Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover a slice of history while hiking in the Blue Range Recreation Area, Australian Capital Territory. This moderate, 7.2km return trail starts and ends at the Blue Range Car Park, just 40km from the capital city and near the town of Stromlo. Walk through flourishing daffodil fields in spring and past the remnants of the historic Sherwood Homestead, complete with original fireplace stones and an oak tree memorial. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the old-world charm of this unique bushwalking experience.

Length:

7.2km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Blue Range Car Park

End: Blue Range Car Park

Blue Range Recreation Area

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Stromlo

From state capital: 40km

Latitude: -35.28988736

Longitude: 148.8751735

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

Similar

Region

6,035 views

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.

Gallery

Add your photos

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.

Walk map and GPX file

Sherwood Homestead from Blue Range Hike (7.2km)

Share your GPX file

It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Bidgee Crossing, Hall, Jerrabomberra, Kambah, O'Malley, Pialligo, Queanbeyan, Tharwa, Tidbinbilla, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village

Getting to the trailhead in Blue Range Recreation Area.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Blue Range Recreation Area or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

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.

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

Sherwood Homestead from Blue Range Hike (7.2km)

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

Acknowledgement of Country

Sherwood homestead from blue range hike (7. 2km)

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

Sherwood Homestead from Blue Range Hike (7.2km)