Hiking and walking in Victoria

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Victoria's stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains, offer an unparalleled playground for hikers, walkers, and bushwalkers of all abilities.

Explore a diverse range of trails, from family-friendly short walks near Melbourne to multi-day expeditions in remote wilderness areas. Immerse yourself in nature, improve your fitness, and create unforgettable memories. Reach summits with some of the most spectacular views in Australia.

What’s more, research shows hiking has many valuable mental and physical health benefits. Read on to get inspiration for your next hike and gather essential information for your next adventure.

Where to hike or walk in Victoria

Victoria’s national and state parks and reserves offer thousands of kilometres of trails to hike, walk or bushwalk - from leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day treks.

Explore the beginner-friendly rainforest trails in Yarra Ranges National Park, walk remote coastal bushland tracks in Wilsons Promontory National Park, hike a section of the iconic Great Ocean Walk or tackle the 13-day Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) for a truly epic adventure – Victoria's parks are full of diverse and captivating natural beauty.

We’ve compiled our favourite parks, places and trails to visit in Victoria across all experience levels so you can plan and find the right trail for you. Including:

Beginner hikes, walks, and bushwalks
Intermediate hikes, walks and bushwalks
Overnight and multi-day hikes

For even more inspiration on things to see and do in Victoria's parks, subscribe to our Outdoor Inspiration e-newsletter.

Hiking, walking and bushwalking information

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important that you adequately plan and prepare before heading out on a hike, walk or bushwalk. Always consider your fitness level, experience, group size, available time, and weather conditions before choosing a trail. Every walk is different. Visit the park page and read the walking information available to help decide if a trail is right for you.

When to go

In Victoria you can hike and bushwalk all year-round. The warmer months (early summer, autumn, and late spring) are usually the most popular times to go, which means the trails can get busy. To avoid crowds, consider visiting mid-week or leaving early.

Before you leave home, check the latest park conditions on the Parks Victoria website, fire danger rating and download the VicEmergency app. The VicEmergency app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

Do not go for a hike or bushwalk if there is high fire danger rating.
Hiking with others
Decide on a companion: Solo hiking can be safe for experienced hikers but consider joining a bushwalking group, park walk or taking a guided tour if you're new to the trails. When choosing someone to go with, choose companions who have a similar level of fitness and experience. When walking always stay with your group and match your pace to the people you are walking with.

Inform someone: Always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

Find more information and safety tips on our hiking safety page. Or, scroll to view our frequently asked questions about hiking, walking, and bushwalking in Victoria.

Hikes and walks for all levels in Victoria

Explore our top picks for the best parks, trails, and regions to explore across Victoria’s parks, depending on your experience.

Beginner hikes, walks, and bushwalks

Enjoy stunning scenery and fresh air on shorter, easier trails perfect for those new to exploring the outdoors. Visit the park page or explore the visitor guides to find a walk that suits your pace and interests.

What to expect:

Grades: 1-2
Distance: Usually under 10km.
Duration: 1-2 hours.
Terrain: Mostly flat or gently sloping ground with well-maintained trails.
Difficulty: Suitable for people with either minimal or no bushwalking experience.

Inspiration for beginner-friendly walks

Two friends walking along the Rainforest Gallery trail in the Yarra Ranges National Parkl

5 best beginner hikes in Yarra Ranges National Park

Immerse yourself in lush temperate rainforests with these five top beginner-friendly hikes and nature walks close to Melbourne.

Two women in activewear follow a path through tall mountain ash trees.

Mindfulness walks in nature

Doing low to moderate exercise in nature on a regular basis can help to lower blood pressure, improve sleep and increase energy levels. Mindfulness walks take this idea further and help you slow down and focus on the present moment - each step, each breath – feeling calm and relaxed.

A young woman leading a man on a walk through Budj Bim National Park

Top circuit walks

There's nothing better than a circuit walk taking in great scenery and interesting natural and cultural landmarks. For a taste of Victoria's best, check out this selection on your next getaway.

Four friends resting on rocks while watching their dog in front of them by the Yarra River

Your A-Z guide to Victoria’s dog-friendly walking trails

While dogs aren’t allowed in our national and state parks, there's still plenty of great places you can get into nature with your pooch. Remember to keep your dog on lead at all times, except in designated off-lead areas. So, grab a lead and a handful of treats, whistle up the dog and head for the park.

A ranger and a group of primary school children lookout at the wetlands enclosure at Serendip Sanctuary.

Walks at Serendip Sanctuary

There are four interconnecting trails throughout the sanctuary, all within walking distance from the Information Centre. Each trail is no longer than 2km return.

A young boy walks hand-in-hand with his grandmother, while his mother pushes his younger sibling in a pram.

Top 10 pram-friendly walks

Getting out into nature with young children is great for everyone’s wellbeing. With the little one strapped into the pram they can learn about nature and discover many of the beautiful places around Melbourne and across Victoria.

A family walking around Albert Park Lake

All abilities walks

Parks Victoria has a range of wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly walks in parks and is strongly committed to increase these over time.

