Timeline
05:19
Drive to Bendora Dam and find a parking spot near the main lookouts. The area is quiet before dawn, giving you space to set up your view without crowds.
05:49
Walk to the edge of the lookout. The water is still and reflects the changing sky as the first light hits the concrete arch of the dam.
06:04
Watch the sunrise. The sun rises in the east, casting a warm glow over the reservoir while the surrounding hills remain in shadow.
06:34
Stay for the golden light. The morning sun brightens the landscape, revealing the texture of the dam and the water's surface.
Local tip
There are no food or drink shops at Bendora Dam. You will need to drive back into Canberra or a nearby town for breakfast once the sun is up. Check local cafe opening times for the earliest options.
Check before you go
- Bendora Dam is a working water source. Respect all signage and stay on designated paths.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Canberra (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).