Hit Your Step Count Goals with the Best Walks in Canberra

Canberra is a delight when it comes to walking. From family-friendly meanders circling Lake Burley Griffin to hiking the popular Mount Ainslie trail, there are walks to suit all fitness levels.

While the iconic Telstra Tower remains closed for maintenance, never fear, because bush tracks, lush vegetation, snowy gums, nature parks, mountain ranges and wildlife are not hard to find throughout the ACT. Not all walks were created equal, so we're here to help you decide where to spend your precious few hours of fresh air and steps. Grab your hiking shoes, charge your headphones and read on for the best walks in Canberra. 

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Explore Australia's rich flora and fauna without leaving the city at the impressive Australian National Botanic Gardens. With 35 hectares of lawns, rainforest gullies, mountain summits (including the Flower to Tower Black Mountain Summit) and gardens to discover, you can take a self-guided walk, or join a walking tour to pick up some fun facts as you go.

The botanical gardens are a national treasure, and you are in the perfect place to reward your walk with a picnic on the grass, taking in the calm atmosphere and beautiful flowers that bloom within.

Clunies Ross Street, Acton

Mount Taylor

A short drive from the heart of Canberra lies the Mount Taylor Walk. Start this hike from the carpark on Sulwood Drive at the Mannheim Street Intersection and hike to the top to take in the views of the Tuggeranong Valley on one side, and the Woden Valley on the other.

The walk is moderately easy, measuring 3.8km up and down. Spectacular views from 856m above sea level make this the perfect way to get into the great outdoors solo or with friends and the kids.

Starting point: The National Bicentennial off Parkhill Street, Pearce

Duration: 45 mins

National Arboretum 

If you're looking for nature-packed walks, the National Arboretum should be on your list. This national treasure boasts over 44,000 rare and endangered trees across a natural site spanning 250 hectares.

There are more than 20 kilometres of maintained biking and hiking trails to explore from short 1km trails to the 7.2km explorer track that takes you through wild habitat and research forests. This walking haven even boasts a cafe at the Village Centre, should you need a little mid-walk pick-me-up, and includes the Centenary Trail and Bicentenary Trail connecting greater Canberra.

 Forest Drive, ACT

Bridge-to-Bridge, Lake Burley Griffin

Who says you can’t enjoy a slice of nature in the middle of the city? The 5km bridge-to-bridge (Commonwealth Bridge to Kings Avenue Bridge) walk around the iconic Lake Burley Griffin is usually buzzing with activity, thanks to its flat paths, stunning views and convenient location.

Perfect for those seeking a brisk walk during their lunch hour or those who like to indulge in a coffee midway, the walk also allows you to view Canberra icons along the way like the National Library, the National Carillon, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Sculpture Garden.

Starting point: Commonwealth Bridge or Kings Avenue Bridge

Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours

Mount Ainslie

Ask any Canberran what one of their favourite hikes is and they’ll say: ‘Mount Ainslie is a beauty’. Hike from the base up to the top and be blown away by breathtaking city views overlooking icons including Parliament House, or walk around the mountain on one of the many walking trails.

The hike to the top is 4.2km up and down and offers those who want a workout a fairly steep climb in parts. To do as the locals do, head up to see the sunrise or sunset for a special treat.

Starting point: Behind the Australian War Memorial off Treloar Cres, Campbell

Duration: 1hr 45 mins

Red Rock Gorge, Kambah

An easier (but lengthy) route catering to most fitness levels, this trail starts from the Kambah Pool carpark off Kambah Pool Road, leading to Pine Island Reserve. The entire trail is 9km one way, or, you can opt to do the most scenic part of the route to Red Rock Gorge on the Murrumbidgee River, which will cut off substantial time at only 2km one way, and reward you with gorgeous red rock walls that look as though you've walked to the Northern Territory.

Starting point: Kambah Pool car park off Kambah Pool Rd

Duration: 30 mins to Red Rock Gorge and 3 hours one-way to Pine Island Reserve

Booroomba Rocks

Make a glorious day of it and head to Namadgi National Park for a memorable hike. Just an hour’s drive from the centre of Canberra, Booroomba Rocks in Namadgi offers stunning views of the Brindabella Ranges, a solid reward for your hiking efforts.

There are multiple trails within the national park, but the shortest walk is a 4km return loop from the Booroomba Rocks car park. Namadgi is a beautiful area to explore, and you'll likely be too distracted by the granite cliffs and boulders to register how far you have climbed.

Starting point: 4km return walk starts at Booroomba Rocks car park

Duration: 1 hour

Mt Tennent

If you want to get your heart rate up and challenge yourself, walk the trailhead up to Mt Tennent. The hike is 15km up and down and has an elevation of 1375 metres, so it's no walk in the park... literally.

Plenty of spots are available to rest along the way and the summit trail combines gradual and steep inclines. Don’t forget to take water and snacks with you, and, it can get quite chilly at the top - so pack a jumper if you plan on taking in the views for a while.

Starting point: The Namadgi Visitor Centre after-hours car park

Duration: 3.5-6 hours (depending on your fitness level)

Canberra Centenary Trail 

Up for a challenge? The Canberra Centenary Trail is a 145km trail that will guide you through Canberra's most iconic natural, man-made and historical points of interest, beginning and ending at the most iconic of all - Parliament House. You'll travel through urban and rural landscapes and receive a rich history lesson over several days, challenging your stamina as you walk or ride the trail at a self-guided pace. 

Starting point: Parliament House

Duration: 7 days for walking, 3 days for cycling

Gibraltar Peak 

Easily one of the top contenders for best walks within the Tidbinbilla nature reserve, Gibraltar Peak is all about rugged peaks and sensational views.  The sweeping view on a clear day makes the steep track well worth it! 

Please note: Gibraltar Peak has significant cultural significance for the Ngunnawal people, the traditional custodians of this land. Please ensure you stick to marked tracks and respect the area. 

Duration: 3 to 4 hours 

Starting Point: Dalsetta Carpark 

If you loved this edit of the best walks in Canberra and are looking for more trails to explore, hit the road and check out our edit of the best hikes in NSW and Sydney.