Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the challenging 17km Tidbinbilla Peak hike, a Grade 5 trail situated in ACT's Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, perfect for seasoned bushwalkers. Marvel at Australia's most northerly snowgum forest, scramble along the ridgeline to Johns Peak, then cross the western saddle to summit Tidbinbilla Peak. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Brindabella Ranges and the Cotter River valley below. Start and end your six-hour journey at the Mountain Creek carpark, and remember, only experienced hikers should tackle this steep and rough trail.

Length:

17km

Duration:

6hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 1550m

Min elevation: 912m

Total Ascent: 1002m

Start: Mountain Creek Carpark

End: Mountain Creek Carpark

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Gordon

From state capital: 52km

Latitude: -35.45692092470078

Longitude: 148.8894707336754

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Hike overview

The Tidbinbilla Peak hike is a demanding 17km grade 5 trail situated within Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, ACT. This challenging return journey typically requires 6 hours to complete and is recommended only for highly experienced bushwalkers.

The initial leg follows the established Camels Hump walking track until the turnoff for Johns Peak. Here, the path winds through a unique pocket of Australia's most northerly snowgum forest. The ascent to Johns Peak involves a challenging scramble along the ridgeline, culminating in a spectacular viewpoint. This peak boasts the highest elevation within the reserve's network and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the Brindabella Ranges and the Cotter River valley below.

From the summit of Johns Peak, the track continues across the western saddle before commencing the ascent of Tidbinbilla Peak. This section follows a spur for roughly 1km to the summit. The return journey follows the same route.

The trail itself is very rough and steep in sections, making it unsuitable for anyone less than a very experienced bushwalker. The hike begins at the Mountain Creek carpark. It's important to note that cycling is only permitted on the designated Management Trail section.

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Walk map and GPX file

Tidbinbilla Peak Hike (17km)

Total distance: 17106 m
Max elevation: 1550 m
Min elevation: 912 m
Total climbing: 1002 m
Total descent: -1002 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Calwell, Conder, Cooleman, Cooleman Ridge, Coree, Cotter River, Dunlop, Durras, Gordon, Hall, Isaacs, Kambah, Mawson, Narrabundah, Paddys River, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Wanniassa, Weston Creek, Woden

Getting to the trailhead in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located on Tidbinbilla Reserve Road, Paddys River, about 40km from the centre of Canberra. Nestled within the Tidbinbilla Valley and surrounded by Namadgi National Park, both the drive and destination are experiences in themselves. Tidbinbilla is an easy 45-minute drive south-west from the centre of Canberra. Access is off Paddys River Road, via Cotter Road (from North Canberra) or via Drakeford Drive, Woodcock Ave and Point Hut Crossing (from South Canberra). This hike commences at Mountain Creek Carpark.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, a 54.5-square-kilometre sanctuary located just 40 minutes' drive from Canberra, the capital of New South Wales, offers a captivating glimpse of Australian nature.
The reserve encompasses diverse landscapes, from rugged peaks and rolling grasslands to ancient rock shelters and cascading creeks. Diverse habitats like wetlands, forests and woodlands provide a haven for a rich variety of wildlife. Kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and even the elusive platypus can all be spotted here.

Tidbinbilla caters to all interests. Explore the network of 24 marked walks, ranging from gentle strolls to challenging hikes that lead to the summit of the Tidbinbilla Range. Enjoy a picnic in one of the designated areas with free barbecue facilities, or let the kids loose at the Nature Discovery Playground. Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Ngunnawal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land. Visit significant sites like Hanging Rock, Birrigai Rock Shelter, Gibraltar Peak and the Wandarawari Track. Ascend Gibraltar Peak, Johns Peak or Camels Hump for breathtaking panoramic views.

The Tidbinbilla Visitor Centre provides valuable information, sells snacks, gifts and barista-made coffee. Guided activities are available on weekends and during school holidays, with options for custom group bookings. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a significant conservation area, playing a vital role in protecting Australian ecosystems since 1936.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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

Tidbinbilla Peak Hike (17km)

10 Reviews on “Tidbinbilla Peak Hike (17km)”

Overall rating

Darren Edwards Trail Author

This is an awesome day hike. Not easy but certainly a lot of fun.

05/07/2023, 16:37

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Tidbinbilla Peak Hike (17km)