Walking is the most underrated form of exercise that has huge health benefits for our lives and bodies. From improving circulation to protecting the joints, squeezing in a quick 30 minute walk each day can do us a lot of good. Walks are even better for us when we get outdoors and get some Vitamin D, but where should you go? If you’re in Canberra, lucky for you, because you’re spoiled for choice with a plethora of short, achievable walks being scattered around the city. So, no matter what your fitness level is, here are five of the best walking trails in ACT.
01
Mount Ainslie Summit Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Looking for a short, moderate walk? The Mount Ainslie Summit Trail is one the best walking trails in the ACT that only takes about an hour and a half to complete. Starting at the base of the mountain near the Australian War Memorial, you’ll wind your way up through bushland to the summit. It’s a relatively short walk, but the steady incline makes it a good morning or post-work walk.
02
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Gibraltar Peak
Difficulty: Moderate
The Gibraltar Peak walk is one of the undisputed highlights of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and is an extremely popular walk loved by Canberrans. Taking 3-4 hours to complete in its entirety, the trail takes you through woodlands which are abundant with echidnas and kangaroos. Though it’s not an overly challenging walk, the final section of the trail involves a bit of rock scrambling which some may find tricky but the 360-degree views from the summit are well worth the effort. It’s a great way to explore the woodlands around Canberra, but be sure to attack this walk early before the carpark overcrowds.
03
Namadgi National Park – Square Rock Walk
Difficulty: Moderate
Just a short drive south of Canberra is the Square Rock Walk, which is another great weekend walking trail. Located in Namadgi National Park, The Square Rock Walk is an 8 kilometre walk that’ll take you through a eucalyptus forest and past granite boulders that are peppered around the national park. Along the way, you’ll gradually climb to the Square Rock lookout where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the stunning national park.
04
Black Mountain Nature Reserve – Black Mountain Summit Walk
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
The Black Mountain Summit Walk is a great, short walk that’s suitable for all different fitness levels and ages. Winding through dense bushland you’ll climb to the summit of Black Mountain, where the Telstra Tower stands tall above the city of Canberra. Along the way you’ll pass through wildflowers and stunning landscapes that make for excellent picnic spots. When you get to the top, you’ll get some of the best views of Canberra. The best part is, this walk only takes just over an hour to complete.
05
Molonglo River Reserve – Shepherds Lookout
Difficulty: Easy
For an easy walk and stunning views of Canberra’s Molonglo River Reserve, this short walk is for you. A 4 kilometre loop, this trail takes you through woodlands and finishes at a lookout point over the majestic Molonglo River. The trail is flat and accessible, making it perfect for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll in nature. If you’re after a more challenging walk, there are two other trails that are slightly longer and more challenging: 7.3 kilometre Shepherds Lookout walk, and the 9.1 kilometre Uriarra Loop Shepherds Lookout Walk.
