Booroomba Rocks, located within Namadgi National Park, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike for experienced bushwalkers. This 4.5-kilometre (grade 4) trail typically takes around 2 hours to complete and leads to the summit of massive granite cliffs.
The journey begins with an ascent through towering forests, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views across the Brindabella Ranges. Many consider these to be the most spectacular vistas in the range. The climb is challenging with some steep sections, and a moderate level of experience is recommended due to the distance and remote location. From the summit, a faint foot trail branches to the east and west of the summit. The terrain may be challenging if you choose to explore these sections and it's vital to exercise caution near the cliff edges. It's common to exclude these sections and simply walk to the summit and return. Another option would be to summit Deadmans Hill to the south-west.
Reaching the trailhead requires navigating a dirt road that may not be suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance. Four-wheel drive is recommended for Booroomba Rocks Road.
The well-maintained trail can become overgrown near the summit, and hikers may encounter stairs along the way. The reward for this challenging ascent is the truly stunning panoramic view, where you can see Canberra shimmering in the distance towards the valley's end.
Options to consider
Honeysuckle Campground to Booroomba Carpark (9km)
For those seeking a longer adventure, you can hike from Honeysuckle Campground via the Australian Alps Walking Track to Booroomba Rocks carpark. This option is 9 kilometres (return) and takes approximately 3 hours.
Honeysuckle Campground to Booroomba Rocks and Deadmans Hill (13km)
The most ambitious route follows the Australian Alps Walking Track from Honeysuckle Campground to the summit of Booroomba Rocks then Deadmans Hill, totaling 13 kilometres (return) and requiring 5 hours to complete.
Total distance: 4674 m
Max elevation: 1342 m
Min elevation: 1175 m
Total climbing: 400 m
Total descent: -400 m
Download
Honeysuckle Campground to Booroomba Carpark (9km)
Total distance: 8642 m
Max elevation: 1207 m
Min elevation: 1078 m
Total climbing: 295 m
Total descent: -295 m
Download
Honeysuckle Campground to Booroomba Rocks and Deadmans Hill (13km)
Total distance: 13119 m
Max elevation: 1382 m
Min elevation: 1078 m
Total climbing: 568 m
Total descent: -568 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Accessing the Booroomba Rocks trailhead requires navigating Booroomba Rocks Road, a dirt road leading to the carpark within Namadgi National Park. This road may not be suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance, and four-wheel drive is strongly recommended. The nearest major landmark is Tharwa, and from here, you can follow Naas Road and then turn right onto Apollo Road. Look out for a turnoff leading right again onto Booroomba Rocks Road a short distance before Honeysuckle Campground. Remember, be prepared for a rough ride on the final leg of your journey.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
The Namadgi National Park lies on Ngunnawal Country. This land, rich in cultural significance, has been managed by the Ngunnawal people for countless generations. Their deep connection to this landscape encompasses cultural, social, environmental, spiritual and economic aspects.
Encompassing over 106,000 hectares, Namadgi National Park safeguards a vast area of alpine, sub-alpine and mountain bushland. Nearly half of the Australian Capital Territory falls within its boundaries. The park is crucial for the preservation of high-altitude sphagnum bogs. These bogs provide critical habitat for endangered species and act as natural reservoirs, slowly releasing clean water that sustains the ACT.
For visitor information, maps, firewood permits, or general inquiries, head to the Namadgi Visitor Centre.
Hikers will find hundreds of kilometres of trails to explore within Namadgi National Park. Before venturing out, it's important to familiarise yourself with the Australian Walking Track Grading System. Additionally, inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time. Be sure to record your trip details in the designated bushwalking registers located throughout the park. Straying from marked trails is only recommended for experienced navigators with proper map and compass skills. As weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly year-round, always pack warm and waterproof clothing.
Namadgi National Park is home to numerous significant Ngunnawal cultural sites and objects scattered across the landscape. These include the Yankee Hat Rock Art and other locations that hold stories of vital knowledge, cultural values, and wisdom. These sites are deeply important to the Ngunnawal people. Their history is not only documented in archaeological finds but also preserved in the landscape itself, passed down through generations through oral stories, dance, memory, ceremonies and the artistic depictions found in rock art sites.
The Ngunnawal people emphasise the importance of protecting these stories, sites and objects for future generations. Visitors to Namadgi are asked to treat these locations with respect, recognising them as a rich and ancient part of the park's narrative.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Namadgi National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Favourite
Australian Capital Territory
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
