Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the remarkable beauty of the Australian bush on the moderate-grade Cascades Trail, a 2.6km circuit in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT. This hour-long trail offers a refreshing mix of shaded valleys, damp gullies, and stunning waterfall views. Expect short, steep climbs, uneven terrain, and plenty of wildlife spotting. Start this invigorating bushwalk at the Mountain Creek car park; a memorable hike awaits.

Length:

2.6km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 1015m

Min elevation: 894m

Total Ascent: 170m

Start: Mountain Creek Carpark

End: Mountain Creek Carpark

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Gordon

From state capital: 46.5km

Latitude: -35.45692092470078

Longitude: 148.88947067275998

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

Similar

Region

7,265 views

Hike overview

The Cascades Trail offers a scenic 2.6-kilometre loop walk through Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT. This moderately challenging grade 3 hike takes approximately one hour to complete and is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with some bushwalking experience recommended.

The shady forest trail provides a welcome escape on hot days and offers a unique beauty even on cooler, wetter days. As you meander through the forest, shaded valleys, and damp gullies, observe the subtle changes in the undergrowth. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Australian bush. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of wallabies or listen for the enchanting calls of lyrebirds.

The full 2.6-kilometre trail includes a steeper climb rewarded by breathtaking views of the main falls, where crystal-clear water cascades over granite rock formations. For those seeking a flatter option, a shorter 2-kilometre lower loop offers a beautiful alternative with less elevation gain.

The trail itself features short, steep sections, uneven terrain, and numerous steps. The starting point for this invigorating walk is conveniently located at the Mountain Creek car park.

Gallery

Add your photos

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.

Walk map and GPX file

Cascades Trail Hike (2.6km)

Total distance: 2549 m
Max elevation: 1015 m
Min elevation: 894 m
Total climbing: 170 m
Total descent: -170 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Calwell, Conder, Cooleman, Cooleman Ridge, Coree, Cotter River, Dunlop, Durras, Gordon, Hall, Isaacs, Kambah, Mawson, Narrabundah, Paddys River, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Wanniassa, Weston Creek, Woden

Getting to the trailhead in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, Paddys River, about 40km from the centre of Canberra. Nestled within the Tidbinbilla Valley and surrounded by Namadgi National Park, both the drive and destination are experiences in themselves. Tidbinbilla is an easy 45-minute drive south-west from the centre of Canberra. Access is off Paddys River Road, via Cotter Road (from North Canberra) or via Drakeford Drive, Woodcock Ave and Point Hut Crossing (from South Canberra).

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

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

Reviews

Cascades Trail Hike (2.6km)

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Cascades Trail Hike (2.6km)