En Australia, el término “bushwalking”, equivalente australiano para “hiking”, goza de gran popularidad, presentándose como una actividad recreativa por los miles de kilómetros en senderos que recorren desde sus parques nacionales hasta las zonas salvajes del país, abarcando desde la costa hasta el árido interior. Para aquellos que desean observar la fauna autóctona, estas rutas son ideales. Muchas de ellas también cruzan paisajes de importancia cultural e histórica, con relictos y marcadores interpretativos que ofrecen perspectivas fascinantes sobre la ecología peculiar de Australia y sus 65,000 años de historia humana.
El momento óptimo para calzar tus botas en Australia varía según las regiones; las caminatas en el interior son más adecuadas para los meses frescos de invierno (de abril a octubre), mientras que el senderismo en Tasmania y los Alpes Australianos es una actividad más frecuente durante el verano (de noviembre a marzo). Cuanto más al norte te diriges, más cálido se vuelve el clima, aconsejándose el hiking en el norte australiano durante la temporada seca, de mayo a octubre.
De caminatas escénicas de un día a travesías épicas de varias semanas, estos son algunos de los mejores senderos para hiking en Australia.
1. Overland Track, Tasmania
Mejor caminata de varios días por la naturaleza
65km (40 millas), 5–7 días, moderado
La travesía, que se extiende entre cinco a siete días, a través de los impresionantes paisajes montañosos declarados Patrimonio de la Humanidad en el Parque Nacional Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, convierte al Overland Track en Tasmania en la caminata de varios días más popular de Australia por la naturaleza.
El sendero bien marcado discurre entre montañas en lugar de escalarlas, lo que hace del Overland una aventura alcanzable de manera independiente para caminantes experimentados en recorridos de varios días, con un nivel de forma física decente. Hay un número limitado de camas en dormitorios disponibles en las siete cabañas para caminantes en la ruta, distribuidas con una política de llegada, estancias que requieren que los senderistas independientes lleven una tienda de campaña, equipo de cocina y comida para toda la travesía. Para mayor comodidad, la Tasmanian Walking Company ofrece paseos guiados, que incluyen todas las comidas y alojamiento en las únicas opciones privadas a lo largo de la ruta, situadas discretamente fuera del camino principal.
La mayoría de los caminantes abordan el Overland Track durante los meses más cálidos, entre octubre y mayo, cuando las horas de luz son más extensas y puedes acumular suficiente calor para darte un chapuzón en alguno de los gélidos charcos alpinos. Se precisa un permiso para caminar durante este periodo, y el recorrido solo se puede efectuar en una dirección: de norte a sur. No obstante, con el sistema de permisos permitiendo solo a 35 excursionistas independientes salir cada día (sugerencia: reserva temprano), jamás el sendero se siente concurrido. Puedes disfrutar de la soledad y la fría belleza al emprender la caminata en ambas direcciones durante el invierno, pese a que las temperaturas heladas y la nieve hacen de esta una tarea solo apta para excursionistas expertos.
El recorrido es sumamente variado, discurriendo por tierras altas alpinas, matorrales rocosos, gargantas y selvas altas, con excursiones secundarias que merecen la pena, incluyendo la cumbre del Monte Ossa (el pico más alto de Tasmania con 1617m/5305 pies) y algunas cascadas espectaculares. Generalmente, los wombats y pademelones son la fauna más vista; reduce el paso para avistar una increíble variedad de hongos coloridos que surgen a lo largo de los senderos.
2. Kosciuszko Walk, Nueva Gales del Sur
Mejor caminata de día para familias activas
13km (8 millas), 4–5 horas, fácil a moderado
Con una buena condición física, buen clima y al menos cuatro horas disponibles, prácticamente cualquiera puede alcanzar la cumbre del pico más alto de Australia. Bautizado por el explorador Paweł Strzelecki en honor a un héroe nacional polaco, el Monte Kosciuszko (2228m/7310ft) es el más diminuto de las siete cumbres mundiales, y resulta relativamente accesible de escalar, con pasarelas elevadas que serpentean hasta un magnífico panorama de las Montañas Nevadas de Nueva Gales del Sur.
Existen dos rutasWalking Company, also provides a more luxurious hiking experience for those willing to pay extra for added comfort.
