Five gorgeous spring walks in Canberra (that aren’t Floriade)
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Looking for a walk full of flowers but would rather avoid the crowds at Commonwealth Park? These five gorgeous spring walks are perfect for blossom spotting in Canberra.
We promise that these walks guarantee plenty of pops of prettiness.
Senate Rose Gardens (Parkes)
Where else would you go flower spotting than at the historic rose gardens at Old Parliament House?
Offering a quiet, flower-filled place to pause in the heart of the Parliamentary Zone, we recommend parking near Boundless Playground, walking across the bridge, and following the path toward the gardens. While the iconic roses peak later in the season, early spring brings lush greenery, crisp air, and stunning arbours of purple wisteria.
After taking in the blooms, you can grab a coffee at either the Courtyard Café at The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House or a pizza at Rosa’s, located a minute away on the lawns of the lobby.
Walk time: One-hour total
Nara Peace Park and Lake Burley Griffin (Parkes)
Be transported to the serenity of Japan as Nara Peace Park transforms into a sanctuary of pink cherry blossoms. Ideal for a tranquil stroll or a quiet pause by the water, it offers one of the prettiest views in the city. If you want to stretch your legs further, continue along the blossom-lined shore of Lake Burley Griffin.
Walk time: 20 to 30 minutes one way (about an hour total)
The National Arboretum (Molonglo Valley)
Home to over 44,000 trees, a variety of spring flowers and an impressive bonsai collection, exploring the National Arboretum in spring is a nature lover’s delight.
With vibrant wildflowers, blooming trees, unique outdoor art sculptures, and stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, start your walk with a coffee at the Ginger Group café inside the Arboretum village centre, then wander down the track to the pink blossoms in Forest 17, near the Wide Brown Land sculpture.
For those with children, the Pod Playground is also well worth a visit on the way out!
Walk time: About 30 to 45 minutes
Yarralumla Nursery (Yarralumla)
A gentle 4.2 km loop offering scenic views of Lake Burley Griffin, open parklands, and the historic Yarralumla Heritage Nursery, this walk is great for families.
We suggest starting at the car park near Government House on Dunrossil Drive, then following the path across the bridge towards the Yarralumla Gallery and Oaks Brasserie, where you can stop for a coffee or a plate of delicious scones.
Take the time to explore the adjoining English Garden to soak in some beautiful blooms.
Walk time: About 50 minutes to 1.5 hours (depending on your pace)
La Perouse Street (Griffith)
For something more suburban, La Perouse Street in Griffith always offers plenty of cherry blossom sightings.
Gentle on the joints and high on charm, this walk is short, sweet, and bursting with colour – perfect for a slow morning. Start at the intersection of Flinders Way, follow the floral canopy down the street, and end at Manuka Village for a coffee. Want a longer loop? Continue through to Telopea Park to make the most of the spring sunshine.
Walk time: 10 minutes one way (20 minutes total)
