Can you actually go hiking without leaving the convenience of the city? We tried out urban hiking – and you might just love it too.

There are few things I love more than getting lost on a long hike, metaphorically but sometimes also literally. But living in Sydney, it’s not always practical to get into the bush for a day of remote trekking. What’s a keen outdoors gal to do when she can’t get to the country? Enter urban hiking.

 

Time to take on these kinds of trails | @theaccidentalaustralian

 

Yes, it sounds a little buzzwordy, but this is actually an easy way for city dwellers to get a solid hike in, all without losing sight of the city skyline. I recently sold my car and have been drawn to the idea of urban hiking as a convenient way to plan a walk with friends for a catchup that’s free, easy, and close to home.

Urban hiking is just what it says on the tin – hiking in urban city areas, rather than through pristine parkland or countryside areas.

If the mountains are calling your name, but reality is keeping you in the city, here’s everything you need to know about urban hiking.

Read more: How To Live an Outdoorsy Life in The City

Isn’t urban hiking just…walking?

I imagine what you’re thinking, but urban hiking and walking are actually slightly different entities. Whether you’re immersed in the beauty of Yosemite or trekking through the busy streets of Sydney, hiking is an intentional journey. When you’re urban hiking, you follow a set route with a designated start and end point, just as you would on any other hike.

 

Sometimes my trailhead looks at the Harbour Bridge! | @theaccidentalaustralian

 

Although speed and intensity are completely up to the individual, urban hiking is often more vigorous than walking and may involve elevation gains, uneven terrain, or more challenging routes covering longer distances.

Pros and Cons of Urban Hiking

Urban hiking offers a practical way to work up a sweat and get movement each day, without the time or effort required to trek to a national park or remote area. While I’d love to take on a hike in the Blue Mountains each weekend, it’s not always possible. With urban hiking, I have an easily accessible way to spend time outside and boost my daily step count.

It’s also an awesome way to explore your city, whether you’re a tourist visiting for a few days or a local seeking a new side of your hometown. When I visit a new city, my absolute favourite way to explore is by foot, offering a perspective you just can’t get from a tour bus or public transport.

Read more: In a New City? Go Running!

 

Can always count on Sydney to give you some elevation | @theaccidentalaustralian

 

Just as you would on a traditional hike, take in the sights and sounds of the city as you urban hike. While you may not encounter wildlife or mountains, the cityscapes, sounds, and energy of the city can still add a fun element to your adventure, giving you plenty to contemplate on a long (or short) trek.

Urban hiking isn’t without its downsides though. For most of us, city environments don’t provide the serenity, fresh air, or solitude that we crave from the bush. And from a practical perspective, there’s always the risks you find when spending time outside in any city, such as poor air quality, rogue cyclists, crowds, or an off-leash dog.

 

Cities definitely have a distinct lack of greenery compared to the bush

 

While urban hiking will never replace traditional hiking, it’s a practical substitute. The benefits of daily physical activity are countless, and are sometimes missed by those of us with busy jobs and limited time. So, if hiking in our cities gets you outside on your lunch break or for an after work trek, it’s something all of us urbanites could get behind.

Where can I go urban hiking?

If you’re ready to tackle urban hiking, the world really is your oyster. Hikes can be found just about anywhere you look, especially if you’re willing to get a bit creative.

Bushwalking and hiking navigation expert Caro Ryan tells me, ‘There are tracks, trails, paths, and staircases hidden in plain sight throughout our urban spaces. One of the best ways to find them is to dive into user-generated OpenStreetMap, either online or as a map layer within most navigation apps’.

While it’s lots of fun to explore and forge your own path, there are also many existing urban trails in our cities. One of the best known is New York City’s High Line, a former elevated train line now converted into a gorgeous park and walking path above the city, 2.3km in distance.​​ Street art and native plant life transform the space into a delightful short walk, bookended by the distinct urban architecture of Hudson Yards and Chelsea Market.

 

The High Line is one of the most renowned eco-gentrification projects | @theaccidentalaustralian

 

On a recent trip to New York City, my mum and I took on the High Line and had a ball – time flies when you have so much to look at, with city views all around you. It’s a top urban hiking option for all ages. The flat path was easy for Mum to manage after a recent knee replacement, and she was thrilled to consider herself an urban hiker.

However, you don’t need to go overseas for an adventure, as Australia’s also rich in urban hiking opportunities. In Sydney, I love the Barangaroo Foreshore Walk, which you can connect with the Wulugul Walk for a 2.7km return hike, taking in harbour views. You can even tee it up with a swim at Marrinawi Cove, Brangaroo’s newest (and only) netted harbour pool, ideal for those sweltering Sydney days.

In Melbourne, you can take on all (or part) of the Capital City Trail, an impressive 29km loop. This paved shared path for walkers, runners, and cyclists winds through the city and some of Melbourne’s eastern and northern suburbs.

No matter what city you’re in, there are trails and paths waiting to be discovered.

 

Walking along the banks of Melbourne’s Yarra River | Visit Victoria

Do I need any special gear?

There’s pretty much nothing you’d need to buy for the express purpose of urban hiking. Plus, the convenience of being in a city environment means ample places to fill up your reusable water bottle or grab a snack.

 

Always some amenities nearby | @theaccidentalaustralian

 

If you’re already into hiking, the gear you own can easily be adapted to urban hiking. But if you’re just starting out, I suggest the following gear, depending on your climate and goals:

  • Comfortable hiking or athletic shoes
  • Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, depending on the climate
  • Lightweight backpack
  • Large but lightweight refillable drink bottle
  • Depending on the weather, lightweight waterproof layers that you can take on or off as needed
  • If you’re worried about navigation, consider downloading Google Maps, AllTrails, or OpenStreetMap before setting off. Google Maps has an ace option for public transport too, if you’re figuring out how to get back to your starting point after a one-way hike

If you’re intrigued, I encourage you to try out urban hiking for yourself! You just might love the fun and convenience of hiking in your own city.

Featured Event

Belangoloopy – Paddy Pallin Intro Rogain

  • Start Date: Jun 15, 2025
  • Venue: Belanglo State Forest

Come enjoy a classic 6 hour Paddy Pallin rogaine that is only a short drive from Sydney or Canberra! We’ll be using our navigation skills to explore stunning native forest. There will be plenty of route options for all ages,...

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Belangoloopy – Paddy Pallin Intro Rogain, NSW Rogaining

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