Call in at the Tidbinbilla Visitors Centre to check on latest conditions and departure points before heading out on any walk in the National Park. Plan ahead for your walk, don't rely on a mobile phone and avoid walking alone.
Gibraltar Peak Walking Trail, in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Australian Capital Territory, is an 8.2-kilometre, grade 4 hike that takes approximately four hours to complete. This challenging trail, renowned for being one of the most spectacular walks in Tidbinbilla, offers a roughly 320-metre altitude gain through diverse landscapes of grassland and forest. On a clear day, hikers are rewarded with incredible views from the summit. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the people, landscape, plants, and animals that have shaped this area. The return journey follows the same route, making for a round trip of three to four hours. Due to the length, roughness, and steepness of the track, bushwalking experience is recommended.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts, with the Gibraltar Peak Trail being one of its most rewarding hikes. This 8.2-kilometre journey starts at the Dalsetta car park, approximately a 45-minute drive from Canberra's city centre and about two kilometres from the Tidbinbilla visitor centre. The trail initially traverses open grasslands, hinting at the scenic beauty ahead, before transitioning to a steeper path as you ascend towards the peak.
Upon reaching Eliza Saddle, hikers can choose their return route. While the same path offers a direct return trip, the more adventurous may opt for the extended 13-kilometre loop via Eliza Saddle. This extended option winds along the Birrigai Time Trail, past the visitor centre, and through the Congwarra Trail before returning to Dalsetta, adding an extra hour to the hike.
Rated moderate to hard, the hike varies between grasslands and forests, with some sections being quite steep and rough. As you ascend, informative signs share the area's Indigenous significance, plant and animal life, and landscape history. Gibraltar Peak holds deep cultural importance for the Ngunnawal people as a men's initiation site. To show respect, hikers are asked to stay on the marked walking track, take only memories, and leave only footprints.
For a more challenging return, follow the Eliza Saddle Track, then join the Birrigai Time Trail and Sheedys Link, finishing back at Dalsetta via the Congwarra Trail. Allow about five hours to complete this 13-kilometre loop. Please be mindful that Gibraltar Peak is a highly significant cultural site for the Ngunnawal Traditional Custodians, a place where boys become men. Elders ask that you respectfully visit this place by adhering to the marked paths and preserving the area's integrity.
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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.
GPX file by Melany T courtesy of Bryan J Rollins.
Total distance: 8038 m
Max elevation: 1039 m
Min elevation: 737 m
Total climbing: 414 m
Total descent: -414 m
Alternate circuit hike via Xanthorrea Forrest - 7.5km
GPX file by Darren Edwards.
Total distance: 7277 m
Max elevation: 1044 m
Min elevation: 737 m
Total climbing: 384 m
Total descent: -383 m
Getting to the trailhead: 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). This walk begins at Dalsetta carpark.
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
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
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.
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
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