Australia's best hiking trails that are perfect for winter
Australia has some seriously amazing hikes, from short 1km jaunts to multi-day extravaganzas.
So instead of hiding under your doona this winter, it's time to embrace a coolcation and get out into the great outdoors.
Hiking app AllTrails has reported a surge in Aussies navigating trails this winter - and reaping the benefits.
"Even short stints outdoors can significantly boost mental and physical wellbeing – enhancing focus, reducing stress, and improving sleep," Dr Hackenmiller, AllTrails' Chief Medical Officer says.
"By embracing the cold with a positive mindset and practising mindful movement (what the Nordics call koselig) winter can become a time of connection, calm, and renewed vitality."
Read through to see the top winter trails that Aussies are navigating this season.
10. Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach Walk (Sydney, New South Wales)
It's a classic for a reason. The iconic Bondi to Coogee walk is often tourists' first stop when visiting Sydney, and with views like this, it's easy to see why.
The walk is six kilometres one way (though you can do a shorter loop by turning around at Bronte), with stunning clifftop paths, golden beaches, and ocean pools, showcasing some of Sydney's most beautiful coastline.
Pick a sunny day and you'll barely even realise it's winter.
9. Lyrebird Walk, Neuman, Paddy, and Coles Ridge Loop (Melbourne, Victoria)
Located within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, this combination of trails creates a six-kilometre loop - though you can do more if you're up to it!
Expect lush, temperate rainforest with towering trees and abundant birdlife (yep, including lyrebirds). Paths can be muddy if it's rained recently, so wear good shoes.
8. Pages Pinnacle (Numinbah Valley, Queensland)
This challenging six-kilometre return hike in the Gold Coast hinterland involves a steep ascent to Pages Pinnacle, rewarding hikers with incredible panoramic views of the Numinbah Valley and Springbrook National Park.
Winter is the ideal time to tackle this strenuous climb, but be prepared for a significant workout! Pack snacks to enjoy by the creek on your way out.
7. Enoggera Reservoir Circuit (Enoggera Reservoir, Queensland)
This circuit around the Enoggera Reservoir is 11 kilometres but offers an easy walk through eucalypt forest and along the water's edge.
It's a short 25-minute drive from Brisbane CBD, perfect for a morning out in the sun.
The route is relatively hilly, but there is enough of a break between climbs to rest - pack your swimmers for a dip in the dam when you're done.
6. Mount Lofty Loop (Wonga Park, Victoria)
Located in Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs, the Mount Lofty Loop is approximately five kilometres and takes you through bushland with a steady climb to the summit.
