Black Mountain Nature Reserve
Black Mountain Nature Reserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra and a chance to encounter local wildlife on its scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Black Mountain Nature Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Black Mountain Nature Reserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra and a chance to encounter local wildlife on its scenic trails.
"Absolutely beautiful view from the top of Black Mountain with a great, steep walk up."
Check Tower Status First
Telstra Tower closure impacts views. Confirm before you go!
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Steep trails require good shoes. Stay hydrated! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Black Mountain Summit
Panoramic vistas of Canberra and its surroundings, even with partial closures.
Wildlife Encounters
Various trails
Spot kangaroos and wild cockatoos in their natural habitat.
Bushland Precinct
Detour from Botanic Gardens
A scenic viewing platform offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Telstra Tower Status
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mount Mitchell Hike
Check Tower Status First
Telstra Tower closure impacts views. Confirm before you go!
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Steep trails require good shoes. Stay hydrated! :athletic_shoe:
Mt. Mitchell-Advice/What to Bring
Mt Mitchell Recommendations and trail info
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and cockatoos, especially in the morning. :kangaroo:
Alternative Viewpoints
Lookouts before the summit offer partial city views. :camerawithflash:
Update on Mount Mitchell
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tower Status First
Telstra Tower closure impacts views. Confirm before you go!
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Steep trails require good shoes. Stay hydrated! :athletic_shoe:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and cockatoos, especially in the morning. :kangaroo:
Alternative Viewpoints
Lookouts before the summit offer partial city views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Black Mountain Nature Reserve for its stunning panoramic views of Canberra and the opportunity to see wildlife like kangaroos and cockatoos. While the frequent closure of Telstra Tower is a common disappointment, the scenic drive and accessible lookouts still make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and photographers.
"Absolutely beautiful view from the top of Black Mountain with a great, steep walk up with plenty of things to look at, like the kangaroos, views and getting closer to the top of the mountain. Definitely one of the best nature reserves in Canberra, Telstra Tower is unfortunately closed but the view makes it worth it for me."
Pulsar
"Very nice walks available, although there are limited views from the top whilst Telstra tower is closed. A nice detour is the bushland precinct viewing platform available from the Botanic gardens."
Arlo Burke
"It was onr of the wettest day in 27 years when we visited the place. It was beautiful and cold. My kids had a great time playing with wild cacatoos"
Chris Kam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Black Mountain Nature Reserve, with parking available. It's a popular spot for a scenic drive up the mountain. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Public transport to Black Mountain Nature Reserve is not extensive. Driving is the most convenient way to access the reserve and its various lookouts.
From Canberra city, head towards the Australian National University and follow the signs for Black Mountain. The road winds up the mountain, leading to various parking areas and lookouts.
Cycling up Black Mountain is possible, but be prepared for a steep and challenging climb. The road is shared with vehicles, so exercise caution.
Yes, there are parking areas available at various points along the road leading up Black Mountain, including near the summit lookouts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Black Mountain Nature Reserve is generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for accessing the reserve and its walking trails.
The reserve is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like the Telstra Tower may have their own operating hours.
No, booking tickets is not required for Black Mountain Nature Reserve as it's a public reserve. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
The Telstra Tower's operational status can vary. It's crucial to check its current opening status before your visit, as it often experiences closures.
Standard park rules apply, such as staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife. Check for any temporary restrictions due to weather or events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The reserve offers various trails, including a steep but rewarding walk to the summit. Detours like the Bushland Precinct viewing platform are also recommended.
You can expect panoramic views of Canberra, Lake Burley Griffin, and the surrounding countryside. The views are best from the summit, but lookouts before the top offer partial vistas.
Yes, it's common to see kangaroos and various bird species, including cockatoos, especially during quieter times of the day.
Families can enjoy the scenic drive, short walks, and the chance to see wildlife. The steepness of some trails might be a consideration for very young children.
Facilities are limited. There are parking areas and some lookouts. Historically, a pop-up cafe operated near the tower, but its availability varies.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers expansive cityscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset. Lookouts before the top provide good framing for Canberra's landmarks.
Late afternoon offers golden hour light, ideal for capturing the city and landscape. Early mornings can also be beautiful with fewer crowds.
Yes, with patience, you can photograph kangaroos and birds. Maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
The contrast between the natural landscape and the urban sprawl of Canberra makes for compelling shots. The architecture of the (often closed) Telstra Tower can also be a subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are minimal. Consider visiting during daylight hours when wildlife is more active and the weather is pleasant for exploring. The Bushland Precinct viewing platform offers a gentler experience for younger children. :child:
🚶♀️ Hikers and Fitness Enthusiasts
Wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and moisture-wicking clothing. Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. The descent offers a different perspective and can be just as exhilarating as the climb. :athletic_shoe:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Views: Telstra Tower and Beyond
When the tower is closed, don't despair! Several lookouts situated just before the summit provide partial but still impressive views of the city. These spots offer a good alternative for capturing the Canberra skyline. Additionally, a detour to the Bushland Precinct viewing platform, accessible from the nearby Botanic Gardens, presents a different, more naturalistic vista.
Traveler Tip: Always check the Telstra Tower's official website or local advisories for its current operational status before making the trip. This will help manage expectations and ensure you can still enjoy the scenic beauty of Black Mountain.
Hiking and Wildlife Encounters
The reserve is also known for its abundant wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of kangaroos grazing in the open areas and various bird species, including the charismatic wild cockatoos. These encounters add a special dimension to the visit, making it more than just a scenic viewpoint.
Community Advice: Many visitors suggest visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife and enjoying cooler temperatures for the hike. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from all animals. :kangaroo:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit