Got a question about Trail Hiking Australia? You’ll find answers to the most common ones below. If something isn’t covered here, ask Trail Mate, the site’s AI assistant.
Finding Hikes
How do I find a hike?
Use the Find a Hike tool to search the national trail database. The interactive map updates dynamically as you pan and zoom, so listings always reflect the visible area.
Use the filters to narrow results by state, region, national park, distance, duration, trail type, and grade. Finding a hike that genuinely suits your fitness level and experience matters as much as finding one in the right location. If unsure, choose conservatively.
How do I find a hike near me?
Use the Near Me feature to display hikes within a 30 km radius of your current location. It uses your device’s location services to identify nearby trails and display them on the map.
Accuracy depends on how your device determines location. Mobile data and GPS give precise results. Wi-Fi connections may estimate your location using your IP address, which can be less accurate. If results look off, adjust the map manually or use the state and region filters.
Can I compare trails?
Yes. The Compare badge on each hike listing lets you build a side-by-side comparison of trails you’re considering. Select the hikes you want to compare and a pop-up will display their details together.
The comparison list is tied to your current browser session, not your profile. If you want to save it, copy the shareable link before closing the browser. Watch the short walkthrough here: How to use site features.
Can I create my own custom hike lists?
Yes. On any hike detail page you’ll find three badges in the header above the main content. The Bookmark badge lets you create custom private lists. The Favourites badge adds that hike to your favourites list. To manage your lists, visit your profile page.
Watch the short walkthrough here: How to use site features.
Can I walk my dog on these trails?
Generally speaking, dogs are not permitted in National Parks or most State Parks. State Forests and Reserves are more welcoming. For a full breakdown by state, see the guide here: Hiking with your dog.
GPX Files and Route Planning
How do I download a GPX file?
You need to be logged in to download GPX files. Once logged in, go to the hike detail page and click the Download GPX File button.
If the button doesn’t respond or the page jumps to the top, try refreshing the page with F5 or right-clicking and selecting Reload. This usually clears a cached version of the page. If you’re on mobile and the file opens as text rather than downloading, use the Share or Open In option to send it to your preferred navigation app.
Do you have an online route planner?
Trail Hiking Australia doesn’t host its own route planner, but two reliable browser-based tools are commonly used by hikers:
- GPX.studio: A detailed GPX viewer and editor. Useful for creating, editing and exporting GPX tracks with elevation and distance analysis.
- Suunto Route Planner: A more visual option for drawing routes, analysing elevation, and visualising terrain. No Suunto device required.
Digital route planners assist preparation but do not verify access, current conditions, or trail legality. Always check official land manager websites, confirm access and closures, and cross-check routes using multiple sources before heading out.
To estimate difficulty and walking time, use the Hiking Time Calculator.
Can I upload a GPX file?
Yes. If a hike listing doesn’t include a route map or GPX file, you can submit one via the hike detail page. Scroll to the route section and select Upload GPX File.
Submitted files are not published automatically. All GPX submissions are cross-checked against topographic maps and official land manager information before being added to a listing. Contributors are credited where appropriate.
Contributing to the Site
Can I upload photos to a hike?
Yes. On any hike detail page, scroll to the gallery section and select Upload Photos. Submitted images are reviewed before being added to the trail gallery.
Photos are stored and managed through Google Photos and displayed via a public gallery feed. You retain full copyright ownership of your images. By uploading, you grant permission for them to be displayed on Trail Hiking Australia in connection with the relevant hike listing. You can request removal at any time.
Can I submit a trip report?
Yes. Submit via the Guest Contribution page. Trip reports are reviewed before publication and should focus on personal experience, conditions encountered, route observations, and lessons learned.
You retain copyright ownership of your content. Trail Hiking Australia reserves editorial discretion to edit, format, or decline submissions to maintain site standards.
Can I submit a hike?
Yes. Trail Hiking Australia welcomes submissions for established public access trails not already listed in the database. Search first to make sure the trail doesn’t already exist. Duplicate listings are not published.
Submit a new hike here: Add a hike listing.
The more complete your submission, the faster the review. Useful information includes trail name and location, distance and estimated duration, terrain description, access and parking details, and a GPX file if available. All submissions are verified against topographic maps and official land manager sources before publication.
Safety and Trip Planning
Why should I complete a trip intentions form?
Leaving a trip intention is a fundamental risk management step. Someone should know where you’re going, when you expect to return, and when to escalate concerns if you don’t check in.
The Trip Intentions Form documents your planned route, timing, vehicle details, and contact information. Your nominated contact receives your route, expected return time, a defined Late-Back Time, and clear instructions on when and how to contact Police Search and Rescue.
It takes a few minutes to complete and can significantly reduce uncertainty in the event of an emergency. Complete a form here: Trip Intentions Form.
Website Features and Development
Do you have an app?
Trail Hiking Australia does not currently have a dedicated mobile app. The website is fully responsive and designed to work across desktop, tablet, and mobile.
An app has been considered. If developed, it would prioritise structured planning, safety systems, trip intentions, and responsible decision-making rather than simply displaying trail locations. No release timeline has been confirmed. Updates will be posted on the website if plans progress.
How do I use the site features?
A short video walkthrough covering the main site features is available here: How to use site features.
Supporting the Site
Why do you run ads on the website?
Trail Hiking Australia is independently operated. Maintaining a national trail database, verification systems, mapping tools, and hosting infrastructure involves ongoing time and cost. Limited advertising helps cover those costs and allows the site to remain free to access.
Advertising revenue is managed to preserve editorial independence. Trail information, safety guidance, and policy positions are not influenced by advertisers.
Why do you ask for donations?
Advertising alone doesn’t fully cover the cost of researching, verifying, and maintaining a national trail database. Donations help sustain the platform and keep it independent.
All revenue from donations and advertising is reinvested into the site. This includes trail research and verification, GPX file development, hosting and technical infrastructure, mapping tools, and ongoing site development.
You can make a donation here: Make a donation.
Still have a question? Ask Trail Mate.
