14 Canberra Walks That Will Take Your Breath Away

If you’re looking to lift your spirits, and your heart rate, here are 14 of Canberra’s best walks, the most wondrous wanderings for a bespoke weekend in the exhilarating ACT outdoors.

Is Canberra just one big national park? Local photographer Damian Breach certainly thought so, and it’ll sure seem that way once you traipse around the best walks in Canberra. Not only is Canberra the seat of power in Australia, but it’s also the bush capital with a typical Australian outback that encompasses all the iconic wildlife and sights that’ll leave you breathless (even more so than the walks themselves).

The city is known for its satisfyingly light traffic so you can leave the city behind in just minutes, or stick close to the iconic Lake Burley Griffin and tackle the many walks around the artificial lake.

Whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed to find some great hiking trails in and around Canberra. We’ve rounded up 14 of our favourite nature walks for your next Canberra visit.

Canberra’s Epic Centenary Trail

1. Canberra Centenary Trail

The mighty Centenary Trail is the ultimate Canberra walk, offering the most comprehensive coverage of our nation’s capital by brushing the NSW border and passing several landscapes before dipping into the Murrumbidgee to the south.

biking along the Canberra Centenary Trail — The Canberra Centenary Trail is a haven for cyclists. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

You’ll pass the Parliament House, various nooks and crannies perfect for picnics in Canberra, and a whole heap of wilderness. Not only is the accessible point-to-point trail a great way to see the entire city in one fell swoop, but the walk is also enriching considering it’s 154 kilometres long.

You’ll need to tackle this epic Canberra walk over multiple days to conquer the entire Centenary Trail. However, most people will break it up into shorter walks, with three main marked trails that we’ve also rounded up on this list of Canberra’s best walks.

cyclists navigating the Canberra Centenary Trail — Navigate the trail on two wheels. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 154-kilometres one-way
Time: Multi-day hike
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The trail is designed to be accessible to both walkers and cyclists so most of it is smooth and well-maintained except for the slight challenge of Murrumbidgee Discovery Track.
Tips: You’ll be sharing these trails with cyclists so always be conscious of others and keep to the left.
Must-see sights: Enjoy the steady climb up parts of Black Mountain and look out for both Mount Ainslie and Mount Majura.

2. Murrumbidgee Discovery Track

You’ll find the Murrumbidgee Discovery Track at the southern end of the Canberra Centenary Trail, starting at the end of Kamblah Pool Road near Gleneagles. The well-signposted walking trail is one of the best walks in Canberra for enthusiasts, taking keen hikers through rolling fields and diverse bushland from Point Hut Crossing to Casuarina Sands.

Murrumbidgee Discovery Track in Canberra — The Murrumbidgee Discovery Track is one of the ACT’s most epic trails. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Mountain bikers love this section of the trail given its proximity to Stromlo Forest Park. But there’s enough space for everyone on the 26-kilometre trail. It should take you just under seven hours to complete the trail, which can be accessed at either end. However do allow for longer as there are plenty of sights along the way, as well as places to stop for a picnic or swim.

bikers cycling at Stromlo Forest Park — The track offers bikers easy access to Stromlo Forest Park. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 26.2-kilometres one-way
Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: Grade 3
Terrain: There’s an elevation gain of 663 metres so some hiking experience is preferable.
Tips: Bring your swimmers and take a dip at Kambah Pool or just start the trail here for a shorter option. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.
Must-see sights: The trail is popular for bird watchers so keep your eye out for wildlife while also admiring the beauty of Casuarina Sands and Pine Island.

3. One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill is the friendliest and most manageable section of the Canberra Centenary Trail. It should take just over two hours to complete, although the terrain can be moderately challenging so make sure to work in plenty of rest stops along the way.

