Maps are an approximation of the real world. No map can contain all the detail of the real world. A good map captures what is important for you. OpenStreetMap is an open-source project that provides the best maps for Canberra. However, the process is not as simple as it might seem.
Tag Archives: management trail
The Pinnacle behind Hawker on gravel
The Pinnacle in Canberra Nature Park is very pretty and undulating – perfect for recreation cycling. The Pinnacle Nature Reserve lies on the hill behind Hawker. It is part of Canberra Nature Park. A ride around the edge of the reserves along the management trails is about 11 km in length. A good walk but only a short ride.
Hill climbs of interest in the suburbs
Some love hills. There is satisfaction found climbing a hill and the reward of a magnificent view at the top. The ride down is a real thrill. Here are suggest hill climbs that lie in the heart of the suburbs.
Denman Prospect and Stromlo West
Riding the western slopes of Mount Stromlo. A gravel ride from Denman Prospect shops, to Stromlo Forest and across its western slopes. The route winds its way over hills and across creeks, with uninterrupted views of the Murrumbidgee Valley and the Brindabella Range. The ride is 25.7 km, a 500 m rise, hilly, and with no locked gates. A mountain bike is recommended.
Recreational cycling close to home
Planning a recreational ride starts with identifying the options. CyclOSM highlights where you can cycle with blue and green lines and greys out where you cannot.
Is there a typical cyclist?
Normal is me”, but we cannot all be typical. The Canberra cyclist is many things: some are fit and some are not, some are old and some are young, both men and women. There are different types of bikes, and people ride for many reasons.
West of Stromlo: ride on the far side
Riding on the west slopes of Mount Stromlo along a serpentine route with views of the Brindabella Ranges. Mount Stromlo Forest is a large reserve on the slopes of Mount Stromlo. West of the mountain, many creeks run off undulating hills into the Murrumbidgee River, and have cut into the clay to form deep creek beds.
Canberra Nature Park on OpenStreetMap
The Canberra Nature Park reserves seem to be endless, and the view is obstructed by the forest and hills. The management trails and paths meander their way around the hills. This network of trails and paths has grown historically. There is a surprise around every corner.
When strategies collide: climate change, active travel and environment
The ACT Government goals found in the ACT Climate Change Strategy 2019-25, the Molonglo River Reserve Management Plan 2019, and the Active Travel Framework conflict and are difficult to reconcile. These strategies show commonalities but there will be trade-offs. In the Molonglo Valley, active travel is poorly served.
OpenStreetMap: the best map for cycling Canberra
Riding in Canberra is great if you know where to go. Roads are not the best option, and paths are much safer. OpenStreetMap shows all the paths. Load an app on your smartphone and the map goes with you. Let me point you in the right direction.
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