The Brandy Flat hike is an 11-kilometer journey through Namadgi National Park, offering a mix of pleasant woodlands and challenging climbs. Rated as grade 4, this 6-hour trek is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding adventure.
Commencing in to the north at Glendale Depot carpark, the path winds its way through box woodlands and dry forests, eventually leading to Brandy Flat Hut, a historical gem built in the 1980s. This hut serves as a rest stop or emergency shelter for walkers and cyclists. Be aware that the southern half of the hike features very steep sections, requiring a good level of fitness.
The initial 4 kilometers present a reasonable challenge, with a 400-meter elevation gain as you climb out of the valley and up a ridge. Once you reach the top, the trail becomes less defined. The final leg of the journey involves following Brandy Flat firetrail to Brandy Flat Hut. To return to the trailhead, retrace your steps.
There are a few different approaches you can take to hike to Brandy Flat Hut. The approach from Top Naas Homestead to the east is particularly nice, compared to the approach described here that follows fire trails on the western side of the range.
Brandy Flat Hut
The original Brandy Flat Hut was built in the early 1900s, about 10m from where the current building stands. The present hut was built in the 1980s and is used by walkers and cyclists. You can access the hut via the Brandy Flat Fire Trail from Boboyan Road in the south or Glendale Crossing to the north.
There is a toilet and water available, however this should be boiled or sterilised before drinking. Visitors intending to stay overnight should bring a tent, as the hut is for day use or emergency shelter only.
Total distance: 10957 m
Max elevation: 1077 m
Min elevation: 884 m
Total climbing: 408 m
Total descent: -406 m
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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.
Nestled within Namadgi National Park, the Glendale Depot carpark is reachable by car, although the final leg requires navigating a dirt road. Begin your journey from Tharwa, a convenient access point. Head south along Naas Road for approximately 33 kilometres, enjoying the scenic surrounds. After passing the intersection with Apollo Road, Naas Road transitions into Boboyan Road. Continue along this road, passing the turnoff to Orroral Valley on your right. A few kilometres further, you'll see a sign for the Glendale Depot turnoff on your left. This turnoff leads onto a dirt road, so take caution and reduce your speed as you make your final approach to the Glendale Depot carpark.
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.
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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.
