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.
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.
Total distance: 21025 m
Max elevation: 1413 m
Min elevation: 926 m
Total climbing: 525 m
Total descent: -812 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Namadgi National Park.
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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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.
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
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
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Namadgi National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
11 Reviews on “Smokers Trail Hike (21km)”
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