The best new walks in Australia - including a completely unique way to see Uluru
There's no better place in the world to hike than Australia.
We've got it all - stunning coastline, dense rainforest, desert Outback, inner-city trails, sandy island paths, and much, much more.
And thankfully, there's always something new to explore.
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Get a whole different view of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Supplied
Here's our pick of the four best brand-new hikes open this year.
Uluru Kakararra
There's now a whole new way to experience Uluru.
The Uluru Kakararra Trail is a 54-kilometre guided walk from Kata Tjuta to Uluru, over five days.
It was developed in conjunction with Anganu traditional owners and is a meeting of low-key luxury and cultural immersion.
The experience is designed for travellers who want a deeper connection from their trip.
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Stay at luxury lodges and camp sites. Supplied
The Mala Lodge offers stunning views. Supplied
Each night is spent in hikers' camps and lodging - the only visitor accommodation within the World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
On the walk, guests learn about living culture and caring for the land. The tour supports local employment and generates revenue that supports the management and preservation of the park.
The walk includes a stay at the brand-new Mala Lodge, exclusive to hikers. The comfortable lodging also has a wellness sanctuary and a plunge pool overlooking Uluru.
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Queensland's Scenic Rim Trail is just outside Brisbane. Supplied
Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland
If you want to immerse yourself in Queensland's natural beauty but aren't too keen on camping or carrying gear, this brand-new four-day trail is right up your alley.
The self-guided walk is just 90 minutes from Brisbane and offers a proper break from busy life.
Each night after a day of traversing the trail, hikers get to sleep in the Scenic Rim Trail's exclusive private eco‑accommodation, complete with prepared meals, hot showers and a comfortable bed.
Stay in eco-lodges overnight. Supplied
"Until now, we haven't had an offering for experienced hikers who want to walk independently but don't want to carry tents, food and overnight gear," the trail's founder, Jude Turner, said.
A total of 60 kilometres done over four days, the trail wanders through World Heritage‑listed Gondwana Rainforest, open eucalypt forest and mountain ridgelines.
Bookings open in June, with set departures currently available monthly.
The walk ends at the iconic Hill Inlet lookout. Tourism and Events Queensland
Ngaro Track, Queensland
Who says the Whitsundays are just for beach-hopping?
This trail, opened in May 2026, is a three-day route that starts at the world-famous Whitehaven Beach and ends at Hill Inlet, one of the most spectacular lookouts in the region.
Limited to just 15 walkers at one time, you're guaranteed peace and quiet as you soak up the beautiful surroundings and views of the Great Barrier Reef. Overnight, you'll stay at two brand-new eco-campsites.
It can be done as a guided tour with World Expeditions or as a self-guided journey.
Cool off with a dip at Salmon Haul Bay after your walk in Cronulla. Reddit
The GreenWay and extended Cronulla coastal walk, Sydney
For those after a shorter walk, Sydney's new GreenWay winds six kilometres through the city's inner west, with plenty of cafes and parks to stop at along the way.
Linking the Cooks River at Earlwood and Iron Cove on the Parramatta River, the path has river views and dedicated pedestrian and cyclist lanes.
Much of the trail follows the Inner West light rail line - so it's easy to access at the beginning and end. The trail is mostly flat, with a few stairs, and takes around two hours to finish with no breaks.
Further south, the much-loved Cronulla coastal walk has been extended from Salmon Bay to the lookout at Hungry Point.
The walk features a suspended boardwalk and has amazing views out over the open water across to Bundeena and Royal National Park.