List of Bushwalks in District of Canberra Central

Environment

Urban

Botanic Gardens North Mini Circuit

Botanic Gardens North Mini Circuit

1.5 km circuit

20 min to 45 min

Starting from the end of the signposted car park in Australian National Botanic Gardens, ACT, this circuit walk gives you a compact tour of the flora and the features of the gardens via concrete/metal footpaths. The Display Glasshouse contains hundreds of plant species from tropical and subtropical Australia. There is a large selection of epiphytic plants, including Elkhorn and Staghorn Ferns along with Fox Tail and Screw Palms. The Rock Garden on the other hand is quite charming with its little waterfall and spacious resting areas. Also, the special soil beneath your feet makes it easier for plants from all kinds of biomes to prosper. Keep in mind that the botanic gardens close at 5PM so make sure you get your vehicle out before that. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Red Hill North Mini Circuit

Red Hill North Mini Circuit

2.1 km circuit

45 min to 1 h

Starting from Buxton Street, Deakin, this circuit walk gives you a mini tour of the northern part of the Red Hill Nature Reserve via various fire trails and loops back. After you enjoy the panoramic views over Canberra from the lookout, you’ll pass by “The TARDIS”. Try and knock the door, who knows, maybe the infamous doctor is in. Even if he isn’t, you still have the option to birdwatch, as there are plenty of bird species in the reserve. The area tends to be busy on the weekends, so try to schedule the walk on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowd. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Black Mountain Forest Track Circuit

Black Mountain Forest Track Circuit

2.1 km circuit

40 min to 1 h

Black Mountain Forest Track Circuit, Black Mt. Nature Reserve starts near Black Mountain Drive, Acton leading via the scenic Forest Track around the summit of Black Mt. and back. As you pivot around the mountain, expect to see panoramic views of Canberra in every part of the journey. Also look out for parrots whilst walking through the eucalyptus-dominated woodland, and see if you can get them to say hi. Drive up to the summit and squeeze out all the views you can get since you’re so close to the top. Keep in mind that you need to take all your rubbish with you, so pack accordingly. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

O'Connor Ridge Circuit is a circuit walk starting from Dryandra Street, giving you a tour of O'Connor Ridge Nature Reserve via multiple tracks. You'll be able to view the surrounding greenery from the higher parts of the track. The reserve is quite secluded, so you may even have the whole place to yourself. This walk is pet friendly (on-lead), so you can bring your four-legged companions along. There are many intersecting tracks which means the journey is customisable, but it also means that you can make a wrong turn easily. Horses are prohibited in this reserve, and there are no rubbish bins. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

O'Connor Ridge Circuit

2.2 km circuit

40 min to 1 h

O'Connor Ridge Circuit

Environment

Davidson Hill Mini Circuit

Davidson Hill Mini Circuit

2.4 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Starting from the car park near Mugga Way, Red Hill, this circuit walk gives you a compact tour of the southern side of Red Hill Nature Reserve, visiting Davidson Hill along the way. As you enjoy the views over Canberra throughout the track, a purple blanket of wildflowers may come into your view if you’re there in spring. Don’t fret if you can’t see any purple though, as there’s much more to the walk than the flora. Enjoy a meal at the Onred Restaurant, observe the city from the lookout points, take in the scenery and watch for kangaroos and birds as there are plenty in the reserve. The area tends to be busy on the weekends, so try to schedule it on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowd. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Black Mountain from Frith Rd, Acton

Black Mountain from Frith Rd, Acton

2.8 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 1 h 45 min

2.8 km

Circuit

Starting from Frith Road, Acton, this walk takes you up to the summit of Black Mountain and back via the Black Mountain Summit Walk, doing a cute little forest loop near the top. You’ll be dazzled when you see how tall the Telstra Tower really is when you make it to the top. Don’t count out the little loop beforehand as it is also dazzling in its own way. Some hot air balloons may come into your view and add to the panoramic view from the top. Keep in mind that you can also drive to the summit, so plan accordingly. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 15 min to 1 h 45 min

