Stromlo Forest Park

Stromlo Forest Park is best known for mountain biking, but dogs on lead can walk its wide fire trails with views over the Molonglo Valley to the Brindabellas. The one rule that matters is to stay off the bike tracks.

Where dogs can walk

Dogs must be on a lead at all times and are limited to the fire trails and management roads. They are not allowed on the single-track mountain bike trails, the criterium circuit or the grass cross-country running track.

The ACT Government manages the park, and the trails are shared with cyclists and horse riders.

The walk

The fire trails are broad gravel and dirt through rolling bushland, with long sightlines for spotting oncoming bikes. Watch for kangaroos, wallabies and wedge-tailed eagles.

Much of the network is exposed, with shade mainly around the Blue Gums picnic area and parts of the outer plantation.

Water and parking

Blue Gums picnic area has a water trough and tie rails, and there is water near the main pavilion. Carry more for a long walk.

Sealed parking sits by the main pavilion off Dave McInnes Road, with bins around the main precinct.

Max: Bikes come fast on these trails. Keep a short lead and step aside when you hear them.

Make a day of it

Refuel at The Handlebar after the walk, or try the Duffy Loop Walk nearby.

It suits fit dogs up for a longer walk over rolling ground. Head out early in summer, as the exposed trails heat up fast.