Canberra, often called Australia’s “bush capital”, offers residents and visitors more than meets the eye. Sure, there’s the allure of national monuments and cultural attractions, but there’s also a wealth of options for those seeking the best trails, hikes, and nature walks. This article will guide you through some of Canberra’s best trails and hikes to satisfy your wanderlust. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and get ready to experience the best trails, hikes, and nature walks in Canberra.

Table of Contents: Best Trails

• Embracing the Outdoors In and Around Canberra
• Tidbinbilla: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
  • Cascade Trail
• Namadgi: A Journey Through Time and Nature
  • Settlers Track
• A Wealth of Trails for Every Enthusiast
  • Mount Ainslie Summit Trail: Hike with a View
  • Murrumbidgee Discovery Track: A River Runs Through It
  • One Tree Hill Summit: Journey to the Top
  • Booroomba Rocks: Majestic Granite Wonders
  • Mount Painter Summit Walk: Reaching New Heights
  • Black Mountain: Diverse Natural Beauty
  • National Arboretum: Trees From Around the Globe
• Conclusion

Embracing the Outdoors In and Around Canberra

Weston Park, situated in south Canberra, is a sprawling 40-hectare park perfect for a leisurely stroll or a fun family outing. This is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing return walk with kids.

For those with a passion for botany, the Australian National Botanic Garden at the foot of Black Mountain is a must-visit. Home to the world’s most extensive collection of native Australian flora, spread over 35 hectares, it’s truly a sight to behold and a great walk.

Tidbinbilla: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Just a 45-minute drive southwest of Canberra’s heart lies Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Embrace the tranquility as you explore the reserve’s 22 marked trails.

Whether you’re up for a quick 15-minute walk or a challenging full-day adventure, Tidbinbilla has something for all levels. Don’t forget to check out the abundant plant species in the area.

Cascade Trail

Distance: 1.8km

Duration: 1 hour

An easy, enchanting walk through a lush wet forest, leading to a beautiful cascading mountain stream, the Cascade Trail is a perfect choice for a relaxing stroll amidst nature. The trail starts within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. With so many trails in the reserve, there’s always something new to explore.

Namadgi: A Journey Through Time and Nature

A 45-minute drive from Canberra’s center, Namadgi National Park offers a stunning tapestry of nature and history. Namadgi National Park also shares a border with Kosciuszko National Park.

This park, deeply rooted in Aboriginal culture, boasts many cultural sites, offering a chance to delve into the region’s past. Imagine the possibilities for experiencing the great outdoors.

Settlers Track

Distance: 6km or 9km

Duration: 3.5-5 hours

For history buffs and nature enthusiasts, the Settlers Track is a must-do experience. Choose between a 6km or a 9km hike as you pass historic, now-restored huts, all set within stunning native bushland.

A Wealth of Trails for Every Enthusiast

Canberra boasts a wide variety of walking and hiking experiences, each offering unique charm.

Mount Ainslie Summit Trail: Hike with a View

The Mount Ainslie Summit Walk, fondly known as the “Kokoda Trail at Ainslie,” promises a rewarding challenge. This 4.5 km track, winding through the Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, starts behind the esteemed Australian War Memorial.

The paved path makes for a comfortable walk, but be ready for a good climb. This trail is very popular with locals and visitors, with about 200 people hiking it every day. You are rewarded at the top with a stunning 360-degree view encompassing the city, the Brindabella Mountains, and even Parliament House. You can even see the blue tiles of the distant avenue bridge from the summit.

Murrumbidgee Discovery Track: A River Runs Through It

The Murrumbidgee Discovery Track, a 27 km adventure, guides you along Canberra’s southern edge.

But here’s a local tip, our favorite part is the stretch passing by the Red Rock Gorge Lookout. Starting or ending at Kambah Pool – it’s up to you. Take a refreshing dip; the ‘beach’ awaits.

One Tree Hill Summit: Journey to the Top

Nestled within the quaint village of Hall, the One Tree Hill Summit, part of the impressive 145 km Canberra Centenary Trail, is a must for avid hikers. This 8.4 km trail treats you to gorgeous rural landscapes and the potential for wildlife sightings along the way.

At the end of your hike, take a short drive to the nearby Honeysuckle Campground for a well-deserved rest. From there, you can plan your next adventure, perhaps exploring the beauty of the Gibraltar Peak or venturing into the heart of the Brindabella Mountains.

Booroomba Rocks: Majestic Granite Wonders

Head to Namadgi National Park and feast your eyes on breathtaking vistas of the Brindabella Range from the vantage point of Booroomba Rocks. The walk takes you past dramatic granite cliffs – keep an eye out for rock climbers.

If you time your visit right, you might be lucky enough to catch the area’s springtime wildflower display in all its glory. Choose from the shorter 2.5 km trail or the more challenging 11.5 km round trip.

