Five one-hour loops for your next Canberra walk
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Searching for the perfect hour-long loop? These five Canberra walks will hit the sweet spot.
Finding a walk that doesn’t feel too long or too short can be something of a challenge – especially if you only have an hour or two to spare. But luckily, Canberra is overflowing with plenty of options, ranging from short and sweet strolls to stunning 5km treks.
Here are five local loops that take approximately an hour to complete – perfect for some morning movement, a quick lunch break or a walk and talk with friends.
The Bridge-to-Bridge Loop
You can’t talk about walks in Canberra without mentioning this classic. Averaging an hour to complete, the beauty of the Bridge-to-Bridge (apart from the lakeside view) is that it can be started from various points – making it easily accessible.
With views of some of Canberra’s most iconic landmarks – including the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, National Carillon, and National Library – the best part is that there are also plenty of places to stop along the way for a coffee.
The Red Hill Loop
With sweeping vistas of Canberra from the south, Red Hill Nature Reserve has long been a favourite for walkers. But if you’re short on time, make sure to check out the 5km short loop.
Taking you around the nature reserve, you’ll still get stunning views from the top without going over your lunch break.
Mount Painter Sumit Loop
The perfect walk for when you don’t have much time but still want to get some steps in, this walk in the Belconnen suburb of Cook is something of a local favourite.
Taking approximately an hour to complete, it has stunning views over Mount Ainslie and Black Mountain, lookout spots where you can soak in the beauty around you and is even dog friendly!
Church Rock Heritage Loop
Take a trip out to Tidbinbilla to enjoy this stunning 2.5 km walk. Taking approximately an hour, it combines heritage, wildlife, and nature as you trace the footsteps of early pioneers.
Showcasing the remains of an old settlement area, you’ll be treated to stunning views as well as an insight into the experiences of early European settlers.
Shepherds Lookout Loop
This walk is impressive. Why? Because not only does it offer amazing views of the Murrumbidgee River, but it only takes 45 minutes to complete.
Totalling 1.2K (including the return), start at Stockdill Drive before making your way to Shepherd’s Lookout, where you’ll soak in one of Canberra’s best bush vistas. It’ll be a while before you get bored of the views, so make sure to keep an eye on the time!
