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Spring has officially sprung, and daylight savings is just around the corner. Keen to capitalise on the springtime sunshine with a day outside? We hear you. To help Sydneysiders make the most of the longer, warmer days, we spoke with the team from AllTrails to get their round-up of the most popular springtime hikes in NSW.
Grand Canyon Track (Blue Mountains)
This six kilometre loop near the charming mountain town of Blackheath winds through lush rainforests, passing spectacular waterfalls and sandstone cliffs. In spring, the cool gullies burst with wildflowers, and the crisp mountain air begins to ease with the promise of summer. Incidentally, this hike was the most popular hike in the whole of Australia in 2024, so it’s got form.
RECOMMENDED READ: These are the best bushwalks in the Blue Mountains
Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk (Sydney)
Stretching for a stunning six kilometres along Sydney’s eastern coastline, this iconic clifftop walk links golden beaches and beloved ocean pools, and each beach along the way is home to a handful of cafés to keep you caffeinated. Spring brings perfect walking weather, and the famous Sculpture by the Sea exhibition pops up here from mid-October to early-November every year.
Cape Byron Walking Track (Byron Bay)
A little further afield on the easternmost point of the state, the Cape Byron Walking Track is a 3.7 kilometre loop that circles Cape Byron – meandering through the bush past magical beaches (make sure you stop for a dip at Little Wategos) and up to the famous Byron Lighthouse. The springtime weather in the Northern Rivers is beautiful, and spring is the perfect time to spot migrating humpback whales offshore.
Lane Cove Riverside Walk (Sydney)
Just outside of Sydney city, this 10 kilometre return track follows the Lane Cove River through tranquil bushland. In springtime, wildflowers line the riverside paths.
Cliff Top Track and Grand Canyon (Blue Mountains)
Combining the 3 kilometre Cliff Top Track with the 6 kilometre Grand Canyon circuit gives you a solid day walk – with soaring escarpments and fern-filled gullies. Taking this hike on at springtime offers a few bonuses: fresh spring greenery, flowing creeks and comfortable walking temperatures.
Burramoko Ridge/Hanging Rock Trail (Blackheath)
Another Blue Mountains option, this 10 kilometre return trail leads through open heath out to the dramatic Hanging Rock lookout, with far-reaching views over the Grose Valley. In spring, the ridge comes alive with colourful wildflowers and the clarified springtime light makes the views really shine.
Blue Gum Walk Loop (Sydney)
On the northern outskirts of Sydney, this 4.5 kilometre circuit passes through towering blue gum forests and past quiet bubbling creeks. In springtime, wildflowers like boronias, native violets, and wattles bloom along the track.
RECOMMENDED READ: These six day hikes take in some of the best sections of the NSW Great Walks
The Bay Run (Sydney)
Residents of Sydney’s Inner West need no reminding that this 7 kilometre loop can get super busy in the summertime with runners, cyclists and hot-girl-walkers. To make the most of this delightfully flat harbourside stroll, head here during spring for a fresh walk along the foreshore. By springtime 2027, the Bay Run will score a major upgrade in the form of a Scandi-coded swimming spot.
Wattamolla to Eagle Rock (Royal National Park)
A Royal National Park highlight, this 7-kilometre return coastal track showcases rugged cliffs, the unique formation of Eagle Rock’s and the cascading Curracurrong Falls. Wattamolla can get super busy during the summer, so head here during springtime to beat the crowds.
Lake Parramatta (Parramatta)
In springtime, the bushland around this 4.2 kilometre loop comes alive with birdlife, and it’s an easy drive from Parramatta’s excellent portfolio of eateries.
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