Mount Painter Summit Walk: Reaching New Heights

Mount Painter, with its easy access and rewarding views, is a must for a quick nature fix. In just 20 minutes, you can reach the summit, taking in panoramic vistas from Lake Burley Griffin to the Brindabellas.

There are even a few different ways to get to the top, making this a popular spot. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic while basking in the beauty of the capital territory.

Black Mountain: Diverse Natural Beauty

Experience the remarkable biodiversity of Black Mountain, where over 100 bird species, 500 plant varieties, and even a staggering 5,000 insect types reside. Choose from several trails, including the 3.5km Black Mountain Forest Track and the Black Mountain Summit Trail.

Afterward, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants near Bindubi Street, offering a taste of Canberra‘s vibrant culinary scene.

National Arboretum: Trees From Around the Globe

More than just a park, the National Arboretum is a celebration of trees with a collection of over 44,000 specimens from around the world spread across 250 hectares. Stroll through forests over 100 years old or explore the younger plantations.

The National Arboretum is also crisscrossed with walking and cycling paths, totaling over 20 km, catering to all fitness levels. Make sure to visit the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection and let the kids loose in the Pod Playground.

Here’s a detailed list of Trails for Nature Enthusiasts in Canberra, with full addresses, trail lengths, estimated completion times, and website links:

Tidbinbilla: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

1. Cascade Trail
   • Address: Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Paddys River Rd, Paddys River ACT 2620
   • Trail Length: 4.8 km loop
   • Estimated Completion Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: This moderate trail takes you through lush forests and cascading waterfalls, offering a peaceful hike for nature lovers.

Namadgi: A Journey Through Time and Nature

2. Settlers Track
   • Address: Naas Rd, Tharwa ACT 2620, within Namadgi National Park
   • Trail Length: 9 km loop
   • Estimated Completion Time: 3 – 4 hours
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: Discover historic homesteads and the beauty of Namadgi’s wilderness on this scenic trail. The Settlers Track immerses you in Canberra’s cultural and natural history.

A Wealth of Trails for Every Enthusiast

3. Mount Ainslie Summit Trail: Hike with a View
   • Address: Mount Ainslie Dr, Ainslie ACT 2602
   • Trail Length: 4.2 km return
   • Estimated Completion Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
   • Website: www.visitcanberra.com.au
   • Overview: A popular and moderate trail leading to breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra from the summit of Mount Ainslie.
4. Murrumbidgee Discovery Track: A River Runs Through It
   • Address: Starting at Kambah Pool, Kambah ACT 2902
   • Trail Length: 27 km one-way (can be done in sections)
   • Estimated Completion Time: 8 – 9 hours (or shorter sections)
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: Following the Murrumbidgee River, this track offers stunning views of the river and surrounding bushland. Ideal for long-distance hikers or for tackling shorter sections.
5. One Tree Hill Summit: Journey to the Top
   • Address: One Tree Hill, Hall ACT 2618 (access via Canberra Centenary Trail)
   • Trail Length: 8.4 km return
   • Estimated Completion Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
   • Website: www.trails.act.gov.au
   • Overview: Part of the Centenary Trail, this hike to the summit rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Booroomba Rocks: Majestic Granite Wonders
   • Address: Booroomba Rocks Rd, Namadgi National Park, Tharwa ACT 2620
   • Trail Length: 2.5 km return
   • Estimated Completion Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: A short but steep climb leading to the top of Booroomba Rocks, offering awe-inspiring views of Namadgi National Park’s granite cliffs and forest below.
7. Mount Painter Summit Walk: Reaching New Heights
   • Address: Off Coulter Dr, Cook ACT 2614
   • Trail Length: 3.5 km return
   • Estimated Completion Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: A gentle climb to the summit of Mount Painter with great views of the surrounding Canberra region and Black Mountain.
8. Black Mountain: Diverse Natural Beauty
   • Address: Clunies Ross St, Acton ACT 2601
   • Trail Length: 2.7 km return
   • Estimated Completion Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
   • Website: www.parks.act.gov.au
   • Overview: This trail offers diverse flora and fauna and a climb to the Black Mountain summit for scenic views of Canberra and the iconic Telstra Tower.

National Arboretum: Trees From Around the Globe

9. National Arboretum: Forest Walks
   • Address: Forest Dr, Molonglo Valley ACT 2611
   • Trail Length: Multiple walking options ranging from 1.5 km to 3 km loops
   • Estimated Completion Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours (depending on the trail)
   • Website: www.nationalarboretum.act.gov.au
   • Overview: Wander through forests of rare and symbolic trees from around the world, offering peaceful walks and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

This list provides nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts with detailed information on some of Canberra’s best trails, from tranquil walks to thrilling summit climbs.

Conclusion

From the easy trails of Weston Park to the breathtaking lookouts of Namadgi National Park, Canberra offers a variety of trails, hikes, and nature walks for everyone. Whether you want a leisurely afternoon stroll or a challenging all-day hike, Canberra has a trail waiting to be discovered.

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