Black Mountain

Rising abruptly from the western edge of Canberra, Black Mountain is a bush-clad reserve that rewards visitors with sweeping views over the capital and its surrounding hills. The mountain’s defining feature is the iconic Telstra Tower, a 195-metre communications spire that doubles as an observation deck and revolving restaurant. But beyond the tower, Black Mountain offers a network of walking trails through dry eucalypt forests, pockets of wildflowers in spring, and a surprising sense of wilderness just minutes from the city centre. For nature lovers, the Australian National Botanic Gardens sprawls across the lower slopes, showcasing the continent’s diverse flora in a tranquil setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Telstra Tower – ascend to the observation deck for 360-degree views of Canberra’s parliamentary triangle, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Brindabella Ranges. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Snowy Mountains.
• Australian National Botanic Gardens – explore themed walks through rainforest, rockery, and eucalypt groves, with a focus on native plants and a stunning collection of orchids and waratahs.
• Black Mountain Summit Walk – a 2.5 km trail that winds through scribbly gum and red stringybark forest, with lookout points over the city and the lake.
• Nature Discovery – keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, crimson rosellas, and the elusive gang-gang cockatoo, Canberra’s faunal emblem.
• Black Mountain Drive – a scenic road that loops around the mountain, with several pull-offs offering photo opportunities and access to shorter walks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend about 2–3 hours at Black Mountain, which allows time to visit the Telstra Tower, wander through the botanic gardens, and tackle one of the shorter walking trails. If you’re keen on a longer hike, set aside half a day to explore the full summit walk and the network of fire trails. The mountain is easily combined with a morning or afternoon in central Canberra, and the botanic gardens make a lovely picnic spot. Arrive early to avoid crowds at the tower and to enjoy cooler temperatures for walking.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – the national capital is just a five-minute drive away, with its museums, galleries, and Parliament House.
• Lake Burley Griffin – cycle or stroll along the lake’s foreshore, hire a kayak, or visit the Captain Cook Memorial Jet.
• Mount Ainslie – another lookout hill with a walking trail and panoramic views, offering a different perspective on the city layout.
• National Arboretum Canberra – a sprawling 250-hectare park with forests of rare and endangered trees, plus a children’s playground and café.
• Namadgi National Park – about 40 minutes south, this wilderness area offers rugged hiking, Aboriginal rock art, and alpine landscapes.

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