This quiet waterway in the Brindabella foothills delivers rewarding bushwalks, clear pools and native wildlife just beyond Canberra.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Keep reading
Discover this specialized garden in the Australian Capital Territory, where towering eucalypts meet vibrant daisy-family…
Small pools can be refreshing on hot days, but water levels fluctuate and there are no lifeguards or facilities. Strong currents after rain make swimming risky.
No entry permit is required, but standard ACT vehicle access rules apply on forestry roads and you must obey all fire restrictions.
There are none. The nearest toilets and picnic tables are at the Cotter Campground or Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
Dogs are not permitted in the surrounding nature reserves; keep pets in the car or leave them at home.
Tracks are unmarked and involve rock hopping and creek crossings; they suit fit walkers comfortable with navigation.
Wander through themed beds of sunflowers, everlastings and native paper daisies in this quiet botanical corner of the…
This compact garden in the Australian Capital Territory showcases cool-climate Tasmanian rainforest plants amid…
