Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the captivating beauty of Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve with the 6km Devils Gap Fire Trail hike, a Grade 3 Moderate walk in Australia. This trail presents a challenging uphill climb through towering eucalypts, leading to breath-taking views of the Gibraltar Range. Hikers should prepare for steep inclines, rough surfaces and numerous steps. Remember, cycling is allowed only on the designated Management Trail section, not the Devils Gap Fire Trail. A must-visit for bushwalkers seeking a rewarding adventure.

Length:

6km

Duration:

2.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 1031m

Min elevation: 825m

Total Ascent: 337m

Start: Devils Gap Carpark

End: Devils Gap Carpark

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Gordon

From state capital: 46km

Latitude: -35.46524457617883

Longitude: 148.92219364868708

Walk map

Weather

Similar

1,653 views

Hike overview

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers a moderately challenging walk with the Devils Gap Fire Trail hike. This 6-kilometre return trail, rated as grade 3, takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. The initial leg of the hike is a demanding uphill climb on a fire trail, leading you through towering eucalypts. The effort is rewarded with views of the Gibraltar Range that gradually unfold as you ascend. Upon reaching the saddle, the trail transitions into the 1.4-kilometre Devils Loop.

The trail features steep inclines, rough surfaces, and numerous steps, making it a moderately challenging hike. The well-marked trail begins at the intersection of Tidbinbilla Reserve Road and the Devils Gap Fire Trail. It's a continuous uphill climb until you reach the loop section. The loop itself dips down briefly before requiring another climb to complete the circuit and rejoin the fire trail for the descent back to the car park.

It's important to remember that cycling is only permitted on the designated Management Trail section, not on the Devils Gap Fire Trail itself.

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

Devils Gap Hike (6km)

Total distance: 5977 m
Max elevation: 1031 m
Min elevation: 825 m
Total climbing: 337 m
Total descent: -337 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

Devils Gap Hike (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

Devils Gap Hike (6km)