Pram Friendly Walk in Canberra: The National Arboretum

Are you looking for a pram friendly walk in Canberra that's just a little bit different? The National Arboretum offers a walk along a giant zigzag path that is set amongst gorgeous gardens and has breathtaking panoramic views of Canberra.

In this series, we're exploring Canberra's most pram friendly walks. The National Arboretum's Central Valley Path provides an accessible path and relatively easy walk, along with some breath-taking panoramic views and PLENTY for kids to do.

What is the National Arboretum in Canberra?

The National Arboretum in Canberra is a 250-hectare site that hosts over 44,000 rare and endangered trees. Boasting plenty of forests and gardens, a Bonsai collection, forest sculptures, lookouts, picnic spots, a Village Centre with a gorgeous gift shop, and the famous POD playground, there is so much to do here. It's obvious why this place is a favourite pram friendly walk in Canberra.

Where to go for the best pram friendly walk inside the National Arboretum

The best pram friendly walk in the National Arboretum is the Central Valley Path. Park in the main carpark (paid parking) behind the Village Centre, head towards the POD Playground, walk around the perimeter, and you'll easily spot the entrance to the Central Valley Path.

What will I find on this pram friendly walk in Canberra?

The Central Valley's zig-zag path leads towards the Arboretum's lower dam, and has feature gardens and ceremonial tree plantings to view as you enjoy meandering through nature. The track is position to provide breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views, looking from Telstra Tower, over Scrivener Dam, and towards South Canberra. The path is flat and smooth, with minimal bumps, making it the perfect surface for a pram walk. It is 1.5km one way, with the first half walking gently downhill towards the lower dam. Walking back, there are gorgeous views of the Arboretum's Village Centre, as well as the POD playground, and of course, the gorgeous gardens that line the Central Valley.

Is the National Arboretum pram friendly walk also toddler friendly?

The Central Valley Path is nestled in the valley of the Arboretum, surrounded on nearly all sides by gently sloping green hills and gardens. It is very toddler friendly, meaning you can let little ones walk alongside you, or run around in the nearby greenery, without any concerns. Just be careful near the water in the dam. At the beginning/end of the walk, there's the famous POD playground. If you haven't been here before, it's one of the most fun playgrounds in Canberra for kids! There's something for toddlers through to bigger kids. Make sure to stop on the way if you're bringing little ones along on your walk.

Is there shelter/shade on this pram friendly walk?

The path provides some dappled shade, however there are no fully covered areas of shade along the path. There are no sheltered spots directly on the Central Valley Path, but there are other sheltered spots within the Arboretum that are accessible with a pram, such as inside the POD Playground. This is a nice place to stop and rest at the end of your walk.

Is there a cafe/coffee?

Or better yet, at the end of your walk, grab a coffee or something to eat at the Arboretum cafe. Run by the experienced Ginger Group, there's plenty of options to suit even the fussiest eaters.

Is this pram friendly walk secluded?

No, this walk is very open. There are no secluded spots where you can't be seen by other people. It provides plenty of visibility and is very safe.

Are there toilets at the National Arboretum?

There are no toilets directly along the path, but there are toilets inside the Village Centre.

Are dogs allowed on this walk?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Arboretum's walking tracks, however they must be on leash at all times. You need to carry your own bags and pick up after your dog.

Car Parking at the National Arboretum

There is plenty of car parking available outside the Village Centre. It is paid parking, which can be paid for at either the physical pay stations, or via the Easy Park app.

Overall...

The National Arboretum provides a gorgeous location for a pram friendly walk in Canberra. The Central Valley Path is front and centre of the Arboretum, providing gorgeous views and plenty of open space for you, your little ones, and your fur babies to enjoy.

Have you walked the Central Valley Path at the Arboretum with a pram? Let us know in the comments below!