoria for 2025. Keen? Read on.
These are the top ten scenic hikes in Victoria for 2025
- Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk (Pentland Hills, Victoria)
This rugged ten kilometre circuit takes you through rugged Werribee Gorge, with rocky scrambles, riverside tracks and gorgeous valley views. - Halls Gap to The Pinnacle Loop (Halls Gap, Victoria)
Starting in Halls Gap, this 9.6 kilometre return loop climbs steadily to the stunning Pinnacle lookout, rewarding hikers with far-reaching views of the Grampians. - Centenary Walk via Werribee Gorge Circuit (Pentland Hills, Victoria)
Combining the Centenary Walk with the Gorge Circuit, this 12.6 kilometre trek offers a challenging but scenic journey through rocky cliffs and bushland. - Hemphill Track, Sanatorium Lake, Camels Hump, Mount Macedon Loop (Mount Macedon, Victoria)
Covering 10.8 kilometres, this Mount Macedon loop links forest trails, tranquil Sanatorium Lake and the striking Camels Hump summit. - Lerderderg Gorge Circuit (Bacchus Marsh, Victoria)
A 13.6 kilometre circuit through Lerderderg Gorge, this hike features rugged riverbeds, steep ridgelines and leafy sections of dense bushland. - Cape Woolamai Circuit (Cape Woolamai, Victoria)
This 8.5 kilometre coastal loop winds along Phillip Island’s Cape Woolamai headland, showcasing pink granite cliffs, surf beaches and seabird colonies.
![Cape Woolamai]()
Photograph: Supplied | Visit Victoria - Flinders, West, Northern, Saddle and East Loop (Little River, Victoria)
Located near You Yangs Regional Park, this 7.6 kilometre circuit links multiple peaks, offering panoramic views across Little River and the granite-studded landscape. - Lerderderg Gorge from Mackenzies Flat (Bacchus Marsh, Victoria)
A 13 kilometre return hike from Mackenzies Flat into Lerderderg Gorge follows the riverbed, weaving through rocky terrain and towering cliffs. - The Pinnacle via Wonderland Carpark (Bellfield, Victoria)
At just 4.2 kilometres, this short but steep trail from Wonderland Carpark climbs through rocky outcrops and cool gullies to reach the Pinnacle lookout. - Olinda Falls and Valley Picnic Loop (Ferny Creek, Victoria)
A gentle 3.4 kilometre loop near Ferny Creek, this walk combines lush fern gullies with a stop at the cascading Olinda Falls.
According to the data, Gen Z cite their top three motivations for hiking as being the sense of achievement (67 per cent), the views (59 per cent), and the opportunity to disconnect from daily life (48 per cent). Keen to get moving? These are the best hikes close to the city.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.