How to Find a Hiking Buddy in Australia (Safely and Quickly)

Australia has some of the most stunning walking trails in the world - from coastal cliff paths to eucalyptus forests, mountain climbs, waterfalls, and long bush tracks that feel like an escape from everyday life. But as breathtaking as these trails are, hiking alone can sometimes feel unsafe, intimidating, or simply less enjoyable.

Whether you’ve just moved, want to explore more of your state, or you’re getting back into hiking after a break, finding the right person to hike with makes the experience safer, calmer, and a lot more motivating.

The good news?
It doesn’t take a huge friend group or a big hiking club to get started - just one or two people with similar energy, pace, and enthusiasm for the outdoors.

This guide will help you find a reliable hiking buddy in Australia quickly, comfortably, and safely - without forcing yourself into big groups or overwhelming spaces.

Why Hiking Is Better - and Safer - With a Buddy

Australia’s outdoors are beautiful, but they’re also powerful. Weather changes quickly, trails vary widely in difficulty, and remote tracks can leave you without phone reception for long stretches. A hiking buddy matters for more than just company.

You’re safer together.

Emergency situations are rare, but they happen - twisted ankles, heat exhaustion, getting off-track, a snake sighting, or simply misjudging how far the trail goes.
Having someone with you makes the experience significantly safer.

It keeps you motivated.

It’s easier to commit when someone else is counting on you.

You learn more skills.

Navigation, pace-setting, reading trail markers, and understanding terrain are all easier when shared.

It feels less intimidating.

Starting a new hike or exploring a new city’s trails is much more enjoyable with a companion.

You build real connection.

Walking and talking naturally builds friendships - it’s one of the most comfortable environments for forming new bonds, especially if you’re trying to meet people with similar interests in Australia.

What Makes a “Good” Hiking Buddy? (Clues to Look For)

Not every friendly person will be the right fit for your hiking style. A great hiking buddy is someone who matches your energy, respects nature, and understands safety.

Here’s what to look for:

Similar fitness level

Not identical - just close enough so neither of you is pushing too hard or holding back.

Good communication

Someone who can say “Let’s slow down,” “This feels too steep,” or “Let’s rest” without awkwardness.

Preference for similar trail types

Some people love cliffside coastal walks, others prefer shaded forest tracks.
Matching helps avoid disappointment.

Reliability

A person who shows up on time, brings the right gear, and is prepared for the trail you agreed on.

Awareness of safety

This includes:

• checking weather

• carrying water

• knowing the route

• keeping phone battery charged

• understanding basic trail etiquette

Low-drama, low-pressure energy

You want someone who feels easy to talk to and easy to walk with - not someone who makes hiking feel like a competition.

When you find someone who ticks these boxes, hiking transforms from “something you want to get into” into “something you can’t wait to do each week.”

Where to Find a Hiking Buddy in Australia (Beginner to Advanced)

Finding a hiking partner is easier than people think - especially when you start small.

Here are practical, beginner-friendly places where Australians commonly find reliable hiking buddies:

1. Small-group social meetups

More and more Australians are choosing small, interest-based meetups over massive outdoor groups - especially young adults, beginners, and people who want low-pressure connection. From hiking to trekking to camping, people are indulging more in outdoor and adventure activities.

2. Outdoor stores and community boards

Stores like Kathmandu, Anaconda, or Paddy Pallin often have bulletin boards or community events. Their staff are usually outdoor lovers too.

3. Local fitness studios or outdoor bootcamps

A lot of these communities organise weekend hikes for members - and they tend to attract people with similar energy levels.

4. State bushwalking clubs

Each state has official bushwalking associations. They’re more structured and great for safety, though they can feel formal for beginners.

5. Facebook groups for your region

Search “[your city] hiking group” or “[your state] bushwalking beginners.” These groups are usually active, though group hikes can be large.

6. University outdoor clubs

If you’re under 30, international students and young professionals often join uni outdoor clubs even after graduating because of the beginner-friendly vibe.

7. Local council events

Many councils run guided walks, park activities, or nature programs that attract outdoorsy locals.

The goal isn’t to join them all - it’s to explore one or two spaces that feel natural for your personality.

Finding Someone Who Matches Your Pace & Hiking Style

Not all hikers are the same - and choosing the wrong match can quickly take the fun out of it.

Here are the most common hiking identities in Australia:

The Slow & Steady Hiker

Loves gentle trails, ocean views, shaded paths.
Perfect for relaxed connection.

The “Weekend Warrior”

Up early, looking for adventure, ready to sweat.

The Social Hiker

More into the conversations than the climb.
Often prefers 2-4 people vs. big groups.

The Sunrise/Sunset Hiker

They love the golden hours and shorter trails.

The “Let’s Try Something New” Hiker

Comfortable with new trails, new people, and new experiences.

When you’re clear about your style, you naturally attract hikers who feel like the right fit - and friendships form faster.

How to Stay Safe When Meeting a New Hiking Buddy

This is where most blogs fall short - they tell you where to meet hikers but not how to stay safe once you do.

Here’s what responsible hikers in Australia always do:

1. Meet in public first.

Grab coffee. Talk about:

• expectations

• trail difficulty

• start time

• pace

• weather

• gear

Meeting in-person and having a short 10-minute chat tells you everything you need to know.  

2. Start with easier trails.

Choose a beginner-friendly track for your first hike together - something short, local, well-marked, and safe.

3. Share your plan with someone.

Tell a friend, housemate, or partner where you're going.

4. Bring the essentials.

Water, snacks, sunscreen, a charged phone, and appropriate shoes.
Trails in Australia can surprise you - heat, sun exposure, uneven terrain.

5. Set clear boundaries early.

If you prefer slow pace, short walks, or certain times of day - say so.

6. Trust your instincts.

If the energy feels off, you don’t have to plan a second hike.

Safety isn’t about fear - it’s about removing uncertainty so the social part becomes easier and more enjoyable.

A Gentle, Actionable Plan for Meeting Someone to Hike With

You don’t need a 30-day challenge or a strict timeline.
A simple, gentle approach works best.

Here’s how to build momentum without pressure:

Step 1: Get clear on your hiking style.

Are you a coastal walker? A forest explorer? A casual sunset hiker? Or someone who prefers more adventurous trekking days? This helps you find the right match.

Step 2: Pick one place to show up consistently.

A hiking group, a small meetup, an outdoor store, or a local community event.
Familiarity creates connection.

Step 3: Say yes to short, low-commitment hikes first.

Start with 30-60 minute trails before jumping into full-day adventures.

Step 4: Notice who you naturally vibe with.

Comfort, communication style, energy - these matter more than experience.

Step 5: Build a small circle, not a huge group.

Two or three reliable hiking friends make the experience richer than joining a crowd of 50.

Step 6: Create a weekly or fortnightly walking ritual.

Connection grows from repetition, not intensity.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need a Big Group - Just the Right Person

Hiking becomes more meaningful when shared - not with dozens of strangers, but with one or two people who move at your pace, enjoy your conversation, and appreciate nature the way you do.

Whether you’re new to Australia, returning to hiking, or simply wanting to explore more of your city, the right hiking buddy can make every trail feel safer, calmer, and more enjoyable.

You don’t need to join every event, pretend to be experienced, or push yourself into big outdoor clubs.
You just need someone who hikes the way you do - gently, consistently, and with the same love for the outdoors.

And once you find that person, the trails start to feel like home.