Where to Ride

Lake Burley Griffin Loop

One of my favourite rides is the loop around the central and west basins of Lake Burley Griffin. I have always ridden clockwise but I don’t think it really makes much difference.

 

Length: approx 26km’s

Duration: 2 – 3hrs at a leisurely pace.

Difficulty: moderate

Map: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Lake-Burley-Griffin-West-and-Central-Basins

 

Starting at Commonwealth place I head west past the National library and International flag display. Just on your left near the library is the peace memorial. A little further along right on the lake edge is the Australian of the year walk.

 

As you head under Commonwealth Avenue Bridge you will get a view of the National Museum and during the warmer months lots of sailing boats enjoying the lake. The cycle path heads past lennox gardens and the Hyatt hotel before turning west again passing the yacht club. From here you start to feel the essence of the bush capital as the scenery changes from iconic buildings to bush. The path follows the lake before passing Yarrowlumla and Weston park.

 

The Oaks Brasserie http://www.yarralumlagallery.itgo.com/ is always a welcome stop. Sitting under the trees enjoying a coffee in winter or ice chocolate in summer.

If you have young children a ride up into Weston Park for a ride on the minature railway or playground is always a good choice.

 

From Weston Park you continue to head west passing through more trees across a bridge and up a small hill to the entrance gates of government house. Pass here and down along hill and you will pass the viewing area for Government house. Kangaroos are often spotted on the Governer General’s lawn. Cross over Scrivener Dam pass the National Zoo, well worth a stop if you have time. Just up the hill you pass through the Historic Cork plantation. The cycle track then heads past Yarramundi Reach before heading back towards the city.

 

Again the children may like to play on the playground at Black Mountain Peninsular. If not cycle on by. At Sullivans creek come up onto the road bridge and follow the signs for the city. Just before the National Museum veer left and follow the path around west basin. The cycle path follows the lake under Commonwealth Avenue bridge and heads through Commonwealth park towards the Carrillion. A coffee stop at Maria’s coffee van is welcome break on weekends. Then head up and over King’s Avenue Bridge. Cross the road and head past the art gallery back to your start point.

 

 

Mountain Biking

 

Canberra is becoming world renowned for excellent mountain biking tracks. Try the single track of Majura Pines or the world class Stromlo Forest park.