Growing up, I couldn’t understand my parents relentless desire to “go for a walk”. Any free weekend or school holiday was spent hiking along wind-beaten coast paths, and while – in school – that made me a weirdo, it set me up with the hobby that’s now taking Sydney by storm. Hiking hype here in NSW 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.
These six stunning day hikes take in the best bits of the NSW Great Walks
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 NSW for 2025. Keen? Read on.
These are the top ten scenic hikes in NSW for 2025
Grand Canyon Track (Blue Mountains, New South Wales)
This 6.3 kilometre loop winds through lush rainforest and past the moss-covered sandstone walls of Blackheath’s mountainous valleys. It’s one of the Blue Mountains’ most atmospheric walks, complete with waterfalls and dramatic canyon scenery. (It was also the most popular hike in 2024 according to AllTrails)
Manly to The Rocks (Sydney, New South Wales)
Stretching 19 kilometres from Sydney’s Northern Beaches into the city, this walk takes you past magical secluded coves and ritzy harbourside suburbs, with some spectacular views across the harbour to the city. Finishing at The Rocks, you’re rewarded with iconic views of the most famous corner of Sydney Harbour – plus a good selection of restaurants for a post-hike feed.
Spit Bridge to Manly Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
This 10 kilometre coastal trail meanders through bushland, past cute beaches, and along dramatic clifftop lookouts. The views throughout are excellent, and they don’t stop once you reach the end – stop by Felons Seafood after your hike for a well-earned plate of fish and chips with a view.
Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
Arguably Sydney’s most famous coastal track, this 6 kilometre path leads you along the eastern edge of the city with the ocean on one side, and spectacularly beautiful homes on the other. The route is dotted with cafés and picnic spots, and you can choose a shorter stretch (Bondi to Bronte is a popular option) if you’re not up for the whole thing.
Lane Cove River Loop via De Burghs Bridge and Linley Point (Sydney, New South Wales)
This 10 kilometre loop explores Lane Cove National Park, crossing bushland trails and riverside paths. The mix of native forest and peaceful water views make this walk feel worlds away from the city.
Bondi to Maroubra Coastal Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
Extending the popular Bondi to Coogee route, this 12 kilometre track continues further south to Maroubra. Wooden boardwalks stretch out over rugged headlands, and wattle plants bloom in the bush. You have to head inland through the sun-soaked streets for a short stretch of the walk, but most of the trail is right on the edge of the cliff.
North Ryde to Hornsby via Great North Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
Passing through Lane Cove National Park and Berowra Valley, this 28 kilometre section of the Great North Walk is one for the endurance hiker – rewarding walkers with beautiful views over sandstone ridges and birdlife in abundance.
Gray’s Point to Bundeena (Sutherland, New South Wales)
Traversing a gorgeous sleepy corner of the Royal National Park, this 13 kilometre trail connects Gray’s Point with the coastal town of Bundeena. Highlights include wooden mangrove boardwalks and sweeping views across Port Hacking. Making a weekend of it? We’d recommend booking a stay at this gorgeous historic cottage.
Prince Henry Cliff Walk (Blue Mountains, New South Wales)
This 7 kilometre clifftop track links the mountain towns of Leura and Katoomba, with far-reaching lookouts over the Jamison Valley. Echo Point and the Three Sisters are among the highlights along the way.
Lane Cove Riverside Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
This gentle 10 kilometre return walk hugs the Lane Cove River, winding through shaded bushland and past scenic riverside picnic spots.