Climb Awesome Boulders at Cooleman Ridge

For nature lovers seeking a more interactive experience with the great outdoors, the Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve’s series of giant boulders present ample climbing opportunities. Set high on the southwestern outskirts of Canberra, Cooleman Ridge is an alluring escape from the city, right on its doorstep.

How do I go bouldering at Cooleman Ridge?

The beauty of bouldering is that it can be done by almost anyone. Without the aid of ropes or harnesses, it’s a free form method of climbing that allows you to traverse nature’s stony marvels in a safe and easy practice. Bouldering at Cooleman Ridge a wonderful way to spend a warm weekend or a balmy evening as you connect with Canberra’s nature on a new level.

Formed over 400 million years ago from vast quantities of volcanic ash, Cooleman Ridge’s landscapes are dotted with giant stone boulders that protrude dramatically from the earth. Across the area there are six main bouldering regions offering climbs ranging from beginner level to challenging. Unlike towering cliff-faces, all the boulders are around 3-4m high.

To access Cooleman Ridge’s bouldering sites, park your car at Niblo Place or Darrell Place before ascending the ridge to the Niblo cluster of boulders. Alternatively, park at Hake Street to reach the Pony and Horse Paddock boulders. You’ll be able to identify the well-hewn hand and foot crevices to help you scale the boulders’ heights using only your body strength.

What else is there to do around Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve?

If you’d rather not test your muscles bouldering, you can take in the raw splendour and ancient mystique of Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve by hiking its 2.7km Nature Trail.

Starting and ending at Kathner Street, this meandering loop offers a resplendent panorama of Canberra’s Tidbinbilla and Brindabella Mountain ranges, yellow box trees, scribbly gums, and – of course – those incredible boulders.

How do I get more involved in climbing around Canberra?

If Cooleman Ridge’s boulders has ignited an interest in scaling local heights, then you can become part of Canberra’s growing climbing community. The Canberra Climbers’ Association facilitates opportunities for budding climbers to network and plan climbing adventures.

From excellent climbing locations and routes to upcoming climbing events and trips, the group is a one-stop-shop for everything climb related in the ACT.

Cooleman Ridge at a glance

• The Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve is 20 minutes’ drive from Canberra city centre.
• Cooleman Ridge has six main bouldering areas; Niblo, V8 Traverse, Split Cherry, Sun Blocks, Pony Boulders and Horse Paddock Boulders.
• The Cooleman Ridge Nature Trail is 2.7km long and starts and ends at Kathner Street.
• For more information about climbing in the ACT, get involved with the Canberra Climbers’ Association.

Who is Cooleman Ridge good for?

Adrenaline junkies, walkers, outdoors enthusiasts, groups of friends, families, and children over six.

About the ActewAGL evHub

There are now over 20 models of electric vehicles that can go 400kms in a single battery charge ensuring an EV fits seamlessly into your leisure lifestyle. If you need help to find an EV, finance an EV or charge an EV, then visit the ActewAGL evHub today.

For those with an EV, listed below are the three charging stations along the way to help with planning your trip.

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