Percival Hill Nature Reserve

Percival Hill rises above Nicholls with views across Gungahlin and Canberra's northern suburbs, and it is one of the Canberra Nature Park reserves that allows dogs. The condition is strict. Dogs stay on lead, and on the formed tracks only.

On lead, on the track

Max: Kangaroos graze close to the tracks here. Keep the lead short and your dog's attention on you when a mob is nearby.

The ACT Parks and Conservation Service permits dogs on lead only, and only on a designated track or trail. Leave the grassland alone, since the rule is there to protect the plants and animals.

Eastern grey kangaroos live in the grassy woodland of Yellow Box and Blakely's Red Gum that covers the hill.

The walk

The tracks are formed fire trails and dirt and gravel paths, with a climb to the top for the views. Trees give patches of shade between open grassy stretches.

There are no taps and no bins in the reserve. Carry water for both of you, and take every bag home.

Parking is informal, on nearby streets such as Schow Place, with no formal car park at the tracks.

Make a day of it

Back down in Nicholls, Hungry Bird Cafe is an easy stop after the climb.

When to go

Cool mornings suit this hill best, since shade is intermittent and there is no water up top. It rewards fit dogs that stay calm on a lead around wildlife.