If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or listening to friends rave about their latest weekend escapade, you’re probably wondering what the hottest outdoor pursuits are right now. The good news is that 2025 offers a fresh mix of classic staples and new‑age adventures that fit almost any fitness level, budget, or local landscape.

Why keeping up with activity trends matters

Trend‑savvy adventurers gain three real advantages. First, they tap into community momentum - groups form faster around fresh pursuits, making it easier to find buddies or organized events. Second, newer activities often bring smarter gear and safety guidelines, lowering the risk of injury. Third, catching a trend early can turn a hobby into a social badge; brag‑worthy photos and stories attract attention on social platforms, which can even lead to sponsorships or local tourism boosts.

How we picked this year’s biggest movers

Our shortlist blends three data points: Google search volume spikes, social‑media mention growth (especially on TikTok and Instagram Reels), and on‑the‑ground participation reports from Australian park services and outdoor clubs. We also weighed seasonality - October marks the start of the Australian spring, so activities that thrive in milder weather got a boost.

1. Hiking is a low‑impact, high‑reward outdoor activity that involves walking on marked trails, ranging from gentle park loops to rugged mountain passes.

Hiking remains a cornerstone because it requires minimal gear, works in virtually any location, and offers mental breaks from screen time. In 2025 the "micro‑trail" movement - short, scenic loops under 5 km - exploded, especially in city‑adjacent reserves like the Dandenong Ranges.

• Best for: All ages, beginners to seasoned trekkers.
• Typical cost: Free‑to‑$30 for park permits.
• Key gear: Sturdy boots, breathable layers, water bottle.

2. Trail running is a fast‑paced variation of hiking where participants jog on off‑road paths, blending endurance training with nature immersion.

Trail running surged after a series of viral “5‑minute trail sprint” challenges on TikTok. The sport appeals to runners craving variety beyond pavement. Melbourne’s Yarra Trail network now hosts weekly “Sunrise Strides” attracting over 500 participants each session.

• Best for: Intermediate runners, cardio enthusiasts.
• Typical cost: Free; occasional race entry fees ($20‑$100).
• Key gear: Trail shoes with grip, hydration vest, lightweight jacket.

3. Paddleboarding is a water‑based activity where a standing board, propelled by a paddle, glides across calm lakes, rivers, or coastal bays.

Stand‑up paddleboarding (SUP) has turned into a social fitness class in many Australian surf clubs. The rise of "sunset paddle" tours in Port Phillip Bay has made it a favorite for couples and groups looking for low‑impact cardio with a view.

• Best for: Balance seekers, water lovers.
• Typical cost: Board rental $25‑$40 per hour; own board $500‑$1,200.
• Key gear: Inflatable board, paddles, leash, sun protection.

4. Disc golf is a frisbee‑based sport where players aim discs into metal baskets placed on a course, similar to traditional golf’s format.

Disc golf courts have sprouted in municipal parks across Victoria, thanks to low installation costs and community‑driven maintenance. The annual “Melbourne Disc Invitational” drew over 3,000 participants in 2024, and its popularity shows no sign of slowing.

• Best for: Casual competitors, families.
• Typical cost: Free‑to‑$10 for a disc set.
• Key gear: Driver disc, putter disc, comfortable shoes.

5. Geocaching is a real‑world treasure hunt that uses GPS coordinates to locate hidden containers (caches) placed by other participants.

The activity blends tech curiosity with outdoor exploration. In 2025, the “Eco‑Cache” initiative encouraged users to leave biodegradable items, turning the hobby into an environmental clean‑up effort.

• Best for: Tech‑savvy families, explorers.
• Typical cost: Free app download; optional cache supplies $5‑$15.
• Key gear: Smartphone or GPS device, pen, small trinkets for trade.

6. Urban foraging is the practice of identifying and harvesting edible plants, mushrooms, or seaweed found in city environments.

