The Pine Island to Point Hut Crossing section is the shortest and easiest leg of the Murrumbidgee Discovery Track, clocking in at a leisurely 4km. Perfect for walkers and mountain bikers alike, this flat, well-marked trail offers stunning views of the Murrumbidgee River throughout the entire journey.
Starting from the southern car park at Pine Island, you'll weave through the scenic Pine Island Reserve before emerging into open grasslands. Keep your camera handy, as the panoramic vistas of the Murrumbidgee will leave you breathless. Both Pine Island and Point Hut Crossing are ideal spots to take a break, enjoy a picnic lunch, or even take a refreshing dip in the river during the warmer months.
Pine Island is a popular destination for locals, boasting barbecue facilities and a designated swimming area. Point Hut Reserve, on the other hand, provides a welcome respite with its shady picnic areas and leash-free zones where your furry companion can stretch their legs. Allow approximately two hours for a return trip, making this a perfect option for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a family outing in nature.
Total distance: 3393 m
Max elevation: 564 m
Min elevation: 552 m
Total climbing: 55 m
Total descent: -49 m
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Reaching Pine Island from Canberra is a straightforward drive, taking about 22 minutes and covering roughly 25 kilometers. Start your trip in Canberra, following Tuggeranong Parkway until you arrive at the Pine Island Reserve.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
The Bullen Range Nature Reserve and the Murrumbidgee River Corridor offer a captivating natural escape within the Australian Capital Territory. The Bullen Range, with its wild landscapes crisscrossed by hiking trails, is a haven for native Australian wildlife and a paradise for hikers. Trails cater to all levels, with the Murrumbidgee Discovery Track section here being a popular challenge for experienced trekkers, rewarding them with breathtaking river vistas. Meanwhile, the Murrumbidgee River Corridor itself stretches for roughly 66km, a ribbon of nature rich in Aboriginal and European heritage.
Over 370 Aboriginal heritage sites and historic European locations can be found alongside the river, making it a place steeped in history. The corridor is also a recreational playground, perfect for bushwalking, camping, picnics, birdwatching, and enjoying water activities like swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Together, the Bullen Range Nature Reserve and the Murrumbidgee River Corridor offer a stunning combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activities for Canberrans and visitors to explore.
Remember, the Bullen Range falls within the larger Murrumbidgee River Corridor, so you'll find the reserve nestled alongside the river. Be sure to check for any closures, especially around Red Rocks cliff in the Bullen Range, which might occur during wildlife breeding seasons.
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 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
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.
