News

Canberra walks – five of the best

There’s no better way to get to know your new home than on foot. Canberra is known as the Bush Capital, famous for its nature reserves, mountain ranges, botanical gardens and scenic walking trails that cater to all fitness levels.

We’ve compiled a list of our five favourite nature walks within the area to get you started on your adventure. Get your walking shoes ready!

1. Booroomba Rocks

Located in Namadgi National Park, Booroomba Rocks has some of the best views of Canberra. You’ll be walking through tall forests with granite cliffs overhead. There are two different trails, a 2.5-kilometre trail that starts at the Booroomba Rocks car park, or a 11.5-kilometre return trip that begins off the Honeysuckle Creek Campground. 

2. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve 

This nature reserve is just a 45-minute drive from the CBD and home to 22 marked trails that range from a quick 15-minute walk to full-day hike. The longest and most rewarding walk is the Gibraltar Peak Trail which spans 8.2 kilometres. If you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll, you can opt for the quick Hanging Rock Trail, where you will see a massive boulder seemingly suspended mid-air.

3. One Tree Hill Lookout 

Part of the 145-kilometre Canberra Centenary Trail, this 8.4-kilometre walk is one of Canberra’s most heavily used trails. It has gorgeous rural views, panoramic landscapes and wildlife. To access the trail, travel to the corner of Hall Street and Hoskins Street in the North side suburb of Hall.

4. Mount Ainslie Summit Trail 

Mount Ainslie is one of Canberra’s most iconic views. The 4.5-kilometre walk along a paved path is a test of fitness but the sweeping views at the top are worth the challenging climb! Enjoy the 360 views at the peak of Brindabella mountains, the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, and surrounding suburbs. You may even be lucky enough to spot kangaroos on your way down!

5. Black Mountain Nature Reserve

Of all Canberra’s nature parks, Black Mountain is the most diverse. You can encounter 100 species of birds, 500 species of plants and as many as 5000 species of insects. Some trails to consider are the Black Mountain Forest Track (3.5-kilometre return), the Bushland Nature Walk (2.2-kilometre return), or the Black Mountain Summit Trail (3.5-kilometre).

Safety first!

When it’s time to get out in the great outdoors, it’s important to do it safely. Before you set off on a walk, pack plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen (even if it’s cloudy!), snacks and comfortable shoes. Read up on the walks and track conditions before you set out and choose a walk that’s a good match for your fitness level and experience. The Parks ACT website is a great source of information on what to do before you go.

Image credit: VisitCanberra