Walking Company, likewise, provides a completely catered guided trek, staying only at its exclusive lodges adjacent to the trail.
Launched in 2015, the winding, carefully preserved path spans ecosystems that include aromatic eucalypt woodlands, coastal heathlands with rare blossoms, age-old moss-laden rainforests, and windswept cliffs descending hundreds of meters into the Southern Ocean beneath. Wildlife abounds (keep an eye out for echidnas), and the coastal sights are as rugged and untouched as imaginable.
5. Great Ocean Walk, Victoria
Top coastal trek
104km (64 miles), 7–8 days, simple to intermediate
Many might be familiar with the Great Ocean Road, the 664km (413-mile) panoramic drive that follows a stunning segment of Victoria’s coastal area southwest of Melbourne. But are you aware that a walking path also clings to the most picturesque part of the shoreline between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles? Take your time and appreciate the view on this relatively straightforward trail, which guides you through ever-shifting landscapes – along breathtaking clifftops, past secluded beaches, and into the thick eucalypt woodlands of the Great Otway National Park.
Carry camping gear and culinary supplies, resting at specially provided campsites for registered hikers, or detour from the path to stay at various lodgings (or dine at eateries) situated in shoreline communities along the route. The path is meant to be traversed eastward to westward and can be split into shorter hikes if a week is not available. No matter how you choose to undertake it, arranging a pick-up beforehand is advisable if the local V/Line public transportation does not align with your hiking timetable, as other transportation in this area is limited.
6. Border Track, Queensland
Premier rainforest day trek
21.4km (13.3 miles), 7 hours, intermediate
The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area safeguards the most extensive regions of subtropical rainforest on the planet, and one of its finest segments can be savored on the Border Track in the verdant hinterland of Queensland’s Gold Coast’s western boundary.
Connecting the Green Mountains and Binna Burra parts of Lamington National Park, the clearly marked route leads you through the ancient volcanic formations of the Tweed Volcano, featuring striking cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and remnants of Gondwana flora and fauna among its numerous attractions. On clear days, the brief, steep detour heading to two observation points – Beereenbano and Merino – is a side trip worth taking. Listen for the mimicry of the Albert’s lyrebird, and remember to gaze upward to catch glimpses of sleeping koalas.
The path – which marks the initial phase of the three-day Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connecting Lamington National Park with Springbrook National Park – can be journeyed in either direction, with lodges at each start point (O’Reilly’s in the Green Mountains section and Binna Burra Lodge in the Binna Burra section) both supplying transportation and a variety of lodging options, encompassing camping.
Cooler seasons (leastwise from April to October) typically offer the most pleasant temperatures for this hike, but be aware that the trail can become muddy following rainfall.
7. Heysen Trail, Australie du Sud
Meilleure randonnée longue distance
1200km (746 miles), 50–60 jours, modéré
Allant de Cape Jervis sur la péninsule Fleurieu jusqu’à la Parachilna Gorge dans les chaînes Flinders, le Heysen Trail de l’Australie du Sud est le plus long sentier de randonnée pédestre du pays après l’épique sentier Bicentennial de 5330km/3312 miles à usage multiple de l’est de l’Australie.
Partant du littoral vers le nord, le Heysen Trail traverse certains des paysages les plus pittoresques de l’État, comprenant des parcs nationaux et des lieux touristiques importants, tels que Wilpena Pound, un immense amphithéâtre naturel dans le parc national Ikara-Flinders Ranges et les vignobles verdoyants de la région viticole de la vallée de la Barossa au nord-est d’Adélaïde.
Le long du sentier, de nombreux campings et cabanes sont disponibles, certains nécessitant une réservation à l’avance. Le sentier passe également à travers et près de villes où il est possible de se réapprovisionner, profiter d’un lit chaud pour la nuit dans une gamme d’hébergements, ou découvrir des promenades plus courtes.
La section sud du sentier, de Cape Jervis à Spalding, juste au nord de la région viticole de la vallée de Clare, est moins exigeante et idéale pour les familles. Ceux en quête de terrains plus difficiles et d’isolement pourraient préférer la section nord, plus accidentée et isolée, de Spalding à Parachilna Gorge. Certaines parties sont fermées durant l’été, de décembre à avril, en raison des restrictions liées aux incendies.
