Mount Taylor Nature Reserve — Attraction in District of Tuggeranong

The Mount Taylor Nature Reserve is beautiful, with panoramic views of Woden Valley to the north, the Tuggeranong Valley to the south and the Brindabella Range to the west (I’m sure there’s something to the east too).

Named after James Taylor - not the guy who sings ‘Fire and Rain’, but a squatter, who with his partner Robert Johnson established a sheep run on the Molonglo River in the early 1800s (thanks to Dave’s ACT blog for this info)

There are several ways to get to the top, and as you make your way up, don’t forget to pause to catch your breath (necessary in parts) and perhaps catch sight of some kangaroos, and a variety of birds and reptiles.

Your heart will certainly be pumping by the time you reach the top. However, if you are looking for a little more, someone has gaffa taped a piece of wood on the cross beam to make chin-ups more comfortable.

Finally, don’t forget to bring water. There is a bowl for the dogs, but not for the humans. Although I’ve lobbied for a cafe/ice-cream shop at the top for years, my calls have...

Mt Taylor Reserve is a good place to walk, bicycle or share a picnic. It is a favourite parkland for local residents.

Original text: International visitors may be interested that the southern end of the Reserve is home to a large mob of up to 100 grey kangaroos for much of the year; look for them in the horse paddocks.

Remember however they are wild animals and easily startled; the males are up to 2m tall and very protective of their families.

2022 update: There are fewer kangaroos in recent times. Heavy and frequent rains over the last year might have driven them downhill for shelter, or they might have scattered into smaller mobs to take advantage of more green growth all across the Territory. Some kangaroos are still seen wandering the suburban streets of Torrens, at both dawn and dusk. It is a sign the mob is still out there, and may return!

Aug 2022 update: A big mob of kangaroos (about 40) spotted enjoying the sun at the southern end of Mt Taylor, within view of the start of the...

Mount Taylor is a scenic climb with a few different approaches - walk though the fields along the southern aspect from Sulwood Drive near Mannheim St, or choose a steeper climb from Parkhill St to the north, or take a less trodden path. At the top you'll find shady trees, killer views of southern Canberra, some pointers on local history and geography, and maybe even some water for your (leashed) dog. The climb is sometimes steep but never particularly difficult given a minimum level of fitness.

Depending on the time of day or year, you might even find one of the many community groups wandering around

If only Tuggeranong Hill could get...