Known as the ‘city in the park’, Canberra is one of the few Australian cities to embrace all the beauty autumn fully has to offer. From mid-March to early May, with the peak period in mid-April, the transformation of the city’s trees is spectacular. Depending on you and your pup’s energy level, there are several different activities that will allow you to make the most of this spectacular season.
Everything from dog-friendly walks, hikes to lookouts, and relaxing at wineries, allowing you to enjoy autumn to the fullest. If you’re looking to visit our capital, just to see the leaves, this guide also contains central places to stay while you take part in all these activities.
Dog Friendly Walks With Nearby Cafes
Is it even a dog walk without a coffee in hand and a stop at a dog-friendly cafe afterwards? We’ve rounded up the best walks in Canberra to see the stunning autumn leaves while getting your steps in and a cafe stop for refuelling needs before, after, or along the way.
Lake Burley Griffin lies at the centre of Canberra and there are multiple walking paths around it. There’s a total of 30km of paths with dogs permitted on most of them. The most popular dog-friendly option is the Bridge to Bridge walk, as it sits between the Commonwealth Avenue and Kings Avenue Bridges.
Autumn at Lake Burley offers stunning foliage, and the Bridge to Bridge walk offers a flat path that takes you past major landmarks like the NGA Sculpture Garden, Parliament House views, and lakeside cafes.
The top dog-friendly cafe stops on this loop are The Jetty and Margot Bar. The Jetty is located at Queen Elizabeth Terrace and offers outdoor seating and water bowls for dogs. It’s a popular spot for pets and their owners, as dogs are frequently offered complimentary treats and a welcoming environment right on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Margot Bar is located on the “bridge to bridge” path near Queen Elizabeth Terrace. This is a fully outdoor dog-friendly cafe. It is perfect for a quick espresso, pastries, or gourmet toasties while enjoying lake views.
Other notable mentions include:
- On-Lake Cafe: Located in Bowen Park and featuring a large outdoor deck overlooking the lake. Definitely a popular and relaxed spot for breakfast or a coffee.
- Little Bird: A short 5-minute stroll from the lake and the National Gallery’s sculpture garden. It has a generous outdoor area that catches the morning sun but provides shade later in the day, making it pawfect for dogs. Definitely a great place to stop for a cuppa if you’re adding exploring the NGA’s expansive outdoor Sculpture Garden, as it’s also dog-friendly.
Looking for a different perspective of autumn at Lake Burley Griffin? Consider hiring a GoBoat on Lake Burley Griffin, which welcomes dogs as first mate. Go Boat offers electric picnic boats for hire from Trevillian Quay in Kingston. With no boat license required and hire periods from just an hour available, it’s a great way to see the autumn leaves.
This hidden gem provides a very lovely and generally flat and fully paved 4 km walk with mature native and exotic trees and stunning lake views. Dogs must be on a lead, but the walk starts and ends at the Yarralumla Dog Park, where they can run free. This is located on the corner of Banks and Brown Streets. There is also an off-lead dog swimming spot very close to the dog park.
Along the route is a dog-friendly cafe called Oaks Brasserie. Tables are set under those beautiful trees, or you can drive/walk to nearby Yarralumla shops for other cafes such as Beess & Co., which provides spacious and shady outdoor seating.
Lake Ginninderra (Belconnen)
This is a 2.5km walk with mature eucalypts and exotic trees that is very pretty and fully paved, and generally a flat walk. There are ample off-leash opportunities as well. The route loops around the edge of a small peninsula jutting into Lake Ginninderra. The outer edge of the peninsula along the lake shore is an off-leash area.
The dog-friendly cafe options are Birrigai Cafe, 2 Joy Cummings Pl, which is a little further along on Lake Ginninderra but still within walking distance; Stella’s by the Lake, which is directly across the road from Lake Ginninderra on 1 Beissel Street; or the mobile coffee vans if you happen to be visiting on a weekend. Stella’s by the Lake is one of the top dog-friendly cafes in Canberra and has a dedicated dog menu to please all the foodie pups out there.
