Canberra is more than politicians. Only a 40-minute drive from Canberra’s centre lies Gibraltar Peak, with mountains, granite tors and sprawling grasslands filled with grazing kangaroos.

Highlights

  • 22 marked trails in the epic Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
  • Grasslands, dirt path, gum trees and granite boulders
  • Sneaky rock scramble

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

One of my favourite hikes in the Canberra region is the trek to the granite tors of Gibraltar Peak, which lies within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve — an outdoor lovers playground. There are 22 marked trails in Tidbinbilla, ranging from an easy stroll to an all day hike.

Gibraltar Peak is my pick of the trails with its expansive views across the reserve and back to Canberra. The 8.2km return trail starts from the Dalsetta carpark. Cross the road and with an early morning start, you’ll likely be met with curious kangaroos backlit by the rising sun as they graze in the grasslands.

Passing through the grasslands, you then join a dirt path that switchbacks up the hill to Eliza Saddle, winding through the gum trees and granite boulders beside the trail.

About 1km from the top, you hit rock steps and it’s a moderate slog up to the top, passing through narrow pathways framed by large boulders. Once you reach the top and walk through the trees, you’re met with views over the reserve and on a clear day, you can spot the iconic Telstra Tower on Canberra’s Black Mountain.

A small rock scramble will take you to the best views right at the top of the granite rock platform.

Essential Gear

  • Camera
  • Water
  • Snack
  • Sunscreen and hat

How To Get There

From Canberra City, head south on Tuggeranong Parkway/Drakeford Drive following the signs to Cotter or Tidbinbilla. It will take about 40 minutes to reach the gates to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Park at the Dalsetta carpark about a five-minute drive into the reserve and cross the road to start the hike.

Entry into the reserve is $11.50 per car for a day pass unless you enter the park when it opens at 7.30 am and before the Visitor Information Centre opens at 9:00 am.

Skill Level

Intermediate

Distance Covered / Elevation

The hike to the peak is 8.4km return and will take about 2-3 hours. Gibraltar Peak is 1,048m tall.