The Square Rock Walking Track offers a rewarding 10.5-kilometre (grade 3) journey through Namadgi National Park, typically completed in around 4 hours. This sheltered trail features a gentle incline, winding its way through woodlands of ash and eucalypts before culminating at a prominent granite outcrop known as Square Rock.
A metal ladder provides safe access to a large rock ledge, where you'll be greeted with stunning panoramic views across the Brindabella Ranges. For an even more comprehensive view, consider a short detour to the Orroral Valley Lookout. This vantage point showcases the valley floor, once farmed by European settlers and later home to a space tracking station in the late 20th century. If you choose to bypass the lookout, the main track shortens to an 8.5-kilometre return journey.
The walk commences at the Corin Hub on Corin Road, near the Smokers Gap entrance to Namadgi National Park. The initial section parallels Corin Road, gradually ascending to Smokers Flat – a perfect spot to rest and take in the surrounds. Continuing along the less-steep track, you'll encounter the turnoff for the Orroral Valley Lookout. The brief detour is well worth the effort, offering a glimpse into the valley's history.
Less than a kilometre further along the main track lies Square Rock itself. Be aware of stone steps and cliffs along the way, with a metal ladder providing access to the summit. For a longer adventure, consider incorporating the Smokers Trail on your return journey.
Geologically speaking, the landscape is dominated by granite boulders and rock outcrops. These formations originated deep underground around 400-450 million years ago, pushing upwards through existing sedimentary rocks. Over millions of years, erosion weathered away the surrounding sandstones and shales, ultimately revealing the granite. The characteristic rounded shapes of the boulders are a result of both physical and chemical weathering processes. Expansion and contraction within the boulders cause "onion-skin" weathering, where outer layers separate from the main body of the rock in thin flakes. Natural shelters are often formed as the bases of these boulders erode.
The Ngunnawal people hold a deep connection to this land, and their presence is woven into the history of the entire region.
A unique feature along the midway point of the track is Smokers Flat. This flat, grassy area with heathy bog edges is treeless due to cold air drainage from surrounding higher elevations, which inhibits tree growth. Black Sallee eucalypts with their olive-green trunks can be found around the perimeter, while the adjacent slopes support Mountain Gum, Candlebark, and Snow Gum varieties. Look out for rare finds like the Austral Pillwort, a primitive water plant, and the threatened Austral Toadflax herb.
Finally, upon reaching Square Rock Lookout, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic view. Remember to exercise caution near the steep cliffs. Return to the trailhead via the same route.
- A good family hike without being overly taxing.
- There is a walkers' register at the start of the trailhead.
- While the trail is generally through sheltered woodland, at Square Rock the wind can whip up and on wet days it can get slippery.
- Fortunately there is good shelter in the rock formations for a pleasant rest stop regardless of weather.
- Don't get confused when you come across a giant cube-shaped rock towards the end of the trail. This is not Square Rock, but fascinating all the same. Keep going another few hundred metres to reach Square Rock itself.
- Make sure you take the short detour to the Orroral Valley lookout, though a bit of scrambling is needed to get the best views.
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Total distance: 10255 m
Max elevation: 1451 m
Min elevation: 1218 m
Total climbing: 322 m
Total descent: -322 m
Getting to the trailhead: Namadgi National Park.
Accessing the Square Rock Walking Track is straightforward via sealed roads. Follow signage from Canberra’s southern suburbs towards Corin Forest. Once you’re on Corin Road, continue for a few hundred metres past the Corin Forest Mountain Reserve on your right. Keep an eye out for a large gravel carpark on your left – this is the designated trailhead for the Square Rock walk.
Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Canberra, Conder, Cotter River, Gordon, Hall, Jerrabomberra, Kambah, Lanyon, Michelago, Narrabundah, O'Malley, Pearce, Queanbeyan, Tharwa, Tidbinbilla, Tuggeranong, Tumut, Uriarra, Uriarra Village, Wanniassa, Watson, Weston Creek, Woden
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Namadgi National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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