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Length: 4.5km
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Duration: 2hrs
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Grade: 3
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Style: Return
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Start: Cotter Road Car Park
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End: Cotter Road Car Park
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Location: Cotter Bend
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Closest Town: Canberra
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Distance from CBD: 14km
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State: ACT
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Latitude: -35.3265311
Longitude: 148.9402342
Keep the Trail Access info current...

Select items to indicate conditions for access to the trail.


2WD Access


4WD Access


Public Transport


Bitumen Road


Gravel Road


Steep Road


Winding Road


Speed Bumps


Vehicle Ford


Entry Fee


Large Car Park


Small Car Park


Accessible Parking


Accessible Toilet


Public Toilets


Drinking Water


Untreated Water


Picnic Shelter


Picnic Table


BBQ Facilities


Campfire Pit


Camping Area
Keep the Trail Features current...

Cotter Bend...
Select items to indicate features found along the trail.


Concrete Path


Timber Boardwalk


Gravel Path


Sandy Trail


Rough Trail


Undefined Trail


Prams & Strollers


Manual Wheelchair


Motorised Wheelchair


Bicycle Trail


Mountain Bike Trail


Historic Rail Trail


Dog Friendly


Urban Walk


Coast & Beach


Historic Lighthouse


Waterfalls & Lakes


Rainforest Walk


Goldfields & Mining


Heritage Walk


Aboriginal Art


Alpine Region


Alpine Huts


Exposed Ledges


Rock Scrambling


Steep Terrain


Bush Bashing


River Crossings


Scenic Viewpoints


Well Marked


Drinking Water


Untreated Water


Fishing Spots


Swimming Spots


Overnight Campsites


Trail Running


Horse Riding
Hike Summary
This fascinating walking trail explores both sides of the Cotter River before climbing up the side of the Bullen Range then down to cross the Paddys River. There is no bridge so you may get your feet wet as you wade and rock hop across. After crossing the river you wind your way up to end at the Cotter Caves which are closed to the public due to vandalism, safety and conservation concerns. However, you can still see inside and learn about the history of mineral exploration in Canberra.
About the region
Cotter Bend
The Cotter Bend, where the Paddys River meets the Cotter River, is a favourite with many for a swim, splash and for fishing. A wide pool and sandy beach marks the meeting of the two rivers. Paddys River has its genesis at Mount Tennent beyond Tharwa in Namadgi National Park and its fresh clean waters complement the Cotter as they come together at the 'Bend'. The Cotter Bend has plenty of grassy areas with shade on sunny days, and you will often see families picnicking or playing cricket. There are free barbeques and toilet facilities available. From here you can walk the Bullen Track to the historic Cotter Caves, or go for a stroll along the river. No bins are provided - please take your rubbish home with you. No dogs allowed. For dog friendly recreation along the Murrumbidgee River you can go to Uriarra Crossing, Murrays Corner or Point Hut Crossing. Located close by:
For more information, a location map and facilities please visit the ACT Government Information Portal.
Getting there
This fascinating walking trail explores both sides of the Cotter River before climbing up the side of the Bullen Range then down to cross the Paddys River. There is no bridge so you may get your feet wet as you wade and rock hop across. After crossing the river you wind your way up to end at the Cotter Caves which are closed to the public due to vandalism, safety and conservation concerns. However, you can still see inside and learn about the history of mineral exploration in Canberra.