Discover the clear waters, eucalypt forests and remote trails of McKeahnie Creek on the edge of Namadgi National Park.
McKeahnie Creek flows through steep-sided valleys in the Brindabella Ranges, offering a genuine slice of wild Australian Capital Territory. Its tannin-stained pools, granite boulders and surrounding mountain ash and snow gum woodland create an intimate setting for hikers and nature lovers seeking quiet away from Canberra’s urban fringe.
Well-formed fire trails and informal creek-side paths lead upstream from the lower reaches. Walkers can follow the watercourse for several kilometres, crossing small cascades and reaching natural swimming holes that remain cool even on summer days. Shorter out-and-back walks suit families, while longer loops connect with higher ridgelines for panoramic views.
Anglers target brown trout in the deeper pools during cooler months. The riparian zone supports crimson rosellas, yellow-tailed black-cockatoos and occasional wedge-tailed eagles. Early morning visits maximise wildlife sightings before daytime heat.
Access begins from the Cotter Road west of Canberra, turning south onto Brindabella Road and then following unsealed forestry tracks that require a high-clearance vehicle after rain. The final approach to the creek involves a short descent on foot. No public transport reaches the area, so private vehicle or organised tour is essential.
Spring (September–November) brings wildflowers and reliable water flow, while autumn (March–May) offers milder temperatures and fewer insects. Summer visits demand early starts to avoid heat and awareness of bushfire risk. Winter can bring snow to surrounding peaks, making tracks slippery and access more challenging.
Combine a creek visit with the Cotter Dam visitor centre, the historic Cotter River picnic grounds, or longer drives into Namadgi National Park to reach Yankee Hat rock-art site or the summit of Mount Gingera. The entire southern ACT offers a compact wilderness experience within an hour’s drive of the capital.
Keep reading
Discover the quiet beauty of this ACT waterway for hiking, wildlife spotting and peaceful riverside time.
The lower sections offer easy creek-side walking and shallow pools suitable for supervised younger visitors, but the terrain becomes steeper and more remote upstream.
Dogs are permitted on leads on the forestry tracks but are prohibited within the adjacent Namadgi National Park boundary.
Dispersed bush camping is possible on the forestry land outside the national park, provided you follow leave-no-trace principles and check current fire restrictions.
Expect kangaroos at dawn and dusk, plus a variety of woodland birds. Snakes are active in warmer months, so wear sturdy boots and watch where you step.
A high-clearance two-wheel-drive vehicle can reach the main trailhead in dry conditions, but four-wheel drive is strongly recommended after rain.
Shanahan Falls Creek offers hikers and nature enthusiasts a tranquil escape through rugged bushland and cascading waters…
Follow the clear waters of Sawpit Creek through native bushland for rewarding walks and quiet riverside moments close to…
