Hanging Rock is a 500-metre, grade 2 hike in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, Australian Capital Territory, taking approximately 15 minutes to complete. This short and easy loop trail is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, offering a brief but enriching exploration of a culturally significant and naturally beautiful area.
The walk begins by crossing Ashbrook Creek and passes through a tall wet eucalyptus forest. It then gently ascends to Hanging Rock, a large granite tor that served as an ancient rock shelter for the Ngunnawal people. Hanging Rock Shelter is of profound cultural and spiritual importance to the Ngunnawal people, so visitors are asked to tread gently and respectfully.
The trail continues around the shelter, looping back to the carpark. Along the way, keep an eye out for swamp wallabies that inhabit the area. The track is well-maintained, with a hardened or compacted surface, gentle hill sections, and occasional steps, making it accessible for those without bushwalking experience.
As you walk, remember the cultural significance of Hanging Rock to the Ngunnawal Traditional Custodians. Please honour their request to stay on the designated trail, take only memories, and leave only footprints behind. The walk begins at Hanging Rock carpark.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 611 m
Max elevation: 837 m
Min elevation: 807 m
Total climbing: 45 m
Total descent: -45 m
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Accessing the Hanging Rock Walk is straightforward. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, approximately a 45-minute drive from Canberra's city centre. Upon entering the reserve, follow signs for the Hanging Rock car park. This car park serves as the starting point for the walk, where your short journey to uncover Hanging Rock's beauty and cultural significance commences.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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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Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Australian Capital Territory
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Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Australian Capital Territory
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Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Australian Capital Territory
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Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Australian Capital Territory
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
