Australia offers a wealth of hut-based hiking experiences, perfect for adventurers looking to explore diverse landscapes. For the modern explorer, capturing stunning views and unique moments along the journey has become just as important as the trek itself. Here’s a detailed guide with the most Instagrammable photo spots on each hike, along with essential booking and trail information.
1. Overland Track (Tasmania)
Duration: 5-7 days
Cost: $200+ per person during the booking season (October to May). Includes hut accommodation and park fees.
Booking Website: Parks Tasmania
Map Reference: Overland Track Map
Instagramable Spot: Cradle Mountain Summit
The summit of Cradle Mountain is undoubtedly one of the most photographed spots in Tasmania. The sweeping panoramic views of alpine landscapes, combined with the crystal-clear lakes below, offer a perfect backdrop for your photos.
2. Kosciuszko National Park (New South Wales)
Duration: Flexible, from day hikes to multi-day adventures
Cost: Free huts; national park entry fee is $17 per vehicle per day.
Booking Website: NSW National Parks
Map Reference: Kosciuszko National Park Map
Instagramable Spot: Mount Kosciuszko Summit
Standing atop Australia’s highest peak with the surrounding snowfields, granite boulders, and views stretching into the distance is the ultimate Kosciuszko National Park shot.
3. Walls of Jerusalem (Tasmania)
Duration: 3-5 days
Cost: Huts are free; a national parks pass is required ($40 per vehicle for 24 hours).
Booking Website: Parks Tasmania
Map Reference: Walls of Jerusalem Map
Instagramable Spot: The Pool of Bethesda
A tranquil alpine tarn, surrounded by rugged dolerite peaks, where the still waters create perfect reflections of the surrounding cliffs. It’s an otherworldly scene ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
4. Bogong High Plains (Victoria)
Duration: 2-4 days
Cost: Huts are free; entry fees apply during snow season ($60 per vehicle in winter).
Booking Website: Parks Victoria
Map Reference: Bogong High Plains Map
Instagramable Spot: Wallace’s Hut in Winter
This historic hut is beautifully framed by snow-covered gum trees during the winter months, creating a picturesque and cosy alpine scene that is perfect for photos.
5. Three Capes Track (Tasmania)
Duration: 4 days
Cost: $495 per person (includes hut accommodation, boat transfers, and park fees).
Booking Website: Three Capes Track
Map Reference: Three Capes Track Map
Instagramable Spot: The Blade at Cape Pillar
This narrow cliff juts dramatically out into the ocean, providing a jaw-dropping backdrop for photos. The sheer drop below and the open sea stretching out on all sides makes for one of the most dramatic spots on the Tasmanian coast.
6. Green Gully Track (New South Wales)
Duration: 4-5 days
Cost: $100 per person for exclusive use of huts.
Booking Website: NSW National Parks
Map Reference: Green Gully Track Map
Instagramable Spot: Green Gully Gorge
The gorge offers breathtaking views with towering cliffs, river valleys, and lush greenery. Capture the stunning contrast between the rugged cliff faces and the winding river below.
7. Larapinta Trail (Northern Territory)
Duration: 12-14 days for the full trail, or 1-2 days for shorter sections.
Cost: Huts are free; parks pass required ($25 for 5 days or $60 for an annual pass).
Booking Website: NT Parks
Map Reference: Larapinta Trail Map
Instagramable Spot: Standley Chasm
The towering walls of Standley Chasm glow in the midday sun, producing striking red and orange hues. The sheer vertical cliffs make it an iconic spot for capturing the beauty of Central Australia.
8. Australian Alps Walking Track (ACT, Victoria, New South Wales)
Duration: 40-60 days for the full track, or shorter segments over 1-3 days.
Cost: Huts are free; national park entry fees apply in some sections.
Booking Website: Australian Alps Walking Track
Map Reference: Australian Alps Walking Track Map
Instagramable Spot: Mount Bogong Summit
The summit of Mount Bogong, the highest mountain in Victoria, provides panoramic views over the alpine region. The expansive snow plains and rugged peaks make this a stunning photography spot.
9. Freycinet National Park (Tasmania)
Duration: 2-3 days
Cost: $50-150 per night for huts; national park entry fees apply ($40 per vehicle for 24 hours).
Booking Website: Freycinet Lodge
Map Reference: Freycinet National Park Map
Instagramable Spot: Wineglass Bay Lookout
One of the most famous views in Australia, the lookout offers a stunning view of the perfectly curved white sands of Wineglass Bay against the turquoise waters. This is a must-capture spot for every visitor.
10. Grampians Peaks Trail (Victoria)
Duration: 13 days for the full trail, or shorter sections available.
Cost: $60-150 per night for huts; park entry is free.
Booking Website: Grampians Peaks Trail
Map Reference: Grampians Peaks Trail Map
Instagramable Spot: The Pinnacle
The most iconic viewpoint in the Grampians, The Pinnacle offers sweeping views over the rugged landscape, valleys, and ranges below. It’s the perfect spot for an epic hiking photo.
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When embarking on these unforgettable hikes, don’t forget to bring the right gear to make your experience both safe and enjoyable. UCR Adventures offers high-quality hiking equipment specifically tailored for the varied environments of Australia. From durable trekking poles and backpacks to weather-resistant gear, UCR has you covered for every adventure. Get the perfect shot with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for any conditions Australia’s wild landscapes might throw at you.