Start near Hall, Australian Capital Territory at the crossroads of Hall and Hoskin streets. Leave the pups at home – dogs aren’t permitted – and enjoy the gentle incline as you pass the hidden One Tree Lookout (great for city views) and spy the impressive Brindabella mountain range in the distance.

bikers admiring the view at One Tree Hill, Canberra — One Tree Hill is a much-loved cycling route. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 8.4-kilometres one-way
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: There’s an elevation gain of 237 metres but the trail is well-marked and very gentle.
Tips: Stop by One Tree Lookout and admire a view of Canberra that many visitors don’t get to see.
Must-see sights: Again, One Tree Lookout is essential but you’ll also need to keep an eye out for wildlife – the trail is popular for birdwatching – and take some time to appreciate the Brindabella mountain range.

4. National Arboretum Loop

The easiest section of the Canberra Centenary Trail starts at Forest Drive in Weston Creek. The 11.1-kilometre loop rings around Canberra’s iconic National Arboretum, taking just under three hours to complete.

the National Arboretum Loop in Canberra — Go for a peaceful stroll around the 250-acre National Arboretum. (Image: VisitCanberra)

You’ll be sharing this Canberra walk with birdwatchers, hikers and mountain bikers, but many paths break off around the stunning tourist attraction so it’s easy to find peace.

the National Arboretum in Canberra — The landscape is filled with rare and endangered trees from around Australia. (Image: VisitCanberra)

A popular sub-path is the 1.1-kilometre Himalayan Cedars Walk: a pastoral stroll that’ll take you far away from any hint of city life.

Distance: 11.1-kilometre loop
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Gentle, smooth terrain with an elevation gain of 221 metres
Tips: This is the only section of the Centenary Trail where dogs are allowed, but do make sure they are on a leash.
Must-see sights: The 250-acre National Arboretum is staggering with 44,000 rare and endangered trees just north of Lake Burley Griffin.

Best Walks Around Lake Burley Griffin

5. Lake Burley Griffin Loop

Carve out just over four hours of your day and tackle the pristine Lake Burley Griffin Loop. This 19.8-kilometre loop trail is approachable, leisurely and dog-friendly (as long as your fur friend is on a leash).

the Lake Burley Griffin at sunset — Enjoy a sunset walk around Lake Burley Griffin. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Conquer this loop and you’ll have taken in the entirety of Canberra’s incredible artificial lake, which has been a definitive feature of our nation’s capital since 1963.

sunset landscape at Lake Burley Griffin — Lake Burley Griffin flows in from the Molonglo River. (Image: VisitCanberra)

The mostly flat trail is very popular for birding, hiking and road biking so be aware that you’ll be sharing the path with plenty of others at all hours of the day.

Distance: 19.8 kilometres
Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Gentle, smooth terrain with an elevation gain of 259 metres
Tips: Break off the trail when you reach Black Mountain Peninsula and reward yourself with a treat at the Italianate Cafe Sosta with incredible views of the lake.
Must-see sights: Lake Burley Griffin, of course. You’ll also spot great views of Government House and the immaculate Bejing Garden and Lennox Gardens.

6. The Central Basin

The Central Basin loops between Commonwealth Bridge and Kings Avenue Bridge, offering an easy 5-kilometre walk through serene public spaces with the lake a constant presence.

Start from the National Capital Exhibition and power through the many attractions, historic cottages and natural beauty along the way.

people stopping by the National Gallery of Australia — The trail leads to the National Gallery of Australia. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Take a side trip at Reconciliation Place along pathways leading to the National Gallery of Australia or just admire the beautiful Australians of the Year Walk, made up of various plaques and seats commemorating the most impactful minds in Australian history.

Distance: 5 kilometres
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: A very straightforward section of the Lake Burley Griffin Loop.
Tips: Take some time to explore the many historic cottages you’ll pass along the way.
Must-see sights: Lake Burley Griffin and the great Australians of the Year Walk.

7. Jerrabomberra Wetlands Walk

Head on over to Fyshwick and begin this easy 3.2-kilometre loop. The Jerrabomberra Wetlands has several paths breaking off in all directions but stay the course and do the entire loop. It’s rewarding, moderately challenging and offers some of the best sights in Canberra.

You’ll only need around 40 minutes to complete this popular trail, which attracts all sorts of visitors from birdwatchers and hikers to keen mountain bikers.

