The Tidbinbilla Mindjagari Track network adds 14 km of trails to the Tidbinbilla Range between Fishing Gap and Johns Peak.

At grade 5, it is one of the most difficult trails in the ACT region: in a remote location, with steep slopes of up to 30 degrees. Only experienced bushwalkers with expert navigational and emergency first aid skills should consider attempting the track — but they will be rewarded with some of the best views in the ACT.

“Mindjagari means ‘sky, the clouds appear’ in Ngunnawal language,” Tara Cheyne MLA, Minister for City and Government Services, said. “This name was chosen as the steep slopes of this trail will lead you high on top of the Tidbinbilla ridgeline. From these heights you can experience incredible views of the Brindabellas and Kosciusko National Park that few people have ever seen for themselves. … It is not for the faint hearted, but experienced hikers who brave the journey will be awed by the landscape.”

The new trails link access routes used by firefighting and land management teams, and connect with existing trails to provide a range of hiking options for visitors, ranging from 9 km to a full 27 km loop.

“It provides improved access for our firefighting teams, improving our ability to respond to bushfires in this remote area,” Ms Cheyne said.

There are plenty of lower grade walking tracks throughout Tidbinbilla and the ACT for new hikers or less fit people to explore.

Tidbinbilla is home to many threatened or endangered native species.  Visitors should stick closely to the trail and not to disturb the local flora and fauna.

The Mindjagari Track was funded through the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund. 

The ACT Government is restoring, upgrading, and building new walking trails across the Territory, Ms Cheyne said.

“From the recently revitalised Yankee Hat Rock Art site track to the upcoming upgrades to Woods Reserve, we’re investing in the places Canberrans love so they remain accessible, protected and ready to be enjoyed for many more years.

“There’s so much to see and do in our parks and reserves, and I encourage anyone to get outdoors this spring and summer to see what’s around you.”

For more information on walking tracks in Tidbinbilla and how to prepare for each grade of walking track at Tidbinbilla, visit the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve website.