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National Rock Garden: Australia's Geological Story

Explore Australia's ancient geological heritage at the National Rock Garden in Canberra's National Arboretum.

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The National Rock Garden, located within the National Arboretum Canberra, showcases a diverse collection of Australian rocks and minerals, each with a story spanning billions of years. It's a walk through time, revealing the continent's geological evolution.

A brief summary to National Rock Garden

  • Forest 13, National Arboretum Canberra, Forest Dr, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 2611, AU
  • +61291608193
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the garden's compressed gravel and concrete paths.
  • Bring a camera to capture the colors and textures of the unique rock formations.
  • Check the National Arboretum Canberra's website for any events or guided tours.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions at the National Arboretum, such as the POD Playground or the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the National Arboretum Canberra Visitor Centre, walk past the POD Playground and through the Mesa Oaks. Caution should be taken when crossing Forest Drive to the start of the Rock Garden. The walk is approximately 275m and has a slight gradient.

  • Driving

    The National Rock Garden is located within the National Arboretum Canberra, which can be accessed by car via Forest Drive. Paid parking is available in the main car park near the Village Centre between 9am and 4pm. Parking fees contribute to the maintenance of the Arboretum. Limited free parking is available at the Himalayan Cedar Forest, Dairy Farmers Hill, and Cork Oak Road.

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Discover more about National Rock Garden

The National Rock Garden (NRG) celebrates Australia's extensive geological heritage, displaying a wide variety of rocks and minerals that have significantly shaped the nation's landscapes. Located in Forest 13 of the National Arboretum Canberra, the NRG offers a journey through time, charting the evolution of the Australian continent over the last four billion years. The garden features a permanent display of rock specimens sourced from across Australia. Each rock is accompanied by an informative plaque and a QR code, providing access to additional information about its origin and significance. Stage 1 of the NRG includes an entry feature rock, five rock clusters, the Federation Rocks, and an Indigenous welcome feature. The rocks are arranged to tell the story of Australia and its people. The National Rock Garden project was initiated in 2008 by members of the Geological Society of Australia. In May 2024, the NRG was relocated to its new home in Forest 13 within the National Arboretum Canberra. The garden's design, created by Harris Hobbs Landscapes, includes themed rock clusters connected by accessible paths, integrated with Weeping Wilga trees.

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