The Settlers Track in Namadgi National Park offers a glimpse into the past through historic huts and homesteads dating from the 19th and 20th centuries. This moderately difficult, grade 3 hike is 6 kilometres long and takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. The track is well-marked and mostly flat with gentle slopes, although there are some steeper sections on the longer 9-kilometre loop that includes Waterhole Hut. Amenities along the trail include seating, toilets, and interpretive signs. The recommended walking direction is anti-clockwise.
One of the highlights of the Settlers Track is Waterhole Hut, built in 1939 from galvanised iron by Tom Oldfield, his son Jack, and Harry Tyrie. This hut is one of eight stockmen's huts found within Namadgi National Park. Interestingly, the chimney stones were recycled from an older nearby cottage.
The track also passes by the site of Westermans Homestead, originally established in 1882 by Thomas Bernard Westerman and his wife Mary Jane Perry. Their first dwelling was a mud brick house, followed by a larger wooden structure named Lons Vale Homestead. The Westermans lived there for over five decades and raised a family of six children. It's important to note that due to ongoing repairs, access inside Westermans Homestead is currently unavailable. Barriers and signage are in place to alert visitors.
Hikers can choose between a shorter 6-kilometre loop directly from Boboyan Road or a longer 9-kilometre loop that incorporates Waterhole Hut, also starting from Boboyan Road.
Settlers Track (6km)
Total distance: 6387 m
Max elevation: 1309 m
Min elevation: 1194 m
Total climbing: 173 m
Total descent: -173 m
Download
Settlers Track via Waterhole Hut (9km)
Total distance: 9166 m
Max elevation: 1309 m
Min elevation: 1194 m
Total climbing: 224 m
Total descent: -224 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 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
The Settlers Track trailhead is located at the Brayshaw Hut Carpark. To reach this point, travel south from Tharwa for approximately 50 minutes along Boboyan Road. The initial section of Boboyan Road is sealed, however it transitions to gravel after roughly 36 kilometres. While generally suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles, road conditions can change. For the latest information and maps of the broader Namadgi National Park area, a visit to the Namadgi Visitor Centre is recommended.
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
Favourite
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.
