The Granite Tors Walk in Namadgi National Park offers a challenging (grade 4) 8-kilometre return journey, typically taking around 3 hours to complete. This steep hike traverses a diverse landscape, featuring tall forests and impressive granite boulders. The reward for your efforts is a breathtaking panorama of the Orroral Valley, best viewed from the lookout point situated near the remains of a former geodetic observatory.
The well-maintained track begins near the picnic area at the old Orroral Tracking Station. Follow signage for the Orroral Management Trail or Cotter Hut Road. The initial section winds through Snow Gums, Black Sallee, tea trees, and Snowgrass. As you ascend, the vegetation transitions to Ribbon Gum, Mountain Gum, Candle Bark, and Broad-leaved Peppermint.
The route reaches a halfway point where it changes direction and follows James Creek. Near the summit, expect a denser shrub layer dominated by Narrow-leaf Bitter Pea and Drumstick Heath in wetter pockets. From the lookout, enjoy the expansive vista of the Orroral Valley, but remember to stay behind the safety barrier due to the steep drop-off.
The return journey offers a different perspective as you navigate along the ridgeline, passing by massive granite boulders – some precariously balanced – and enjoying additional glimpses of the valley below. The track eventually rejoins the main trail, completing the loop.
Keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers that adorn the track, particularly during spring and summer. The geodetic observatory building you encounter is a relic of scientific collaboration, once equipped with a telescope and laser for lunar observations. Tracking operations ceased in 1998, but the historical significance of the site adds another layer of interest to this challenging hike.
Total distance: 8258 m
Max elevation: 1329 m
Min elevation: 929 m
Total climbing: 453 m
Total descent: -453 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.
Reaching the Granite Tors Walk trailhead requires a scenic drive through Namadgi National Park. From Canberra, head south towards Tharwa. Continue along Naas Road, which eventually transitions into Boboyan Road. Look for the turnoff onto Orroral Road and follow it until you reach the end. The trailhead is conveniently located near the picnic area at the former Orroral Tracking Station. Once parked, head up the valley past the toilets and follow signs for the Orroral Management Trail or Cotter Hut Road. You'll then see markers directing you towards Granite Tors.
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.
