Whether you call it hiking, backpacking, tramping or just walking, exploring some of Queensland's natural landscapes is a must do experience. So often, when we visit foreign lands, we see glimpses through the window of a bus or train, of areas that call-out to be explored.

Australia offers so many opportunities to walk amongst its forests, whether it's in the tropics, on sand islands or through the more mountainous areas. And Queensland has a series of walks, which would suit the most intrepid explorer or anyone who is interested in taking a leisurely stroll through one of the world's most stunning landscapes.

When I was younger, one of my most memorable experiences was to spend the weekend with my parents, camping and hiking through ravines and negotiating paths around steep moss-covered cliffs surrounding waterfalls. The smell of the forest and the sounds of the Eastern Whipbirds, a wallaby thumping the ground as it bounds away, the creeks gurgling their way around rocks, are memories that I always treasure.

Hiking is walking afterall, one of the most sustainable forms of transport. It offers an opportunity to be part of an environment, to use all your senses, and naturally enough, keep fit at the same time. Hiking in Queensland is sure to leave you with memories you would otherwise not have if you flew overhead or sat in a seat on a regional bus. My advice -- get out there and experience something that you will never forget.

Following are some walks I'd recommend doing in Queensland.

Wet Tropics

Walking here will take you through the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The walk can be completed as one, or as a series of smaller walks, even down to just a day's stroll.

Where in the world is it? Click the map. For a more detailed map click on the further information link.

Total Walk Distance: 110km (68 miles)

Climate: Tropical, with a distinct wet and dry season. Wet Season - November to April

Getting There: Closest international Airport is Cairns.

Details on the walk and further Information

Nearby walks - Hinchinbrook Island.

Whitsunday

Another tropical walk with various tracks through the Conway Ranges. Some of the highlights are the opportunity to see the Ulysses Butterfly and the Wompoo Fruit Doves.

Where in the world is it? Click the map.

Total Walk Distance: 30km (19 miles)

Climate:Well defined dry season during winter, which can cause the track to be closed. During the wet season the track is closed from Feb-March. Best time to go is April-September.

Getting There: International Airport - Cairns. Nearest airport - Whitsunday Coast and Hamilton Island.

Track notes and further information.

Mackay Highlands

Another series of tracks, which can be completed in sections or as a whole. An opportunity experience higher tropical country with views of the ranges. Reported to be one of the most reliable regions to spot the elusive Platypus. The track starts almost an hours drive west of Mackay, although some tours can be arranged. Click here for further information and places to stay.

Where in the world is it? Click the map.

Total Walk Distance: 56km (35 miles)

Climate:Similar to Hawaii. Sub-tropical, but cooler in the surrounding mountains. Best time to walk is April-September.

Getting There: Nearest international airport - Cairns. Nearest domestic airport - Whitsunday Coast. From the airport it is approximately 130km south to Mackay by bus. Click here for more information.

Track notes and further information.

Fraser Island

The world's largest sand island and location of the most pure breed of Australian Dingo. This island also contains the world's highest perched freshwater lakes, examples of huge sand blows and tropical rainforests. It was also the training area for Australia's WW2 special forces before embarking on special missions in South East Asia.

Where in the world is it? Click the map.

Total Walk Distance: 90 km (56 miles)

Climate:sub-tropical - click here for more.

Getting There: Nearest International Airport - Brisbane. Nearest domestic airport - Hervey Bay

Further information and track notes. (Note: Please take time to read all advice regarding being safe around Dingoes - also for their long-term safety and survival).

Further information.