6 Of The Best Hikes in ANZ

Up for a new trail?

Didn’t someone famous say you’re a hike away from a workout? Full disclosure: we did. To spice up your usual go-to hike rotation, we’ve compiled a few of the most recommended trails in Australia and New Zealand. It’s all uphill from here...

@matt.d.photography

BURNING PALMS, NSW

This 13km loop (admittedly more of a walking circuit) from Otford will have you traverse through the Palm jungle to Burning Palm Beach and possibly onto the Figure 8 Pools if you’re game. Once there, you’ll have to wait for a spot in the Instagram famous pools and yes, it’s worth it. Pro tip: if you can see white water crashing heavily on the coast on your way to the pools, they’re likely unsafe to climb to.

@monaudr_

ROY’S PEAK, NZ

This ‘easy’ grade track is known for panoramic lake and mountain views and is one of the most popular in the South Island. After six hours (and 16km) of hiking you’ll summit Roy’s Peak with a 360º view of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring. Don’t say we didn’t tell you the scenery is worth the workout...See for yourself!

@onestep4ward

MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO, NSW

Leave an entire day to ascend Australia’s highest peak (2,228m to be exact) in the summer or the winter for a view like no other. Start at the bottom or have a head start with a chairlift to Charlotte Pass. There’s plenty of alpine flora, fauna and glacial lakes to see on the 13km trail loop. Bring snacks (trail mix, what else?), plenty of H20 and proper snow boots if you’re planning on trailing in winter.

@oui_are_travellers

DOVE LAKE, TAS

All of Tassie is beautiful, but the 65km Overland track in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is especially so. It’s best to book a tour (including a guide and overnight accommodation) for the lengthy trek. You’ll thank yourself for doing so with views of the Southern Lights reflecting from the lake by night. Not to mention your fitness over the six days – much like the mountainous vista – will be peaking. The Dove Lake Circuit walk is an alternative 6km walk to the overland track if time isn’t on your side. Either way, take it allllll in.

@nathaniscross

MOUNT GOWER, NSW

This track, situated in Lord Howe Island, is known as one of Australia’s best and most difficult day hikes. Note: it’s only accessible with a licensed guide, and for good reason. All 14km are unmarked and the steepest sections are affixed with rope to provide extra stability for the summit (elevation: 875m). Your guide will help you navigate challenging terrain plus highlight native species you’ll encounter. If you’re up for an adventure, this one’s for you.

@framebridge

MILFORD TRACK, NZ

This 53km South Island track is a pearler, enamouring adventureres for over 150 years. You’ll hike for five days, discovering New Zealand’s highest waterfall – Sutherland Falls – as well as fiords carved by glaciers, untouched rivers and undulating mountains. Difficulty is down to you, so take it at your own pace. Lace up in your trail shoes at Lake Te Anau where you’ll find suspension bridges to begin your Milford experience. Be sure to book in advance!