National Arboretum Canberra is a large living collection of forests, gardens and trails on the western side of Lake Burley Griffin. It rewards a visit planned around a single walk or view rather than an attempt to cover the whole site. The official visitor guide (opens in a new tab) introduces its rare and endangered tree collections, gardens, trails and Village Centre.
Choose a trail that suits the day
The Arboretum has more than 20 kilometres of multi-purpose tracks across 95 forests. Its tracks and trails guide (opens in a new tab) sets out route lengths, gradients and access notes. The Central Valley Path is suitable for prams and assisted wheelchair use, while longer options such as Mountain View Track require more effort. Bring water, wear suitable footwear and use the current map before heading beyond the Village Centre.
Use a guided walk for context
The guided-walks programme (opens in a new tab) offers short Welcome Walks from the Village Centre and longer Forest Walks with volunteer guides. Welcome Walks are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers; Forest Walks can involve uneven ground and seasonal conditions. Check the current timetable and booking requirements before travelling.
Let the forests set the pace
The Arboretum is a place to look closely at conservation through living trees while taking in wider Canberra views. Combine a chosen trail with the bonsai collection, gardens or a picnic, then leave time for the landscape rather than treating the site as a quick lookout.
Plan the arrival
The official getting-here page (opens in a new tab) places the Arboretum about six kilometres from Canberra�s city centre. Check current access, parking and weather conditions before travelling, particularly when a walk is the main purpose of the visit.
Sources
Sources last validated: 15 September 2026.