The trail, cloistered away on Lake Burley Griffin’s eastern shore, feels like a world away from Canberra but is only a 10-minute drive from some of the city’s most popular spots.

a woman walking along Grevillea Park — Grevillea Park offers views over the lake to Jerrabomberra Wetlands. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 3.2 kilometres
Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: There are some narrow spots to look out for but with an elevation gain of 33 metres, this is a very easy walk.
Tips: Keep your eyes peeled for over 200 different bird species all chiming in to give your exercise a little soundtrack.
Must-see sights: Kellys Swamp is where you’ll spy most of the birdlife along with frogs, eastern long-neck tortoises and Black Angus cows.

8. Weston Park

The peaceful Weston Park is located on the south side of Canberra, offering 40 hectares of pristine parklands with many family-friendly features like a water playground and wading pool. Set up shop for the day at the picnic tables and end your leisurely stroll from a barbecue.

kangaroos in Weston Park — Spot kangaroos grazing and hanging out. (Image: VisitCanberra)

That’s what most people do in Weston Park, which is why you’ll typically find mostly families taking the easy 45-minute stroll around the edges of the park. You’re only looking at around four kilometres, with the best route from Weston Road car park to West Yarralumula Peninsula.

an aerial view of Weston Park in Canberra — The Weston Park offers 40 hectares of pristine parklands. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 4 kilometres
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: This is a very flat, easy park stroll right alongside the river.
Tips: Take a detour to the fabulous Yarralumla Nursery with plenty of plant species.
Must-see sights: Take some time to see the sights of Orawa Bay and East Yarralulma Peninsula before doubling back to Karrajoing Point.

Mountain Hikes in Canberra

9. Mount Ainslie Summit Trail

Also known as the Kokoda Track, the Mt Ainslie Summit Trail starts immediately behind the Australian War Memorial near Campbell, taking you through Remembrance Park to a moderately challenging 4.5-kilometre loop that should take about 1.5 hours to complete.

people walking upwards Mount Ainslie Summit Trail — The short but steep walk will afford you spectacular views across Canberra. (Image: VisitCanberra)

It’s one of the most popular Canberra walks so be prepared to share the path with many others, as well as on-leash dogs who are more than welcome on the well-maintained trail.

a woman admiring the view from Mount Ainslie Summit Trail — Breathtaking views await at the summit of Mount Ainslie. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)

The path can get quite steep as it rises above the Australian War Memorial, winding through a shrubby woodland of scribbly gums. A score of birdsong will follow you all the way up and around, while plenty of other wildlife (maybe even a politician or two) will pop out occasionally.

Distance: 4.5 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The path can get very steep as you approach the summit but it is very well-maintained and not too challenging.
Tips: Bring your camera because this path offers some of the best views in Canberra.
Must-see sights: Follow the signs for a beautiful memorial to Indigenous soldiers and admire all the plaques commemorating the Kokoda Track. Don’t forget the gorgeous view over the Parliamentary Triangle further up the path.

10. Black Mountain Summit Loop

Look west of the more famous Mount Ainslie and you’ll spot the equally impressive Black Mountain. The nature reserve at the base of this mountain is flecked with many well-maintained trails like the one-hour Forest Track with plenty of moss, ferns and lichens.

Tackle the entire 4.7-kilometre loop for an unforgettable experience, rewarding your 1.5-hour investment with sublime views, abundant wildlife and life-affirming rainforest ambience.

the Black Mountain Tower in Canberra — Take in the beauty of Black Mountain Tower from Mt Painter Canberra. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 4.7 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The path is very steep as you approach Telstra Tower but well-maintained and very safe.
Tips: Here’s another chance to snap some of the best photos in Canberra.
Must-see sights: The iconic Telstra Tower stands tall on the summit of Black Mountain, giving you a massive waypoint so you’ll never get lost.

11. Australian National Botanic Gardens Main Path Walk

The Australian National Botanic Gardens loop may be the easiest walk in Canberra. It only takes around 20 minutes to complete the 1.3-kilometre loop, which is always kept in top shape and is a great walking trail for families.

