Grade 5

Bicentennial National Trail Walk (5,330km)

East Coast Australia

Victoria

5,330km

1 Year

Grade 5

One Way

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore Australia's longest non-motorised trail, the Bicentennial National Trail. Starting from the lush Healesville in Victoria to the tropical Cooktown in Queensland, this 5,330km journey is an adventurer's paradise. Experience the rugged beauty of Australia's diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to dry plains, making your way along historic coach roads, riverbanks, and fire trails. This Grade 5 difficulty trail offers an unmatched opportunity to connect with Australia's rich history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for keen hikers and bushwalkers.
Length:
5,330km
Duration:
1 Year
Grade:
5
Style:
One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Healesville or Cooktown
End: Cooktown or Healesville
East Coast Australia
Victoria
Nearby town: Healesville or Cooktown
From state capital: 64km
Latitude: -37.655829502939774
Longitude: 145.51354050636294
9 Reviews
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Hike overview

The Bicentennial National Trail (BNT), formerly known as the National Horse Trail, is one of the longest multi-use, non-motorised trails in the world, stretching 5,330 kilometres from Cooktown in Queensland to Healesville in Victoria, just north-east of Melbourne. Following the spine of the Great Dividing Range, the trail winds through national parks, private properties, and remote wilderness areas, linking landscapes that range from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows, rugged mountains to expansive dry plains. The route incorporates old coach roads, stock routes, brumby tracks, riverbanks, and fire trails, offering a rich and varied journey through Australia’s diverse terrain.

Originally conceived as a long-distance route for horse trekkers, the BNT has since gained popularity among walkers and cyclists, though some sections remain challenging for these activities. Where possible, the trail follows the paths once travelled by pioneers, mail couriers, and stockmen, providing a tangible link to Australia’s past. Along its course, it passes through historic townships, past heritage sites, and alongside relics of Australia’s pastoral and gold rush eras. More than just a physical journey, the BNT offers a deep connection to the country’s history and natural beauty.

The landscapes along the trail are as varied as they are spectacular. In the north, the BNT meanders through lush tropical rainforests teeming with birdlife before heading south into the drier, more remote inland regions. Further along, the track skirts dramatic escarpments, crosses high-country grazing lands, and dips into deep river valleys before climbing into the snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps. This diversity not only makes for an ever-changing backdrop but also ensures that each section of the trail offers a unique experience.

Few travellers attempt the entire length in one continuous journey, and most choose to explore shorter sections suited to their interests and abilities. The trail is divided into 12 segments, each spanning 400 to 500 kilometres, with a corresponding guidebook that provides essential information. These guides include sketch maps for general reference, though more detailed topographic maps are recommended for accurate navigation. While the guidebooks contain practical advice, much of it remains tailored to horse riders, with limited detail for walkers or cyclists.

The Bicentennial National Trail was first envisioned by the Australian Trail Horse Riders Association, which spent years planning and negotiating access. The vision faced numerous hurdles, particularly due to restrictions on horses within wilderness areas and certain national parks. Progress remained uncertain until 1985, when the project gained official recognition as part of Australia’s Bicentennial celebrations. With funding and approval secured, the trail became a reality in 1988, opening up new opportunities for long-distance travel through some of Australia’s most remote and beautiful regions. Since then, it has become a treasured resource for horse riders while gradually attracting more walkers and cyclists keen to explore its length.

Access points are numerous, with much of the trail intersecting public roads. Where the route crosses major highways, public transport options may be available, though long-distance walkers generally arrange food drops at one- to two-week intervals using private transport. Planning is essential, particularly for those venturing into the more remote sections where resupply points are sparse and conditions can be harsh.

The trail passes through 18 national parks and more than 50 state forests, offering unparalleled opportunities to experience Australia’s wild landscapes. However, certain restrictions apply—motorised vehicles and trail bikes are prohibited, and pets are not permitted. While permits are not required to travel the BNT, local camping and fire regulations must be observed, particularly during bushfire season. Those setting out should be well-prepared and self-sufficient, ready to navigate the challenges of terrain, weather, and isolation.

For those seeking adventure, solitude, and a deeper understanding of Australia’s landscapes and history, the Bicentennial National Trail remains one of the most rewarding long-distance routes in the world. Whether on horseback, foot, or bike, it offers an ever-changing journey through some of the country’s most spectacular and remote regions, providing an unforgettable experience for those willing to take on the challenge.

For more information, visit the National Trail website.

Trail features

  • Overnight Campsites

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Bicentennial National Trail Walk (5,330km)

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Bicentennial National Trail Walk (5,330km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: East Coast Australia.

The track stretches from Healesville, on the outskirts of Melbourne in Victoria, through the mountain ranges along the eastern side of Australia, and ends in Cooktown in northern Queensland. While the original plan had trekkers starting in Cooktown and heading south, many now prefer to start in Healesville and travel north. This direction allows hikers to gradually acclimatise to the heat while benefiting from the cooling southeast winds at their backs, making it an increasingly popular choice.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Coldstream, Healesville, Lilydale, Mooroolbark, Yarra Glen

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Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Register your plans here

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Bicentennial National Trail Walk (5,330km)

9 Reviews on “Bicentennial National Trail Walk (5,330km)”

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Acknowledgement of Country

Bicentennial national trail walk (5,330km)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia
Last modified:

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