Put a spring in your step with a mindful nature walk to activate the senses!

The Southern Tablelands Ecosystems Park (affectionately known as STEP) is a regional botanic garden, education and conservation centre demonstrating southern tablelands species within the National Arboretum Canberra.

The Arboretum forests mostly consist of a single tree species, but Forest 20 differs in two ways: STEP is growing 16 species of eucalypt trees, selected to represent the major vegetation types of the region. STEP also includes shrubs, herbs and grasses to demonstrate the understorey plants commonly found in the region’s forests and woodlands.

What to expect on the walk
A mindful meander in which there will be moments for both quiet contemplation and group discussion. We'll wander through forest 20 at a leisurely pace, pausing along the way to attune to our surroundings, activate the senses, and experience nature connection through various embodied activities. The walk will be guided by nature connection facilitator Sally Holliday (Landcare ACT) and STEP volunteers - Jane and Yvonne.

"I started volunteering at STEP in 2019 , having visited the gardens previously as part of my career in horticulture and education. Once I retired it was a lovely way to keep active, meet new people and learn about local plants."
- Jane

"I'm an enthusiastic learner, who loves being out in the fresh air and having useful things to do. Forest 20 is a refreshing place to be and being involved with STEP lets me be me."
- Yvonne

What to wear/bring
Please wear enclosed shoes that are comfortable for walking.
Be sunwise and dress according to the weather conditions. Bring a water bottle to keep hydrated.
If you keep a nature journal, you may wish to bring it too.

How to get there
The STEP site is ‘Forest 20’ on Arboretum maps and signage.
To visit STEP, enter the National Arboretum Canberra from the Tuggeranong Parkway.
After passing through the main gates, drive uphill toward the Village Centre carpark.
Rather than turning left into the upper carpark, continue on and take a right to the lower carpark (avoid the egress).
Park in the final row of spaces at the base of the carpark.
Parking is paid via coin/card or the EasyPark app.

Look out for the STEP teardrop banner and Landcare ACT A frame sign (Sally will be in pink high vis vest and a grey felt hat, please say hello on arrival to mark your name off the attendee list).

We look forward to sharing the beauty of STEP with you.