Hike native bushland, climb to sweeping city views, and explore the biodiversity of this central Canberra landmark.
Black Mountain rises directly behind Canberra’s city centre, offering an accessible slice of Australian bushland within minutes of Parliament House. Its eucalyptus forests, rocky outcrops and diverse wildflowers create a compact natural reserve that contrasts sharply with the planned urban grid below. The summit provides 360-degree views across Lake Burley Griffin, the parliamentary triangle and the distant Brindabella Ranges.
Walking tracks range from short sealed paths to steeper fire trails that loop through dry sclerophyll woodland. Look for eastern grey kangaroos at dawn or dusk, and listen for the calls of red wattlebirds and laughing kookaburras. The Australian National Botanic Gardens sit at the mountain’s northern base, allowing visitors to combine a garden stroll with a bushwalk in one outing. At the summit, the Telstra Tower observation deck delivers unobstructed city panoramas on clear days.
Black Mountain is reached by car via Caswell Drive or via the scenic loop road that circles the reserve. Several car parks sit near trailheads. Cyclists can use the dedicated bike path that links the city centre with the mountain’s lower slopes. Public buses stop at the Botanic Gardens entrance, from where it is a steady 20-minute walk uphill to the first major lookout.
Canberra’s spring (September–November) brings mild temperatures and wildflower displays, while autumn (March–May) offers cooler, stable weather ideal for longer hikes. Summer days can exceed 30 °C, so early starts are essential. Winter mornings sometimes deliver frost and clear, crisp views.
After descending, visitors often continue to the National Arboretum, Lake Burley Griffin foreshores or the National Museum of Australia. The mountain also forms part of Canberra’s larger network of nature reserves, so longer walks can link to Mount Ainslie or O’Connor Ridge.
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Dogs are permitted on leads on most fire trails but are prohibited on some walking tracks to protect native wildlife; check current signage at each trailhead.
Fit walkers can reach the Telstra Tower via the main summit track in 45u201360 minutes; allow extra time for stops and the return descent.
A small car park sits below the tower; most visitors park lower down and walk the final section for better trail access and views.
Sturdy footwear, sun protection, water, snacks, a light jacket for wind at the summit, and a basic first-aid kit are recommended.
Yes. The gardens lie at the northern base; many visitors park there, walk the gardens, then continue uphill on connecting trails to the mountain summit.
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