Run

45 min to 1 h

Environment

Bruce Ridge Eastern Circuit

Bruce Ridge Eastern Circuit

2.9 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Starting from Kunzea Street, O’Connor, this circuit walk gives you a tour of the eastern part of the Bruce Ridge Nature Reserve via various tracks and trails, then loops back. In the imminent range of the city of Canberra, this compact walk through nature can be a quick getaway from the work environment. Try to spot a rock-wallaby as you make your way through the endangered Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodland. Speaking of animals, various species of birds such as the Speckled Warbler and Varied Sittella are known to reside in the area. You can even come across a Flame Robin if you’re really lucky. Dogs are allowed on leash, although keep them away from rabbit warrens as there may be phosphine gas in them due to the rabbit control program. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from Belconnen Way, Bruce, this circuit walk explores the orchid-rich eucalypt woodland of Black Mountain Nature Reserve mostly via the Orchid and Finneran’s Road tracks. Expect to see lots of eye-catching orchids as you get deeper into the eucalypt forest, such as the native Black Mountain Leopard Orchid. There are more than 60 species growing in the reserve, including the Donkey Orchids and the purple Waxlip Orchid. Don’t expect to spot them all as flowering times may vary, but springtime in general will lead to a satisfactory experience. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and cockatoos whilst flower spotting. You can catch sight of the colossal Telstra Tower rising above Black Mt. Summit throughout the walk. Be careful when entering and exiting the highway as there can be high traffic during peak hours. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Orchid Loop

3.1 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 30 min

Jerrabomberra Wetlands Circuit

Jerrabomberra Wetlands Circuit

3.2 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Starting from the car park off Dairy Road, Fyshwick, this circuit walk explores the wetlands of Jerrabomberra, crossing the Jerrabomberra Creek and visiting various viewpoints along the way. This quiet stroll around the creek is filled with birdlife, so be an ‘early bird’ yourself to avoid the crowd and get the most out of your birdwatching session. Stop on the bridge over the creek and see if you can spot different types of fish. You might even catch some ducks having a diving competition if you’re stealthy enough. The walk is also kid-friendly, making it a great destination for family picnics with plenty of benches for you to sit on. Watch out for bikes and remember to take your rubbish with you. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Yarralumla Dog Park to Warrina Inlet

Yarralumla Dog Park to Warrina Inlet

3.5 km return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Yarralumla to Warrina Inlet is a relaxing return walk starting from Weston Park Road, Yarralumla. This walk is pet friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure. The path is flat and smooth, with a natural landscape that is stunning in autumn. Near the start, you can explore the historical Westbourne Woods and the dog swimming beach at Orana Bay (off Brown Street). Another highlight of the journey is the Yarralumla Dog Park, a fenced-off dog park that provides lovely views of the golf course as your dog enjoys the off-leash running and gunning. Also, you can spot some kangaroos if you're lucky. There are benches in the park as well. There are also multiple dog-friendly cafes minutes away, so you can enjoy a bite to eat before or after your walk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Old Tip Track Circuit

3.5 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 1 h 45 min

Old Tip Track Circuit

3.5 km

Circuit

Starting from the end of Phillip Avenue(car access), Hackett, this circuit walk explores the woodlands of Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, leading via the Hancock Road at first. As there are animals of all kinds in the reserve, this walk can be a great choice for spotting wildlife. Keep an eye out for wattlebirds, lizards, magpies. You can also spot possums if you get the timing right. Expect great views of Canberra as you make your way through the forest, especially over Woden Valley. Some inclines can be demanding and there are small rocks and loose gravel on parts of the track, so be cautious and take it slow to avoid injuries. Also be mindful that there are unexploded ordnance on the eastern side of the Nature Reserve, so stay on track to be safe. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 15 min to 1 h 45 min

Environment

Mount Ainslie from Remembrance Nature Park

Mount Ainslie from Remembrance Nature Park

4.1 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

4.1 km

Return

This walk starts from Treloar Crescent near Remembrance Nature Park, Campbell, leading mostly via the Mt Ainslie Summit Trail to the top of Mt. Ainslie and back. The concrete track goes through the woods and brings you to the Lookout, from which you can almost see the whole district. There is a handy drinking fountain at the lookout to help cool you down as you enjoy the views. You’ll probably spot kangaroos and birds along the incline, so hold onto your dog’s leash in case it wants to make some ‘friends’. You can also drive to the summit, so feel free to challenge yourself to make it there before your friends find a parking spot. Be mindful that there are unexploded ordnance on the eastern side of the Nature Reserve, so stay on track to be safe. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