8. Thorsborne Trail, Queensland
Meilleure randonnée insulaire en plusieurs jours
32km (19 miles), 3–5 jours, difficile
Le plus grand parc national insulaire d’Australie, l’île Hinchinbrook, de 399 km² (154 miles carrés), est l’une des zones sauvages les plus intactes du pays, ses montagnes de granit s’élevant dramatiquement depuis la mer juste au large de la côte nord du Queensland, entre Townsville et Cairns. Le côté continental de l’île Hinchinbrook – appelé Munamudanamy par les peuples Bandjin et Girramay, les Gardiens Traditionnels de l’île – est dense en végétation tropicale luxuriante, tandis que de longues plages sablonneuses et des enchevêtrements de mangroves longent la côte orientale. C’est là que se trouve le Thorsborne Trail. Une piste non durcie, rugueuse et difficile à parcourir par endroits, ce n’est pas une randonnée pour les âmes sensibles. Les marcheurs qui persistent seront récompensés par une expérience incroyable de nature sauvage tropicale comprenant traversées de ruisseaux, forêts pluviales épaisses et abondance de cascades luxuriantes. Le sentier se trouve dans le Territoire des crocodiles, soyez donc prudent.
Les ferries commerciaux transportent les randonneurs aux deux extrémités du sentier, avec la majorité préférant marcher du nord au sud pour avoir le soleil dans le dos. Pour préserver le cadre sauvage, des permis de camping sont délivrés pour un maximum de 40 personnes (en groupes ne dépassant pas six personnes) sur le sentier à un moment donné, et ils peuvent être difficiles à obtenir durant la saison de marche de pointe d’avril à septembre.
9. Bibbulmun Track, Australie-Occidentale
Meilleur itinéraire pour les randonneurs longue distance
963km (598 miles), 6–8 semaines, modéré
Allant de Kalamunda, à l’ouest de Perth, jusqu’à Albany sur la côte sud de l’Australie-Occidentale, le Bibbulmun Track est l’une des plus grandes randonnées longue distance d’Australie, souvent décrite comme l’équivalent australien de l’Appalachian Trail de l’est des États-Unis. Passant à travers le cœur de la région du Sud-Ouest de l’État, le “Bibb” n’est pas particulièrement exigeant, juste long et parfois isolé, avec neuf sections reliées par neuf villes agréables offrant des points d’accès pour des promenades plus courtes et une opportunité de se réapprovisionner en nourriture.
Trek enthusiasts might sometimes perceive the bush scenery as monotonous, particularly in regions impacted by fires, yet there are numerous memorable sights to maintain engagement, ranging from immense jarrah and marri woodlands to untamed shores located between Northcliffe and Walpole (part seven). Additionally, frequent encounters with other travelers along the route and at camping sites contribute to the Bibb’s appeal. With an impressive count of 49 basic accommodation huts distributed along the route (operating on a first-arrived, first-served basis), the necessity to set up your tent is minimal.
The optimal period for embarking on this journey is from September through November when the wildflowers are at their peak, and the climate is usually pleasant. Extended excursions in December are discouraged due to elevated fire hazards.
10. Coast Track, New South Wales
Top readily reachable two-day hike
26km (16 miles), 2 days, moderate
The well-loved Coast Track follows the dramatic seashore of the Royal National Park connecting Bundeena and Otford, just south of Sydney, both of which can be accessed by public transit. Typically explored over two days with a night spent at the basic North Era Campground (reserve in advance through the NSW National Parks website, and bring your own cooking gear), the fairly demanding trail (anticipate numerous steps) is usually hiked from north to south, which provides the most stunning views from the towering sandstone cliffs along the coast while keeping the sun out of your eyes.
During the cooler months from May to November, it’s common to witness whale migrations from elevated lookout spots, while summer backpackers can indulge in a swim at one of the many beaches and rock pools the trail skirts – approximately a 2.5-hour stroll from Bundeena, Wattamolla Beach boasts a wonderful lagoon. A kiosk at Garie Beach (preceding North Era Campground) generally operates on weekends, though there are no official hydration spots along the path, so it’s essential to carry a substantial amount and have purification tablets handy if you need to replenish from stream water. Given the limited shade on this coastal bushwalk, adequate sun protection is vital.
