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Yankee Hat Rock Art

4.5
·40 reviews·, Australia

Discover ancient Indigenous rock art on an easy walk through scenic boardwalks and bushland in Namadgi National Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid crowds and see wildlife

CrowdLow
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Yankee Hat Rock Art - Image 1

Yankee Hat Rock Art

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid crowds and see wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover ancient Indigenous rock art on an easy walk through scenic boardwalks and bushland in Namadgi National Park.

4.5
(40 reviews)

"A beautiful walk with a mix of landscapes and Indigenous rock art, enjoyable for all ages."

Vertical photo
TIP

⚠️ Check Trail Status

Trail closures can last years. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment.

🚗 Drive Cautiously

Abundant wildlife on roads, especially early morning. Slow down for kangaroos & wallabies.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indigenous Rock Art

Indigenous Rock Art

The main rock shelter

Discover ancient Indigenous rock art, a fascinating glimpse into Australia's cultural heritage. While some find it underwhelming, it's a significant historical site.

Scenic Boardwalk and Bridges

Scenic Boardwalk and Bridges

Along the Gudgenby Creek

Enjoy a picturesque walk featuring charming bridges and boardwalks, especially beautiful when the surrounding land is wet.

Rejuvenation Track

Rejuvenation Track

Across from Yankee Hat

Explore a different landscape on this track, offering more of a bushland feel compared to the swampy areas of the main trail.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Trail Status Before You Go

The Yankee Hat Rock Art trail, including its boardwalk and bridges, has experienced closures for extended periods due to damage. Always verify the current status before your visit to avoid disappointment. Some reviews mention finding out about closures only upon arrival.

Plan for Wildlife Encounters

The access roads to Yankee Hat are known for abundant wildlife, especially kangaroos and wallabies, particularly in the early morning. Drive with extreme caution and at reduced speeds to ensure safety for both yourself and the animals.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Avoid crowds and see wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Wet season
Why
Experience swampy landscapes
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This pmo so bad. Why would yall leave the track like this?! #nyc #bronx #CleanTok #track #yankeestadium
@amchanteljackson79
903 likes • 11.6K views

⚠️ Check Trail Status

Trail closures can last years. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚗 Drive Cautiously

Abundant wildlife on roads, especially early morning. Slow down for kangaroos & wallabies. Reddit

reddit.com

Bushwalking routes that include indigenous cultural heritage places of significance

reddit.com

Accessible nature walks?

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The walk is generally easy, but good shoes are recommended for the varied terrain. Reddit

💧 Bring Water

Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. No facilities on the trail. Reddit

reddit.com

Hiking trails around Canberra?

Tips

from all over the internet

⚠️ Check Trail Status

Trail closures can last years. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚗 Drive Cautiously

Abundant wildlife on roads, especially early morning. Slow down for kangaroos & wallabies. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The walk is generally easy, but good shoes are recommended for the varied terrain. Reddit

💧 Bring Water

Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. No facilities on the trail. Reddit

🗺️ Watch for Signage

Easy to veer off the fire trail. Pay close attention to signs to stay on track. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Yankee Hat Rock Art offers a pleasant, easy walk with scenic boardwalks and a glimpse into Indigenous history. While some find the rock art itself underwhelming, the natural beauty and wildlife encounters are highlights. Be prepared for potential trail closures, which can significantly impact access and require longer walks.

"I've done Yankee Hat twice and it was beautiful both times. Its a pretty easy walk with cool bridges and swamp land when ots wet season. The rejuvenation track just across the way is more bush land than swampy, just make sure you watch the signage for when you veer off the fire trail otherwise you'll be in for quite a hike.
There is also a cool little hut on the walk."

Riahnne Kelly

"What is normally a great walk is now closed to hikers.

The bridge over the Gudgenby Creek, as well as the attached board walk are missing. No advanced warning at the entrance to Boboyan road, or the Yankee Hat carpark. You only find out when you reach the bridge.

Sign indicates it will be gone for quite a while ("Several years)."

Robert Nelson

"Beautiful walk. We did it with a group of kids aged 8-11 and it was enjoyable and not too challenging. Highly recommend this walk as it provides a real mix of landscapes and beautiful views as well as some Indigenous rock art ❤️"

Gemma Jackson

What People Like

Easy, scenic walk
Indigenous rock art
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Trail closures
Underwhelming art (subjective)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Canberra is straightforward, with the last 3 km being a dirt road manageable by most cars. Be extremely cautious of wildlife on Boboyan Road, especially in the early morning, and reduce your speed significantly. Reddit

Access roads and specific parts of the trail, like bridges and boardwalks, have been closed for extended periods. It's crucial to check the current status before your trip, as closures can last for years. Reddit

While the access road is often open, it can be subject to closures. Some visitors have reported walking the 3km to the car park when the road was closed but the gate unlocked. Reddit

The majority of the drive is on paved roads, but the final 3 kilometers are on a dirt road. This section is generally manageable for all vehicle types, but caution is advised due to wildlife. Reddit

There are no public transport options directly to Yankee Hat Rock Art. A private vehicle is necessary for reaching this remote location within Namadgi National Park.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yankee Hat Rock Art is located within Namadgi National Park, which generally does not require entry fees for day use. However, always check the official park website for any potential changes or specific area charges. Reddit

Yankee Hat Rock Art is an outdoor natural attraction within Namadgi National Park and is accessible during park operating hours, typically from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times for the rock art site itself. Reddit

Namadgi National Park typically does not charge an entry fee for day visitors. However, it's always best to confirm this on the official ACT Parks and Conservation Service website before your visit, as policies can change. Reddit

