Trail Fast Facts
Sherwood Homestead from Blue Range is a 7.2km, grade 3 hike in Blue Range Recreation Area, Australian Capital Territory. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
This hike ends at the remains of the Sherwood Homestead and gardens, first established by Henry and Eliza Philips in 1863. All that remains of the actual homestead is some stones from the fireplace, however a number of exotic trees show the layout of the site. In spring, many thousands of daffodils flourish, which likely date back to the time of the Phillips occupation. The garden was once delightful with flowers, cherry trees, apples, walnuts, raspberry bushes and more. On Ropers Hill, overlooking the site, the stump of a once massive oak tree still stands. This is the site where Henry, Eliza and their infant son, Henry now lie. A wooden fence surrounds the stump and a memorial plaque set in stone was put in place in November 2000.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Trailhead
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Getting there
This hike ends at the remains of the Sherwood Homestead and gardens, first established by Henry and Eliza Philips in 1863. All that remains of the actual homestead is some stones from the fireplace, however a number of exotic trees show the layout of the site. In spring, many thousands of daffodils flourish, which likely date back to the time of the Phillips occupation. The garden was once delightful with flowers, cherry trees, apples, walnuts, raspberry bushes and more. On Ropers Hill, overlooking the site, the stump of a once massive oak tree still stands. This is the site where Henry, Eliza and their infant son, Henry now lie. A wooden fence surrounds the stump and a memorial plaque set in stone was put in place in November 2000.
Photo gallery
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.
About the region
Blue Range Hut Recreation area is in the Uriarra Forest area on Blue Range Road, 2.6 kilometres from the intersection with Brindabella Road. Centred around the heritage-listed remains of a World War II Italian internment camp, the Blue Range camp is a very popular camping and events location. You can book individually for small groups, or hire the whole area for large gatherings. Blue Range Hut is also a great base for accessing some of the glorious alpine walking trails of northern Namadgi National Park. Bring your own drinking water and firewood. Bookings are essential, as you will not be able to get inside the locked gate unless you book prior. Phone 6207 2900 or book online at www.bookings.act.gov.au No bins are provided - please take your rubbish home with you. (This in addition to the ongoing Fox Baiting Program being carried out in the Blue Range/Lower Cotter catchment area.) Occasionally foxes and wild dogs will move baits away from the original bait site. Supervised dogs at the Blue Range campground should be safe as this is over 500 metres from the nearest bait site. Please ensure that dogs are secured at the campsite so that they cannot stray into baited areas unsupervised. For further information please call 13 22 81.
For more information, a location map and facilities please visit the ACT Government Information Portal.
Suggest an edit
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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Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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
Explore Safe
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.
Weather
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.