Getting there:

Trail Head at the corner of Hoskins and Hall Streets in Hall

Maps:

Which maps cover the area?

Route/Trail Notes:

This trail is one of Canberra’s most heavily used trails, and for good reason as it provides some spectacular views. In addition it is also part of the 145 km Canberra Centenary Trail which is Canberra’s longest trail. As a byproduct of this heavy use, the trail is maintained regularly and is probably the most groomed trail in the Territory providing very good walking surfaces.

The trail head is in the back streets of the old rural town of Hall which due to city expansion is now part of the ACT. The trail ascends almost all the way from start to the summit at a slight but steady incline. There trail is mainly made of well groomed soil interspersed with a few metal mesh sections where the water was a potential issue. Being in the middle of a rural area there are a number of cattle grates on the trail designed to prevent any stock from escaping the paddocks. At the 4 km mark the trail branches off at a very obvious spur that leads up to the summit and this is the steepest section but it is not overly long.

The summit of One Tree Hill has a good seating area with interpretive signage so this is a great place for a short break or for lunch to take in the views before returning back to the trail head. This trail has it all; rural views, urban views, and bush views. One of the great things about this trail is the panoramic views even before you reach the summit. I love this part of the city as the vegetation is different to the trails on the southern side of town. 

The trail is approximately 2 hours return and that includes a twenty minute rest stop at the summit. This walk can be extended to take in the Northern Camp Ground for an overnight stay if you feel like doing the 12 km distance to reach this camp site. Alternatively you can make this a one way walk at around 15 km (with some car swapping) or a 30 km walk by doing the full return walk to the suburb of Forde and back to Hall.

The One Tree Hill walk is well worth doing but if you plan on walking in the hotter part of the year check the fire warnings as the trail is closed if there is a total fire ban.

Permits/Costs:

None.

Other References/Comments:

None provided.