Situated on the edge of the city, Mount Taylor is a well-trodden landmark for those who love nature but don't want to travel too far. Its summit walk, which is just over 2 kilometres from the base (with an elevation of 856 metres) is a touch more strenuous than others with some steep sections and uneven rocks. If that doesn't deter you, you'll find two of the access points in the suburb of Kambah — on the corner of Mannheim Street and Sulwood Drive, and at Colquhoun Street off Sulwood Drive.
Once you reach the peak, you'll be rewarded with views of Tuggeranong Valley and Woden Valley, plus a glimpse of Namadgi National Park. If you're feeling especially keen, take your dog on a pre-dawn walk and experience sunrise as the city comes to life.
Image: Pascal Vuylsteker via Flickr