6 Affordable Day Trips for Canberrans

  • 6 Affordable Day Trips for Canberrans image
Sammy Rose

RoundABOUT Contributor

Fancy a road trip, but can’t afford to go far? We’ve got you covered.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite spots within driving distance for everyone to enjoy this Summer!

 

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park

Tidbinbilla is home to bunch of local wildlife including birds, kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and platypus. There’s 21 trails with something for everyone! Think guided tours and educational activities about Ngunnawal culture and heritage. The Reserve is only 40 minutes drive from the nation’s capital.

Although 80 percent of Namadgi National Park burnt down during the 2020 Orroral Valley bushfire, there are still some areas for the public to access and enjoy.

You can find all the details about Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, and Namadgi National Park on their website HERE

 

Kosciuszko National Park

If it’s a family adventure you’re after then Kosciuszko Park is for you. There’s an activity for every member of the family, from the adrenalin junkie, to those who’d prefer a stroll in the Aussie hinterland.

There’s walking trails for all fitness levels, ranging from 1-2 hours. Some for the more relaxing walks on site include the family-friendly Porcupine walk, Thredbo River Walk and Rainbow Lake Walk.

If you’re up for a challenge, try the Dead Horse Gap Walking Track, Illawong Walk, or Main Range Walking Track.

Otherwise, there’s also mountain bike tracks, and spots for fishing along the Thredbo River.

Find more info on their website.

 

The Caves at Yarrangobilly

 

Yarrongobilly Thermal Pools

Head across the border to the Snowy Mountains, the pools are a consistent 27 degrees all year round. The perfect spot to pack a picnic, and relax. Maybe a chance to leave the kids with the extended family, and escape for the day!

It’s roughly a three hour drive from the nation’s capital, so stay the night in a nearby hotel, or find a spot to camp.

 

Jump in the car and head out to Braidwood

An hour’s drive from Canberra, Braidwood has a bunch of short stay and day-trip options for couples, and families.

The Bedervale is a heritage listed Bed & Breakfast with scenic views of Braidwood and the coastal range. Tours are available by appointment. \

If you’re up for a quick day trip, there’s unique specialty stores like Len Mutton & Co with leather goods and haberdashery, as well as Sandalwood Homewares stocked with vintage pieces, exquisite ceramics, traditional Balinese wooden furniture and colorful Turkish towels.

 

Downtown Cooma

 

Lake Crackenback

Situated between Jindabyne and Thredbo, Crackenback is the ideal spot for a quiet getaway. Although it’s not as busy as the main areas, there’s Crackenback Farm with it’s French-inspired menu, and the Lake Crackenback Resort. The resort offers guests a range of accommodation activities, and dining options.

 

Cooma 

Take a detour from the Snowy Mountains Highway, the town is perfect for anyone who’s keen for an adventure. There’s everything from fishing, to horse riding, bushwalking and if you’re organised, the occasional hot air balloon ride.

If you’re keen for a clothing shop, Cooma is home to Birdsnest and for those who love a good feed there’s plenty of pubs and cafes within walking distance along the main street.

 

Listen to podcasts when driving? Tune into this episode of Tailored Talk with Sammy Rose…