The best walks and hikes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
4.5
(22)
673
hikers
56
hikes
Hiking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve offers diverse landscapes within Canberra's north-eastern Tuggeranong area. The reserve features rolling hills and wooded ridgelines, with Mount Wanniassa standing as a prominent feature at 809 meters. The terrain includes dirt management roads and bitumen surfaces, providing a network of trails through forested areas and open slopes. Hikers can experience varied elevation changes, leading to panoramic views across southern Canberra.
Best hiking trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
- The most popular hiking route is Lower Spine Pines Singletrack – Isaacs Ridge Trig Point loop from Farrer, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 51 minutes to complete. This easy route winds through varied natural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mount Wanniassa Summit Lookout loop from Chisholm, a moderate 4.5 miles (7.3 km) path. This trail includes an ascent to the summit, offering expansive views.
- Local hikers also love the Mount Wanniassa Summit Lookout loop from Fadden, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail leading through wooded hills, often completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.
- Hiking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve is defined by rolling hills, wooded ridgelines, and panoramic viewpoints. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.50km
01:21
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
6.34km
01:52
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.20km
01:32
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.83km
01:42
150m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
8.92km
02:42
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Spine winds gradually uphill through Isaacs Pines, following a narrower line beneath the trees instead of the wider management roads nearby. It’s designed as a shared trail for walking, running and cross-country riding, with a gentler gradient than the steeper routes higher on the ridge. As you climb, gaps in the pines start opening towards Woden Valley and the Brindabella Ranges.
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Isaacs Ridge Nature Reserve climbs above Woden Valley through open eucalypt woodland, with broad views across Canberra appearing as you gain height. The reserve protects one of the ACT’s larger connected areas of endangered Yellow Box–Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodland, so stick to the existing tracks as you explore. Dogs are allowed on lead, and the more open ridgeline sections can feel quite exposed on hot or windy days.
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There’s informal roadside parking along Long Gully Road, giving you quick access to Isaacs Pines and the ridge tracks. Pull well off the road where possible and take extra care getting in and out, as traffic can move quickly along this stretch. If the roadside spots are full, Shepherdson Place is the better overflow option, with a small informal parking area.
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Mount Taylor Nature Reserve covers 300 hectares in Canberra’s south, with a network of walking tracks winding through one of the ACT’s largest remaining areas of grassy woodland. Popular for bushwalking, trail running, birdwatching, and nature photography, it’s an easy place to escape the city without travelling far. The reserve is home to a wide variety of native wildlife, including colourful parrots, honeyeaters, and, in spring, beautiful displays of wildflowers that dot the landscape.
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Mount Taylor rises 856 metres above sea level, with expansive views across Canberra, Black Mountain, the Brindabella Ranges, and the surrounding nature reserves. There is a trig point marking the summit, along with several benches and interpretive signs that help identify many of the landmarks visible from the top, inviting you to stay a while and enjoy the scenery.
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Mount Taylor rises 856 metres above sea level, with expansive views across Canberra, Black Mountain, the Brindabella Ranges, and the surrounding nature reserves. There is a trig point marking the summit, along with several benches and interpretive signs that help identify many of the landmarks visible from the top, inviting you to stay a while and enjoy the scenery.
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Mount Taylor rises 856 metres above sea level, with expansive views across Canberra, Black Mountain, the Brindabella Ranges, and the surrounding nature reserves. There is a trig point marking the summit, along with several benches and interpretive signs that help identify many of the landmarks visible from the top, inviting you to stay a while and enjoy the scenery.
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Zig Zag Track is a well-formed, unsealed path that climbs steadily to the summit of Mount Taylor. Its series of switchbacks makes the ascent easier than the direct routes, with interpretive signs explaining the reserve’s natural and cultural history along the way. The track finishes at the summit trig point, with expansive views that stretch across Canberra and extend all the way to the Brindabella Ranges in the distance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 50 routes to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, catering to various fitness levels.
What types of terrain can I expect on the trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
The reserve features diverse terrain, including rolling hills and wooded ridgelines. You'll encounter a mix of dirt management roads and bitumen surfaces. Some sections involve uphill climbs, particularly when heading towards higher points like Mount Wanniassa.
What are the difficulty levels of hikes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
The trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve cater to all abilities. There are 38 easy routes, 19 moderate options, and 2 more difficult trails, ensuring there's a suitable hike for everyone.
What kind of views can I expect from the trails?
Many trails, especially those leading to higher elevations, offer outstanding ridgetop and panoramic views. From Mount Wanniassa, you can enjoy expansive vistas of southern Canberra, including the Tuggeranong and Woden areas, as well as the distant Brindabella Mountains and Telstra Tower.
When is the best time of year to hike in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Spring is particularly beautiful, as the reserve comes alive with vibrant wildflower displays, including wattles and delicate nodding blue lilies. Late winter also offers a unique sight with slopes decorated by white Beard Heath flowers, creating a 'snow-like' appearance.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash on tracks and trails within Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve, making it a popular spot for dog walkers.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Absolutely. The reserve has numerous easy trails suitable for families. For example, the Mount Wanniassa Summit Lookout loop from Fadden is an easy 5.2 km route that can be completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes, offering a rewarding experience for all ages.
Are there circular walking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve are circular loops. An example is the Mount Wanniassa Summit Lookout loop from Chisholm, a moderate 7.3 km path that includes an ascent to the summit.
What kind of wildlife can I spot while hiking?
Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve is an important habitat for various wildlife. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, with many threatened and regionally declining woodland birds. You might also encounter echidnas, microbats, snakes, possums, and parrots. Keep an eye out for nesting Wedge-tailed Eagles.
Is there parking available at Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve trailheads?
Yes, the reserve is highly accessible with over a dozen entry points. These entry points are typically located near the suburbs of Fadden and Macarthur, and usually offer convenient parking options for hikers.
How can I get to Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve using public transport?
Given its proximity to the suburbs of Fadden and Macarthur, Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve is generally accessible via local public transport routes that serve these areas. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most direct access points.
What makes Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve unique for hiking?
The reserve's unique appeal lies in its diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to wooded ridgelines, and its significant ecological role. It provides vital connectivity for wildlife movement and offers a chance to experience critically endangered woodlands, all within easy reach of Canberra.
What do other hikers say about Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails, the rewarding panoramic views from the summits, and the peaceful natural environment.
Most popular routes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
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