The top 10 kid friendly bushwalks near Darwin (2023)

Part of our "The Best Family Friendly Bushwalks for Aussie Kids" series, we're bringing you the "Top 10 kid friendly bushwalks near Darwin". 

All are within 90 minutes drive of Darwin, can be accessed without a 4WD and all are, in full or in part, family friendly. Make sure you research your walk before you leave, to ensure that you're selecting the section that is most appropriate for your child's age.

1. George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens - Distance varies. Shortest walk: 500m loop. This beautiful garden in the heart of Darwin offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to learn about plants and their uses. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch out for seasonal changes in the garden. 

2. Charles Darwin National Park - Distance varies. Shortest walk: 2km return. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to see native wildlife and plant species. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for uneven terrain. 

3. Leanyer Recreation Park - Distance varies. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to see local landmarks and wildlife. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch out for seasonal changes in the weather. 

4. Casuarina Coastal Reserve - Distance varies. This reserve offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to see local landmarks and wildlife. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch out for seasonal changes in the weather. 

5. East Point Reserve - Distance varies. Shortest walk: 1km loop. This reserve offers a variety of walking trails, as well as stunning views of Darwin and the surrounding area. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for uneven terrain. 

6. Litchfield National Park - Distance varies. Shortest walk: 500m return. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as stunning views of the surrounding area and opportunities to see wildlife and plant species. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for uneven terrain. 

7. Berry Springs Nature Park - Varies. Shortest walk: 300m loop. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to swim in natural pools and see wildlife and plant species. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for uneven terrain. 

8. Bicentennial Park - Varies. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to see local landmarks and wildlife. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch out for seasonal changes in the weather. 

9. Howard Springs Nature Park - Varies. Shortest walk: 400m return. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to swim in natural pools and see wildlife and plant species. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for uneven terrain. 

10. Territory Wildlife Park - Varies. This park offers a variety of walking trails, as well as opportunities to see a wide variety of animals. Helpful tip: Bring a map or use a trail guide to navigate the area, and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch out for seasonal changes in the park.

Note that these distances may vary depending on the specific trails chosen and any detours or extensions taken. It's always best to check with the park or trail website for more detailed information on the walks available.

We hope these bushwalks near Darwin give you and your family the chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the amazing views along the way and tag @minnowdesigns!