The best walks and hikes in Black Mountain Nature Reserve
4.5
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3,289
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140
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Hiking in Black Mountain Nature Reserve offers varied terrain across a prominent hill rising 812 meters above sea level. The reserve features forested slopes, gullies, and areas of ancient sandstone geology. These physical characteristics provide diverse scenic experiences and panoramic views of Canberra and Lake Burley Griffin. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, including over 660 plant species and a wide array of wildlife.
Best hiking trails in Black Mountain Nature Reserve
- The most popular hiking route is Black Mountain Summit Cairn loop from Australian National Botanic Gardens, a 3.9 miles (6.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 54 minutes to complete. This easy route leads to the summit cairn, offering expansive views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Telstra Tower – Black Mountain Summit Cairn loop from Australian National Botanic Gardens, an easy 3.9 miles (6.2 km) path. This route includes the iconic Telstra Tower, providing 360-degree views of the region.
- Local hikers also love the Little Black Mountain Summit – Telstra Tower loop from Australian National Botanic Gardens, a 5.8 miles (9.4 km) trail leading through varied forested terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 52 minutes.
- Hiking in Black Mountain Nature Reserve is defined by forested slopes, sandstone outcrops, and panoramic viewpoints. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate climbs.
- The routes in Black Mountain Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 75 reviews. More than 2900 hikers have used komoot to explore Black Mountain Nature Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5.0
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37
hikers
3.19km
01:07
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
At around 812 metres above sea level, the summit of Black Mountain opens up to wide views across Canberra, including Lake Burley Griffin and the surrounding hills. The area is more exposed, with rocky ground and scattered lookout points. The telecommunications tower stands prominently at the top. It is worth taking your time here, with different angles looking back over the city and surrounding reserves.
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Black Mountain Nature Reserve covers around four hundred and thirty four hectares on the northern side of Lake Burley Griffin, protecting a large area of dry eucalypt forest and sandstone-based ecosystems. The geology supports high plant diversity, with over six hundred and sixty species recorded, including around sixty orchid species and dozens of rare plants. It’s also an important habitat for birdlife, including species like the scarlet robin and gang gang cockatoo. There’s no entry fee, with basic facilities like picnic tables near the main access points.
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The track to the summit climbs steadily through dry eucalypt forest, following a well-marked route toward the top of Black Mountain. It’s a moderate walk with some steeper sections, uneven ground, and exposed roots along the way. As you gain elevation, the vegetation begins to thin slightly, with occasional breaks in the trees giving partial views across Canberra. It’s a popular route, but still feels like proper bushland walking, especially in the quieter sections away from the road.
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A disused lookout and picnic area on Black Mountain. It still has parking and picnic tables, but I couldn't see any rubbish bins.
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A great viewing platform in the bushland precinct of the Australian National Botanic Gardens, looking over Lake Burley Griffin towards the Parliamentary Triangle.
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There is a bronze cairn marking the summit with distances to landmarks.
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Telstra Tower is closed to the public at the time of writing (December 2022). I live locally and have been up to the observation platform before and the view over Canberra is unbeatable.
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If you can stomach the entrance fee, the views form the top are just spectacular. They also have markings up there to tell you what you can see such as mountains etc... Bring a postcard as you can send mail here from the highest postbox in the ACT! Any mail sent from here will receive a special stamp as such.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Black Mountain Nature Reserve offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 140 routes available. These trails cater to different fitness levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Hikers can expect diverse terrain, ranging from forested slopes and gullies to areas of ancient sandstone geology. Trails can be mostly flat or undulating, but also include moderately steep sections and steady climbs, particularly when ascending towards the summit.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Yes, there are many easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Hiking loop from Australian National Botanic Gardens is an easy 2.6 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely family outing.
What are the best viewpoints in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
The summit of Black Mountain, rising 812 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin, and the surrounding mountains. The Telstra Tower, located at the summit, provides an observation deck for spectacular 360-degree vistas of the region.
What wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Black Mountain Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. You might spot approximately 100 species of birds, including the Scarlet Robin and Gang-gang Cockatoo. The reserve also supports 36 species of mammals, 22 reptile species, 8 frog species, and is a 'hotspot' for butterflies, with an estimated 5000 species of insects.
Are there any circular walks in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Yes, many trails in the reserve are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the Black Mountain Nature Reserve loop from Turner, which covers 7 km and offers varied scenery.
What is the best time of year to hike in Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
The reserve is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant. During this season, you can observe an abundance of wildflowers, mosses, ferns, and lichens, making for a colorful hiking experience.
Where can I park when visiting Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
Parking is available at various access points, including near the Australian National Botanic Gardens, which serves as a common trailhead for many routes. The Telstra Tower also has parking facilities at the summit.
What interesting natural features can be found in the reserve?
Beyond its diverse flora and fauna, the reserve features unique sandstone geology, including Canberra's oldest rock outcrop, dating back 464 million years. This ancient geology supports a distinctive range of plant life, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Black Mountain Nature Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 75 reviews. Hikers often praise the rewarding panoramic views from the summit, the diverse natural landscapes, and the variety of trails suitable for different abilities.
Can I access the Telstra Tower from the hiking trails?
Yes, the Telstra Tower is a prominent landmark at the summit and can be reached via several hiking trails. The 'Summit Walk' from the Australian National Botanic Gardens, often called the 'Flower to Tower' route, is a well-known path leading directly to the tower. For more information on this specific walk, you can visit the Australian National Botanic Gardens website.
Are there any long-distance or more challenging hikes available?
While many trails are easy to moderate, some routes offer more significant elevation gain and distance. For example, the Little Black Mountain Summit – Telstra Tower loop from Australian National Botanic Gardens is a moderate 9.4 km trail that takes nearly 3 hours to complete, providing a good challenge.
Most popular routes in Black Mountain Nature Reserve
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