This route begins and ends at the Lyneham shops on Hall Street and winds through some of the most beautiful parks and quietest streets in Lyneham and O’Connor. The streets are lined with mature oak, ash, and elm trees. There are various routes available, including extensive off-leash parks and playing fields where dogs can run freely, as well as a creek to explore. The walk is approximately 4km long.
There are two dog-friendly cafes on Wattle Street in Lyneham called Tilley’s Devine’s Cafe and The Front.
This is approximately a 4km walk with thick carpets of leaves along Mills and Jerrabomberra creeks. The route starts and finishes on Iluka Street, Narrabundah shops and follows a series of off-leash parks along Mills and Jerrabomberra creeks, with only two short sections along suburban streets. There is also a “secret” deeply wooded path, as well as off-leash opportunities at 3 large ovals.
For a dog-friendly cafe experience, there is Gang Gang Cafe and Bar at the Narrabundah shops. They welcome dogs in their outdoor seating area, which has heaters, offers a relaxed atmosphere, and is located right next to one of the ovals.
Other nearby cafe options include:
- Bittersweet Cafe: Located in Kingston and features a shaded outdoor dining area adjacent to a grassy lawn. It has plenty of generously spaced outdoor tables and a very friendly dog-loving staff.
- Little Bird: Located in Barton and boasts a generous outdoor area perfect for dogs that catches the morning sun but provides good shade midday and afternoon. This is also a 5-minute stroll from Lake Burley-Griffin and the National Gallery’s sculpture garden if you’d like to keep going after taking a break.
Manuka-Griffith
An easy route through beautiful suburban streets for approximately 3km. This route follows a series of linked off-leash parks and features mature exotic trees that are stunning in autumn. There are plenty of open green spaces for dogs to run as well as opportunities for creek paddles.
The walk starts and ends at Griffith Park behind the Manuka Shopping Centre, which has several cafes with outdoor tables, especially off Bougainville Street, that are perfect for visiting with dogs.
National Arboretum
There are various trials, and on lead dogs are allowed on all of them. There are over 20km of walking paths to choose from, so you can tailor your visit to your and your dog’s energy. The area provides spectacular 360-degree city views. The National Arboretum is a 250-hectare living collection of rare, endangered, and symbolic trees and is one of the most spectacular places in Australia in Autumn.
Canberra Dog Walks
Like the sound of these autumn walks, but prefer a social group walk instead? Canberra Dog Walks leads social group walks every week for dogs and their humans. Walks are scheduled all over Canberra and often follow routes included in their self-guided walks. All human walkers are welcome, with or without dogs. The first walk each year is free, and then it’s $7.50 per human adult attending each walk. Children and dogs walk free. Payment is collected by the guide with a card reader at the beginning of each walk. They use Meetup to organise their group walks – Meetup page.
Getting Autumn Birdseye Views
For sweeping panoramic views, head to Canberra’s most-loved lookouts. Depending on your dog’s energy level and preference, you can either hike to the summit or drive up for a quick look. Either way, these elevated spots promise some of the best autumn photo opportunities in the capital.
Mount Ainslie
Mount Ainslie allows dogs on-lead on the popular 4.5 km return Kokoda Track (summit walk) and surrounding trails within the nature park. Dogs must remain on-lead to protect wildlife, including ground-nesting birds and lizards. Nearby off-lead areas include Majura Oval.
This is one of the most popular walks among locals and the bush track behind the Australian War Memorial goes to the top of Mount Ainslie and offers a stunning aerial view of the city and its fiery autumn canopy.
This is a sealed, moderate-difficulty walking track with fantastic views of the city and local mountains including the Tidbinbilla Range and Namadgi National Park. The track includes steep sections, steps, and uneven ground.
Red Hill
South of the city centre, Red Hill Nature Reserve offers an amazing lookout with panoramic views of Canberra, Parliament House, and the Brindabella Ranges. In autumn, the brilliant reds and oranges are stunning.
Red Hill is dog-friendly, allowing on-lead dogs to explore its walking tracks and panoramic summit views. The summit walk is a 4.1km loop trail that starts near Mugga Way. The trail offers steep, moderate, and easy options. This area is popular with walkers and features upgraded trails.
