The allure of bushwalking, as depicted on social media, is a double-edged sword. It can inspire and motivate, but it also has the potential to mislead and endanger hikers.
Imagine the scene: Zac Major, a seasoned bushwalking guide, returns from a grueling six-day hike through Tasmania's Overland Track, exhausted and cold. As he scrolls through social media, he stumbles upon a post from a fellow hiker, describing the trip as "amazing" despite the brutal conditions. This post is a prime example of how social media can paint an unrealistic picture of the hiking experience.
"We were up to our knees in mud, crossing flooded rivers, and braving freezing temperatures and strong winds," Zac recalls. "It was far from a walk in the park."
Unfortunately, such misconceptions can have dire consequences. Last week, the body of a bushwalker was found near Federation Park in southwest Tasmania, marking the third tragic death in just two months. This raises concerns about whether social media is contributing to a false sense of security among hikers.
But here's where it gets controversial: can social media be held responsible for the increasing number of rescues? Josh Hamill, a content creator focused on bushwalking safety, believes so. He has noticed a disturbing trend online, where poor decision-making is glorified as "epic" moments worthy of viral sharing.
"The 'rawdogging' trend, where hikers with zero experience and no planning attempt challenging hikes, is a recipe for disaster," Josh warns. "It's a dangerous combination that often leads to mistakes and, sadly, can result in serious injuries or even fatalities."
Neil Lynch, managing director of the Tasmanian Walking Company, which guides around 700 walks annually, agrees. He has witnessed firsthand how the weather can catch hikers off guard, leading to incidents where his guides had to assist unprepared hikers on the trail.
Darren Edwards, founder of Trail Hiking Australia, adds that social media often masks the true challenges of hiking. "It's all about the beautiful images and the allure of the hike, but it rarely shows the struggles, difficulties, and harsh weather conditions hikers face," he explains. "This can create an illusion of simplicity, luring hikers into taking on walks beyond their comfort zone."
Mr. Edwards points out that, thanks to the abundance of hiking content online, finding difficult hikes is easier than ever. "Before the internet, finding challenging walks required extensive research through guidebooks or bushwalking clubs. Now, with a few clicks, you can access a wealth of information, but it's crucial to go beyond social media and do thorough planning."
Gail Campbell, who had been planning to walk the Overland Track for over a year, knows the disappointment of having to cancel a hike due to bad weather. "It was a tough decision, but continuing would have endangered others," she says. "Social media can be a source of support in such moments, providing a platform to share experiences and receive encouragement."
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) acknowledges the role of social media in promoting the state's pristine environment but emphasizes the importance of thorough research. "While social media increases awareness, PWS recommends individuals conduct comprehensive research and not rely solely on online sources," a spokesperson advises. "Know your skills, choose walks that match your capabilities, and always be prepared to adapt your plans."
Even experienced bushwalkers can encounter unforeseen difficulties in Tasmania's rapidly changing weather. In the 2024-25 financial year, there were 369 land-based search and rescue incidents, many involving well-prepared hikers who faced unexpected challenges.
So, while social media can inspire and connect hikers, it's crucial to remember that it doesn't always show the full picture. Always be prepared, plan thoroughly, and don't let the allure of an "epic" moment cloud your judgment. What are your thoughts on this? Do you think social media is to blame for poor hiking decisions, or is it a valuable tool for inspiration and connection?
