31 July 2025
In brief:
- Canberra has lots of dog-friendly areas, with on and off leash options.
- This article lists dog-friendly walks.
Looking for a new walking trail for you and your pooch? We’ve got you.
We’ve rounded up some of the most popular dog walks in Canberra.
Central Canberra
Lake Burley Griffin
This may be one of Canberra’s most beloved walks – for dogs and humans.
The 5km bridge-to-bridge is an easy on-lead loop that takes around an hour (depending on how fast your four-legged friend walks).
The walk offers views of Canberra’s cultural icons including the Carillion, Black Mountain Tower, National Library and more.
Mount Ainslie
A hike up Mount Ainslie is a great way for you and your dog to get some exercise.
The Kokoda Track up the mountain is 4.5km return and offers panoramic views of Canberra from the top.
Remember to keep your dog on the leash and stick to the track.
North Canberra
Shepherd’s Lookout
Dogs can join their owners on the Shepherd’s Lookout Loop Trail.
The walk is an easy 1.2 km return from Stockdill Drive to Shepherd's Lookout, where walkers are rewarded with impressive views of the Murrumbidgee.
Dogs are allowed off-leash for this walk only but are not allowed anywhere else in the reserve. If you would like a run around with the pup they are also permitted off-leash at Uriarra Crossing and Swamp Creek (with access by vehicle only, you cannot walk dogs there from Shepherd’s Lookout).
Lake Ginninderra
This lakeside walk is perfect for northside dog owners.
The 7km track offers cityscape and mountain views, and you will spot bird life, swans and ducks.
Be sure to keep your dog on-lead while you’re on the track. If your pup wants a run around off leash, the Lake Ginninderra dog park is along the walking track and has fenced off areas for both small and big dogs.
Mount Painter
For stunning Canberra views, head up Mount Painter near Cook.
The 2.6km walk takes about an hour and has a few lookout points so you and your pup can catch your breath and enjoy the surroundings.
At the top you can enjoy views over Whitlam, Lake Burley Griffin, Black Mountain Tower and the Woden Valley.
Dogs are permitted on-leash on a track or trail only.
Yerrabi Pond
Yerrabi Pond in Gungahlin is a great spot for a walk or picnic with your furry friend.
There is a 4km circuit around the pond and dogs must be kept on a leash.
They can also enjoy a refreshing swim on the north-eastern shore.
National Arboretum Canberra
There are many trails around the Arboretum that are great for dog walking.
It’s the perfect scenic walk with views over Canberra, and a great spot to stop for a picnic with friends and fur-friends.
Dogs are not permitted in buildings or the Pod Playground (except for service dogs) and must be kept on a leash on trails.
Mount Majura
Take your pooch up the highest hill in northern Canberra, Mount Majura.
This summit provides magnificent views of the bush capital.
You’re likely to spot some wildlife in the reserve, so ensure your dog is on leash and stays on track.
South Canberra
Mount Taylor
Southside dog owners – this one is for you. This summit walk is very popular for dog walks.
It’s a just over 2km track return, taking around a hour to complete and once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with lovely views over Canberra.
Dogs must be kept on leash for this walk.
Cooleman Ridge
Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve is a 187-hectare protected area on the southern edge of Weston Creek.
The reserve has a 3.5km walking track that allows dogs on leash.
The trail takes you through beautiful bushland where you’ll be sure to spot some wildlife.
At the top, enjoy great views over Canberra.
Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve
This reserve is a 262-hectares of protected area where you can take your pooch on-leash on the trail for some birdwatching and gorgeous ridgetop views.
Things to remember before you walk your dog:
- Failure to pick up your dog’s droppings or carry the correct equipment to do so are offences that can land you a fine.
- Dogs must be kept on-leash on public land unless otherwise indicated.
- Dogs must always be under effective control on leash and off leash – you must be able to prevent your dog from approaching animals or people by restraining your dog or using commands.
- Dogs are prohibited from some reserves and within 10 metres of playgrounds and barbecues when in use.
- Assistance dogs are welcome in all public places.
To find a local walk to take your dog, or to view on-leash, off-leash and dog prohibited areas, visit the ACTmapi’s dog exercise area map.
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