Our Favourite Winter Hikes In Australia and New Zealand

When winter rolls around down in the Southern Hemisphere, it's prime time to hit the trails. From Australia’s dry outback to New Zealand’s snow-capped peaks and coastal tracks, winter hiking brings cool air, less crowds, and some awesome scenery that you won’t have to fight the influencers to see.

Whether you’re a casual walker or a trail runner chasing elevation, these 10 trails are some of our favourite ways to embrace the winter chill.

A winter icon that spans 223 km through the West MacDonnell Ranges, the Larapinta Trail offers rugged ridgelines, gorges, and outback sunsets. With daytime temps in the low 20s, winter is the ideal time to tackle this red desert epic. Choose from multi-day sections or a rewarding day hike like Ormiston Gorge to Mount Giles Lookout.

Running 135 km along WA’s southwest coast, this trail between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin is perfect in winter. Get phone camera ready for some awesome Insta-worthy crashing surf, wildflowers, limestone cliffs, and a cool breeze while you enjoy the views. Walkers can break it into stages, while long-distance runners can throw on a pair of Moab Speed trail runners and enjoy the up-and-down terrain and nice ocean views.

Victoria’s newest addition to long-distance trails shines in winter. The cool air makes steep climbs easier, and the rugged sandstone slopes look pretty dramatic beneath cloudy skies. Those hiking during the day can hit up some famous local climbs at Mount Rosea or Mount Stapylton, while trail runners can piece together parts of the track for a scenic endurance challenge.

Never count out Tassie for some amazing winter wonderland hikes, and Cradle Mountain delivers a snowy alpine experience without being too extreme. The 6 km Dove Lake Circuit is ideal for walkers seeking iconic views with minimal risk, while more experienced hikers can brave Marion’s Lookout for panoramic views and a tougher climb.

Now that we’ve covered the land down under, let’s head out to the east and visit some of the best hiking tracks in NZ.

An absolute winter gem, this easy 10 km return walk leads to the base of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. Think swing bridges, glacier rivers, and unbeatable views – but make sure you throw on your insulated hiking jacket as it will get a little chilly. Snow-covered peaks will bring some drama to the hike without making the trail dangerous, the perfect trail for a brisk walk or a run that will invigorate the lungs.

This is a lengthy trail at 72 km, running through coastal forest and hilltop lookouts is milder in winter. Expect fewer hikers, stunning calm sounds, and crisp air. You can run it in sections or hike it over a few days, with boat transfers to help connect key points. Make sure to layer up with a our range of hiking tops and throw on a pair of hiking socks to keep your feet warm (you’ll need them on this long hike).

Famous for its 1,349 steps, this short but steep climb rewards you with sweeping views over the Waikato Basin, in the central North Island of NZ, south of Auckland and west of the Bay of Plenty. It’s a top winter training ground for runners or a nice challenge for walkers wanting a heart-pumping start to their morning.

Wellington’s rolling ridgelines offer an exposed but rewarding winter trail. This 12 km route takes hikers and trail runners along a high farmland and provides sweeping city, coast, and mountain views. A windy track that makes up for the strong breeze with some awesome scenery, the Skyline Walkway is great for trail running or a brisk hike with views for days.

Lace up, layer up with our bestselling hiking gear, and make the most of the season with a trail that suits your stride.

Check out our full range of new hiking gear and shoes online or head into your nearest Merrell store and try on our range of men’s and women’s hiking shoes for your perfect fit.