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