Grade 1

Cotter Explorer Track (2km)

Cotter Recreation Area

Australian Capital Territory

2km

1 hr

Grade 1

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the serene Cotter Explorer Track, a leisurely 2km return journey nestled in the Cotter Recreation Area, just a short 25km jaunt from Canberra, Australia's capital. Starting and ending at Cotter Avenue Car Park, this Grade 1 trail is suitable for all abilities, including families with prams or wheelchairs. As you amble along the scenic Cotter River banks, relish the tranquil beauty of this accessible and peaceful trail. Don't forget, Stromlo is your closest town for a post-hike treat.

Max elevation: 492m

Min elevation: 481m

Total Ascent: 26m

Hike overview


Track grade


Grade 1 (All-abilities) - Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.

Walk map and GPX file

Cotter Explorer Track (2km)


Explore safely


Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Leave a trip plan


Register your plans

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.

Planning checklists


Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

Getting there


Getting to the trailhead: Cotter Recreation Area.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

Accommodation nearby


Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.

Nearby towns: Cotter, Hall, Kambah, Narrabundah, Paddys River, Stromlo, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Weston Creek, Woden

About the region


Similar walks nearby


Looking for more walks in or near Cotter Recreation Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 1

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Cotter Explorer Track (2km)


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Acknowledgement of Country

Cotter explorer track (2km) trail hiking australia

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

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