Australian Capital Territory

Canberra is often called the "bush capital", and with good reason. Nature reserves cover the hills between the suburbs, and Namadgi National Park makes up nearly half of the ACT's land area. That means world-class bushwalking starts within minutes of the city.

In town, Mount Ainslie and Black Mountain have summit walks with views over Lake Burley Griffin and the Parliamentary Triangle. Dogs are allowed on a leash on Mount Ainslie's tracks, but not anywhere in Black Mountain Nature Reserve. The Canberra Centenary Trail loops about 145 km around the city through nature reserves, pine forests and rural landscapes, and it's easy to walk in sections.

South-west of the city, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers wildlife-rich walks and the climbs of Gibraltar Peak and Tidbinbilla Peak. It's one of the best places in the region to see kangaroos, emus, koalas and platypus. A vehicle entry fee applies.

Namadgi National Park protects the northern end of the Australian Alps. Popular walks include Booroomba Rocks, for granite slabs and views, Square Rock, and the Yankee Hat walk to an Aboriginal rock art site of the Ngunnawal people. Mount Tennent, visible from the Namadgi Visitor Centre, is a solid full-day climb. Experienced, self-sufficient walkers can tackle remote peaks such as Bimberi Peak, the ACT's highest point.

Canberra has distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer can be hot, with bushfire risk; much of Namadgi was burnt in the 2020 Orroral Valley fire, and some areas are still recovering. Winter brings frosty mornings and snow on the higher ranges.

ACT Parks and Conservation Service manages the territory's parks. Entry to Namadgi and Canberra Nature Park is free, while campgrounds need bookings. Please respect Ngunnawal cultural sites and signage.

How to use this page. Each the ACT listing below shows the official track grade (AWTGS), distance, typical walking time, elevation gain, access and parking notes, fees or permits, the best season, whether dogs are allowed, and the facilities at the trailhead. Use the filters to narrow by region, time available or difficulty. You can also add walks to your favourites or compare up to three side by side. Every fact links back to the managing park agency, so you can check current conditions. If you know a well-loved the ACT walk we've missed, or spot an out-of-date detail, tell us through the Contact page and we'll check it against the official source before updating. New to hiking? Start with our beginner, what-to-pack and safety guides before heading out.

Before you go: check ACT Parks alerts, the BOM forecast and fire danger rating. Inclusion here doesn't mean a track is currently open or safe.

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Start with the time you have, then consider terrain, fitness, experience and access needs. Compare official track grades alongside the walk’s distance and published conditions. A short walk can still be technically demanding.

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