The Yankee Hat Walking Track in Namadgi National Park offers a pleasant 6-kilometre (grade 3) return journey, typically completed in around 2.5 hours. This easy walking trail is perfect for those seeking a scenic stroll with historical significance.
The walk begins at the Yankee Hat carpark and traverses expansive grasslands, often dotted with grazing kangaroos. The highlight of the hike is the Yankee Hat rock shelter, located at the foot of Yankee Hat Mountain. This site is home to ancient Aboriginal rock art, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Ngunnawal people. Carbon dating of the shelter deposits indicates Aboriginal use of the area for over 800 years, with evidence suggesting even earlier activity dating back 3,700 years.
The rock shelter itself is a naturally formed granite boulder, sculpted by weathering processes. The painted surfaces within the shelter are delicate and require careful observation. Touching the artwork is strictly prohibited to preserve its integrity. The white streaks on the rock are feldspar deposits, while the black or grey markings are likely organic in origin. These organic deposits may hold promise for future, more precise dating of the paintings.
The shelter's high roof protects the art from direct water flow. The paint used in the artwork is a combination of white clay and red ochre, sourced from quarries located up to 90 kilometres away. Variations in the red hues may be due to natural weathering or the intentional mixing of ochre with white clay. Traditionally, ochre and clay pigments were mixed with binders like water, sap, blood, or animal oils for application.
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Total distance: 6089 m
Max elevation: 1073 m
Min elevation: 982 m
Total climbing: 154 m
Total descent: -154 m
Getting to the trailhead: Namadgi National Park.
Reaching the Yankee Hat Walking Track trailhead requires navigating a scenic, yet potentially bumpy, route through Namadgi National Park. From Canberra, head south along Tharwa Road, following signs towards Tharwa village. This route offers a glimpse into the surrounding countryside. Continue past Tharwa and keep an eye out for the turnoff onto Boboyan Road shortly after the Yankee Hat Rock carpark (which is for a separate walking track). Follow Boboyan Road for approximately 7 kilometres, enjoying the bushland scenery. The road will eventually transition to unsealed gravel. The Yankee Hat Walking Track carpark will be a small signposted turnoff on your right, so keep your speed moderate and be aware of oncoming traffic.
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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