Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve
A scenic nature reserve near Canberra, perfect for walks, cycling, and spotting diverse wildlife like birds of prey and kangaroos.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best for bird watching
Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best for bird watching

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic nature reserve near Canberra, perfect for walks, cycling, and spotting diverse wildlife like birds of prey and kangaroos.
"Great location for walkabout. Plenty of wild birds and kangaroos."
🎯 Navigate Off-Trail
Seek the best views by venturing off main paths, but carry a map or GPS as trails can be unmarked.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burnt Stump Hill View
Throsby
Panoramic views of Canberra await from this popular vantage point. Perfect for a rewarding walk.
Old Joe Hill Trek
Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve
A challenging but rewarding 3.5-hour round trip hike offering spectacular scenery.

Bird of Prey Watching
Near treeline
Witness eagles, kites, and kestrels soaring on windy days. A must for bird enthusiasts!
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Best Views & Trails
Wildlife Spotting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
View from Burnt Stump Hill Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve, Throsby
🎯 Navigate Off-Trail
Seek the best views by venturing off main paths, but carry a map or GPS as trails can be unmarked.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds of prey and smaller birds.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially for longer walks like the Old Joe Hill trek.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Navigate Off-Trail
Seek the best views by venturing off main paths, but carry a map or GPS as trails can be unmarked.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds of prey and smaller birds.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially for longer walks like the Old Joe Hill trek.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve is praised for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, offering great walking and cycling opportunities. While many enjoy the views from Burnt Stump Hill and the challenge of Old Joe Hill, some visitors note that finding the best viewpoints can involve navigating unmarked trails, potentially leading to getting lost.
"Great location for walkabout. Plenty of wild birds and kangaroos"
Nee Cheow Lim
"A very beautiful and scenic nature reserve within very easy reach of anyone in Canberra. Great cycling and walking trails and abundant wildlife."
Matthew Willis
"Great walk upto Old Joe Hill. 3.5 hour round trip but well worth the effort"
Gerald Mills
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve is easily accessible from Canberra. Driving is the most convenient option, with parking available at various trailheads. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve features great cycling trails, making it a popular spot for bike riders looking for scenic routes.
The reserve has several access points, with trailheads often located near Throsby. Key points include access to Burnt Stump Hill and the start of the Old Joe Hill trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve is generally free to enter, allowing for easy access to its walking and cycling trails.
As an open nature reserve, Goorooyarroo is typically accessible from dawn till dusk. It's advisable to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the walk up to Burnt Stump Hill for views of Canberra and the more challenging 3.5-hour round trip to Old Joe Hill.
Yes, kangaroos are frequently spotted in Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve, adding to the wildlife experience.
The reserve is excellent for birdwatching, particularly for birds of prey like eagles, kites, and kestrels on windy days. Flame robins are also present.
While main trails are clear, venturing off for better views can lead to getting lost as some paths are unmarked. A map or GPS is recommended for off-trail exploration.
Information on specific facilities like toilets and picnic areas is not widely detailed, so it's best to come prepared for a natural experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Burnt Stump Hill and Old Joe Hill offer stunning panoramic views of Canberra, ideal for landscape photography. The reserve's diverse birdlife also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Windy days can also be dramatic for capturing birds of prey in flight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Goorooyarroo
These trails are not just about the destination views; the journey itself is a significant part of the Goorooyarroo experience. The reserve is known for its natural beauty, with diverse flora and fauna that enhance the walking experience. Cyclists also find the reserve appealing, with dedicated cycling trails offering a different way to explore the landscape. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven, and always carry sufficient water, especially for longer hikes.
Wildlife Encounters in Goorooyarroo
Beyond the birds, the reserve is also home to kangaroos, which are commonly seen grazing in the open areas. These encounters add a significant layer of natural wonder to any visit. For the best wildlife viewing, especially for birds of prey, visiting on a windy day and looking towards or just above the treeline is highly recommended. Bringing binoculars can significantly enhance your ability to spot and appreciate these creatures from a distance, ensuring a more immersive and respectful wildlife experience.
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