Canberra was once referred to as the "bush capital" and it still retains a large number of parks and nature reserves.
Here are some places where you can get away from civilisation and immerse yourself in nature for a while.
This is a large nature reserve in the Gungahlin area. There are multiple trails through it, and it is full of wildlife and native flora. It is generally flat with good trails.
This is a large-ish nature reserve in the Belconnen area. There are good trails through it, and some hills that provide panoramic views.
This is a small reserve between West Belconnen and Civic. It can be accessed from William Hovell Dr. It is on a slope heading down to the river. I'd avoid it after extended rain as it can get very muddy and slippery.
In the Gungahlin area, overlooking the Barton Hwy. There is a progressive climb from the sides of the reserve up to the top of the hill. It is an easy climb without much underbrush. Panoramic views of the Gungahlin area and towards the Brindabellas.
A 3-hour round trip to the top, which overlooks the Gungahlin area. A gentle incline for most of the way, with a steeper climb only at the final stage.
In the central Canberra region, surrounding the sides of Black Mountain. A very large nature reserve.
In the central Canberra region, this holds a large collection of endangered trees from all over the world. There are also great panoramic views of Canberra from here.
A plantation of cork oak trees planted a hundred years ago. It is in the grounds of the National Arboretum. The cork is still harvested, and the forest is easy to reach and navigate.
Also in the National Arboretum, this is a forest of mature Himalayan cedar trees. There is a BBQ deck here with a view towards Black Mountain.
In the central Canberra region, and on the side of Black Mountain, this preserves a collection of native plants from all over Australia. Very easy to navigate and to take pictures of the plants and flowers.
This is a large nature reserve to the South of Canberra. There are multiple places within the park that are worth visiting and photographing. TBC.
A small pocket-sized forest close to Pialligo and the airport. An easy walk with many shaded glades.
A reserve that is a bit difficult to get to but provides great landscape opportunities. Forested areas adjoining the river.