Mount Ainslie Lookout

For the best panoramic view of Canberra, head to Mount Ainslie Lookout. This 843-metre peak, part of the Canberra Nature Park, offers a stunning bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s planned layout, with Lake Burley Griffin, Parliament House, and the Australian War Memorial aligned perfectly along the Anzac Parade axis. The lookout is a favourite among locals for sunrise and sunset, when the light paints the bushland and cityscape in warm hues.

Highlights & What to See

• The iconic view: Stand at the lookout and see how Walter Burley Griffin’s design unfolds – the geometric lines of the city are best appreciated from here.
• Mount Ainslie Summit Walk: A 2.5 km walking trail from the Australian War Memorial car park to the summit, winding through dry eucalypt forest and offering glimpses of wildlife.
• Sunrise and sunset: The lookout is one of the best spots in Canberra for golden-hour photography, with the city lights twinkling after dark.
• Interpretive signs: Learn about the area’s Aboriginal heritage – the hill is part of the traditional lands of the Ngunnawal people – and the history of the lookout.
• Nearby trails: Extend your walk via the Mount Ainslie Drive or connect to the Centenary Trail for a longer hike through bushland.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour at the lookout itself, soaking in the views and taking photos. If you plan to do the summit walk from the War Memorial, allow 1–2 hours round trip. A visit during sunrise or sunset can be combined with a picnic – there are benches and grassy areas at the top. For a quick stop, drive directly to the car park near the summit.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Australian War Memorial: Just a short walk or drive down the hill, this national shrine is a must-see, with its poignant galleries and the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Cycle or stroll along the lake’s edge, visit the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, or hire a kayak for a different perspective of the city.
• Parliament House: Drive or take a bus to the top of Capital Hill for a tour of the building and its rooftop garden.
• National Arboretum Canberra: Explore 94 forests of rare and endangered trees, with walking trails and a café with panoramic views.
• Canberra City Centre: Head to the city for dining and shopping, with highlights including the Canberra Centre, Braddon’s foodie scene, and the National Gallery.

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