Head out of Katherine for a picnic and a day of relaxing, fishing and swimming at Low Level Nature Reserve. The 105-hectare reserve got its name from the low-level bridge and weir that were built by US troops stationed nearby during World War II. Designed to allow traffic to cross the Katherine River, the bridge stands only 6 feet above the dry season water level. It is impassable during much of the wet season (Dec-April), when it disappears under 40 feet of water. The scenic Low Level Nature Reserve is 3 kilometres south of Katherine and is a popular place to spend a relaxing day. There is a network of bicycle paths, barbecue facilities and picnic areas. Find a cool spot and watch the water cascading over the weir or have a dip in the safe waters of the swimming hole. Fishing is permitted and the river holds barramundi, black bream and the northern snapping turtle. The river trees are home to colonies of red and black flying foxes.