As Canberra’s winter fog begins to lift and the first hints of spring emerge, there’s no better time to lace up your walking boots and explore the capital’s spectacular trail network.
Easy Trails Perfect for Families
Starting your walking routine doesn’t require scaling mountains.
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers the gentle Congwarra Trail (3-4 kilometres, about one hour) and the wheelchair-friendly Sanctuary Loop (2.5 kilometres). The National Arboretum presents multiple gentle trails through stunning gardens, with options ranging from 25-minute strolls to longer explorations.
Moderate Challenges with Rewarding Views
Mount Ainslie’s Kokoda Trail offers a 4.5-kilometre circuit from the War Memorial with panoramic Canberra views. Mount Taylor provides another moderate option with its 3.8-kilometre return track, including steeper sections and excellent valley views. Both trails typically take 1-2 hours, making them perfect for weekend adventures.
Demanding Hikes for the Fit
Gibraltar Peak at Tidbinbilla stretches 8.2 kilometres and rates as moderate to hard difficulty, requiring 2-3 hours. For the ultimate test, Mount Tennant spans approximately 15 kilometres and can take up to six hours.
Chiropractor Dr Timothy Porter notes, “Challenging hikes provide excellent benefits for core strength and balance, but it’s crucial to build up gradually. Your spine needs time to adapt to increased demands.”
Getting Your Body Trail Ready
Before hitting any trail, consider how winter inactivity might have affected your body. Start with shorter, easier trails and gradually progress. Pay attention to your posture while walking: shoulders back, core engaged, arms swinging naturally.
Regular walking strengthens spine-supporting muscles while improving cardiovascular health and mental wellbeing. As weather warms, there’s never been a better time to explore Canberra’s trails.
Ready to get moving but concerned about mobility issues? Contact Weston Creek Chiropractic Centre to ensure your body is prepared for whatever adventure calls.