Walks in Little Desert National Park

The park has a number of marked, signposted walks, ranging from 30 minutes to three days duration. These are in the eastern block of the park, and are accessible by 2WD vehicles.

Intermediate hikes, walks and bushwalks

Looking for a longer, more challenging adventure? Our parks offer a variety of intermediate trails with breathtaking views, perfect for a half-day or full-day adventure. Consider staying overnight in the region to make the most of your experience.

What to expect:

Grades: 3-4
Distance: Usually under 20km.
Duration: 2+ hours-full day.
Terrain: May include gentle hills, steep sections, rough surfaces, or many steps.
Difficulty: Requires a good level of fitness and bushwalking experience.

Inspiration for intermediate walks

A couple stop to enjoy the view of the ocean sat upon a granite boulder at Tongue Point.

Day Walks at Wilsons Promontory National Park

A range of walking opportunities are available to day visitors of all ages and fitness levels, taking in pristine beaches, temperate rainforest, towering sand dunes or lookouts offering spectacular panoramic views.

Two female hikers follow the Great Ocean Walk trail down to Wreck Beach

Short and Day Walks along Great Ocean Walk

Less than 3 hours in length, ranging in difficulty and all are accessible from established visitor car parks.

Walking through the Wonderland Range on Central Section 1 of the Grampians Peaks Trail

Day walks at Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

Get a sample of the Grampians Peaks Trail with one of our suggested day walks. Explore the ancient, rugged landscape of Gariwerd and discover the natural beauty of the Grampians National Park.

The Werribee River flowing through Werribee Gorge State Park

Walking at Werribee Gorge State Park

Werribee Gorge State Park has a selection of shorter and long loop walks to choose from. All walks are Grade 3, meaning a moderate level of fitness is required, walking on uneven ground with many steps, some rock hopping and steep hill sections involved.

A couple in their thirties approach the summit lookout at the Horn of Mount Buffalo.

Mount Buffalo National Park

Get closer to nature at this spectacular 'island in the sky', home to plants found nowhere else on Earth. Sheer cliffs, granite tors, waterfalls and big views make Mount Buffalo a must-see alpine retreat.

Alpine National Park

Hike Victoria’s highest mountain ranges, explore wildflower draped landscapes on horseback or head out on world-class mountain bike trails.

A woman leading a friend on a walk along Byers BackTrack

Lerderderg State Park

See the Lerderderg River Gorge which dominates and divides it in two from O'Briens Crossing in the north to Mackenzies Flat in the south. Experienced hikers will be rewarded with dramatic views.

A man leading a woman up through rocky terrain at Canyon Track

Cathedral Range State Park

The jagged ridges of the Cathedral Range offer spectacular views and some of the best hiking in the state. Take a gentle walk along the Friends Nature Trail or prepare to tackle the rugged and challenging Razorback Trail or circuit routes. Either way you won't forget the awesome views.

Dandenong Ranges National Park

The forested slopes of the Dandenong Ranges are a place of tranquil forest walks, quaint hilltop towns and charismatic animals such as lyrebirds and wallabies. Conquer the famous 1000 Steps, discover Olinda Falls and enjoy commanding views over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.

Hiker looking out to mountain views at Cathedral Range State Park

The Best Cathedral Range Day Hike

Cathedral Range State Park, Taungurung Country, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It gets its name from its distinctive peaks, which resemble the spires and buttresses of a cathedral.

Overnight and multi-day hikes

Our overnight and multi-day hikes offer unforgettable experiences for skilled hikers and those with a high level of fitness. From alpine meadows to rugged coastlines, these iconic trails will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Most multi-day hikes with campgrounds/accommodations require a reservation. Make sure you book or check the park page to see if a reservation is required before heading out.

What to expect:

Grades: 4-5
Distance: May be over 20kms
Duration: 5+ hours, potential for up to several days. Some trails provide campsites for overnight stopovers.
Terrain: Can include rugged terrain, steep inclines, and challenging conditions.
Difficulty: Requires excellent physical fitness, bushwalking experience, and proper equipment suited to the grade of the hike.

Best parks for a longer walk

Two friends walk along the track south of Redmans Bluff with views of the Serra Range in the background on central section 3 of the GPT

Grampians Peaks Trail

The Grampians Peaks Trail (160km) is a world-class 13-day hiking experience from Mt Zero in the north, through Halls Gap and finishing at Dunkeld. It can also be completed in shorter sections.

Three friends stop for a quick drink late in the afternoon on their walk from Hotham to Falls Creek.

Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing

One of Victoria's icon walks, the 37km Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing (FHAC) is a 3 day/2 night walk through the Alpine National Park, linking the resort villages of Falls Creek and Mt Hotham.

Great South West Walk

Walk the diverse landscapes of Lower Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park, Cobboboonee National Park and Cape Nelson State Park. Starting from Portland, the walk travels through majestic tall forests, meanders alongside the World Heritage Glenelg River, remote ocean beaches, past ancient lakes and culminates along rugged ocean clifftops.

