Hiking Near Canberra: National Parks & Walks Guide 2026

Canberra National Parks 2026 — Overview

Canberra is uniquely positioned as Australia's only capital city with a national park (Namadgi) forming the majority of its own territory. The ACT's western third is Namadgi National Park, with the Brindabella Ranges rising to over 1,900m. Nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Kosciuszko National Park and the Snowy Mountains are accessible for day trips and weekend escapes. Here's a guide to national parks and nature near Canberra.

Namadgi National Park (ACT)

• Highlights — The ACT's own alpine national park covering 46% of the ACT. Bimberi Peak (ACT's highest point at 1,911m), the Yankee Hat Aboriginal rock art site (access road from Naas/Boboyan Road, 35km south of Canberra CBD), Corin Dam, Blundell's Cottage area. Excellent wildflower displays in October-November. Snow in the high country July-September. Entry is free. Check parks.act.gov.au.
• Best walks — Yankee Hat Walk (6.5km return, Aboriginal rock art), Mount Tennent (10.4km, panoramic views), Booroomba Rocks (4km, rock climbing and views).

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (40 minutes from Canberra CBD)

• Highlights — The best wildlife experience near Canberra. Koalas (guaranteed viewing), platypuses, kangaroos, emus, bettongs and gang-gang cockatoos in a stunning valley setting. Tidbinbilla is managed as a predator-free sanctuary for endangered species. Free entry on weekdays; entry fee on weekends and public holidays.

Kosciuszko National Park (2.5 hours south)

• Highlights — Australia's highest peak (Mount Kosciuszko, 2,228m), wildflowers October-January, Thredbo and Perisher ski resorts (July-September), the Blue Lake glacial lake, Guthega, Smiggins Holes. The Summit Walk from Thredbo (13km return) is achievable for fit walkers in summer.

Murrumbidgee River Corridor (Within Canberra)

The Murrumbidgee River Corridor runs through the ACT from Uriarra Crossing in the north-west to Point Hut in the south. Excellent cycling, walking and swimming in rock pools. The Murrumbidgee River below the Casuarina Sands section is popular with experienced kayakers. Free access.

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