Snakes on the Trail – What Hikers Need to Know

If you spend enough time hiking in Australia, you’ll eventually meet a snake. For some, it’s a heart-stopping moment; for others, just part of bushwalking life. I’ve had plenty of encounters over the years, but one that sticks with me was on the Six Foot Track: a large brown snake slid onto the path near Bowtells Bridge and, unnervingly, followed us for a short stretch down the trail. It was terrifying in the moment, but the reality is that the snake wasn’t interested in us at all. With a few firm thumps of our “Gandalf staffs” on the ground, it moved on.

That’s often the way with snakes - they’re not looking for trouble, and most encounters end without incident. Still, knowing what to do can turn a frightening moment into just another story for the campfire.

This sign is about 1km from my front door...There have been sightings in our neighbours gardens...

Why Snakes Appear on Trails

• Warmth: Trails heat up in the sun, making them a favourite spot for basking.

• Ease of movement: It’s easier for snakes to slither along an open track than push through dense bush.

• Water: Many tracks cross creeks and rivers - prime habitat for both snakes and their prey.

  
  

  

  Brown snake @ Taronga Zoo. Nasty.

Staying Safe

• Make noise: Most snakes will move off if they hear you coming. Walking sticks, trekking poles, or simply talking loudly can help.

• Give space: If you see a snake, stop and let it move away. Never try to step over it.

• Watch your step: Especially near rocks, logs, and long grass.

• Stay calm: Sudden movements can provoke defensive behaviour.

What To Do If You See One

• Stop at least 2–3 metres away.

• Wait - most snakes will slither off on their own.

• If it doesn’t move, give it time or carefully retreat the way you came.

• Don’t try to photograph or provoke it - that’s when accidents happen.

  
  

  

  Came across this chap on a hike in Hornsby Heights. We like the red-bellies - they eat all the other nasties!

In the Rare Case of a Bite

• Call 000 immediately.

• Use the pressure immobilisation technique: apply a firm bandage over the bite site and wrap the entire limb. Keep the person still. USOS hikes will include leaders who are in remote first aid and know how to complete this process.

• Do not wash the bite (venom traces help identify the snake).

• Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake.

Snakes are part of the Australian bush experience. They add a little fear, but also a reminder that we’re visitors in their world. With knowledge and calm, most encounters become stories - not emergencies.

Seen out on a bushwalk near Byron Bay

Things to Know Before You Go

• Snake season: Spring and summer are the most active times.

• Gear: A walking (Gandalf!) stick doubles as reassurance and a ground-thumper.

• Awareness: Keep an eye on the trail ahead, especially in warm weather.

• Perspective: Statistically, snakebite deaths in Australia are very rare - far less likely than an injury from a fall.