Lace up the hiking boots and let nature do a power of good

Bushwalking is a cheap restorative for mental and physical health. Photo: AAP

Australians wanting to reconnect with nature and escape the daily grind over the Easter weekend might just take a hike.

Brent McKean, editor of Great Walks, says bushwalking is perfect for people seeking a rejuvenating and healthy outdoor experience.

“Bushwalking offers numerous benefits for both mental and physical health,” McKean told The New Daily.

He recently returned from a three-day walk, where he enjoyed being disconnected from technology, and said: “When you go to places where there isn’t wi-fi connection, you’re forced to be in the moment and appreciate what’s around.”

According to experts, a digital detox can improve mental wellbeing while the physical exercise is excellent for heart health and overall fitness.

Australia has stunning scenery within easy reach of the capital cities. Photo: iStock

New research from UNSW Sydney found that nature “prescriptions” have been shown to reduce blood pressure, and lower depression and anxiety.

“The evidence shows that nature prescriptions can help to restore and build capacities for better physical and mental health,” said lead researcher, Professor Xiaoqi Feng from UNSW Medicine and Health.

“What we need now is to work out how to make nature prescriptions happen in a sustained way for those people with high potential to benefit, but who currently spend little time in nature.”

Darren Edwards from Trail Hiking Australia is a passionate advocate for the beneficial effects of being in nature.

Bushwalking and immersing oneself in nature can be a remarkable remedy for people who suffer from anxiety and depression, he told TND.

It was important to “conserve and protect our wild places” to give back to nature, he said.

He warned of the dangers posed by high-yield ecotourism, where large numbers of people seek novel and pampered eco-experiences in remote wilderness locations.

“These inappropriate developments in our precious and wild places not only put our natural environment at risk, they also jeopardise the significant mental health and emotional wellbeing benefits that nature provides us,” Mr Edwards said.

He said people need to remember that immersing oneself in nature should be a mutually beneficial experience.

“Once we start taking, the values are gone forever.”

Outdoors advocate from Lotsafreshair.com Caro Ryan said bushwalkers should be careful to minimise their environmental impact.

She told TND there are different schools of thought about accessing wild places.

She said some argue that wilderness areas should be left undisturbed, while others advocate for open access.

Ms Ryan said there was the need for balance between the two, acknowledging the role of First Nations people in caring for the land and ensuring its preservation.

Top bushwalking tracks

McKean encouraged people to overcome any fears they may have about venturing into the outdoors: “With a bit of knowledge, common sense and research, you can get out there.”

He recommended starting with a walk in a nearby state park and gradually working up to more challenging tracks as confidence grows.

For those looking to explore some of Australia’s best bushwalking destinations, hiking app AllTrails provided TND with its top three tracks in each state.

Victoria

1. Werribee Gorge circuit walk – Werribee Gorge State Park – moderate, 7.6km
2. Lerderderg Gorge circuit – Lerderderg State Park – hard, 8km
3. Halls Gap to the Pinnacle loop – Grampians National Park
   – moderate, 8.5km.

South Australia

1. Mount Lofty summit via Waterfall Gully – Cleland National Park
   – moderate, 8km
2. Belair Waterfall hike circuit – Belair National Park – moderate, 6.4km
3. Deep View lookout hike – Morialta Conservation Park – easy, 1.6km

Western Australia

1. Rocky Pool walk – Kalamunda National Park – moderate, 4.8km
2. Bluff Knoll summit trail – Stirling Range National Park – hard, 6.3km
3. Zamia Trail – Bold Park – easy, 5km.

Northern Territory

1. Uluru base walk – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
   – easy, 10.9km
2. Kings Canyon Rim and creek walks via Cotterills Lookout Watarrka National Park – Moderate, 7.4km
3. Valley of the Winds, full circuit – Kata Tjuta trail to Karingana Lookout – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – moderate, 7.4km.

Queensland

1. Twin Falls circuit – Springbrook National Park – easy, 4.3km
2. Mount Ngungun summit track – Glass House Mountains National Park – moderate, 2.4km
3. Warrie circuit walk – Springbrook National Park – hard, 12.7km.

New South Wales

1. Grand Canyon track – Blue Mountains National Park – moderate, 5.5km
2. Spit Bridge to Manly walk – Sydney Harbour National Park – moderate, 10.5km
3. Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach walk – Sydney – easy, 12.1km.

Australian Capital Territory

1. Mount Ainslie – Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve – moderate, 4.2km
2. Bridge to Bridge loop – Kings Park – easy, 5km
3. Molonglo Gorge trail – Molonglo Gorge Nature Reserve – moderate, 6.4km.

Tasmania

1. Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach – Freycinet National Park –hard, 11.6km
2. Dove Lake circuit – Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – moderate, 6.1km
3. Cape Hauy walking track – Tasman National Park – moderate, 10.1km.

Etiquette tips

With hikers setting out for bush tracks in big numbers this weekend, Pitt Grewe, head of AllTrails’ public lands partnerships, shared his top etiquette tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

• Say hello: Always call out when approaching someone to avoid startling them. Say a quick hello and offer encouragement like “you’re almost there”
• Know the rules: Generally, downhill hikers step aside for ascending walkers. Follow your country’s road rules and stick to the driver’s side. Let speedy solo hikers pass and inform them about your group’s size
• Stay on the path: Venturing off the track is a safety risk and damages the environment. Follow established paths. Download your route and print a backup copy
• Choose sensible spots: Pause for a break or selfie, but don’t block the path with chairs or picnics. This forces others off the track, risking their safety
• Use tech responsibly: Use a mobile phone for safety and convenience, but don’t interfere with others’ experiences. Use headphones and keep the volume low to stay aware of your surroundings
• Pack it in, pack it out: Take all waste and belongings with you. Leave the track better than you found it by picking up litter and being courteous
• Research ahead: Study track conditions, distance, weather and wildlife to be prepared. Use AllTrails‘ user reviews and photos for information
• Prepare for the unexpected: Bring extra layers, snacks and water (500ml per hour of hiking). Include first-aid supplies, sunscreen and a hat. Consider electrolyte drinks in warm temperatures
• Safety first: Share your route and expected finish time with someone if hiking alone. Update them if plans change
• Know your limits: Be self-aware and don’t overestimate your abilities. Tell friends if they’re being reckless and prioritise safety.