I’m the type of person that, when put inside a gym and told to do a circuit, I will whinge and drag my feet like my life depends on it. But give me a map and a trail and I’ll become that person who is, in fact, crazy enough to think walking up hills sounds like a fun time.
The appeal to me comes partly from being outdoors in the sunshine and partly from the beautiful scenery Canberra has to offer – two things you just can’t experience inside a gym.
Here are a few of my favourite trails to get those buns burning:
Mt Ainslie
Mt Ainslie has some of the most popular walking trails in Canberra. I recommend the zigzag track to the summit which was constructed in 2007. Although it is longer than other more direct tracks ( which are pretty much vertical to the mountain face) the zigzag is reinforced making it a much safer and more leisurely walk to the top.
Black Mountain
Black Mountain is another popular summit between running, cycling and walking enthusiasts. The ‘Flower to Tower’ walk is highly recommended, as it takes you through the Australian National Botanic Gardens and up to the top of the mountain. With signs to the top all along the trail it’s pretty difficult to get lost, but I would take a walking map (available at the Black Mountain gate) just in case. It takes about 25 minutes to complete, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
Mt Majura Vineyards
In October, the Australian Mountain Running Association organised a ‘Two Peaks & One Peak’ run at the Mt Majura Vineyards. The ‘Two Peaks’ run spanned 20km over Mt Majura and Mt Ainslie, while the ‘One Peak’ run was a shorter 12km over Mt Majura.
There is a 4 hour time limit, and those who took longer to complete it will be disqualified, so I would suggest this race to the more experienced mountaineers among us! For those thinking about competing in 2015, there is extra motivation for you to reach the top: every run/bush walk finishers will receive a bottle of Mt Majura Vineyard wine!
For more information visit this website.
Telstra Tower
Camp Quality’s ‘Verti-cool Challenge’ is held every year in February/March, and raises money for children with cancer. The 403-stair climb is definitely something that every Canberran should complete at least once in their lives. The event attracts families, schools and serious runners, with participants entering either individually or as a team.
The more daring should try the ‘Ultimate Challenge’: a 2.6 km trail-run which starts at the bottom of Black Mountain followed by the stairs to the top of the tower.
Details to be released soon at the Camp Quality website. It’s time to start training!
