Starting at the Downstream Picnic Area the track initially follows a route marked by directional posts. The walk then follows management trails, skirting the northern shore to the dam before climbing steeply up the Queanbeyan escarpment to Gormans Trig. From here it is a relatively easy walk to Bradleys Creek which is typical of the steep sided creeks bisecting the escarpment. The short detour to Googong Lookout on the way provides panoramas of the northern part of the reserve and dam.
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Googong Foreshores.
Starting at the Downstream Picnic Area the track initially follows a route marked by directional posts. The walk then follows management trails, skirting the northern shore to the dam before climbing steeply up the Queanbeyan escarpment to Gormans Trig. From here it is a relatively easy walk to Bradleys Creek which is typical of the steep sided creeks bisecting the escarpment. The short detour to Googong Lookout on the way provides panoramas of the northern part of the reserve and dam.
Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Bungendore, Canberra, Fyshwick, Googong, Jerrabomberra, Narrabundah, Pialligo, Queanbeyan, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Yass
About the region
Googong Foreshores
Located 10 kilometres south of Queanbeyan, Googong Foreshores is a great place to observe wildlife and go canoeing, fishing and mountain biking. It also has a fascinating historic homestead and London Bridge Arch. The entire Foreshores area is a Wildlife Refuge.
Whether you like picnicking, birdwatching, bushwalking, mountain bike riding, enjoy sailing and fishing or delving into history - at Googong there's something for everyone.
In the north of Googong Foreshores is the Googong Dam with lookouts, walking trails, BBQ and boating facilities. To the south off Burra Road, the historic London Bridge Homestead beckons visitors to explore the history of farming and settlement in the area. A remarkable natural feature in this area is London Bridge Arch which formed over thousands of years.
For more information, a location map and facilities please visit the ACT Government Information Portal.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Googong Foreshores? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.