Ironically despite its rugged surroundings, Canberra’s CBD itself is a very flat, walkable city. While this results in some highly scenic strolls around the famous Lake Burley Griffin, it means that only a couple of minutes in the car will get you to some fantastic locations for a more robust hike.
There are hills and perches aplenty so that all your walking results in the reward of gazing out across our nation’s capital. If that’s not enough incentive for you, the ACT is home to some seriously wonderful flora and fauna in the forest terrain. Lace up and hit the trail on one of our favourite walks in Canberra.
The National Arboretum Canberra is home to more than 20 km of walking tracks and trails. With so many options to choose from, we narrowed it down to this nifty little track that leads you to one of Canberra’s most famous lookouts. Dairy Farmers Hill is a super romantic spot for picnics so wrap up those sammies, ready for munching while you admire the lush green views.
Drive time from CBD: 9 mins
Duration (return): 2.3km (30-40 mins)
Level of difficulty: Easy
At the rate that our technology evolves, it didn’t take long for Canberra’s Telstra Tower to be rendered obsolete. It may not serve its initial purpose as a service provider, but it does stand as a pretty recognisable member on Canberra’s skyline. The steep walk up to the tower (812 metres above sea level) rewards you with beautiful panoramas of Canberra's skyline and beyond.
Drive time from CBD: 8 mins
Duration (return): 3.5km (1.25 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Medium
If you so happen to venture to the rear of one of Canberra’s most highly sought after museums (AKA the Australian War Memorial), you’ll find yourself at the trailhead of the popular Kokoda Track up Mount Ainslie. Due to its location, the walk was named after the Australian wartime efforts in Papua New Guinea’s Kokoda Trail. Enjoy summit views that stretch right down the parade to Parliament House.
Drive time from CBD: 6 mins
Duration (return): 4.5km (1.5 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Easy
This neat hike coming in at just over eight kilometres is one of Canberra’s gems, and the carpark goes to show it. Arrive early to secure your spot. Make sure you have your eyes peeled at the start of the trail where you need to turn left towards the brown signpost for Gibraltar Peak. When you arrive at the top to extensive panoramas, it will be pretty easy to see why the walk is so acclaimed.
Drive time from CBD: 40 mins
Duration (return): 8.2km (3-4 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Medium
It's not a trip to Canberra without marvelling at the whopping body of water that divides the CBD in two. While there are many walks you can take to tour the lake, the ‘bridge-to-bridge’ loop that connects the city is the most popular. Stops on the walk include the National Library, the National Museum and many adorable cafès.
Drive time from CBD: 2 mins
Duration (return): 5km (60 mins)
Level of difficulty: Easy
This hike is highly rated, and not for its leisurely pace. Part of the Australian Alps Walking Track that begins all the way over in Victoria, the Mount Tennent Trail has a steep rocky climb to the summit with lots of steps. It begins at the Namadgi National Park Visitor Centre so parking is a breeze.
Drive time from CBD: 40 mins
Duration (return): 14.4km (6 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Hard
This trail sees many a hiking boot trod on each year, and for that reason, it’s incredibly well maintained. It’s part of the impressive 145 kilometre Canberra Centenary Trail, so you can enjoy the incredible summit views without committing to the multi-day walk. If you’re having too much fun and want to extend your walk though, there’s a campsite for an overnight stay.
Drive time from CBD: 25 mins
Duration (return): 8.4km (2 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Medium
It all begins at the carpark by Kambah Pools. If it’s an easy hike you’re after, an open trail amidst fields of spinifex will lead you to a quaint lookout of the gorge and river. If it’s off the beaten track that you wish to venture, take the detour on your right about three kilometres from the start of the hike. After some rock traversing, you'll find yourself before some incredible rock formations and flowing water.
Drive time from CBD: 20 mins
Duration (return): 7km (3.5 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Easy to medium
With the main access road being dirt and inaccessible in periods of snow or fire danger, this path is certainly one off the beaten track. Once you've got the green light on driving into the carpark off Mount Franklin Road, embark on a walk that gives you multi-state views. You’ll spot peaks in both ACT and NSW from the lookout partway up, and at the summit.
Drive time from CBD: 1 hr 30 mins
Duration (return): 3.7km (45 mins)
Level of difficulty: Easy
There’s a ‘long’ and ‘short’ version of the Settlers Track, with the former coming in at ten kilometres, while the latter is about three kilometres shorter. As this walk is a little further out of the city, it’s likely you’ll get a lot more peace and quiet while you marvel at your surroundings. While there is gorgeous nature (and snow in the wintertime), the highlight of this walk is the historic huts and cottages that line the way.
Drive time from CBD: 1 hr 20 mins
Duration (return): 10.2km (2.5 hrs)
Level of difficulty: Easy
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