Murrumbidgee River Corridor

The Murrumbidgee River Corridor carves a serene green path through the southwestern edge of Canberra, offering a wild escape just minutes from the city. This 55-kilometre stretch of protected riverine bushland is a haven for kayakers, anglers, and walkers, with the river itself a lifeline for native wildlife. The corridor feels a world away from Parliament House, yet it’s woven into the fabric of the region’s Ngunnawal heritage and early European settlement.

Highlights & What to See

• Pine Island Reserve – A favourite for swimming and picnics, with gentle rapids perfect for a summer cool-down. The riverside walking track offers excellent birdwatching.
• Point Hut Crossing – Launch a kayak or canoe from this popular put-in spot; the flat water upstream is ideal for beginners, while downstream provides gentle riffles.
• Murrumbidgee Discovery Track – A 10-km return walk from Point Hut to Pine Island, weaving through river flats and rocky outcrops. Look for kangaroos at dusk and listen for the whipcrack call of the eastern whipbird.
• Casuarina Sands – A secluded beach and picnic area with a historic weir. The shallow pools are great for kids, and the surrounding casuarina forest offers shade.
• Woodstock Reserve – A quieter spot with a boat ramp and fishing platforms. The reserve is a key habitat for the vulnerable Murrumbidgee River turtle.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough for a relaxed paddle or a short walk, but to really soak up the corridor’s atmosphere, plan a full day. Combine a morning kayak from Point Hut with an afternoon walk along the Discovery Track. If you’re a keen angler or photographer, consider staying until sunset when the light turns the river gold.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Namadgi National Park – Just south, this alpine wilderness offers rugged hikes and a glimpse of the region’s granite peaks.
• Canberra’s Southern Suburbs – Stop in Tuggeranong for cafés and the Lake Tuggeranong foreshore walk.
• Lanyon Homestead – A historic 19th-century estate with gardens and a café, located on the Murrumbidgee’s banks.
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – A 30-minute drive west, home to koalas, platypuses, and excellent walking trails.
• Cotter Avenue – The historic Cotter Dam and picnic area, a popular swimming spot with a fascinating water-supply history.

Please check official sources for current details.