About Trail Hiking Australia

Trails, passion, and you: Why I built Trail Hiking Australia

In 2013, my love for Aussie trails blossomed into something bigger. Trail Hiking Australia isn’t just a website, it’s my hobby, passion, and my way of sharing the magic of our wilderness with everyone. From hidden valleys to epic mountain treks, I wanted Aussies to discover the health and happiness found on every path. Every track here whispers a story, waiting to be unraveled, and I’m passionate about guiding you to explore them all.

Why I hike

In 1993, I chased the dream of design agency ownership. Years later, success felt suffocating. The endless hours, client demands, and sacrificed family time spun me into a hamster wheel with no exit. My soul craved an escape, a refuge from the concrete jungle I’d built. That’s where the trails called. In the heart of the wilderness, amongst whispering leaves and sun-dappled paths, I rediscovered the freedom I’d nearly forgotten. Each hike became a rebellion against the rat race, a reminder that life wasn’t meant to be lived solely for deadlines and deliverables. My boots became my wings, leading me to a life not just for work, but for adventure, connection, and the rediscovery of my own wild rhythm.

Read my personal journey here as this is the real reason hiking has become my life!

Why I started Trail Hiking Australia

I’m a sucker for information. Hiking trails? I craved their every detail, documenting them with the zeal of an explorer. But this knowledge felt locked away on my computer, like a map leading to buried treasure. Then came the epiphany: a hiking group in 2013. The shock wasn’t the breathtaking hikes, but the widespread lack of awareness about local trails! As a web designer, the answer clicked into place: a blog, a platform to unlock the secrets of the Australian wilderness. Trail Hiking Australia wasn’t just my passion project, it was the solution to a hidden problem. With every mapped trail, every shared tip, every enthusiastic hiker joining the community, I knew I was fueling a movement. This wasn’t just about sharing paths, it was about paving the way for endless adventures, right in our own backyards.

What this site offers now

Imagine it: the sun dappling through ancient trees, the scent of eucalyptus filling your lungs, and the rhythmic crunch of boots on dirt beneath your feet. This is your escape, fueled by Trail Hiking Australia, the ultimate resource for every Aussie hiker, from weekend wanderers to seasoned trekkers.

Forget the days of struggling to find detailed trail information. I offer a treasure trove of resources for over 3,400 hikes across Australia, meticulously curated to empower your every step.

Here’s what awaits you:

  • Detailed trail descriptions: Get the inside scoop on length, difficulty, terrain, and scenery, ensuring you pick the perfect path for your level and mood.
  • Stunning photos and maps: Visualise your adventure before you even lace up your boots. Witness captivating vistas and get a feel for the terrain, helping you plan with confidence.
  • GPS downloads: Ditch the bulky map. Simply download my handy GPX files and let your phone guide you with ease, reducing the fear of getting lost.
  • Elevation profiles: Conquer those climbs with confidence. See the ups and downs visually, allowing you to pace yourself and savor the breathtaking views.
  • Personalised search: Whether you’re craving a quick nature fix near your home or dreaming of an epic mountain trek, find your perfect match with my intuitive search filters.
  • Interactive map and “Near Me” features: Discover hidden gems around you, or explore trails across the continent. My interactive map makes choosing your next adventure a breeze.
  • Community connection: Share your stories, swap tips, and find fellow hiking buddies through my forum and social media channels.

This isn’t just a website, it’s a movement. I’m passionate about making Australia’s incredible trails accessible to everyone, from day-trippers to long-distance enthusiasts. I believe that every step outdoors is a step towards a healthier, happier life, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Join me! Explore, connect, and experience the magic of the Australian wilderness. Trail Hiking Australia: your one-stop shop for unforgettable adventures.

And there’s more! I’m constantly growing and adding new features. To help me build the most comprehensive hiking resource in Australia, your support is invaluable. Share your knowledge, spread the word, and together, let’s create a thriving community of passionate hikers exploring every corner of this beautiful country. What are you waiting for? Lace up your boots and let’s hit the trail!

Your support fuels the adventure: Let’s grow Trail Hiking Australia together

Trail Hiking Australia isn’t just a website, it’s a passion project fueled by the love of Aussie trails and the desire to share them with everyone. Every trail map, every tip, every story – it’s all built on the dedication of the outdoor community, including you!

Here’s how you can become a part of the adventure:

  • Share your knowledge: Do you know a hidden gem of a trail? Got a secret tip for conquering that tricky climb? Submit your favorite trails, write an article, or share your wisdom on Trail Talk, our online forum for passionate hikers.
  • Give back with your generosity: Financial donations help me keep the lights on and add new features. Every bit counts in growing this resource for everyone.
  • Spread the word: Like what you see? Let your fellow adventurers know! Share your Trail Hiking Australia experiences with the hashtag #trailhikingaust on social media.
  • Engage with the community: Connect with other hikers on Trail Talk, ask questions, share ideas, and build friendships that extend beyond the screen.

Remember, Trail Hiking Australia is free to use, built by me for the community. Your contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Together, we can create the most comprehensive and inspiring resource for hiking adventures across Australia.

Feel free to reach out: I’m always happy to hear your feedback or answer any questions you may have. Use the contact form below and let’s keep the conversation going!

The path forward is paved by passion and collaboration. Let’s lace up our boots and build something amazing together!

Fueling Aussie adventures, one step at a time

My mission is to ignite a passion for the outdoors and empower everyone to discover the incredible health and happiness found on Australia’s hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned bushwalker or a weekend warrior just starting out, I’m here to be your guide.

Here’s what I offer:

  • Unleash your inner explorer: Discover hidden gems and conquer epic summits with meticulously curated trail information, maps, and downloadable guides.
  • Gear up for adventure: Learn essential skills, navigate with confidence, and find the perfect gear with helpful tips and reviews of my favorite tools.
  • Fuel your body, nurture your soul: Dive into delicious and nutritious hiking food ideas, ensuring you have the energy to reach every peak.
  • Connect with the community: Share your stories, swap tips, and find lifelong hiking buddies in our vibrant online forum.
  • Put Australia on your map: Explore breathtaking landscapes, experience diverse ecosystems, and discover why Australia is a world-class hiking destination.
  • Level up your skills: Download comprehensive hiking guides covering everything from preparation and safety to navigation and gear selection.

This isn’t just a website, it’s a movement. Join me on this journey to experience the magic of the Australian wilderness. Sign up for my newsletter, follow me on social media, and most importantly, lace up your boots and hit the trail!

Let’s explore, connect, and discover together.

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Darren Edwards | [email protected]

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