Tackle the remote trail to Bimberi Peak, the ACT’s tallest mountain at 1912 metres, for sweeping views across Namadgi National Park.
Bimberi Peak rises as the highest point in the Australian Capital Territory, offering hikers a genuine wilderness experience within easy reach of Canberra. At 1912 metres it crowns the Brindabella Range inside Namadgi National Park, where subalpine grasslands meet snow-gum woodlands and granite tors. The summit rewards steady walkers with 360-degree vistas that stretch from the Snowy Mountains to the Canberra skyline on clear days.
Most visitors start from the Mount Franklin Road trailhead or combine the walk with nearby Mount Gingera. The route crosses open ridges and descends briefly into sheltered valleys before the final rocky scramble. Expect a full-day return journey on unmarked sections; navigation skills and a topographic map are essential. Carry at least three litres of water per person, as no reliable sources exist on the upper slopes.
Late spring through autumn provides the most stable conditions. Snow can linger into October and return in May, turning the track icy and increasing exposure risk. Summer days are long but can bring thunderstorms; start early to avoid afternoon lightning. Winter ascents require crampons and ice axes for experienced parties only.
Drive south from Canberra via the Cotter Road and then Mount Franklin Road, which becomes unsealed and may close after heavy rain. Four-wheel-drive vehicles handle the final kilometres best, though high-clearance two-wheel-drive cars can reach the main trailhead in dry weather. Once at the summit, many extend the day by visiting the nearby Mount Kelly or following the Australian Alps Walking Track toward Mount Murray. Canberra’s national institutions and restaurants lie roughly 90 minutes away for post-hike recovery.
Watch for eastern grey kangaroos grazing at dawn and the occasional wedge-tailed eagle riding thermals above the ridges. The park protects rare alpine flora including the Namadgi grevillea; stay on formed tracks to avoid damaging fragile soils. Leave no trace principles apply throughout the national park.
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The route involves steady climbing on rough tracks with some off-trail navigation; it suits fit walkers comfortable with day-long efforts and basic route-finding.
No vehicle access reaches the top. The final kilometres must be walked from trailheads along Mount Franklin Road.
Dispersed bush camping is permitted in Namadgi National Park with a permit; choose sites at least 100 metres from watercourses and avoid sensitive alpine zones.
Eastern grey kangaroos, crimson rosellas, and wedge-tailed eagles are common; lyrebirds sometimes appear in the lower gullies.
No facilities exist beyond the trailhead. Carry all water required and plan to manage waste according to leave-no-trace guidelines.
Flowing through Namadgi National Park, the Cotter River offers clear trout streams, riverside campsites and easy day…
Tackle the rugged trails and sweeping alpine views at this prominent peak in the Australian Capital Territory.