11. Great North Walk, New South Wales
Top city hike
250km (160 miles), 12–18 days, moderate
Inaugurated as an aspect of Australia’s bicentennial events in 1988, the Great North Walk bridges Sydney with Newcastle, weaving through numerous lovely national parks, preservation zones, and other green spaces that surround these coastal metropolises in New South Wales.
The hillside pathway (which involves a boat ride over the Hawkesbury River) is traversable in either direction any time of the year (though summer may be quite warm), with overnight halts at camping areas or more lavish lodgings scattered along the journey. Alternatively, the track’s entire distance could be trekked as a month-long experience.
Though the pathway skirts suburbs for a major part of its stretch and includes some stretches along busy avenues, a feeling of being remote from urban life is attainable on several stretches, specifically the Benowie Walking Track in Berowra Valley National Park taking voyagers through remarkable natural and cultural environments. Notice Aboriginal stone carvings on the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park section, and remain watchful for creatures all along the path, such as assertive owls, marsh wallabies, giggling kookaburras, and more fauna.
12. Australian Alps Walking Track, Victoria, NSW and the ACT
Finest alpine crossing
655km (407 miles), 5–8 weeks, challenging
Weaving through the lofty regions of Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory, the Australian Alps Walking Track crosses several of Australia’s premier alpine reserves, unveiling expansive views and historically significant locations, with over 30 mountain peaks (including Mt Kosciuszko) and a multitude of ancient shelters along the trek.
As an extension of the Victorian Alpine Walking Track, developed in the 1970s, this isolated and rigorous thru-hike – a blend of 4WD paths, fire trails, logging lanes, old pastoral tracks, and brumby trails (formed by wild horses, which are plentiful) – is crafted for seasoned, self-sufficient hikers with proficient navigation abilities, as the trail may be challenging to track. The path leads past certain ski destinations but avoids any towns, requiring pre-arranged food provisions. Anticipate journeying for extended durations without encountering another person.
Begin after the spring snowfall melts to appreciate the wildflower season on your trip. Numerous individuals elect to traverse shorter segments of the trail found in regions such as Baw Baw National Park and Alpine National Park in Victoria, Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales, and Namadgi National Park, near Canberra.
Guidelines for trekking in Australia
Before venturing onto Australia’s paths, verify that your trek is compatible with your proficiency level and readiness. Consult local officials (including reserve sites) for climate and path updates, and note that climate and seasonal adjustments can significantly modify the trekking experience. Always inform someone of your whereabouts and projected return time.
To aid in safeguarding Australia’s environment and attractiveness, which its Traditional Owners have long managed, heed these suggestions:
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Pack out all your litter. Avoid burying it: excavation leads to erosion, and animals might unearth and be harmed by buried waste.
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If no restrooms are nearby, cover your excrement (including biodegradable toilet paper, excluding sanitary items). Dig a modest pit 15cm (6in) deep, at a minimum of 100m (320ft) from any water sources, and cloak it with earth and a stone. Within snowy areas, reach soil before covering.
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Abstain from using detergents or toothpaste near water sources. Expel toothpaste 50m (164ft) away from a water source.
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For personal cleaning, utilize biodegradable soap with a water container away from waterways. Broadly disperse the wastewater for natural soil filtration.
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Wash kitchenware 50m (164ft) from water areas using alternatives such as scourers, sand, or snow instead of cleaning agents.
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Study local fire rules. Campfires are forbidden on most Australian trails partly through the year, thus bring a light, portable stove for extended hikes.
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Refrain from feeding fauna, as it can cause population imbalances, reliance on humans, or disease transmission.
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Never take any items from the path as mementos, including stones and seed casings.
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Pay path fees and secure permits, typically an honesty system, to facilitate ongoing services and upkeep efforts.
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Carry enough sustenance and water for the trek, along with necessary equipment (inclusive of first aid), and be proficient in its use. Favor long, airy attire for protection against Australia’s intense sun and numerous insects.
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Adhere to existing tracks and steer clear of shortcuts. Circumventing a muddy area only expands it – proceed directly.
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Create noise during your walk to discourage snakes. Upon encountering a snake, commonly seen during bushwalks in Australia, remain motionless to observe its actions before gently retreating.