Bushwalking and hiking safety in parks

There are many short walks and overnight hikes that you can do in Northern Territory (NT) parks and reserves.

To help you stay safe, follow the tips below.

Before your walk

Only choose walks that suit your fitness level and ability. Check walking track grades.

Book your walking and camping sites before setting off.

Plan to walk during the cool of the day and stay safe in the heat.

Be aware of extreme cold in the Central Australia region. Temperatures can dip below zero during the winter months.

What to take

You should prepare and take all of the following with you when you go walking:

• plenty of water
• shady hat and sunscreen
• protective clothing and shoes
• enough food and extra water
• first-aid kit
• tropical strength insect repellent
• locator beacon, satellite phone or if you will have reception, a mobile phone
  • make sure your device is fully charged and carry a back-up power source
• printed map and compass on extended walks - use electronic devices as a back-up.

You should also:

• get the interactive park map app, Avenza Maps for free on your mobile phone and while you still have reception, you should:
  • update maps for the area
  • check the accuracy of your map data
• tell a responsible person where you are going and when you will be home - register if needed
• learn about permits for activities in parks and reserves.

Find out the best places to bushwalk or hike.

During your walk

You should:

• pay attention to safety signs and follow the directions of park staff or authorities
• stay on designated paths and marked or mapped roads – don’t head off track
• swim only where recommended - Be Crocwise in the Top End
• avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day - find out how to stay safe in the heat
• lock your vehicle and keep valuables in a safe place.

Walking overnight and camping

If walking overnight, only camp in marked areas and check if camping fees apply.

For cooking or heating along walking tracks, you should use gas stoves only.

Don't use soaps and detergent near waterways.

Read more about camping safety.

Other safety and rules

There are also rules you must follow to keep you and all park visitors safe, read about safety and rules in parks.