There’s something undeniably magical about hiking—whether it’s the crunch of gravel underfoot, the sense of stillness in the trees, or the reward of a sweeping view at the summit. But with so many trails out there, from local bushwalks to world-renowned treks, choosing the right hike can feel overwhelming. The key is finding the sweet spot between your experience, the conditions, and the kind of adventure you’re after. A hike that’s too easy might leave you wanting more, while one that’s too difficult can be discouraging—or even dangerous.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the key factors to consider when deciding which hikes to take on, so you can match your plans with your abilities and have a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience.
🌄 Know What You Want From the Experience
Before diving into maps or trail apps, it helps to ask yourself one question: what are you hoping to get out of this hike? Some people hike for solitude, others for fitness, some to chase epic views, and others to enjoy a casual day outdoors with friends or family. The kind of experience you’re after should shape your choice.
If you’re craving scenery, you might seek out coastal walks, ridge lines, or summit trails that offer big payoffs. On the other hand, if you want something meditative and peaceful, a forest trail or a lesser-known path might suit you better. Family-friendly hikes will differ drastically from the kind you tackle for a challenge or overnight adventure. Having a clear idea of your goals will help narrow the field before you even start looking at trail names or distances.
🧭 Understand the Trail’s Difficulty—Not Just the Distance
One of the biggest mistakes new hikers make is choosing a trail based solely on the number of kilometres. A five-kilometre hike along flat terrain is a completely different beast from a five-kilometre climb up switchbacks and rocky slopes.
To properly gauge the difficulty, pay close attention to elevation gain and terrain. A good trail guide will mention whether the path is steep, rocky, uneven, or prone to mud. Many trail apps and park websites will rate hikes as easy, moderate, or difficult, which can be a helpful starting point. Also consider how well-marked the trail is—if it’s not clearly defined or requires navigation, that can add a layer of complexity, especially in remote areas.
Your own fitness level and hiking experience should weigh heavily into this decision. If you’re just starting out or haven’t hiked in a while, aim lower than you think you can handle. Hiking uses muscles and endurance in ways that might surprise you, especially when elevation is involved. It’s better to finish a hike feeling strong than to barely limp back to the car.
☀️ Check the Weather—and the Season
Even the most stunning trail can turn miserable or risky in bad weather. A lot of people forget to check the forecast before heading out, only to be caught in a storm, extreme heat, or unexpected snow. Always look ahead and consider not just whether it will rain, but what the temperature will feel like, how exposed the trail is, and whether recent conditions have made it more challenging.
Seasons also play a huge role. A trail that’s accessible and popular in summer might be closed or snow-covered in winter. In hot climates, some trails are dangerously exposed during midday heat. In other places, seasonal wildflowers or fall foliage can transform a good trail into a spectacular one.
If you’re hiking in the off-season or shoulder season, be aware that water crossings might be higher, paths might be slippery, and services (like shuttle buses or rangers) might not be available. Always double-check whether the trail is open, and if there are any alerts or warnings posted.
🗺️ Location, Logistics, and Time
Where a trail is located can have a big impact on how enjoyable the experience is. Some of the most beautiful hikes are tucked deep inside national parks or reserves, requiring long drives, park entry fees, or permits. Others start right from the edge of town. Neither is better—they’re just different. The key is choosing something that fits your schedule and logistics.
Consider how much time you actually have, door to door. A three-hour hike that takes two hours to drive to and from might be a full-day commitment. Be realistic about how early you’re willing to leave and how much energy you’ll have for the return journey. Also factor in things like parking availability, trailhead access, and how crowded it might be during peak times.
For overnight or multi-day hikes, there are extra considerations: where you’ll camp, whether you need to carry all your food and water, and what kind of terrain you’ll encounter over several days. If you’re planning anything more involved, give yourself ample time to prepare and consider testing your gear on shorter hikes first.
🚰 Know What You’ll Need to Bring
The type of hike you choose directly affects what you’ll need to bring along. Short urban hikes might only require good shoes and a water bottle, but longer or remote trails call for more preparation. Water availability, for instance, can make or break a hike—especially in dry areas or warm weather. If there’s nowhere to refill, you’ll need to carry enough, which can add significant weight.
Some trails have facilities like toilets, picnic areas, or maps at the trailhead. Others are completely wild. Understanding the level of infrastructure can help you plan accordingly. If you’re heading into areas with limited cell coverage, offline maps and a charged phone battery are critical.
Choosing a hike that matches what you’re prepared to carry—and what gear you actually have—is smart. There’s no point choosing a backcountry trail if you don’t have a decent pack, good boots, or layers to handle sudden weather changes.
🐾 Consider Who’s Coming With You
It’s easy to forget that a hike suitable for you might not be ideal for your companions. Are you hiking solo, with a friend, or in a group? Bringing kids? A dog? Each of these scenarios will influence your trail choice.
Kids might struggle with longer distances or steep climbs, and dogs can get injured on sharp rocks or dehydrated if there’s no water along the way. In some areas, dogs aren’t allowed at all—national parks in particular often have strict rules. If you’re in a group, think about the slowest or least experienced person and choose a trail that will allow everyone to enjoy it.
It’s also worth thinking about how social or quiet you want the hike to be. Some popular trails can feel more like theme parks than wilderness, with dozens of people snapping selfies at scenic viewpoints. If you’re hoping for solitude, you might want to skip the most hyped options and dig a little deeper into local recommendations or lesser-known tracks.
📸 Don’t Be Fooled by Instagram
It’s tempting to pick hikes based on photos you’ve seen online—but be careful. Instagram and TikTok often show the highlight reel without the context. A viewpoint might look stunning in a photo but could be hours of uphill grind in scorching heat to reach. Worse, some photos are taken from places that are off-trail or even dangerous to access.
If a hike has gone viral, expect crowds and possible damage to the environment. Always cross-check a trail’s reputation with real trip reports or official park websites. These sources will give you more balanced insight into what the trail is really like—and whether it’s worth it.
It’s totally fine to chase beautiful places (we all do), but make sure you’re doing it safely and respectfully. A great photo isn’t worth a ruined experience—or a rescue mission.
🧘 Trust Your Gut
Sometimes, the best decision isn’t the most logical one—it’s the one that feels right. Maybe you’re drawn to a certain type of landscape. Maybe you’re craving a challenge. Or maybe you just want something mellow that lets you clear your head. Let that instinct guide you.
If a hike feels wrong, even if you planned it, it’s okay to pivot. Turning back early isn’t a failure. In fact, it’s the mark of a smart hiker who knows their limits and respects the trail. There will always be other hikes. Choosing wisely means you’ll live to explore many more of them.
In the end, choosing the right hike is about more than just picking a trail—it’s about crafting an experience that fits your goals, abilities, and mood. With a little research, honesty, and flexibility, you can find paths that don’t just take you from A to B, but lead to lasting memories. So lace up your boots, check the map, and get ready to explore the outdoors on your own terms.