Seven Peaks Walk on Lord Howe Island

Experience the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island on the Seven Peaks Walk. The island paradise is regarded as one of Australia’s best walking destinations, from cliff-top walks to see its famous twin peaks and unique wildlife to the 2.8m-tall cloud forest and the world’s southernmost coral reef.

The Seven Peaks Walk is part of the Great Walks of Australia’s collection of premium guided walking tours and it operates out of waterfront resort Pinetrees Lodge. You’ll spend six nights at the lodge and five days hiking on the beautiful island, which is surrounded by an iridescent blue marine sanctuary.

You will be joined by professional guides as you explore what UNESCO says is a ‘significant natural habitat for the conservation of threatened species’ and an important breeding ground for seabirds. The small island group was created from volcanic activity on the ocean floor and shaped over 7 million years.

5 Day Itinerary

Below is the five-day itinerary for the Seven Peaks Walk, based on the Great Walks of Australia’s website. The Seven Peaks Walk is for experienced, fit hikers who enjoy a challenge by day, and some luxury by night. A few sections of the walk are off-track and require a steady head for heights.

All groups are led by former park ranger and mountain guide Dean Hiscox, from Lord Howe Environmental Tours, and supported by former United Nations ecologist Luke Hanson, from Pinetrees Lodge. The maximum group size is 12 guests, with a guest to guide ratio of 6:1.

DAY 1: NORTH BAY

Start the day with a glass-bottom boat cruise to North Bay, then a climb of North Head and Mt Eliza. Depending on conditions, replace one climb with a trip to the Herring Pools from the Gulch, which is an amazing place, but only available on the low tide without swell. Walk over Dawson Point to Old Settlement Beach and back to Pinetrees along the Lagoon foreshore.

DAY 2: MALABAR

Climb to Kims Lookout and traverse the ridge between Kims and Malabar (two peaks). Descend the south ridge of Malabar to Neds Beach and have a swim or feed the fish. Then walk to Middle Beach and climb Transit Hill before returning to Pinetrees. This is a moderate trail with steps and rough ground. It offers spectacular views of the island.

DAY 3: EAST COAST

Head to Mutton Bird Point and Rocky Run and climb to Goathouse on Mt Lidgbird – an optional walk which is steep, uses ropes and provides the most rewarding views of the island. Descend to Smoking Tree Ridge and climb Intermediate Hill to the new observation platform. Return to Pinetrees via Blinky Beach.

DAY 4: WATER DAY

Enjoy a snorkelling trip on the outer reef (or an offshore snorkel adventure to the Admiralty Islands) followed by a kayak trip on the Lagoon. All activities are optional today – you can choose your own adventure. ;

DAY 5: MT GOWER

This is the optional day for the advanced walker to climb Mt Gower at 867 metres (2844 feet). Stunning views await you and a chance to experience the Gnarled Mossy Cloud Forest and bird rookery at the summit of this extinct volcano. Variations of this day are offered depending on the group ability. If people aren't up to the summit of Gower, then there is the option of the Erskine Valley or an off-track adventure to some secret spots on Mt Lidgbird. All options take people along the Lower Road, which is one of the most spectacular 400 metre (1312 foot) walking tracks in Australia.