Four cracking spots for sunset and sunrise in Canberra
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With no commute for most of us there’s never been a better time to watch the sunrise or set—or both!
Since we all retreated into our homes seven weeks ago, Canberra’s plethora of green spaces have become something of a retreat—where cooped up kids can expend energy and overwhelmed adults can find some peace.
However, I’ve also had multiple people mention how catching the sunrise and/or sunset has become a highlight of ISO life—and with no commute to be taken, there’s never been a better time to take a walk and catch one—or both.
If, however, you’d like your skies looking their most photogenic, here are some of our favourite scenic spots around Canberra.
All of them have plenty of space to physical distance and can be accessed via car in case you’d prefer to stay in a controlled environment.
Dairy Farmers Hill Lookout (National Arboretum)
The views from the National Arboretum are nothing short of spectacular, and with Dairy Farmers Hill’s reputation as a top balloon watching spot, it’s no surprise it makes a cracker of a sunset-watching spot too.
Take a picnic and spread out on the gentle slope, or throw on your sneakers and cruise the surrounding hills. There are plenty of beautiful views to be experienced.
Red Hill
A wonderfully winding drive (or hike!) to the top of Red Hill will reward you with stellar views from every angle.
If you’re keen to stay in your car, park facing the lake but if you’re up for a stroll, head out along the ridge or along the footpath circling the summit.
Want more? Why not walk from the car park to the Davidson Hill Trig Station, a 1km walk across the saddle of the mountain that crosses challenging slopes that’ll have you working up a sweat in no time.
Lake Burley Griffin
This one’s a bit obvious, but Canberra’s biggest lake has a mind-boggling array of great spots to soak up a sunrise.
The Rond Terrace car park, Regatta Point and the Carillon car park are all great options if you’d prefer to stay in your car.
If you’re up for a stroll—or perhaps want to walk, run or ride there— then head to the dock near the National Museum of Australia (facing NewActon), the terrace of the National Library of Australia or the outdoor exercise area on Barrine Drive for great viewpoints.
If you want something a little different, perhaps you can borrow a friend’s kayak and hit the water like KayakCameraman (pictured above) or even hire a GoBoat for a sunset cruise.
Mount Ainslie
A perennial favourite for those looking for that classic shot of Canberra, Mount Ainslie yields spectacular views of the pleasingly symmetrical Parliamentary Triangle.
There’s plenty of space to park, but you can also tackle the challenging 4.5km summit track that starts near the War Memorial car park.
It’s suitable for all fitness levels, but make sure to time your walk accordingly as the path is not lit and is quite steep in some areas.
Feature image: Rob Mulally for VisitCanberra.
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