The best gravel rides in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
3.8
(5)
74
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve offers routes through a landscape characterized by hills, ridges, and natural bushland. The area features varied terrain, including sections near dams and lookouts, providing diverse riding experiences. Riders can expect a mix of unpaved roads and trails suitable for gravel bikes, traversing natural reserves. The region's topography includes moderate climbs and descents across its network of paths.
Best gravel bike trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
- The most popular gravel bike trail is…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
3
riders
37.0km
02:16
370m
370m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
8
riders
27.7km
01:52
260m
260m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(2)
35
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
riders
40.1km
02:29
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve covers 637 hectares of native bushland on Canberra's northeast edge, adjacent to Mount Majura Nature Reserve. There is a network of shared trails that wind through eucalypt forest, leading to beautiful views of Lake Burley Griffin and the city from the summit. Aside from the popular trails, the reserve also protects critically endangered grassy woodlands and diverse habitats that support threatened birds, rare plants, and native wildlife.
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The Cooleman Ridge Bicentennial National Trail (BNT) runs along the western edge of Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve. This is a multi-use trail so keep an eye out for your fellow trail users and keep you eye out for kangaroo and the many species of birds that call the nature reserve home.
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This 187-hectare protected area sits along the southern stretch of Weston Creek. It's a popular location for hikers, mountain bikers, horse riding, and dog walking.
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Scrivener Dam is a concrete gravity dam on the Molonglo River, completed in 1963, and is responsible for creating Lake Burley Griffin as a recreational and ornamental body of water. Named after surveyor Charles Scrivener, the dam is about 33 metres high and 319 metres long, with hydraulically operated fish‑belly flap gates that precisely control the lake levels and provide flood management capability. The dam also carries a roadway and the walking/cycling path, and helps form the backdrop to one of Canberra’s key engineering landmarks.
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The East Basin is part of Lake Burley Griffin, spanning from the Kings Avenue Bridge towards the Jerrabomberra Wetlands and Dairy Flat. While walking or biking around East Basin, there are often rowers, windsurfers, dragon boaters, and stand-up paddleboarders on the water.
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The National Arboretum in Canberra has beautiful cycling tracks that run across the whole place. It’s perfect for mountain or gravel bikes. The natural scenery combined with the zen of flowing tracks and change in elevation means you could simply ride forever.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level for gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve offers a mix of challenges. You'll find 5 moderate routes and 3 difficult routes, providing options for various skill levels. The terrain often includes hills, ridges, and natural bushland, with moderate climbs and descents.
Are there any shorter gravel bike routes for a quicker ride?
Yes, for a shorter gravel biking experience, consider the Boulders on Cooleman Ridge – Mountain Views loop from Curtin. This route is approximately 21.3 km (13.2 miles) long and can typically be completed in just over 1 hour 40 minutes.
Where are the common starting points for gravel bike trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
Many gravel bike routes in the area start from various suburbs surrounding the nature reserve. Common starting points mentioned in popular tours include Mawson, Kambah, Curtin, and Canberra Station. Specific parking details are often available on the individual tour pages.
What kind of views or natural features can I expect to see on the gravel bike trails?
The trails in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve offer diverse scenery. You can expect views of natural bushland, hills, and ridges. Several routes also feature impressive dam views, such as the National Arboretum Singletrack – Scrivener Dam loop from Mawson and the View of Cotter Dam – Cotter Campground loop from Kambah.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
The komoot community rates the gravel biking experience in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve with an average score of 3.0 stars. Riders often appreciate the varied terrain, the natural bushland setting, and the scenic dam views that many routes offer.
Are there any gravel bike routes that offer a loop experience?
Yes, most of the gravel bike routes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the National Arboretum Singletrack – Scrivener Dam loop from Mawson and the Mount Pleasant Lookout – Mount Ainslie Lookout loop from Canberra Station.
How many gravel bike trails are available in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
There are 8 gravel bike trails documented on komoot for Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
The best time for gravel biking generally depends on personal preference and weather conditions. Spring and autumn often offer milder temperatures, which are ideal. Summers can be hot, so early morning rides are recommended, while winters can be cooler but still suitable for riding.
What should I wear for gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills during summer?
During summer, it's advisable to wear lightweight, breathable cycling apparel to stay cool. Don't forget sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or helmet with good ventilation. Carrying plenty of water is also crucial due to potentially high temperatures.
Are there any routes that pass by significant landmarks or points of interest?
While the area is primarily known for its natural beauty, some routes pass by notable features. For instance, the Uriarra Village – Cotter Dam Spillway loop from Kambah takes you near the Cotter Dam Spillway, offering a glimpse of this impressive structure.
Can I expect to see wildlife while gravel biking in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve?
As a nature reserve, Wanniassa Hills is home to various native wildlife. While sightings are never guaranteed, you might encounter kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species, especially during quieter times of the day.
Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments near the gravel trails?
The nature reserve itself is a natural area, so amenities like cafes are not directly on the trails. However, given the proximity to suburbs like Mawson, Kambah, and Curtin, you will find cafes and shops in these areas before or after your ride.
Most popular routes in Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
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