The Orroral Valley loop trail offers a challenging 19-kilometre (grade 4) hike through Namadgi National Park, typically taking around 8 hours to complete. This loop can be tackled in either direction, catering to varying preferences for steeper or gentler inclines.
The marked trail initially follows the centre of the valley, offering a gradual ascent before a steeper descent down the fire trail. Hikers can choose their preferred direction, with the counter-clockwise route providing a more challenging workout. The northern section incorporates a 2-kilometre stretch of the Smokers Trail.
The scenic loop rewards walkers with breathtaking views, regular sightings of kangaroos, and vibrant displays of wildflowers throughout the season. Ample parking is available at the Orroral Tracking Station, which serves as both the starting and finishing point for this adventure. It's important to note that cycling is only permitted on the fire trail section of the loop.
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
Total distance: 18562 m
Max elevation: 1157 m
Min elevation: 926 m
Total climbing: 495 m
Total descent: -495 m
Each trail on this site has been personally mapped and documented to support the hiking community across Australia. While some hike descriptions include information from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal work in curating, refining, and improving the details.
Please don’t republish this content elsewhere (including AllTrails) without acknowledging Trail Hiking Australia as the source. This site is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
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
Getting to the trailhead in Namadgi National Park.
The trail begins and ends at the Orroral Tracking Station, conveniently located within Namadgi National Park. From Canberra, you can navigate towards Tharwa via either Point Hut Road and Barton Highway or Tidbinbilla Road. Whichever route you choose, you’ll eventually connect with Kings Highway. Follow Kings Highway for approximately 24 kilometres until you see the turnoff for Orroral Road. Take this turn and continue for roughly 16.5 kilometres on Orroral Road. Look out for the Orroral Tracking Station signage, as the carpark will be on your left.
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 hikes and trails in Namadgi National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
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.
