Women's ACT Free Meet Up Hike Blue Tiles Track

The Blue Tiles Track is one of Canberra s best kept secrets!

On our women s meet up, we will hike 6.5km return and follow the river along the Molonglo Gorge, through Kowen Forrest. This is an out-and-back track, that winds through the bush with stunning river/cliff views until it opens up by a rest area, after approximately 3km. This grassy clearing has picnic tables and is right on the water the perfect place to stop for photos and Women Want Adventure famous Anzac biscuits!

After morning tea and some rest we ll head back to our starting place on the same track.

DETAILS:

• Date: Sunday 18 April 2021
• Meeting time: 9.00am
• Meeting location: Molonglo Picnic Area carpark Kowen Road, Kowen ACT (between Pialligo and Queanbeyan)
• Finish time: 12.30-1pm
• Duration of hike: 3.5 hours and 6.5km
• Numbers: 12 women
• Age: Over 18 years

WHAT TO BRING:

• Day pack (large enough to carry 2L water, rain jacket, personal belongings)
• Rain jacket
• Hat & sunscreen
• 2L water
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses
• Camera or phone for photos
• Sunglasses
• Personal medication
• Snack/bite to eat

ABOUT THE TRAIL:

The track consists of mostly well-worn paths (with rails in some areas), a bit of rock scrambling and the odd small set of stairs. There are some steep sections, but we ll go at a comfortable and safe pace.

There are bathrooms at the start point, however the water that is available is not drinking water. Please ensure you bring enough fluid (minimum 2L) with you, as you won t be able to fill up here.

You can expect to be immersed in nature and to see a part of Canberra that not many people have ventured into even locals! This track is quiet and walking to the sound of the burbling river is very relaxing. Although challenging in parts, the views are well worth it and you ll leave with a great sense of satisfaction.

HOW TO GET TO THE MEETING LOCATION:

Street address: Kowen Road, Kowen ACT

Directions: The Molonglo Picnic Area carpark and picnic area is located between the airport and Queanbeyan please ensure you allow adequate travel time (approximately 35mins from most parts of Canberra). Turn on to Sutton Road from Pialligo Avenue, and then look for a small sign to turn right towards Kowen Forest and Molonglo Gorge (Kowen Road). This is a dirt road, and at its end you will find the meeting point. You will pass several locked gates along the way ignore these and follow the main road to the end. You will see a carpark, toilet block and signage to signify that you are in the right spot.

Parking: There is ample free parking available.

Meeting point: The group will meet near the trail head, which is 10m or so from the toilet block.

Link to Google Maps location: https://goo.gl/maps/8w6AWB3cHcpUupXB7

We look forward to seeing you on this hike.

Your guides at Women Want Adventure

FAQ'S

So, what exactly is Women Want Adventure? Do I have to be a young, super fit, experienced adventurer to attend?

Nope, you certainly do not. You can be a beginner to advanced (or anywhere in-between). Women Want Adventure is all about women coming together to try something new, make friendships, experience challenges, surprises and enjoyment of adventure. Our youngest member is mid 20 s, our oldest is 71, and 75% of women turn up individually. To find out more about what we do, click here.

Do you have local women s trips in every state?

We re always adventuring across Australia (we love to explore), but our HQ is based in Sydney and most trips are in NSW (for the moment). By HQ we mean Monique s home office. She likes indoor plants and gear lists. Believe it or not, we re a small outdoor company. Most of our guides work other jobs. Our team live between NSW, ACT and VIC, where we operate local day and weekend trips. We re big on making sure trips are safe, welcoming, small group numbered and inclusive so we re just going slow.

I m nervous to attend, is this normal?

Nerves are normal. Even the most experienced adventurers still get nervous. Part of going on an adventure is seeking the unknown . Our guides will support you along the way and the best part? Other women in the group are just like you. Not many women know each other and after the first few minutes of introductions you will feel like you ve hiked or kayaked with us plenty of times before.

Are there bathrooms at the meeting location? Yes.

How far from the nearest town? 15mins to Queanbeyan and 30mins to Canberra City.

Do I need to register to attend? Yes, this is important to know who is coming on the day, reduce group size and record details due to Covid.

Will there be other hikes coming up? We're doing our best! We aim to have a free meet up every 4-6 weeks in the ACT. For all our other women's adventures visit our website here.