Gibraltar Falls has remained inaccessible since two men fell to their deaths in separate incidents in 2023. Photo: ACT Government.
Gibraltar Falls’ reopening date has been pushed back by several months as construction continues to make the site safer for everyone.
Two young men fell to their deaths at the site in separate incidents in February 2023, and closure was initially flagged as a last resort.
An ACT spokesperson said this had been done out of an “abundance of caution” following the tragic deaths.
“Actions included closing the former carpark and access to the top of the falls, installing fencing and signage, and restricting access to high-risk areas,” they said.
A permanent 210-metre fence has since been erected along the Gibraltar Falls walking track, and the 2024–25 ACT Budget announced $3.68 million to deliver major upgrades and improve visitor facilities and access across the Woods Reserve and Gibraltar Falls precinct.
The Woods Reserve Campground closed in October 2025 as part of works to make it the new access point for the falls.
Works were meant to be completed by mid-2026, but delays have meant the campground and Gibraltar Falls are now not expected to open until early 2027.
“Works have been delayed by wet winter conditions, which affected site access and construction activities,” the ACT Government spokesperson said.
“The extended closure is not solely related to the installation of safety infrastructure. Additional time is required to complete final works, landscaping and site establishment so the precinct is ready to safely reopen to the public.”
While it’s hoped the area will re-open in early 2027, that is subject to completion of the remaining works and site readiness to start receiving visitors again.
The major works on a walking track to connect the campground with Snake Rock, near Gibraltar Falls, are complete, but final landscaping, site establishment and other finishing touches still need to be ticked off.
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The ACT Government spokesperson said the works were about making the precinct both safer and more accessible for everyone to enjoy.
“The redevelopment provides longer-term improvements to safety, access and visitor facilities across the broader Woods Reserve and Gibraltar Falls precinct, including upgraded trails, viewing areas, signage, visitor amenities and redesigned access arrangements,” they said.
“We know many Canberrans are looking forward to returning to the Woods Reserve and Gibraltar Falls area, and we appreciate the community’s patience while the works are completed.
“While the precinct remains closed, Canberrans and visitors can continue to enjoy other campgrounds and walking trails across ACT parks and reserves.”
