Why De Salis Creek Belongs on Your Itinerary
De Salis Creek winds through eucalypt forest and granite country in southern ACT, offering a genuine slice of high-country river scenery without the crowds of better-known national-park rivers. Its clear water, small cascades and fringing stands of river peppermint attract walkers, birdwatchers and anglers looking for a half-day or full-day outing that still feels remote.
Getting There
The creek lies roughly 50 km southwest of Canberra’s city centre. Most visitors drive via the Cotter Road and then follow Brindabella Road or the unsealed Mount Franklin Road before turning onto forestry tracks that parallel the creek. A high-clearance vehicle is advisable after rain; check road conditions with ACT Parks before heading out. There are no formal entry gates or visitor centres, so a good map or GPS is essential.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (September–November) brings wildflowers and reliable water flow, while autumn (March–May) offers mild temperatures and fewer insects. Summer can be hot and the creek may drop to a trickle; winter visits are possible but roads can close after snow. Avoid the area on total-fire-ban days.
What to See and Do
The most popular activity is following informal walking tracks that trace the creek upstream from its lower reaches. Expect moderate scrambling over boulders and occasional creek crossings. Shorter walks of two to three hours are possible; longer loops connect with fire trails leading toward Mount Ginini or the Cotter catchment. Anglers target brown trout in the deeper pools, while photographers appreciate the contrast of white granite against dark water and green canopy. Native birds such as the superb lyrebird and gang-gang cockatoo are frequently heard if you walk quietly at dawn or dusk.
Practical Considerations
- Carry at least two litres of water per person; the creek is not treated.
- Swimming holes exist but currents can be strong after rain and rocks are slippery.
- Camping is not permitted along the creek itself; the nearest designated sites are at nearby Cotter Campground.
Nearby Attractions
Combine a visit with the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, only 20 minutes away, for guaranteed sightings of kangaroos and emus, or continue south to Namadgi National Park for more challenging alpine walks. The historic Cotter Dam and its picnic areas make a convenient stop on the return drive to Canberra.
