Welcome to University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park!
The basics:
How do I get to University of Canberra Stromlo Forest Park (UC Stromlo)?
The main entry and vehicle access to UC Stromlo can be found at Dave McInnes Road off Opperman Avenue, via John Gorton Drive. The main car park is at the end of Dave McInnes Road and is free of charge.
A second car park is available at the Bushfire Memorial off Swallowtail Road.
Do I have to pay to visit UC Stromlo?
Entry to UC Stromlo is free all year round. Bus shuttles to the top of Mount Stromlo are available through a third-party provider for an additional cost. Fees may apply for large groups and commercial activities.
Do I have to book to use UC Stromlo?
Individuals and informal groups do not need to book, however any larger groups and all formal/commercial groups must book. Any groups using the criterium circuit should book to avoid disappointment. Please check the calendar before attending site for events and pre-existing bookings.
When do you open?
We're open 365 days a year (please check for bookings prior to your visit). UC Stromlo may close with short notice due to extreme/catastrophic fire conditions or flash flooding.
There is a large network of equestrian and fire trails (ideal for running) throughout UC Stromlo.
Cycling trails are technical and flow mountain bike trails. All designated mountain bike trails are single track and one way, graded to IMBA standards, and require a level of skill and confidence.
Can I hire bikes?
Yes, HandleBar Café have a bike hire facility on site on weekends run by Cycle City Hire. Please book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Do you have a shuttle bus?
Yes, please see the Stromlo Shuttle Bus for more information. This bus service is privately run by Dynamic Motivation.
Can I self-shuttle?
Yes, the road up Mount Stromlo is a public road. However, you will need to access Mount Stromlo Road from the Cotter Road. The shuttle bus route within the park is not open to the public. The road at top of the mountain is owned by the ANU and closures of the road may affect public access.
Families
There is a free electric BBQ and small playground suitable for small children adjacent to the criterium track.
Facilities
The Pavilion has publicly accessible toilets and showers free of charge during the Park’s opening hours. A second public toilet facility is located in the Blue Gums Forest area. Please see the site map.
The site offers a free bike repair stand, located at the HandleBar Café.
The site offers pre-booked commercial venue hire areas for sporting events and training. For more information, please see Book.
Dogs are welcome on leads on fire trails, there is no pedestrian/dog walking access on single mountain bike trails, the criterium circuit or the cross country running track.
Visitors use this site and undertake sporting activities at their own risk.
We recommend all users (especially bike users) have personal insurance to cover themselves and third parties in the event of an accident.