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Most people explore K’gari (Fraser Island) by joining a 4WD tour, but for my first trip, I wanted something different. After having K’gari on my bucket list for more than five years, I chose to hike instead of drive – and it turned out to be one of my most special travel experiences in Australia. Hiking K’gari gave me the chance to enjoy the rainforest, crystal-clear lakes, and sweeping sand blows without the crowds. If you’re considering a Fraser Island hiking adventure, here’s my itinerary, tips, and what you should pack.
Why choose Fraser Island hiking?
Hiking K’gari isn’t the easiest way to see the island, but it is by far the most peaceful. You’ll experience some of the most iconic spots – like Lake McKenzie and Lake Wabby – without the crowds, and you’ll feel the wilderness of the island in a way that’s impossible from a car window.
If you’re not into driving or just want a slower pace, I can’t recommend Fraser Island hiking enough. It was my first trip to K’gari, and even though I’ve returned for 4WD and sailing adventures since, hiking remains one of my most special memories here.
Fraser Island hiking options
K’gari has a 90km Great Walk that takes about a week to complete. It’s a challenging hike through remote areas, perfect if you’re experienced and have the time.
We didn’t have that much time (or overnight hiking experience back then), so we chose a shorter option: a three-day hike from the west to the east coast. We saw Lake McKenzie, Lake Wabby, and the rainforest before joining a 4WD tour on day three to see more highlights of the island, including a scenic flight.
Whatever itinerary you choose, always check the conditions report before setting off, and make sure you have the right permits and gear.
If you don’t want the pressure of organising your hike or prefer not to carry a heavy backpack, you can book a tour like this one or these ones.
Here’s a summary of all the walking tracks on K’gari.
Our Fraser Island hiking itinerary
Day 1: Wanggoolba Creek to Lake McKenzie (14 km)
We boarded the ferry from Hervey Bay with our backpacks packed for three days. Hiking on sand was easier than expected – the forest floor was firm, and we felt wonderfully isolated. We didn’t meet a single person until we reached the Lake McKenzie hikers’ camp in the afternoon.
Lake McKenzie is usually packed with day-trippers, but after 4 pm it empties out. Having one of the most famous spots on K’gari all to ourselves was pure magic. The water was chilly in August, but a swim and a sand scrub felt amazing after a long walk.
At night, the forest came alive with sounds – a reminder of just how wild K’gari really is.
Responsible travel tip: Never apply sunscreen just before swimming in the lakes. It pollutes the water. Wear a long-sleeve shirt for sun protection, or apply reef-safe sunscreen well in advance.
Day 2: Lake McKenzie – Central Station – Lake Wabby (23 km)
On the second day, we took the longer track via Central Station and Lake Birrabeen, which added time (4.5 hrs walk in total) but was worth it. The rainforest here is incredible – dense, lush, and almost unbelievable considering it grows on sand.
By late afternoon we reached Lake Wabby hikers’ camp, perched near a lookout over the sand blow and lake. A quick swim at Lake Wabby was the perfect way to end a tough but rewarding day. It was very different from Lake McKenzie, as Lake Wabby has a striking green colour from the tea trees that soak into it.
Day 3: Lake Wabby to 75 Mile Beach and 4WD tour
We woke up early to reach the east coast in time for pickup. Watching the sunrise over the sand blow near Lake Wabby was unforgettable. We spotted fresh dingo tracks but no dingoes themselves.
Once on 75 Mile Beach, our 4WD guide from Drop Bear Adventures picked us up – and within minutes we were watching whales offshore. After a big breakfast with the group (which felt amazing after hiking on dehydrated food), we spent the day exploring K’gari’s highlights by 4WD:
- Maheno Wreck – hauntingly beautiful against the sand.
- Scenic flight – included in our package, and the aerial views of K’gari and even a whale made it one of the best surprises of the trip.
- Eli Creek – floating down the freshwater creek is pure fun (bring floaties if you can!).
- Champagne Pools – the only safe place to swim in the ocean on K’gari’s east coast.
- Indian Head – the best views of the trip, with turtles, rays, and dolphins visible below.
Day 4: Exploring again with the group
Although our hike had finished, we stayed one more day with the tour group. Visiting some of the same spots with a guide gave me a new perspective – hearing the history, spotting wildlife, and seeing the island through local eyes.
When we finally left on the ferry back to Hervey Bay, I knew I’d be back soon – and I have, several times since.
Must-have gear for Fraser Island hiking
Even if you only hike for a couple of days, you’ll need to be well prepared. Here are my essentials:
- Food & stove – lightweight meals are fine, but a hot meal at night is worth it. Want something easy? Continental Soup Sensations are delicious! Bring food that won’t create too much rubbish.
- Map & topographic guide – trails are marked but don’t rely only on tourist maps.
- Hiking shoes – supportive and protective (I twisted my ankle once and good shoes saved me).
- Light hiking tent – waterproof and easy to carry.
- Sleeping bag – nights can be cold in winter (it went down to 7°C during our hike)
- Headlamp – practical and essential at camp.
- Water bottles & filter – we found creeks and water at camps, but the water needed to be treated before drinking.
Did you hike on K’gari? Share your experience in the comments below!
Where is K’gari?
K’gari is Queensland’s largest island and the world’s largest sand island. You can reach it by ferry from Hervey Bay (3h30 drive from Brisbane) or Rainbow Beach (2h45 drive from Brisbane).
If you’re not hiking, you’ll need a 4WD and permits to drive on the island. Check my 4WD itineraries for more details.