Environment

Starting from Weston Park Road, Yarralumla, Weston Park Circuit showcases a variety of exotic trees, picturesque lake vistas, and well-equipped picnic areas. The journey also features the 'Play Station', where you can feed alpacas and let the kids have fun in the various playgrounds or ride the little train. Dogs are permitted on leads on this journey, but there is a 'Yarralumla Dog Park' and a designated off-leash swimming area along the route. The aforementioned park offers a safe and enjoyable space for dogs to play and interact with others off the leash. Additionally, there are multiple dog-friendly cafes nearby, with one being along the track. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Weston Park Circuit

4.2 km circuit

1 h to 1 h 45 min

Environment

Central Basin Circuit starts in front of the Gallery of Australian Design, Parkes, exploring the foreshore between Kings Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue. This bridge to bridge route is packed with landmarks like The Canadian Flagpole and can be a great way to get to know Eastern Canberra. If you want to enjoy the views of the city with the refreshing breeze of the Molonglo River hitting your face, this walk is a suitable choice. Stop anywhere near the river and observe the busy city, and maybe envy the simple lifestyle of the swans swimming before you. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Central Basin Circuit

5 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 2 h

Central Basin Circuit

Environment

Mount Majura from Hackett

Mount Majura from Hackett

5.5 km return

2 h to 2 h 45 min

Mount Majura from Hackett, starts from Mackenzie St., Hackett, going through both Mt. Ainslie and Mt. Majura Nature Reserves’ woodlands to the summit of Mt. Majura. You can take it as a challenge like some people do, and feel the burn on your calves while your eyes search for the Trig Station at the top, as it can serve as a finish line. Or keep a casual pace, savor the experience, and see if you can spot a Yellow Star of Bethlehem(a spring flower). Keep in mind that this can be a one way route as it is possible to drive to the top. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Black Mountain Peninsula Circuit

Black Mountain Peninsula Circuit

6 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

6 km

Circuit

Starting from the intersection of Clunies Ross Street and Dickson Road, Acton, this walk gives you a tour of Black Mountain Peninsula District Park via a concrete footpath all the way through, then loops back. Literally in the heart of Canberra, this walk is a great way to get to know the city better, whilst enjoying the scenic lakeside of Burley Griffin. Pass by the Sullivans Creek on your way and feel the refreshing breeze early on. There’s a lot you can do when you’re at the peninsula, from having a peaceful picnic with your family to going crazy on the inflatable slides of Canberra Aqua Park. You can also birdwatch, as there are many species flying above and residing in the area. Red Wattlebirds and White-plumed Honeyeaters are some of them, along with the iconic Black Swan every now and then. Unfortunately, your dog can’t enjoy this journey with you. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Run

30 min to 1 h 15 min

Wheelchair

1 h 15 min to 3 h 15 min

Environment

Starting from the car park near Mugga Way, Red Hill, this walk visits Davidson Hill and the infamous “Tardis” near Red Hill Lookout, goes through the woodlands of Red Hill Nature Reserve and loops back. As you enjoy the views over Canberra throughout the track, don’t forget to stop by and see “The Tardis”(who knows, maybe the infamous doctor is in). Other than that, observe the city from the lookout points, take in the scenery and watch for kangaroos and birds as there are plenty in the reserve. The area tends to be busy on the weekends, so try to schedule it on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowd. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Davidson Hill Circuit