While the site is accessible during daylight hours, it's important to be aware of potential trail closures. Some sections, like bridges and boardwalks, have been closed for extended periods, so checking the park's status is vital. Reddit

For general day visits to Yankee Hat Rock Art, no special permits are usually required. However, if you plan on camping or engaging in other specific activities within Namadgi National Park, you may need to obtain relevant permits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The walk is generally considered pleasant and easy, with a mix of landscapes including swampy areas and bushland. It features bridges and boardwalks, though parts have been closed for repairs. Reddit

The main Yankee Hat walk is approximately 6 km return. However, this can vary if access roads or parts of the trail are closed, potentially requiring longer walks from further away. Reddit

Yes, the walk has been described as enjoyable and not too challenging for children aged 8-11, offering a good mix of scenery and Indigenous art. Reddit

You can expect to see kangaroos, wallabies, and other native wildlife, especially during early morning or late afternoon. Drive slowly on access roads to avoid collisions. Reddit

There are no specific facilities like restrooms or picnic tables directly at the Yankee Hat rock art site. Basic facilities might be available at the main Namadgi National Park visitor areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the ancient Indigenous rock art, the scenic boardwalks and bridges over Gudgenby Creek, and the diverse bushland landscapes. Early morning light can be particularly beautiful. Reddit

The rock art is located within a shelter, which can affect lighting. Consider bringing a tripod for steadier shots in lower light conditions and be mindful of preserving the site. Reddit

Use a moderate aperture for depth of field and a slightly higher ISO if needed for the shelter's lighting. A tripod is highly recommended for sharp images, especially if the art is faint. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific regulations for Namadgi National Park before flying a drone. Reddit

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the landscape and wildlife. The shelter itself might be best photographed when the sun is not directly overhead. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yankee Hat Rock Art is a great option for families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure. The walk is described as enjoyable and not overly challenging for children aged 8-11, offering a good mix of natural scenery and a touch of history. The boardwalks and bridges add an element of fun for younger explorers. It's advisable to check for any trail closures beforehand, as this could impact the length or accessibility of the walk. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. Encourage children to observe the wildlife safely from a distance and to treat the rock art site with respect. The drive to the location also presents opportunities to spot kangaroos and wallabies, adding to the excitement of the outing.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers seeking a peaceful connection with nature and history, Yankee Hat offers a rewarding experience. The relatively easy trail allows for a contemplative walk, with the opportunity to appreciate the ancient Indigenous rock art. To maximize serenity, visiting early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid larger groups. Reddit

Be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time, as is standard practice for solo excursions in national parks. Carry sufficient water and be aware of your surroundings, particularly regarding wildlife on the access roads. Checking trail status is crucial to ensure your planned route is open and safe.

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts

Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse landscapes surrounding Yankee Hat Rock Art. The trail winds through areas that can be swampy during the wet season, showcasing unique flora and fauna. The 'Rejuvenation Track' offers a different bushland experience for those wanting to explore further. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, especially kangaroos and wallabies, which are frequently spotted along the access roads and within the park. Reddit

The drive itself is part of the experience, with the opportunity to observe the natural environment of Namadgi National Park. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area for future visitors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Indigenous Rock Art

The Yankee Hat Rock Art site is a significant cultural heritage location, featuring ancient Indigenous artwork. These paintings offer a window into the beliefs, stories, and daily lives of the Ngunnawal people, the traditional custodians of the land. While some visitors describe the art as 'underwhelming,' its historical and cultural importance is undeniable. It's crucial to remember that this is a sacred site, and visitors are expected to treat it with respect, refraining from touching or damaging the artwork.

Preservation and Respect are paramount when visiting. The art is fragile and susceptible to damage from touch, moisture, and even prolonged exposure to light. Visitors should maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography directly on the art, as this can degrade the pigments over time. The artwork itself often depicts animals, human figures, and abstract symbols, providing valuable insights for archaeologists and cultural historians. The site's location within Namadgi National Park also means it's surrounded by natural beauty, adding to the contemplative experience of visiting.

Community discussions highlight the importance of understanding the context of the art. While the visual impact might vary, appreciating its age and cultural significance enhances the visit. Always follow park guidelines regarding interaction with cultural sites. Reddit

Navigating the Yankee Hat Trail

The Yankee Hat Trail is a popular bushwalking route within Namadgi National Park, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. The trail typically involves a 6 km return walk, featuring a mix of terrains including boardwalks, bridges, and bushland paths. It's generally considered an easy to moderate walk, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. However, recent reviews indicate that parts of the trail, specifically the bridge over Gudgenby Creek and the attached boardwalk, have been closed for extended periods, sometimes for 'several years.' This means visitors might need to adjust their plans or be prepared for a longer walk if the main access is unavailable. Reddit

Trail Conditions and Access can change, so checking the latest park alerts is essential before setting out. The trail can become swampy during the wet season, adding to its natural charm but also requiring appropriate footwear. The 'Rejuvenation Track' offers an alternative or complementary experience, providing a more traditional bushland walk. Hikers are advised to pay close attention to signage, as it's easy to veer off the main fire trail if not careful. The drive to the car park involves a final stretch on a dirt road, which is usually manageable for most vehicles. Reddit

Wildlife is a common sight along the access roads and the trail itself. Visitors should be particularly vigilant for kangaroos and wallabies, especially during dawn and dusk, and drive at reduced speeds. The presence of a small hut on the walk is also noted by some visitors. Reddit

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