The Nursery Creek Swamp walking track offers a challenging yet rewarding 8.5-kilometre (grade 4) journey through Namadgi National Park, typically completed in around 3.5 hours. This out-and-back hike traverses diverse terrain, encompassing both dry and wet forest ecosystems. Along the way, you'll encounter impressive granite boulders and a large fen, also known as a sedge swamp. Be aware that the initial 2 kilometres involve a steep ascent.
The well-marked trail commences across the road from the designated Nursery Swamp carpark, situated just off Orroral Road (approximately 22 kilometres from the Namadgi Visitors Centre). The initial section features stone and timber steps, which can be quite steep and rocky as they lead you up to a saddle. Boardwalks, logs, and stepping stones have been strategically placed to assist with navigating boggy sections. It's important to stay on the main trail, as there are several branching bush tracks that lead to other areas of the park.
Following your descent into the Nursery Creek Swamp, the trail reaches a relatively flat area overlooking the main body of the swamp. This vantage point provides a perfect opportunity for a picnic lunch, with stunning panoramic views of the sprawling valley and surrounding hills.
Total distance: 8995 m
Max elevation: 1149 m
Min elevation: 939 m
Total climbing: 462 m
Total descent: -462 m
Download file:
Nursery-Swamp-Hike.gpx
Accessing the Nursery Swamp walking track is straightforward. Located within Namadgi National Park, the trailhead can be reached from Canberra via several routes. Travel south along Tuggeranong Parkway past Lanyon Homestead and Tharwa village. This route eventually joins Kings Highway. Follow Kings Highway for a short distance until you see the turnoff for Orroral Road. Take this turn and continue for approximately 22 kilometres, following signage for Namadgi National Park. The designated carpark for the Nursery Swamp walk will be on your right.
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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.
The Namadgi National Park lies on Ngunnawal Country. This land, rich in cultural significance, has been managed by the Ngunnawal people for countless generations. Their deep connection to this landscape encompasses cultural, social, environmental, spiritual and economic aspects.
Encompassing over 106,000 hectares, Namadgi National Park safeguards a vast area of alpine, sub-alpine and mountain bushland. Nearly half of the Australian Capital Territory falls within its boundaries. The park is crucial for the preservation of high-altitude sphagnum bogs. These bogs provide critical habitat for endangered species and act as natural reservoirs, slowly releasing clean water that sustains the ACT.
For visitor information, maps, firewood permits, or general inquiries, head to the Namadgi Visitor Centre.
Hikers will find hundreds of kilometres of trails to explore within Namadgi National Park. Before venturing out, it's important to familiarise yourself with the Australian Walking Track Grading System. Additionally, inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time. Be sure to record your trip details in the designated bushwalking registers located throughout the park. Straying from marked trails is only recommended for experienced navigators with proper map and compass skills. As weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly year-round, always pack warm and waterproof clothing.
Namadgi National Park is home to numerous significant Ngunnawal cultural sites and objects scattered across the landscape. These include the Yankee Hat Rock Art and other locations that hold stories of vital knowledge, cultural values, and wisdom. These sites are deeply important to the Ngunnawal people. Their history is not only documented in archaeological finds but also preserved in the landscape itself, passed down through generations through oral stories, dance, memory, ceremonies and the artistic depictions found in rock art sites.
The Ngunnawal people emphasise the importance of protecting these stories, sites and objects for future generations. Visitors to Namadgi are asked to treat these locations with respect, recognising them as a rich and ancient part of the park's narrative.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