6.1 km circuit

2 h to 3 h

Davidson Hill Circuit

Environment

Black Mountain from National Botanic Gardens

Black Mountain from National Botanic Gardens

6.2 km circuit

2 h to 3 h 15 min

Starting from the car park near Pollen Cafe in Australian National Botanic Gardens, ACT, this circuit walk leads up to Black Mt., exploring the photogenic botanical gardens first. On your way to the top you’ll enter the scenic forest track, pivoting around the summit and providing you with great views over Canberra. After making it up to the summit, the walk loops back to the start. Going through the botanic gardens, you’ll feel like you’re in an amazon rainforest with all the exotic plants and trees. Pivoting around Black Mt., you’ll be able to see almost all of Canberra as the forest track has panoramic views at every angle. You won’t miss the iconic Telstra Tower on top, as it rises 195 meters above the summit. Keep in mind that the botanic gardens close at 5PM, so make sure you get your vehicle out before that. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Cafe

Environment

Mount Ainslie via West & East 132 Circuit

Mount Ainslie via West & East 132 Circuit

6.9 km circuit

2 h to 3 h 15 min

Starting from the intersection of Phillip Avenue and Kellaway Street, Hackett, this circuit walk explores Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve, leading via West & East 132 Tracks along with other tracks. Also visiting the summit of Mt. Ainslie with a side trip, the hike loops back to the start. Speaking of, with its iconic view of the Australian War Memorial and beyond, the lookout is a must-visit if you’re a fan of the inauguration of the president in the USA. There is also a handy drinking fountain there to help cool you down as you enjoy the view. There are kangaroos and birdlife present, so hold on to your dog’s leash just in case. Be mindful that there are unexploded ordnance on the eastern side of the Nature Reserve, so stay on track to be safe. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Molonglo River Circuit, Weston Creek Pond

Molonglo River Circuit, Weston Creek Pond

9.1 km circuit

2 h 15 min to 4 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Kirkpatrick Street, Weston, this walk follows the Molonglo River all the way to Scrivener Dam, then loops back from the other side of the river. If you like being near water, this is definitely the walk for you. Enjoy the refreshing air around the ponds and the river while you get to know the surrounding districts. With undulating tracks and plenty of picnic spots, this can make for a great walk with the family. You might be lucky enough to experience the strong flow of water as it gushes out of the dam fiercely. Check the forecast beforehand to avoid dangerous situations due to heavy rainfall. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Urban

Red Hill Nature Reserve Circuit

Red Hill Nature Reserve Circuit

10.2 km circuit

3 h to 4 h

Starting from the car park near Mugga Way, Red Hill, this circuit walk takes you to almost all of the featured attractions and viewpoints in Red Hill Nature Reserve. The Tardis? Check. A restaurant with the view capacity of a lookout point? Check. Along with these, you’ll also visit Davidson Hill, which will provide you panoramic views over southern Canberra. Throw in a couple of creek crossings with kangaroos and singing birds around, and you’re in for a journey. The area tends to be busy on the weekends, so try to schedule it on a weekday if you want to avoid the crowd. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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Environment

Mt Majura to Mt Ainslie Circuit

Mt Majura to Mt Ainslie Circuit

11.6 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Mt Majura to Mt Ainslie Circuit starts near MacKenzie Street, Hackett, explores the woodlands of Mount Majura Nature Reserve all the way to the summit of Mt. Majura, then guides you to the summit of Mt. Ainslie to then loop back to the start. You’ll feel like you’ve found a secret communications base after you make it to the top of Mt. Majura. The summit of Mt. Ainslie on the other hand welcomes you with its iconic view of the Australian War Memorial and beyond, angled in such a way that you can try to fool your friends with a well-taken selfie, saying that you’re in Washington D.C. Even if they don’t bite the bait, you’re going home with two summits made in one hike under your belt. The kangaroos and black cockatoos you may run into along the trail can be the icing on the cake. Be mindful that there are unexploded ordnance on the eastern side of the Nature Reserve, so stay on track to be safe. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Canberra Riverside Circuit

Canberra Riverside Circuit

33.2 km circuit

8 h to 14 h

Canberra Riverside Circuit starts near Barrine Drive, Acton exploring almost all of the shoreline Molonglo River has in Canberra. Enjoying the refreshing breeze of the river in an urban environment is a worthwhile experience, whether you’re on foot or riding a bike. It can be a very useful route if you want to get to know Canberra. There are multiple landmarks on this walk, like the Captain Cook Memorial Globe. If you’d like to skip some of them and shorten the loop, there are various shortcuts available. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment