5 Best places to go walking in Canberra

Canberra is not called the bush capital for nothing. The city has some great spots for walking whether it is in a group or on your own. Here are some of the best places to get a scenic tour of Canberra, rather than walking to Civic every Thursday night.

Mount Ainslie

If you like a challenge, then Mount Ainslie is for you. It’s a 4-kilometre return trip and takes roughly an hour to do. The walk begins behind the Australian War Memorial and is known as the Kokoda Memorial Trail as memorials and plaques are featured along the footpaths that represent the Kokoda track. Once you’ve made it to the top, you can see spectacular views from the peak looking down onto Anzac Parade and over Lake Burley Griffin as well as Old and New Parliament House.

Bridge to Bridge – Lake Burley Griffin

If you like walking along lakes to smell that fresh water, then the Bridge to Bridge is a perfect choice. The walk goes from the Kings Avenue Bridge to the A23 Bridge that goes around Lake Burley Griffin. The track is 5km and whether you prefer running or like me and enjoy a pleasant stroll to take in that beautiful fresh air, you’ll finish in around an hour.

Lake Ginninderra

Lake Ginninderra in the heart of Belconnen is a nice peaceful walk, which is roughly 7kms. There are dog parks for all sizes big or small, picnic areas, fishing spots and man-made beaches. Lake Ginninderra is picturesque in the autumn time as the trees are brightly coloured with chirping bird flying between them.

Hawker Pinnacle

Hawker Pinnacle located on the north side of Canberra in Belconnen. The nature reserve is a 2.6km walk and can be spent gazing at the abundance of wildlife. The walk takes an hour depending how many times you stop to admire its many views. Make sure you wear proper footwear for this walk as it features difficult terrain.

Mount Majura

Mount Majura is located on the North Side of Canberra in Hackett, which is just next to Mount Ainslie. The walk starts at the “Hackett Gate” and goes for roughly 6 kilometres. On your way to the top, you get a country experience with man-made tracks, that can become quite slippery and muddy if it has been raining the night before. You can smell the beautiful eucalyptus trees and if you are lucky you can come across a Kangaroo. Once you have reached the top of the mountain, there are beautiful views of the airport and the North Canberra Region. The whole walk itself takes up to an hour and a half, so make sure you pack a drink bottle.