Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve - Image 1
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Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve

4.4
·169 reviews·Throsby, Australia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear, windy days

Best for bird watching

CrowdLow
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Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve - Image 1

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve

Best Time

Clear, windy days

Best for bird watching

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(169 reviews)

"Great location for walkabout. Plenty of wild birds and kangaroos."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burnt Stump Hill View

Burnt Stump Hill View

Throsby

Panoramic views of Canberra await from this popular vantage point. Perfect for a rewarding walk.

Reddit
Old Joe Hill Trek

Old Joe Hill Trek

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve

A challenging but rewarding 3.5-hour round trip hike offering spectacular scenery.

Reddit
Bird of Prey Watching

Bird of Prey Watching

Near treeline

Witness eagles, kites, and kestrels soaring on windy days. A must for bird enthusiasts!

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Best Views & Trails

For stunning Canberra vistas, head to Burnt Stump Hill or Old Joe Hill. Be prepared for unmarked paths off the main trails if you seek the best views; a good map or GPS is recommended. Reddit

Wildlife Spotting

Goorooyarroo is a haven for birds of prey like eagles and kestrels, especially on windy days near the treeline. Kangaroos and Flame robins are also common sightings. Reddit

Best Times

When
Clear, windy days
Why
Best for bird watching
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Cooler for hikes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring. Reddit

🐦 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds of prey and smaller birds. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially for longer walks like the Old Joe Hill trek. Reddit

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. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be uneven; comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring. Reddit

🐦 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for distant birds of prey and smaller birds. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially for longer walks like the Old Joe Hill trek. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(169 reviews)

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

Beautiful scenic views
Abundant wildlife
Great walking trails

What People Dislike

Unmarked off-trail paths

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. Reddit

Yes, Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve features great cycling trails, making it a popular spot for bike riders looking for scenic routes. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve is generally free to enter, allowing for easy access to its walking and cycling trails. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit+1

Yes, kangaroos are frequently spotted in Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve, adding to the wildlife experience. Reddit

The reserve is excellent for birdwatching, particularly for birds of prey like eagles, kites, and kestrels on windy days. Flame robins are also present. Reddit

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. Reddit

Information on specific facilities like toilets and picnic areas is not widely detailed, so it's best to come prepared for a natural experience. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit+2

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve offers a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature. The walking trails, particularly those leading to Burnt Stump Hill, can be manageable for older children, providing a sense of accomplishment with rewarding views. Reddit Keep an eye out for kangaroos and various bird species, which can be a highlight for younger visitors. Reddit+1 It's advisable to stick to the main, well-trodden paths to ensure safety and prevent children from wandering off, especially in areas where trails are less defined. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are minimal, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

For dedicated hikers, the Old Joe Hill trek is a must-do, offering a substantial challenge and a rewarding 3.5-hour round trip experience. Reddit Those seeking stunning Canberra vistas will find Burnt Stump Hill an excellent option, accessible via a less demanding walk. Reddit Be prepared for varied terrain; sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Reddit If you're aiming for the most breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path views, consider bringing a map or GPS device, as some of the most scenic spots are not on clearly marked trails. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Goorooyarroo

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. The trek to Old Joe Hill is a significant undertaking, often described as a 3.5-hour round trip, rewarding hikers with expansive views. Reddit For a less strenuous but equally scenic experience, the walk up Burnt Stump Hill provides excellent vantage points of Canberra. Reddit It's important to note that while main paths are generally clear, seeking out the absolute best views might require venturing onto unmarked, off-trail sections, making navigation tools like a map or GPS highly advisable to avoid getting lost. Reddit

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. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven, and always carry sufficient water, especially for longer hikes. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters in Goorooyarroo

Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve is a prime location for observing native Australian wildlife, particularly its impressive bird population. On clear, windy days, the skies above the treeline become a stage for various birds of prey. Visitors have reported seeing eagles, kites, and kestrels with remarkable frequency, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. Reddit While perhaps harder to spot, the vibrant Flame robin is another avian gem that can be found within the reserve, offering a delightful surprise for keen observers. Reddit

Beyond the birds, the reserve is also home to kangaroos, which are commonly seen grazing in the open areas. Reddit 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. Reddit

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