Four friends walk across the sand dunes along the Wildernous Coast Walk close to Mallacoota Inlet.

Wilderness Coast Walk

The Wilderness Coast Walk extends 100km from the eastern shores of Sydenham Inlet in Croajingolong National Park, to Wonboyn in the Nadgee Nature Reserve, New South Wales. This spot boasts a beautiful scenic walk along bright sanded beaches.

A woman with a large hiking pack takes in the view from Blanket Bay Campground.

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk extends just over 100km between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles near Princetown. The spectacular walk weaves its way through tall forests, coastal heathlands, wild rocky shores, river estuaries and windswept cliff-tops presenting amazing views.

Three hikers walk along the beach at Wilson Promontory National Park.

Wilsons Promontory Northern Overnight Hikes

Up for more of a challenge? Try the Northern Circuit hiking and camping through the park.

Two women walk along the track between granite rocks and grass trees on the Southern Circuit hiking trail at Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit Overnight Hikes

Hike your way to overnight camping sites and sleep in bookable shady campsites with views of glassy torquoise water.

Burchell Trail

Enjoy three days walking through Victoria's richest wildflower habitat with spectacular views across Wadawurrung Country.

A rocky outcrop with views out into a brilliant blue ocean

Two Bays Walking Trail

The Two Bays Walking Trail is a 26km hike from Dromana to Cape Schanck showcasing the landscapes of the Mornington Peninsula, Arthurs Seat State Park and Mornington Peninsula National Park.

Trail head for the Discovery Walk at Little Desert National Park

Little Desert Discovery Walk

This four-day walk has been designed to showcase the different ecosystems of the Little Desert National Park. With two overnight camps along the way, long-distance walkers can tackle all or part of the 74 km Little Desert Discovery Walk.

Walking in the Warby-Ovens National Park

Joining a local bushwalking club

For those looking to explore Victoria's natural wonders while staying active and social, joining a local bushwalking group can be incredibly rewarding. Not only is it an excellent way to meet new and like-minded people, but there are also safety advantages to walking with a group, as well as the physical and mental health benefits which come from hiking in nature.

Ready for your next adventure?

Book accommodation for your hike

Ready for your next adventure?

Book accommodation for your hike

Hiking in Victoria FAQs

How do I choose the right trail for my fitness level and experience?

Before you head out to a park, it’s important to be realistic about your fitness level and what you can manage. If you’re new to hiking, start with shorter, easier trails close to home to build your fitness and confidence safely.

To help you find the right trail, use the Australian Walking Track Grading System (AWTGS). It’s a simple and helpful tool that rates the difficulty of trails from Grade 1 (very easy) to Grade 5 (very hard).

You can find the grade symbols online, in visitor guides or on signs to help you choose a trail that suits you. The track grade, weather conditions and your general health and fitness levels will impact the difficulty of the hike.

Find out more about what the different grades mean.
Is it safe to hike in Victoria’s parks?
With proper planning and preparation, hiking in Victoria's parks can be safe and enjoyable. Check the park’s page for important updates and see our hiking safety page for tips and checklists.

To stay safe, follow these guidelines:

Pack and prepare according to the weather forecast. In summer, avoid hiking in the middle of the day; in winter, finish before dark.

Always check for bushfire risks, storms, and weather conditions before heading out.

Avoid hiking on high fire danger days or when storms and strong winds are expected.

Download a park map or offline maps like Avenza before you go.
Can I take my dog with me?

Dogs are not allowed in national parks, but many regional parks do allow them. Before you go, check the park's page on our website to see if dogs are permitted. Dogs must always be kept on-lead.
Is there mobile phone reception in parks?

Mobile phone coverage can be unreliable, especially in remote areas. Before you go, download the park's visitor guide and offline maps, and make sure to tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.

Did you know? You can dial 112 for emergency help from any available network, even without signal. If you’re going into isolated areas, carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for extra safety.
What do I pack before heading out for a hike, walk or bushwalk?
Each season brings unique risks, so prepare accordingly. In warmer months, sun protection and extra water are essential, while colder weather calls for added warmth and emergency gear. Here’s a checklist to help you stay safe and comfortable:

Sun protection: Wear sun-protective clothing, a hat, and apply sunscreen (reapply if you're out for several hours).

Extra food: Pack snacks like muesli bars, nuts, or apples.

First aid kit: Include any medical supplies you may need (e.g., for allergies or bites).

Spare clothing: Bring layers for changing weather.

Water: Carry 3-4 litres of drinkable water.

Navigation: Bring a fully charged smartphone with GPS; take a map photo or download an offline map from Avenza.

Safety gear: Pack snake bandages and, for colder weather, an emergency blanket, lightweight sleeping bag, or portable shelter.

For longer hikes, like the Grampians Peaks Trail, make sure to be well-prepared. Download the Grampians Peaks Trail Plan and Prepare guide for detailed packing tips for multi-day hikes.