Bush walking

Get back to nature, grab a friend or family member, and head out for a trek.
You’ll get the chance to see some amazing views and wildlife while getting to enjoy the outdoors.
Tip
Make sure you plan ahead and let someone know where you are going. Pack enough snacks and water, your phone, and a map and navigation equipment.
Benefits
Improve cardiovascular fitness and strengthen muscles.
Equipment
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, food and water, and clothes appropriate for the weather. Always check the forecast beforehand.
Seasons / typical registration period
There is no registration period or season to go bush walking, but please check the weather and ask your parents if it is okay to do so!
Levels of difficulty
If you’re doing an established bush walking trail (which tend to have better scenery and are safer) it will have a difficulty grade you can find from the bush walking organisation of that state or territory (see the organisation links below). This will tell you how long it takes and how hard the terrain is. Some can be done in a few hours, others go through wilderness and require you to camp overnight.
Approximate participation costs
It is free depending on where you walk. If you go to a national park you may be required to pay a small entry fee.
Organisations
- ACT government: Bushwalking
- Bushwalking Victoria
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
- NT Government: Bushwalking and Hiking
- Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania
- Queensland national parks and protected areas
- Trails WA
- Walking SA
Other similar activities
Cross country running, fun runs, trail running, orienteering (running to set markers while navigating with a map and compass), and athletics or simply take the dog for a walk.