Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the wonders of Australian wildlife on the Peppermint Trail, a 1.8km loop circuit within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT. This easy grade 2 hike suitable for all abilities offers a brief, yet immersive nature exploration. Amble across Mountain Creek and around a predator-proof Eucalypt Forest, home to koalas, wallabies, potoroos and an array of forest birds. With a hardened track and gentle hills, starting conveniently at the Eucalypt Forest car park, this trail is a must-visit for Aussie bushwalkers and animal enthusiasts.

Length:

1.8km

Duration:

30 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 831m

Min elevation: 792m

Total Ascent: 49m

Start: Eucalypt Forest Carpark

End: Eucalypt Forest Carpark

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Gordon

From state capital: 46.5km

Latitude: -35.46065247392026

Longitude: 148.90654563791003

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Hike overview

The Peppermint Trail is a pleasant 1.8-kilometre loop walk within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. This easy grade 2 trail takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a short nature exploration.

The well-maintained track winds its way across Mountain Creek and around the perimeter of the Eucalypt Forest. This predator-proof enclosure provides a safe haven for koalas, wallabies, potoroos, and a variety of forest birds. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk – you might be lucky enough to spot some of these fascinating creatures!

The trail itself is a hardened or compacted surface with gentle rolling hills, requiring no prior bushwalking experience. The convenient starting point is located at the Eucalypt Forest car park.

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Walk map and GPX file

Peppermint Trail Walk (1.8km)

Total distance: 1834 m
Max elevation: 831 m
Min elevation: 792 m
Total climbing: 49 m
Total descent: -49 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Calwell, Conder, Cooleman, Cooleman Ridge, Coree, Cotter River, Dunlop, Durras, Gordon, Hall, Isaacs, Kambah, Mawson, Narrabundah, Paddys River, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Wanniassa, Weston Creek, Woden

Getting to the trailhead in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, Paddys River, about 40km from the centre of Canberra. Nestled within the Tidbinbilla Valley and surrounded by Namadgi National Park, both the drive and destination are experiences in themselves. Tidbinbilla is an easy 45-minute drive south-west from the centre of Canberra. Access is off Paddys River Road, via Cotter Road (from North Canberra) or via Drakeford Drive, Woodcock Ave and Point Hut Crossing (from South Canberra).

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews

Peppermint Trail Walk (1.8km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Peppermint Trail Walk (1.8km)