Top 5 Lord Howe Walks

One of the best ways to explore Lord Howe Island is traversing the many walking trails and hikes that the island has on offer. You can enjoy a guided tour or simply make your own way and take in the stunning view and picturesque landscapes at your own pace. The walks have classes to denote the level of difficulty from Class 1 (easy) to Class 6 (very difficult). Don’t forget to pack comfortable footwear, a windbreaker jacket and a water bottle.

We’ve put together our favourite Lord Howe walks for you to try on your next Lord Howe Island holiday!

Central Section Trails: Clear Place / Valley of the Shadows (Class 2)

This is a 1.2km return easy, fairly level walk that starts at Middle beach, and continues around a large land slip, through palm forest and out to The Clear Place. A short diversion just before The Clear Place takes you down to the Valley of the Shadows.

Southern Section Trails:  Mt Gower Trek (Class 5)

Standing tall at 875 metres, Mt Gower is Lord Howe’s highest mountain. Rated as one of Australia’s best day walks, the Mt Gower hike is a challenging eight hour return trek, complete with rope-assisted climbs and dizzying drops. Walkers traverse around 14 kilometres across the mountain’s rugged terrain, encountering some of the island’s rarest plants and wildlife along the way. Standing atop Gower’s iconic peak, amongst its misty forest inhabited by the island’s famous Woodhens, walkers experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the island and its crystal blue waters.

Southern Section Trails:  Goat House Cave (Class 4)

Starting from Lagoon Road, the 2.1 km one way, difficult track leads initially up Smoking Tree Ridge & then continues up to the Goat House Cave. The track up to the Goat House Cave is very steep, & is a demanding climb. The track is narrow and is interspersed with tree roots & rocks. There are sections of trail where ropes are used to assist the climbers.

Northern Section Trails: Max Nichols Memorial Track to North Bay (Class 3)

This 1.5 km one way, moderate walk commences at the picnic area at Old Settlement beach. The track crosses a cleared paddock & then winds its way up to the top of the ridge. The climb is demanding, but made easier by the steps. The track then descends steeply to the picnic area at North Bay.

Northern Section Trails: Malabar to Dawsons Point Ridge (Class 4)

This 1.5km walk commences at Ned’s Beach with a stop off at Pooles Lookout. Then, continues up to the summit of Malabar Hill, 208m above sea level. The climb up to Malabar Hill is moderate with some roots and rocks along the way. The Dawson Point Ridge track follows the cliff edge so caution is required, however you will be handsomely rewarded with fantastic views!

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