Canberra's Favourite - the Cotter loop - Part Two

Just around the corner is Cotter Reserve.  It has been loved by Canberran families for generations.   The expanse of lawn is flanked by trees and provides a perfect location for picnics or BBQ's.   A children's playground, electronic BBQ's, park benches and public toilets are available plus walking trails describing various features of the area.

At the north-western edge of the reserve is the Cotter Dam, part of Canberra's water supply (no swimming permitted).

Cotter Dam wall

Back to the ride!  Exiting Cotter Reserve the road changes name to Paddy's River Road.

Continue onto Paddy's River Road

Paddy's River Road get's a fair amount of motoring and bicycle traffic.  Be aware that dirt is often brought onto the road by vehicles entering from side roads.  Bumpy in places but overall a reasonable surface.   

Paddy's River Road

The local kangaroo population is large and mobs of them can often be seen grazing by the roadside.  Unfortunately our enjoyment of the clean, fresh air is often punctuated by the smell of decaying kangaroo carcasses!  

On a positive note sometimes you can be lucky enough to spot a magnificent wedge-tailed eagle taking advantage of the roadkill.    

Discovery Drive

Our next stop is Moonrock Cafe located at the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC) on Discovery Drive.  During the Apollo program, Tidbinbilla was used for tracking the Apollo Lunar Module.  The owner is a motorcyclist and often has bike videos on the screen located in the cafe.

CDSCC

Unlike many cafe's at tourist traps the Moonrock is a good one, so have a break and enjoy the video!

... Part Three - Corin Dam