Australia's national trail runs through 18 national parks and over 50 state forests, mountains, grazing fields, rivers, waterfalls, and countless gorgeous wilderness areas. The trail of 3,312 mi (5,330 km) stretches all along Australia's east coast from Cooktown in Queensland, across New South Wales, to Healesville in Victoria, or reverse. The lengthy route is divided into 12 more or less similar passages ranging from 250 to 500 mi (400 to 500 km) in length. The major markers on the route map include Gunnawarra, Collinsville, Kabra, Biggenden, Blackbutt, Killarney, Cullendore, Ebor, Barrington Tops, Jenolan Caves, Mt Kosciuszko, and Omeo.
Southbound route, Cooktown to Healesville (best time: April–November)
If you start your journey in Cooktown, the season is autumn through winter into spring. The best time to start would be right after the end of the rainy season, that's in April. It's also essential that you're south of Townsville by the end of September. To complete a thru-hike you'll need from six to seven months, so you have enough time to do it as the season is extended to November.
Northbound route, Healesville to Cooktown (best time: September–May)
Though initially the trail was assumed to be crossed from north to south, today lots of hikers also choose to do the northbound route. The season varies. If you start from the south, the best time would be vice versa: spring through summer and into autumn—September to May. Just take into account possible danger of summer fires, particularly try to avoid hiking Queensland part in the warmest time of year, and also keep in mind that alpine areas are closed with the arrival of winter.
Bicentennial National Trail has another and, in fact, the original name—National Horse Trail. The trail was first designed for horse riders, and only later adjusted for walkers and cyclists. The first known horse ride dates back to 1972. A few years later, the trail was improved and renamed in 1988 for the celebration of Australia's Bicentenary, which was the commemoration of 1788's First Fleet of British convict ships arrival at Sydney.
Practical info
What is the Bicentennial National Trail, and where does it run?
The National Horse Trail, also known as the Bicentennial National Trail, is the longest dedicated multi-use trail in Australia. Spanning 3,312 mi (5,330 km) long, the route runs along the east coast of Australia from Cooktown in Queensland, passing through 18 national parks and 50 state forests, ending in Healesville, Victoria. The trail traverses various terrain types such as mountains, rivers, waterfalls, grazing fields, and wilderness areas. Show more
What is the best time to hike the Bicentennial National Trail?
The time to hike the Bicentennial National Trail varies depending on which route you take. It is ideal to begin the Southbound journey from Cooktown to Healesville between April and November, while Northbound hikers should start between September and May. Summer fire hazards are prevalent in Queensland, so one should avoid hiking during this time. Additionally, the alpine areas close during the winter season. Show more
How long does it take to complete the entire trail, and what are the main markers along the route?
The Bicentennial National Trail takes approximately six to seven months to complete from start to finish. The trail consists of 12 passages, each roughly 250 to 500 mi (400 to 500 km) in length. Major markers along the route include Barrington Tops, Jenolan Caves, Mt Kosciuszko, Omeo, Killarney, Cullendore, and Collinsville. Show more
Was the Bicentennial National Trail initially designed for horse riders, walkers, or cyclists?
The National Horse Trail, now known as the Bicentennial National Trail, was primarily designed for horse riders. It wasn't until later the trail was adapted for walkers and cyclists. In 1988, the trail was renamed Bicentennial National Trail to mark Australia's bicentenary commemorating 1788's British convict ships' arrival at Sydney. The trail is one of the world's longest dedicated multi-use trails. Show more
What is the meaning/history of the Bicentennial National Trail's original and previous name, the National Horse Trail?
The National Horse Trail's original name pertained to horse riders to commemorate Australia's accomplishment in the equestrian arena. In 1972, the first horse ride took place connecting Victoria to Queensland. In 1988, it was renamed the Bicentennial National Trail in celebration of Australia's bicentenary commemorating the arrival of British convict ships in Sydney in 1788. The trail is a testament to Australia's picturesque landscape and one of the longest multi-use trails globally. Show more
