Canberra didn’t earn its name as the ‘Bush Capital’ for nothing. Within minutes you can leave the city and find yourself in the land of mother nature with nature reserves, walking trails, lakes, rivers, mountain ranges, bushland, and rolling hills.

The weather is calling us to get outdoors so lift your heart rate up with these beautiful walks right on our very turf.

Bridge to Bridge at Lake Burley Griffin

A stroll around the gleaming Lake Burley Griffin is always a good idea. This walk takes you 5km around from the Commonwealth Bridge to the Kings Avenue Bridge. Take in the lake views whilst walking by Canberra’s iconic attractions including the National Carillon, National Library, Captain Cook Fountain and more. There are even coffee trucks along the way (yep, we’re sold).

One Tree Hill Lookout

Part of the 145km Canberra Centenary Trail, this 8.4km walk is one of Canberra’s most heavily used trails. Take in the beauty of the bush with gorgeous rural views, panoramic landscapes and wildlife. Access is from corner of Hall Street and Hoskins Street in the North side suburb of Hall.

Mount Ainslie

One of Canberra’s most iconic views, Mount Ainslie is a must-do. This 4.2km walk may be steep but the views distract greatly from the leg burn. Enjoy the stunning 360 views at the peak with extensive views of the Brindabella mountains, the War Memorial, Parliament House, and surrounding suburbs. This track is easily accessible from the Centre of the City at Mt Ainslie Drive, Ainslie.

Murrumbidgee Discovery Track

Taking you around Canberra’s south, this 27km walk takes you around Point Hut Crossing, passes Pine Island and Kambah Pool, and finishes at the peaceful Casuarina Sands. Whether you choose to walk a section or walk the entire length, the walk won’t be short of natural riverine, rare plant species, unique rock formations and cascading waters.

Booroomba Rocks

For breathtaking mountainous views of the Brindabella Ranges and massive granite cliffs, Booroomba rocks in Namadgi National Park is a beautiful escape from the city. From the Booroomba Rocks carpark, the shortest walk is 4km return or for a longer walk you can try the return trip from Honeysuckle Campground.

Molonglo Gorge to Blue Tiles Trail

At Canberra’s largest commercial pine plantation ‘Kowen Pine Forest’, you can expect extensive views of these natural treasures. Starting at the Molonglo Gorge Recreation Area, a 2.5-kilometre walking trail follows the river through towering pine trees to a picnic area called Blue Tiles. Don’t forget your picnic rug!

Himalayan Cedar Trail at National Arboretum

The gorgeous National Arboretum is home to widespread trees, forests and unique plant species. This 2.2km trail starts near Pod Playground, winds through five forests, past Wide Brown Land sculpture and onto the majestic Himalayan Cedar Forest. Reward yourself with a picnic at the end with free barbeque facilities. You may like to return the same way or continue onto the Cork Oak Trail.

Mount Painter Summit Walk

In Canberra’s north, Mount Painter is a great walk all year round. Access is located at the trail head on Bindubi Street towards the suburb of Cook. The summit area comprises three separate lookouts with unhindered views of the Brindabella ranges and rolling hills. This 3.7km walk is suitable for walkers of all levels.

Mount Taylor

One of Canberra’s most popular urban hikes, Mount Taylor is a 3.8km return walk and great for those after a walk in a central location. The peak uniquely provides a stunning view of the Tuggeranong Valley on one side and the Woden Valley on the other. There are a few park benches along the way to take in the view, or go without stopping and you’ll be sure to break a sweat. Access this walk from the carpark on Sulwood Drive at the Mannheim Street Intersection.

Gibraltar Peak

A renowned walking trail in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, this 8.4km walk has it all from house-sized boulders, views of the picturesque falls and creeks, native wildlife and more. Access is from Dalsetta Carpark. If you need to cool off afterwards, take a dip in the stunning Gibraltar Falls.

You don’t need to travel far for an adventure, take your hiking boots for a spin around these stunning walks in Canberra!