Unmissable Hiking Trails in Australia and New Zealand
Exploring the Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia
Australia boasts a variety of scenic hiking trails, but the Overland Track in Tasmania is a must-see. This 65-kilometer trail is renowned for its fantastic open shelters, water tanks, clear marked trails, boardwalks, and stairs in challenging spots. The area has undergone significant maintenance, ensuring hikers enjoy a seamless and enriching experience. Complementing this trail, the extensive Bibbulmun Track in Western Australia is another incredible option, spanning about 1000 kilometers and taking approximately 7 weeks to traverse.
Both trails offer hikers a safe and well-maintained environment, complete with detailed guidebooks and strong local communities. Despite Australia’s vast desert regions, these trails are notably accessible, offering flat terrain, clear water sources, and lush forested areas in a temperate climate.
The Unmissable Travers-Sabine Circuit in New Zealand
For those who appreciate a less crowded and more flexible hiking experience, New Zealand’s Travers-Sabine Circuit is an absolute must. Nestled within the Nelson Lakes National Park, this 86-kilometer track offers a unique journey through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery.
Dramatically, the Travers-Sabine Circuit is a full circuit, meaning you’ll finish where you started. This feature adds a sense of completion and adventure, as you navigate through diverse landscapes, from pristine lakes to lush valleys and mountain vistas. Unlike the Great Walks, the Travers-Sabine Circuit provides more flexibility with accommodation, as hikers don’t need to pre-book each night, unlike on the Great Walks.
Being part of the Backcountry Hut Pass for only NZD 15 per night per person, and the aptly named Backcountry Hut Pass for NZD 122 per year, this trail offers a cost-effective and flexible hiking experience. Additionally, initial hut fees are lower, ranging from NZD 38 to NZD 70 on New Zealand’s Great Walks.
Travers-Sabine Circuit Key Points
Flexibility with Accommodation: No need to pre-book each night, unlike the Great Walks. Camping Alleviation: You can camp outside any hut or anywhere you choose, unlike the Great Walks where you must camp in designated sites. Cost-Effective: Huts cost NZD 15 per night and the full-year Backcountry Hut Pass costs NZD 122. Comprehensive Scenery: Mix of lakes, valleys, and mountain views, including the challenging but rewarding climb to Lake Angelus via Mount Cedric. Managed Efficiently: The track is a full circuit, which means you’ll return to your starting point after a challenging yet rewarding journey.Tips and Recommendations
It’s best to avoid mid-winter to early spring due to potential avalanche danger on the west side of Travers Saddle and ice on the east side. However, for most other times of the year, the Travers-Sabine Circuit is popular and sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
The Travers-Sabine Circuit is now part of the Te Araroa track, one of New Zealand’s longest multi-day tracks, further enhancing its appeal. This trail is a perfect blend of adventure, flexibility, and stunning natural beauty, making it an unmissable destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.