Top 6 hiking destinations to explore in NSW

31 Oct, 2025

There’s something deeply restorative about lacing up your shoes and heading out into nature. In New South Wales, we’re lucky enough to have to have some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Places that make you slow down, clear your head, and breathe a little deeper. 

From coastal paths to forest tracks, we’ve narrowed down the best hiking spots NSW has to offer whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape close to home or a traveller keen to explore the landscape on foot.

The Light to Light Walk

Beowa National Park, South Coast

The 32km Light to Light Walk on Yuin Country near Eden, should definitely be on your list. It hugs the spectacular coastine, starting at historic Boyds Tower and finishing at the iconic Green Cape Lighthouse.

Walkers weave through an ever-changing landscape of red cliff tops, sheltered coves, eucalypt forest and coastal heathland, and enjoy spotting diverse wildlife including seasonal migrating whales, seals and seabirds. This walk is best experienced as a 3-day, 2-night walk, with new campgrounds available for multi-day walkers at the end of each day.

More information Light to Light Walk

Grand Cliff Top Walk

Blue Mountains National Park

Countless waterfalls, jaw-dropping canyons and cliff-side trails, the Grand Cliff Top Walk is a relatively new addition to the family of Blue Mountains hiking tracks and one that certainly cannot be missed. More than just a bush walk, this 19km trail passes through numerous townships providing a unique opportunity to not only immerse yourself in the great outdoors but also embrace the culture, community and cafes of the Blue Mountains.

This access to accommodation also makes it easier for hikers to break up the multi day hike. Be sure to keep an eye out for the iconic Three Sisters and the elusive Black Cockatoos who call this region home

More information Grand Cliff Top Walk

Snowies Alpine Walk

Snowies Alpine Walk

If you thought the Snowy Mountains were just for skiing, think again. Each year, hikers from far and wide flock to this beautiful part of the country to conquer Australia’s highest peak as part of the Snowies Alpine Walk.

While self-guided is always an option, why not add an additional layer to the experience by joining like-minded women on a guided tour with Women Embrace Adventures? This all-female adventure offers a supportive environment (as well as a very comfy bed) to ensure this is one hike you’ll never forget.

More information Snowies Alpine Way

Middle Head - Gubbuh Gubbuh - Georges Head

Sydney Harbour National Park

If you’re looking for the best hiking trails in New South Wales, you can’t go past the iconic views that come from that of Sydney Harbour National Park. And now, thanks to a brand-new 3km walking track linking Middle Head and George’s Head, there’s even more to explore.

This scenic stretch not only offers breathtaking harbour views but also takes you on a journey through the area’s rich military history, with historic installations and structures scattered along the way.

Pigeon House Mountain Didthul Walking Track

Morton National Park, South Coast

Often touted as one of the best hikes in New South Wales, Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track has it all; towering cliffs, plummeting gorges and a ladder climb that leads to a panoramic view that has to be seen to be believed.

Located near Ulladulla on the state's south coast, this hike is a popular one (and for good reason) so we recommend you start your ascent early to beat the crowds. Hike during spring and witness the incredible pops of colour from the wildflowers along the way.

More information Didthul Walking Track

Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk

Tweed Byron Hinterland

Tucked in the lush hinterland of Byron Bay, the Gidjuum Gulganyi walk offers a deeply rewarding escape into the natural beauty of Northern New South Wales. Stretching over 42km, this multi-day hike winds through several national parks and can be tackled in shorter sections or as a full 4-day, 3-night adventure.

Pre-booking is essential, and hikers need to be self-sufficient with their own gear. For those seeking a richer experience, Connect Adventures Hiking Tours offer guided journeys with their knowledgeable guides adding meaningful insights into the cultural and ecological significance of the region. Connect Adventures also runs several other hikes in Byron Bay as well as covering Coffs Harbour hiking experiences.

More information Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk

Image credits: Didthul-Pigeon House Mountain by Destination NSW, The Light to Light Walk by Remy Brand for DCCEEW, The Grand Cliff Top Walk by Destination NSW, Snowies Alpine Walk by Destination NSW, Middle Head walk by National Parks NSW, Didthul-Pigeon House Mountain by Destination NSW, and Gidjuum Gulganyi walk by Connect Adventures.

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