Dog-Friendly Greater Canberra

★★★⯪☆ 3.7/5

Rating is AI generated based on available data online - 10 December 2025
Photo source:  Lachlan Roberts via region.com.au

Trail Details: The Corin Forest dog-friendly walk is a relaxed forest loop that follows the edge of the resort grounds, giving pet parents an easy, scenic wander beneath tall mountain ash and alpine gums. While this isn’t a formal bushwalking track, it provides a gentle outdoor stroll where dogs are welcome on-leash - ideal before or after enjoying the picnic area or café.

Highlights: Beautiful alpine forest setting, fresh mountain air, gentle terrain, and convenient access from the resort facilities. A great option for a calm leg-stretch rather than a strenuous hike.

➕ Pros

• Dogs welcome throughout outdoor areas
• Shaded forest environment with cool temperatures in warmer months
• Short, easy walk suitable for all fitness levels
• Close to picnic tables and amenities
• Quick escape from Canberra without entering national park areas where dogs are restricted

➖ Cons

• Not a formal hiking trail - more of a forest stroll
• Parts can be muddy after rain
• Dogs cannot enter the snow-play zone or Alpine Slide areas
• Can be busy on winter weekends

DIRECTIONS >>

 

Getting there: From Canberra, head to Gordon via Point Hut Road, follow Tidbinbilla Road, then turn onto Corin Road and continue for approximately 12 km. Corin Forest signage is clear, and parking is available onsite.

PDF Trail Map: parks.act.gov.au

★★★★⯪ 4.3/5

Rating is AI generated based on available data online - 10 December 2025
Photo source: ginninderry.org

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Trail Details: This walk begins at the car park at the eastern end of Diddams Close. From there you can explore the bitumen lakeside path, circle the peninsula, enjoy a designated off-leash dog-park area, and access a lakeshore patch that acts as an informal dog-swim/beach area. The route is flat, pram-friendly and ideal for leisurely walks with a dog — including water play if conditions allow.

Highlights: Combination of secure off-leash dog-park, scenic lakeside walking path, calm lake-edge for a paddle or swim, shaded areas, grassy zones for rest, and proximity to Belconnen suburb centre. Great for both energetic play and relaxed strolls.

➕ Pros

• Off-leash dog-park with separate areas for big and small dogs — good for safe socialising
• Flat, paved lakeside walk suitable for all fitness levels and prams / strollers
• Lake edge access with calm water for dogs to swim or paddle
• Shade, grassy areas, picnic-friendly spots
• Convenient parking and easy access from Belconnen / Canberra northside

➖ Cons

• Dogs must be leashed on the main paved path — off-leash only in limited zones
• Off-leash beach/swim areas can be busy on weekends
• Water quality may vary — must check local signage for algae/warning status before allowing dogs to swim
• No dedicated long-distance hiking trail — best for short walks or swims rather than full-day hikes

DIRECTIONS >>

Getting there: Enter Diddams Close from Ginninderra Drive (Belconnen). There is a car park at the eastern end, adjacent to the fenced dog-park. From there you can start the lakeside walk or access the lakeshore for a swim.

Trail/PDF Map:   ginninderry.org PDF

★★★★☆ 4.0/5

Rating is AI generated based on available data online - 10 December 2025
Photo credit:  sactcg.org.au

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Trail Details: The Lake Tuggeranong circuit walk circles the lake via a paved shared path - mostly flat and suitable for all. The path skirts residential and parkland areas, offering access to grass patches near the water, where many locals stop for a break or let their dogs explore (on-leash or as permitted). The environment is suburban; this walk is more a relaxed lakeside stroll than a wilderness trail.

Highlights: Easy accessibility from Tuggeranong suburbs, safe paved pathway, pleasant water views, mix of open parkland and lake-edge, and convenient amenities nearby (parking, bins, benches, picnic areas). Good for casual walking or a gentle outing with dogs.

➕ Pros

• Flat, paved circuit - good for all fitness levels and prams/strollers
• Convenient and easy access from suburb streets / parking
• Scenic lakeside views and water access for a paddle or rest
• Flexible - can do full loop or quick partial walks
• Pets can enjoy open space around lake (subject to leash rules)

➖ Cons

• No official long-distance trails - limited to lake circuit or nearby residential streets
• Potential leash restrictions around water / park rules - check local signage
• Surface is hard, less natural than bush trails - limited “wild nature” experience
• Water access not always ideal for swimming - may be muddy or shallow depending on conditions

DIRECTIONS >>

Getting there: The lake circuit is accessible from several suburb access points (Greenway, Kambah, and Tuggeranong). Use local street parking or public access from surrounding residential streets - many entry points along the lake shore.

Trail/PDF Map:   transport.act.gov.au