Vibrant Vineyards
If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace to explore autumn leaves and colours, several Canberra district wineries might just be what you’re looking for and the vibrancy of autumn is in full display from April to May. Key spots for autumn foliage, vineyard colours, and views include Brindabella Hills Winery, Clonakilla, and Four Winds Vineyard. These locations provide scenic autumn landscapes suitable for wine tastings with your pup by your side.
Four Winds Vineyard is located in Murrumbateman, which is about 30 minutes from Canberra. Dogs are allowed in their outdoor, covered picnic area, and they offer wood-fired pizza and wine. All dogs must remain on lead and be well-behaved.
Located 25km from Canberra, Brindabella offers a spectacular autumn experience featuring golden vineyard views, crisp air, and a cozy, dog-friendly atmosphere. Dogs are welcome to join owners on the grass terraces or in designated outdoor areas. Features views of the Murrumbidgee River and the surrounding landscape.
Shaw Estate
Shaw Estate in Murrumbateman, located in the Canberra wine region, offers picturesque scenery during autumn, characterized by vines turning golden and vibrant foliage. The estate features sweeping views across the Southern Tablelands, providing a dramatic backdrop for visitors. Dogs are welcome to join you in the outdoor areas, including the covered verandah and paved terrace, where you can enjoy wine tasting and food from Olleyvile restaurant. It is considered one of the top dog-friendly winery options in the Canberra region.
Clonakilla
Clonakilla is also located in the Murrumbateman area and surrounded by changing foliage. On lead and well behaved dogs are welcome to their outdoor veranda and patio areas during tasting. It is highly recommended to book a table on the outdoor patio to ensure your pet can be accommodated.
Surveryors Hill Winery is located in Wallaroo and transforms into a vibrant autumn scene as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines turn amber and crimson. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you for a visit to the cellar door and bistro, but are not permitted inside the building. It is highly recommended to book an outdoor table in advance to ensure a comfortable spot for you and your dog.
Lake George Winery is highly dog-friendly, allowing furry friends on the property for on-lead walks on the 280-acre property and on the outdoor deck of their Westering wine bar. Guests can also book pet-friendly stays in self-contained accommodation in the Vineyard Homestead or various cozy and dog-friendly Tiny Away Houses.
Pet Friendly Stays in Canberra
If all this chasing leaves sounds like your cup of tea but you’re not from Canberra, the city is teeming with amazing pet-friendly accommodations to give you that home away from home feeling. When travelling with a dog, comfort and convenience are key. If you’re looking for somewhere central, stylish, and truly pet-welcoming, The Sebel Canberra and The Sebel Canberra Civic tick all the right boxes.
The Sebel Canberra Civic
Located in the CBD, this hotel has a modern, clean feel and offers apartment-style accommodation, perfect for travellers with pets who need a bit of space. With kitchenette facilities and close proximity to parks and walking paths, it makes things easy from the start.
The Sebel Canberra
Just a few minutes away, this property offers slightly larger apartment-style rooms, ideal if you’re planning a longer stay. The leafy surrounds and nearby walking tracks made morning and evening strolls a breeze.
What Makes Them So Pet-Friendly?
These stays go above and beyond to ensure your four-legged travel buddy feels just as welcome as you do. From thoughtful inclusions to practical perks, everything has been designed with pets in mind.
Pet Accommodation Available:
Both properties happily welcome pets of all shapes and sizes, with up to two pets permitted per room—perfect for families travelling with more than one furry companion.
Pet Fee:
Yes, you read that right… Pets stay free of charge! No hidden fees, just a warm welcome for your best mate.
Pet Pack Inclusions:
Arrive to a room that’s already set up for your pup’s comfort, including:
- A cozy dog bed ready for snoozing after a day of adventures
- Food and water bowls for easy mealtimes
- A handy guide to nearby parks, pet stores, and veterinary services
- Access to a complimentary Dr. Lisa pet refresh station in the foyer—perfect for quick clean-ups after muddy walks
Pet-Specific Cleaning:
Dedicated cleaning protocols help keep rooms fresh and comfortable for all guests, ensuring a hygienic and stress-free stay for both pets and their humans.
From scenic walks to dog-friendly cafés and attractions, Canberra delivers in every season—whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or stretching the fun out for a whole week with your four-legged sidekick.