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.
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Total distance: 8995 m
Max elevation: 1149 m
Min elevation: 939 m
Total climbing: 462 m
Total descent: -462 m
Getting to the trailhead: Namadgi National Park.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Canberra, Conder, Cotter River, Gordon, Hall, Jerrabomberra, Kambah, Lanyon, Michelago, Narrabundah, O'Malley, Pearce, Queanbeyan, Tharwa, Tidbinbilla, Tuggeranong, Tumut, Uriarra, Uriarra Village, Wanniassa, Watson, Weston Creek, Woden
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Namadgi National Park? 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
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.