The loop begins from the main parking area of the garden, which is where the Black Mountain Summit Loop also starts.

Australian National Botanic Gardens Walk — Walk through the beautiful Rainforest Gully. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Most people tackle both in the same day, with this one offering a more flat loop taking you through the beautiful Rainforest Gully with ancient conifers and other beautiful plant species.

Distance: 1.3 kilometres
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: The flat path is very family-friendly and is one of the only wheelchair-accessible walks in Canberra.
Tips: Play a game and try to count the number of plant species you’ll find. You’ll lose count but it’s a fun way to pass the time.
Must-see sights: The Rainforest Gully is one of the most beautiful areas in Canberra.

Best walks just outside of Canberra

12. Gibraltar Peak trail

Head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve near Tuggeranong to find the popular Gibraltar Peak Trail. You’ll take around 2.5 hours to complete this majestic 8-kilometre out-and-back trail, which is open year-round and is always very well-maintained and very safe.

hikers tackling the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve trail up the Gibraltar Peak — Tackle the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve trail towards the scenic Gibraltar Peak. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)

Make your way up to Gibraltar Peak where you’ll find incredible house-sized boulders, spiky grass trees and barely babbling creeks along the way. Reward yourself with jaw-dropping views once you reach those phallic boulders. It’s one of the best bush walks Canberra has to offer.

phallic boulders at Gibraltar Peak, Canberra — You’ll find incredible house-sized boulders along the walk. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 8 kilometres
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Although the trail can be steep and narrow in some parts, it is well-maintained and signposted so you should have no issues.
Tips: Keep an eye out for the many wildlife that call this reserve’s 14 protected habitats home.
Must-see sights: If you’re stealthy enough, you’ll have some of the best wildlife encounters in Canberra.

13. Mount Tennent Trail

Buried in the heart of Namadgi National Park, Mount Tennent Trail is one of Canberra’s hardest walking trails and a hard-won accomplishment that’ll justify a delicious prize at any one of Canberra’s best restaurants.

an aerial view of a woman bushwalking at Namadgi National Park — The walk will showcase the best of the 160,000-hectare Namadgi National Park. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

Running 13.7 kilometres, the out-and-back trail sits near the suburb of Tharwa and takes just over five hours to complete. It’s a great way to see the best of the 160,000-hectare Namadgi National Park, which tears across the border of Kosciuszko and takes up almost half of the state’s land area.

a female hiker standing on top of Namadgi National Park — The views from the Namadgi National Park will make the climb worth it. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

There are a variety of short and long hikes in the park, but the Mount Tennent Trail is easily the most popular, offering somewhat of a greatest hits – gorgeous alpine meadows, snow gum forests and Indigenous rock art sites.

a woman walking at Namadgi National Park — Mount Tennent Trail is nestled in Namadgi National Park. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 13.7 kilometres
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 4
Terrain: The trail can get very steep and narrow with a great variety of landscapes to pass through.
Tips: The Indigenous rock art sites were some of the first to be discovered in the Australian Capital Territory.
Must-See Sights: There is not only an abundance of Canberra wildlife to see, but this trail will give you everything you want from Australian bushland and more. Take in the sights and treat yourself with rest afterwards.

14. Booroomba Rocks trail

You’ll find Booroomba Rocks in Namadji National Park, earning its reputation as one of Canberra’s most picturesque walks with great views of the Brindabella Range.

Scramble through tall forests and admire the granite cliffs as you track the easy 2.5-kilometre trail which snakes off from Booroomba Rocks car park. One thing to note is that the trail is very weather-dependent so don’t take the risk if there’s heavy cloud cover as you’ll miss all the magic.

Distance: 2.5 kilometres
Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: While the trail can be narrow, as long as the weather is fine then you’re in for a leisurely walk.
Tips: Again, pay close attention to the weather as a lack of visibility really covers the trail’s best bits.
Must-see sights: The inspiring Brindabella Range will guide you along the trail so you’ll never get lost.

Discover the best things to do in Canberra.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

14 Canberra walks for when you can’t get enough of nature