Cooking classes that teach how to turn sidewalk dandelions into salads have become pop‑up staples at Melbourne’s night markets. Foragers must respect local regulations, but the trend promotes sustainable food sourcing and a deeper connection to the urban ecosystem.

• Best for: Food enthusiasts, sustainability advocates.
• Typical cost: Free‑to‑$20 for guidebooks.
• Key gear: Identification guide, gloves, reusable bag.

7. Night sky photography is an artistic pursuit that captures stars, constellations, and celestial events using long‑exposure camera techniques.

With the 2025 total solar eclipse on the horizon, photographers flocked to regional dark‑sky reserves for practice sessions. Portable star‑tracker mounts and smartphone‑compatible lenses have lowered the entry barrier, sparking a community of hobbyists sharing tips on Instagram’s #nightscape tag.

• Best for: Creative explorers, tech lovers.
• Typical cost: Camera $300‑$1,500; tripod $50‑$200.
• Key gear: DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide‑angle lens, tripod.

8. Bikepacking is a blend of cycling and lightweight camping where riders carry gear in frame‑mounted bags and travel multi‑day routes.

Bikepacking trails along the Great Ocean Road have become a staple for weekend warriors seeking coastal vistas without the hassle of a car. The trend emphasizes minimalist setups - a sleeping bag, compact stove, and a few spare clothes - allowing riders to cover 100‑150 km per day.

• Best for: Endurance cyclists, adventure seekers.
• Typical cost: Bike $1,000‑$3,500; bag set $150‑$400.
• Key gear: Touring bike, frame bags, water filter.

Quick comparison of the eight trends

How to decide which trend fits you

Start with three quick questions: How much time can you commit each week? What budget are you comfortable with for gear? Do you prefer solo exploration or group‑based events? Answering honestly will narrow the list dramatically. For example, if you have a modest budget and love social media sharing, disc golf and geocaching are low‑cost, highly shareable options.

Safety and etiquette basics

Every outdoor pursuit carries a safety checklist. Here are universal rules that apply across all eight trends:

1. Check the weather forecast and dress in layers.
2. Tell a friend or family member where you’ll be and your estimated return time.
3. Carry a basic first‑aid kit and a portable charger.
4. Respect local wildlife and stay on marked paths unless you’re trained for off‑trail navigation.
5. Leave no trace - pack out everything you bring in, and if you’re foraging, only take what you’ll use.

Gear checklist for the modern explorer

Below is a simplified packing list that covers the overlap between most of the highlighted activities. Adjust quantities based on the specific sport you choose.

• Backpack (20‑30 L) - fits water, snacks, and extra layers.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (≥2 L).
• All‑weather jacket (water‑resistant, breathable).
• Smartphone with offline maps + portable power bank.
• Multi‑tool or Swiss army knife.
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+.
• Activity‑specific gear (e.g., disc set, paddle, bike bags).

Where to find local groups and events

Melbourne’s vibrant outdoor scene means you’re never far from a meetup. Check these resources for up‑to‑date listings:

• Meetup.com - search for “trail running Melbourne” or “urban foraging”.
• Local council websites - many offer free maps for hiking and disc golf.
• Instagram hashtags - #MelbOutdoors, #VicPaddle, #GeocachingAU.
• Community notice boards at coffee shops and bike shops - often feature pop‑up night‑sky photography nights.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Even the most enthusiastic newcomer can hit a snag. Here are the top three mistakes and quick fixes:

• Overpacking. Carrying heavy gear drains energy. Stick to the essentials listed above.
• Ignoring local regulations. Some parks require permits for bikepacking; others ban foraging. Always verify before you go.
• Skipping warm‑up. A 5‑minute dynamic stretch reduces injury risk, especially for trail running and bikepacking.

Take the next step

Pick one activity that excites you, gather the basic gear, and schedule a short outing for the coming weekend. The more you experiment, the clearer your preferences become, and you’ll quickly spot the niche that feels just right.