Brindabella Range

Rising like a rumpled green blanket to the west of Canberra, the Brindabella Range offers a cool, quiet escape into classic Australian high-country scenery. This ancient granite massif is cloaked in snow gums, alpine bogs, and wildflower-strewn meadows, with walking trails that lead to panoramic lookouts over the Canberra region. For self-drive travellers, the winding roads through the range are a reward in themselves, with plenty of spots to stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp eucalyptus air.

Highlights & What to See

• Namadgi National Park – The largest protected area in the ACT, with walks from short rainforest strolls to the challenging Mt. Gingera summit (1,855m), which offers views across to the Snowy Mountains.
• Brindabella Road Scenic Drive – A gravel road that snakes through the range, passing historic huts, picnic spots, and the chance to spot wombats and kangaroos at dawn or dusk.
• Yankee Hat Walking Track – A moderate 6km return walk to an Aboriginal rock shelter with ochre paintings, set in a serene valley.
• Bimberi Wilderness Area – For experienced hikers, this remote zone includes the ACT’s highest peak, Bimberi Peak (1,912m), on a multi-day trek.
• Fiery & Flea Creek Picnic Areas – Perfect for a family lunch by the creek, with gentle walks and birdwatching opportunities.

Suggested Time to Spend

Aim for at least a full day to do the range justice: spend the morning on a solid walk like the Mt. Gingera or Yankee Hat trails, then drive the Brindabella Road in the afternoon, stopping at lookouts and picnic areas. If you’re keen on overnight hiking, two to three days allow you to tackle the Bimberi Wilderness loop or combine with a visit to the nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. For a quick taste, a half-day driving loop from Canberra to the Brindabella Valley and back is scenic and rewarding.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – Just 15 minutes from the range, this reserve offers wildlife spotting (platypus, koalas, kangaroos) and easy boardwalks through wetlands and forests.
• Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex – A fascinating NASA tracking station with a visitor centre, located on the edge of the range.
• Corin Forest – A family-friendly mountain recreation area with a bobsled ride, alpine slide, and seasonal snow play.
• Bramina Island – A tiny island in the Murrumbidgee River, reachable via a short walk from the Brindabella Road area, with historic ruins and river views.
• Lake Burley Griffin – Back in Canberra, the lake offers kayaking, cycling paths, and visits to the National Museum and Questacon.

Please check official sources for current details.