Hidden Hikes: Australia's Best Underrated Off-Road Treks As Suggested by You

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There's nothing like lacing up your hiking boots and discovering a new trail. To help shave down the Googling time for our next adventure, we've asked Concrete Playground readers to share their favourite trails.

So, if you are planning to take advantage of the long weekend and stretch your legs, here are your tips for the best hikes to check out — plus suggestions for neighbouring campgrounds, as well as the nearest The Bottle-O so you can stock up on bevs for a winner weekend.

Cape to Cape Walk Track, Gnarabup, WA

Starting off with the big one, Cape to Cape in WA. This multi-day track is on every hike lover's hitlist, and for good reason, according to John, who submitted this tip: "The best views you will ever get in WA. You don't have to do the entire 130 kilometres from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin — unless you have up to ten days to spare. You can break it up and do a smaller section, easy."

So pack your gear, pick up your mates and head down from Perth to the starting point in Cape Naturaliste. Stop in Brunswick for hiking snacks, easy meals to enjoy and bevs from Brunswick's The Bottle-O to enjoy as the sun sets across the ocean as you camp at one of the many campsites along the trail. 

Closest The Bottle-O: Brunswick

Forts Walk, Magnetic Island National Park QLD

Are you keen on koala spotting, historical tours, and epic views? Find all three at the Magnetic Island National Park, just an easy car ferry from the mainland. The island is a frequent getaway for our reader Karen who says: "There's always rock wallabies hanging around the beaches and headlands in Arcadia. The best walk is the Forts Walk, hands down."

Explore the rest of the island's rainforest, rocky coastline and local wildlife before stocking up on supplies including local Queensland craft beers from The Bottle-O in Arcadia. Then all that's left to do is chill at the campsite with your mates.

Closest The Bottle-O: Arcadia

Middle Brother National Park, NSW

The biggest of the 'Brothers' parks, Middle Brother, is found on the mid-North Coast of New South Wales. Reader Alex recommends the Middle Brother Circuit: "It's a hard hike that covers most of the park, so you will see a lot. There's little signal and signage, so it's best to come prepared for this one. Or do the shorter Peak Loop — great for a trail run."

After a long day on the trail, pack up your car and head to North Haven to stock up on supplies at the servo and drinks at The Bottle-O before kicking back at one of the caravan parks and enjoy the bush and the beach over the long weekend. 

Closest The Bottle-O: North Haven

Nelson Falls, TAS

Keen to chase waterfalls in the wild western side of Tasmania over the long weekend? According to our Instagram follower Natalie, the best track is Nelson Falls in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. She says: "It's not a long trek, but it's worth the scenery and a perfect sidetrack if you're road-tripping from Cradle Mountain to Queenstown or vice versa. The best time to visit the falls is after heavy rain — the waterfall will be raging!".

There's a free campground nearby, Lake Burbury, where you can relax with your mates and a few cold ones from The Bottle-O in Queenstown. 

Closest The Bottle-O: Queenstown

Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk, VIC

Melburnians who want to get out of the city for the long weekend are so spoiled for choice. You could go north to wine country or west to the Great Ocean Road, but reader Steve says you should head south along the Bass Coast to Phillip Island: "The best spot for an epic walk is the Cape Woolamai Circuit — it's the highest point on the island, so it's perfect for sunset snaps." 

The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it's super easy to get to, and everything you need is there. Plus, there are plenty of accommodation options, from farm stays and campgrounds to resorts and hotels — and The Bottle-O for all your beverage needs. So, whatever kind of adventure you want to take with your mates this long weekend, you are sorted.

Closest The Bottle-O: Phillip Island

Wherever the road leads you on your weekend adventuring, find your nearest The Bottle-O and stock up on some standout bevs. Ready to start planning? Head to the website.

Top image: Canva Stock