When the ban on climbing Uluru finally came into force in October 2019, visitors had no choice but to discover it’s best to walk round the Northern Territory’s great monolith anyway. But for those who have an unquenchable urge to climb things in Australia, the country still has plenty of excellent options.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Iconic coathanger experience
Where? Sydney, New South Wales
The BridgeClimb has been going since 1998, and the appeal of donning astonishingly unflattering grey jumpsuits then walking along the arch of the coathanger has still not worn off. But climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is considerably less scary than many imagine – most of it’s a walk rather than clambering up steps.
There’s very little looking down involved. The Sydney Harbour views from the top, however, are arguably more stunning than anyone’s expecting.
Bridgeclimb tickets need to be booked in advance.
Adelaide Oval roof climb: Sports stadium adventure
Where? Adelaide, South Australia
The curving, scallop-esque roof of the Adelaide Oval can now be clambered all over too on the Roofclimb. A clip-on rail system has been put in place, so would-be conquistadors can safely latch their harnesses on.
The highlight comes in the seats perched right on the edge of the Riverbank Stand. Do a special in-game climb and you can watch a quarter of Aussie Rules or a few overs of Twenty20 cricket from an unsurpassable position.
Roofclimb tickets also need to be booked in advance.
SkyPoint climb: Australia’s highest building adventure
Where? Gold Coast, Queensland
If sheer height rather than iconography is your thing, then Australia’s highest outdoor building climb takes place at the Gold Coast’s Q1 tower. From the Observation Deck, it’s another 298 stairs to the building summit of the SkyPoint climb.
There, from 270 metres above sea level, you’re treated to sweeping beachy views up and down the Gold Coast.
Mount Augustus: Australia’s largest monolith
Where? Outback Western Australia
Uluru isn’t Australia’s biggest monolith – Mount Augustus, rising 717m above the arid red shrubland, is much bigger. The climb to the summit is for experienced bushwalkers only.
The paths are often very rough, very steep and unmarked. Trails WA recommends 12 hours to be set aside for the return trip.
Mount Augustus is in the middle of nowhere, over 1,000km from Perth.
Mount Kosciuszko: Australia’s highest peak
Where? New South Wales
The highest mountain in Australia is a tiddler by global standards – it’s 2,228m above sea level. But if you want to go high in Oz, the climb from the ski village of Thredbo is the ultimate.
Well, we say climb, but it’s more of a walk. It’s a 13km round trip from the top station of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift.
The gradient rarely gets anything near taxing. Much of the route is along specially installed metal walkways designed to minimise erosion.
Cradle Mountain: Tasmania’s most scenic climb
Where? Tasmania
It’s not as high as Kosciuszko, but the route to the top of Cradle Mountain is arguably prettier and more satisfying. At 1,545 metres above sea level, the summit is reached via a 13km, seven-hour round trip.
On the way, there’s a bit of rock scrambling. But the views out over the dazzling blue lakes and lush green landscape make it worth it.
Kangaroo Point cliffs: Brisbane’s urban rock climbing
Where? Brisbane, Queensland
Kangaroo Point on the Brisbane River has become something of an adventure centre. Kayak rentals and tours are available there too.
But the cliffs, quarried out by convicts in the 19th century, are where most of the action is. There are enough bumps and footholds to make it a perfect training ground for rock climbers and abseilers.
The Riverlife Adventure Centre offers lessons for anyone fancying a go at rock climbing or abseiling.
Mount Arapiles: Victoria’s classic rock climbing destination
Where? The Grampians, Victoria
If it’s rock climbing you’re after, though, Mount Arapiles is the classic Aussie spot for it. Arapiles is by no means a giant – it sticks out about 140 metres above the Wimmera plain.
But it is steep and craggy, making for a delicious menu of climbing routes to tackle. However, there’s controversy in the air.
Several climbing routes in the nearby Grampians have recently been closed due to concerns over destruction of cultural heritage. Mount Arapiles is due to undergo similar assessment. However, for now, you can tackle it on a guided climbing adventure.
Ubirr: Northern Territory’s cultural and natural climb
Where? Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
At the lower levels, Ubirr is known for its rare black wallabies and rock art carved into caves and overhangs. But keep going to the top of this giant rocky outcrop.
The reward is one of the greatest views in Australia. In front of you spreads the lush, green floodplain of the East Alligator River.
And, on the other side of it, the imposing sandstone escarpment of Arnhem Land. This Kakadu National Park experience combines cultural significance with natural beauty.
If you’re short on time, day tours from Darwin can take you to the top of Ubirr.
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