Trail summary
Hike overview
The Smokers Trail is a challenging 21-kilometre (grade 4) hike within Namadgi National Park, typically taking around 8 hours to complete. The trail winds through a diverse landscape, transitioning from Black Sallee flats to alpine ash forests. Be prepared for steep sections along the route. For a more downhill experience, consider starting from the north. The Smokers Trail also connects to other walking tracks in the park, offering extended exploration opportunities.
The trailhead is located at the Corin Forest Mountain Recreation Area carpark on Corin Road. It's important to note that unsealed access via Corin Road may become impassable during wet weather.
The Smokers Trail eventually leads to the Orroral Tracking Station along the Orroral River. This former Earth station played a vital role in supporting NASA's Spacecraft Tracking and Data Acquisition Network (STADAN) by tracking Earth-orbiting satellites. Established approximately 50 kilometres south of Canberra, it was one of seven such stations across Australia.
Construction began in 1963 and was completed in 1965. The station featured a prominent 26-metre antenna alongside several smaller VHF and microwave antennas. Notably, the Orroral Tracking Station participated in historic missions like the Apollo-Soyuz project in 1975 and provided communication support for Space Shuttle missions until its closure in 1985. Interestingly, the 26-metre antenna was relocated to Tasmania and now forms the core of the Mount Pleasant Radio Observatory.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1413 m
Min elevation: 926 m
Total climbing: 525 m
Total descent: -812 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Tharwa, Cotter River, Kambah, Woden, Tuggeranong
Accessing the Smokers Trail trailhead requires navigating Corin Road, which can be a challenge in wet weather. The trail begins at the carpark situated within the Corin Forest Mountain Recreation Area in Namadgi National Park. Several routes lead to Corin Road from Canberra. You can travel via either Barton Highway or Tidbinbilla Road, eventually connecting with Kings Highway. Follow Kings Highway for approximately 17 kilometres until you see the turnoff for Corin Dam Road. Take this turn and continue for roughly 13 kilometres on Corin Dam Road, which becomes Corin Road further along. The carpark for the Corin Forest Mountain Recreation Area will be on your left. Remember, this final leg of the journey may require a four-wheel drive vehicle, especially after periods of heavy rain.
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.
Track grade
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.
About the region
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.
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Namadgi National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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 depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.
3 Reviews on “Smokers Trail Hike (21km)”
Madelaine Brosnan
Dillon Hamilton Liz Grochowski
Justin
Helen O’Sullivan