Ginninderry to Shepherd's Lookout (7.5km)

The Ginninderry to Shepherd's Lookout hike is a moderately challenging 7.5km return trail in Uriarra Crossing, Australian Capital Territory. With an estimated completion time of 4 hours, the hike offers a scenic journey through diverse landscapes.

The trail begins at McClymount Way in Ginninderry. Hikers will traverse a variety of terrains, including forests, native grasslands, and ever-changing views. The route provides glimpses of the Brindabella Ranges along the way, culminating in a breathtaking panorama from Shepherd's Lookout itself.

This recently opened track allows access to previously unexplored areas of the Ginninderry Conservation Corridor. The path winds through two distinct forest types and native grasslands, showcasing a dynamic tapestry of vegetation. Notably, the track passes by a landscape reminiscent of the scene depicted in Elioth Gruner's 1937 painting, Weetangera.

Shepherd's Lookout, perched on the edge of Belconnen and overlooking the mighty Murrumbidgee River, is a premier destination for bushwalking enthusiasts in Canberra. It boasts some of the most captivating views in the region.

Named after local landowners, Shepherd's Lookout holds the distinction of being the ACT's northernmost vantage point overlooking the Murrumbidgee River. This vital waterway has sustained the Ngunnawal people for millennia, providing them with water, fish, and habitat for various birdlife. The area also serves as a sanctuary for endangered species such as the platypus, Macquarie perch, and Murray cod. Black cypress pine, a favoured food source for Gang-Gang cockatoos, thrives in the thin, rocky soil of the region.