Best short hikes in Australia

The best way to get a taste of real Australia is to hike it up. Bushwalking provides excellent opportunities to enjoy Australia’s natural beauty, catch a glimpse of the abundant flora and fauna and generally have a nice time.

For those who do not want to endure the hardships of hikes that span more than one day, and are not comfortable with setting up camp at nights, one day walks are an excellent alternative. These are some spots where you can hike to and return in one day.

While undertaking walks, always carry drinking water with you. The sun can get a bit harsh, so wear a hat, and apply sun screen. Strong shoes that provide adequate support are also essential.

Ormiston Gorge and Pound

The Ormiston Gorge and Pound are located in the West MacDonnell National Park. It is about 135 kilo meters from Alice Springs. Ormiston is one of the most impressive gorges in the Mac Donnell ranges. It is a quite flat and simple walk way. The total length of a typical trail is about 8 to 9 kilo meters.

Do not miss the waterhole located at the south end of the gorge. This has water almost throughout the year, and the rock walls of the gorge appear to be shining due to the sunshine.

Carnarvon Gorge

Carnarvon Gorge is located 593 kilo meters northwest of Brisbane. It is in the Southern Brigalow Belt in Central Queensland. The Gorge was formed mainly by erosive activity and is around 30 kilo meters long, and has a depth of six hundred meters at the mouth.

It is a popular destination because of its easy accessibility and diverse nature.

A walk along the Carnarvon Creek is perfect, as there are a host of attractions on the way. There is a pond about halfway the walk, and can be bathed in to refresh yourself. On the way, the Cathedral Cave and the Art gallery are famous for their amazing rock stencils.

The walk is about 10 kilo meters, and can be a test of endurance.

Flinders Chase Coast

Flinders Chase is located in the western part of Kangaroo islands. Flinders Chase National Park is about 110 kilo meters west of Kingscote. It is accessible by Playford Highway or South Coast Road.

Ravine des Casoars is the starting point for the day walk. Onwards, the route is atop the eroded cliffs at the mouth of the creek, and ends in West bay. On the way is Vennachar point which has a famous ship wreck.

The area is filled with a wide variety of fauna, which includes goannas, koalas, kangaroos, tammar wallabies and cape Barren geese.

The total walk will go upto 19 kilo meters and is rather rough terrain. You must be sure that you can make it before you set out.