Trail summary
Hike overview
The Camels Hump Summit Hike is a challenging 13-kilometre loop trail located within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT. This grade 5 hike is recommended for highly experienced bushwalkers due to rough and steep sections throughout. Expect to spend 4-5 hours completing the return journey.
The trail winds its way through diverse landscapes, starting in wet sclerophyll forest and gradually transitioning to subalpine open forest as you ascend nearly 600 vertical metres. Witness the vibrant plant and animal life along the way, from ferns and wildflowers to birds and butterflies, water dragons and even dingoes. The hike rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the Brindabella Range, Gibraltar Peak, and even Canberra in the distance.
While the trail offers unique experiences throughout the year, summer can be extremely hot and winter may see snow cover. Nevertheless, each season brings its own beauty.
The hike begins at the Mountain Creek car park. Please be aware that cycling is only permitted on the designated Management Trail section.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1412 m
Min elevation: 912 m
Total climbing: 778 m
Total descent: -778 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Kambah, Weston Creek, Tuggeranong, Coree, Tharwa
While the Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre serves as a convenient starting point for many explorations within the reserve, the Camels Hump hike commences at Mountain Creek carpark. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve itself is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, approximately a 45-minute drive from Canberra’s city centre. Upon entering the reserve, consult park maps or ask park rangers for specific directions to the Mountain Creek carpark.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
About the region
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, a 54.5-square-kilometre sanctuary located just 40 minutes' drive from Canberra, the capital of New South Wales, offers a captivating glimpse of Australian nature.
The reserve encompasses diverse landscapes, from rugged peaks and rolling grasslands to ancient rock shelters and cascading creeks. Diverse habitats like wetlands, forests and woodlands provide a haven for a rich variety of wildlife. Kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and even the elusive platypus can all be spotted here.
Tidbinbilla caters to all interests. Explore the network of 24 marked walks, ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes that lead to the summit of the Tidbinbilla Range. Enjoy a picnic in one of the designated areas with free barbecue facilities, or let the kids loose at the Nature Discovery Playground.
Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Ngunnawal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land. Visit significant sites like Hanging Rock, Birrigai Rock Shelter, Gibraltar Peak and the Wandarawari Track. Ascend Gibraltar Peak, Johns Peak or Camels Hump for breathtaking panoramic views.
The Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre provides valuable information, sells snacks, gifts and barista-made coffee. Guided activities are available on weekends and during school holidays, with options for custom group bookings.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a significant conservation area, playing a vital role in protecting Australian ecosystems since 1936.
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Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
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