It’s not yet warm enough to pull out your budgie smugglers, but with the worst of winter behind us (hurrah!), it’s time to turn off Netflix, get back outside, and take advantage of all that Canberra and its beautiful surrounds has to offer. If you’re like us, and are looking for a big adrenaline rush to snap you out of that winter coma, here are five fun-filled activities that will get your blood pumping again!
Mountain Biking
We’re lucky to have some of Australia’s best MTB trails right here in our own backyard. You can test out your downhill and cross-country skills at Stromlo Forest Park (watch out for the double black diamond runs!), get dusty on the singletrack at Sparrow Hill or Majura Pines, or just explore the trails at Bruce Ridge or Mount Ainslie.
If you’re new to mountain biking or looking for a family outing, the self-guided Centenary Trail is a great option – there’s 145km of undulating trails to choose from, and you’ll roll past some of the ACT’s historical landmarks on the way.
Skydiving
There aren’t many activities that can beat the thrill of being up at 15,000 feet, stepping out on to the wing of a plane, looking down at the earth, being grateful that you remembered to wear your adult nappy today, and letting yourself slowly roll off. For the next 60 seconds, the ground will be zooming up towards you while gravity does its thing…and then whoosh! The parachute opens, everything slows down, and you can start to take in the unforgettable view of wherever you are – whether it’s Canberra, Wollongong or the South Coast.
4WD
If you enjoy the journey as much as the destination and off-road adventures are more your style, there are plenty of 4WD tracks around Canberra to explore. Brindabella National Park has a great system of 4WD and fire trails with some steep climbs and zig-zagging descents, or head further afield to Deua National Park (near Araluen) for tricky river crossings, big climbs and breathtaking views of the river valley.
Hiking, rock climbing and caving
You can’t get closer to nature than by simply going for a walk in the bush and getting amongst our native flora and fauna. A great day trip is the hike up to The Castle in the Budawangs – it’s an 11km walk that will see you climb over 800m and scramble up some exposed rocks to reach the summit. If you’re looking to combine hiking with another activity, Wee Jasper is a popular spot for caving and Booromba Rocks in Namadgi National Park has some great rock climbing areas.
Paintball
It might not seem as adventurous as other activities, but trust me – when it’s your buck’s party and all of your ‘mates’ are shooting at you while you duck for cover in a burnt-out Action bus, you definitely feel alive! If you’ve also been in that precarious position, seek revenge at one of the paintball fields in Fairbairn, Tuggeranong and Michelago, all of which combine a natural bush setting with entertaining props. And gentlemen – don’t forget to wear a box…
