Don’t wait for the snow to visit Corin Forest. There’s plenty to do in the summertime too. Photo: Corin Forest Facebook.
When most Canberrans hear the words Corin Forest, they think of checking out the snow in the middle of winter, throwing snowballs and catching a ride on the thrill-filled alpine slide. But while snowball fights are fun and open fires have plenty of appeal, Corin Forest is also a fantastic summer destination. Here’s why.
Less than an hour from most areas of Canberra and only 25 minutes from some parts of Tuggeranong, Corin Forest is a popular winter destination but it offers year-round alpine fun.
In summer, the beautiful forests of the Tidbinbilla Mountain Ranges that surround the valley can be truly appreciated. There’s no need to rug up. The slide – It’s the southern hemisphere’s longest bobsled ride – operates year round and it’s a great way to descend 1.2km through the forest.
Why you’ll love it
Fewer crowds
You won’t find the crowds that are common in the cooler weather, so you can go bushwalking, exploring, picnicking and of course riding on the alpine slide without encountering lots of people.
Places to eat
If you’re in the area at lunch time, stop in for a gourmet burger, wood-fired pizza or something else from the menu at the café near the slide facility.
Enjoy a fresh wood-fired pizza on your trip. Photo: Corin Forest Facebook.
If you prefer to bring your own picnic, pack your BBQ, rent the gas BBQs or use the onsite fire pits. You’ll need to collect sticks form the surrounding bush first.
Great for cyclists
Corin Dam Road is not just a spectacular drive, but it’s also a challenging ride for cyclists. And you can celebrate reaching the top of the 550m vertical hill climb from the intersection with Tidbinbilla Drive at the café with a cold drink and some food to refuel you.
Make a day of it
There are some excellent other attractions not far away. Combine your visit with a trip to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, the Deep Space Tracking Station or Tharwa while you’re out that way. Or make a day of it and explore Gibraltar Falls or the walk to Gibraltar Peak.
Corin Forest is not far from the picturesque Corin Dam. Photo: Corin Forest Facebook.
Getting there
Follow the Tuggeranong Parkway south from Canberra until it turns into Drakeford Drive and reaches the suburb of Gordon. Once in Gordon, take Woodcock Drive and then Point Hut Road until you reach Tidbinbilla Road on the right. After 6km, turn left into Corin Road and follow it for 6km. Corin Forest will be on your left.
Key details
Corin Forest is open on weekends, public holidays and ACT school holidays from 10am to 4pm.
- Duration: The drive to Corin Forest takes under an hour from the centre of Canberra.
- Distance from Canberra: Around 50km.
- Recommended for: anyone who wants to get active or has an interest in bushwalking, picnics, cycling, the great outdoors and getting close to nature.
- More information: Corin Forest
Are there any other mountain destinations that you like to visit during the summer months?
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