Bicentennial National Trail

The Bicentennial National Trail is a long-distance hiking route that stretches across forests, mountains, and rural areas while linking eighteen national parks and fifty state forests. The path runs through four states and spans thousands of kilometers.

The trail opened in 1988 to mark Australia's bicentenary, after a rider had first traveled the proposed route in earlier years. The route is based on old transport routes and droving paths that have been used in Australia for generations.

The trail passes through lands that hold long-standing significance for Australia's Aboriginal peoples, and its route follows ancient paths once traveled by livestock herders. Walkers can recognize these historical connections in the landscape itself as they move through different regions.

The trail crosses remote areas, so hikers should carry adequate water, food supplies, and navigation maps while letting someone know their plans. Different sections require different preparations, so it helps to research your planned route beforehand.

The route uses various old paths including coach roads, stock routes, river crossings, and forest trails, which today remain open for horse trekking and mountain biking. This mix of different trail types makes each region of the path distinctly different to experience.

Location: Victoria

Location: New South Wales

Location: Queensland

Location: Australian Capital Territory

Inception: 1988

Website: https://nationaltrail.com.au

GPS coordinates: -37.03819,146.93375

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31