Embrace the Season: Your autumn fun activity guide

Top things to see and do in Canberra’s parks and nature reserves this autumn.

As the days cool down, autumn sweeps across the ACT turning its natural landscapes into a stunning tapestry of red, orange and gold.

There is something for everyone to enjoy and our parks and reserves are the place to be! Whether you’re eager to explore scenic trails, join our upcoming school holiday programs and Heritage Festival events, or simply enjoy a peaceful experience listening to the sounds of our unique wildlife and native species.

Autumn colours in Namadgi and Tidbinbilla

If you’re looking for the best spots to soak in the season, head south to Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, for the perfect backdrop to the ever-changing leaves.

Take a walk through Bendora Arboretum, a hidden gem showcasing a collection of exotic trees that put on a spectacular show in autumn, or explore the Orroral Heritage precinct, where the golden hues of deciduous trees contrast beautifully with the surrounding bushland.

Closer to Canberra, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve also comes alive with colour. Wander around Rock Valley Homestead, where bursts of autumn foliage create a picture-perfect setting steeped in history.

Visitors explore the exterior of Rock Valley Homestead on a sunny day.

A male and female child look down at trays of water containing waterbugs to see which ones they can identify.

Nature Play these school holidays

Join the ParkCare Visitor Assist volunteers for free Nature Play activities at Namadgi National Park and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve this April! Designed to spark imagination and connect young explorers with nature, these hands-on sessions teach kids about the environment and conservation activities in a fun and interactive way.

Activities include World of Waterbugs, Cubby House Rules and Poos Give us Clues at Tidbinbilla, and Swagman Billy Tea and Damper at Namadgi. To reserve your spot, book here.

Wildlife Viewing

Autumn brings an increase in wildlife activity. With the heat of summer easing, animals become more visible throughout the day. Keep an eye out for animals grazing in open areas and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot a platypus in the calm waters of Tidbinbilla’s wetlands. The cooler temperatures make for ideal conditions to enjoy both the scenery and the unique wildlife that call these parks home.

A platypus surfaces in icy water in the Tidbinbilla Sanctuary.

A volunteer proudly displays part of the old eucalyptus distillery.

Heritage in Nature

From billy tea and damper to exhibitions and guided walks, discover heritage in nature this autumn for the ACT Heritage Festival.  More information on events in Tidbinbilla and Namadgi will be made available soon.

Eventbrite bookings and registrations are essential, check the What’s On page to register.

Autumn at Cotter Bend

Cotter Bend is the perfect spot to enjoy autumn’s golden hues. You can relax by the river with a picnic, try fishing, or explore scenic walking and running trails. Nearby, you can visit Cotter Avenue, admire Cotter Dam, or take in the stunning views from Moores Hill and Grasstree Lookouts.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful riverside retreat or an active day out in nature, Cotter Bend is a fantastic destination to experience autumn’s beauty.

Brightly coloured autum trees at Cotter Bend provide dappled shade over a picnic shelter, with fallen leaves carpeting the grass below.

A male adult volunteer helps a female child prepare the ground for a plant to go in.

Young Rangers Program

Get hands-on with nature this autumn through the Young Rangers Program! From uncovering the secrets of bats and snakes to exploring nocturnal wildlife at Mulligans Flat and tree planting to help restore habitats, these exciting activities inspire young adventurers to connect with our environment.

Bookings are essential, so be quick to reserve your spot today.

More information

Need more inspiration? Use our find a park tool to search by activity type or area.

If you’re interested in volunteering in our parks this Autumn and want to learn more, attend one of our new online ParkCare volunteer information sessions. They are run monthly. Find more information and register to attend on the What’s On page.