Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the 4km Mount McDonald Summit Walk in the scenic Cotter Recreation Area, just a short 26km hop from Canberra, the nearest capital city. Starting and ending at the Cotter Catchment Carpark, this Grade 3 trail near Stromlo town promises a moderate challenge with rewarding 360-degree views of the Murrumbidgee River and Brindabella Range. Perfect for seasoned bushwalkers, the trail features a lookout point and a gravel fire trail along the ascent, ensuring a unique and enjoyable hiking experience.

Length:

4km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 779m

Min elevation: 594m

Total Ascent: 224m

Start: Cotter Catchment Carpark

End: Cotter Catchment Carpark

Cotter Recreation Area

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Stromlo

From state capital: 26km

Latitude: -35.31440293530134

Longitude: 148.94755393266678

Overview

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Hike overview

The Mount McDonald Summit Walk offers a moderately challenging 4.3-kilometre return journey, ideal for experienced walkers. Rated as Grade 3, this trail rewards hikers with a 360-degree panorama upon reaching the summit. The expansive view encompasses the Murrumbidgee River, the Brindabella Range to the west, and even Canberra itself.

The walk begins at the Cotter Catchment car park. The initial section follows a single walking track that leads you up to the Lower Cotter Catchment Lookout. Here, you can enjoy a scenic view before continuing your ascent along Mount McDonald Road, a gravel fire trail, which takes you all the way to the summit of Mount McDonald. The return journey follows the same route back to the car park.

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Main image: Ian Jarman (2022)

Walk map and GPX file
Mount McDonald Summit Track (4.3km)

Total distance: 4310 m
Max elevation: 779 m
Min elevation: 594 m
Total climbing: 224 m
Total descent: -224 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cotter Recreation Area.

You can reach the Mount McDonald Summit Track by following Cotter Road westward from Canberra for approximately 23 kilometres. Look out for the turn-off to Mount Stromlo and continue straight ahead. You’ll pass the Cotter Pumping Station and cross a bridge before reaching a second bridge. Take the turning right onto Cotter Road. After following Brindabella Road for about 2 kilometres, you’ll see a small car park on your left. This is the starting point for the walk.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Cotter, Hall, Kambah, Narrabundah, Paddys River, Stromlo, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Weston Creek, Woden

About the region

Nestled on the banks of the historic Cotter River within the Cotter Recreation Area lies Cotter Avenue. This popular spot, boasting the title of most developed recreation area in the Murrumbidgee River Corridor, is a haven for families.

Cotter Avenue offers everything needed for a perfect family outing. Enjoy a picnic under the shade of mature European deciduous trees, while the kids have a blast exploring the adventure playground. Electric barbecues, picnic tables, a covered shelter, and toilets ensure a comfortable visit.

For those seeking a scenic stroll, numerous walking trails begin at Cotter Avenue, catering to a range of abilities. Some trails are even wheelchair and pram-friendly. A favourite option is the Cotter Dam Discovery Trail, an informative walk that delves into the history of water management in the Canberra region. As you follow the trail, you'll reach a viewing platform offering impressive views of the enlarged Cotter Dam wall.

It's important to note that Cotter Avenue is a dog-free zone. For those seeking dog-friendly recreation areas along the Murrumbidgee River, Uriarra Crossing, Murrays Corner, or Point Hut Crossing are all great alternatives. Remember, there are no bins at Cotter Avenue, so please take all rubbish home with you to help maintain this beautiful natural environment.

Similar walks nearby

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

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Mount McDonald Summit Track (4.3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Mount McDonald Summit Track (4.3km)