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Northern Rivers Rail Trail
4.9
516 reviewsAbout
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a shared recreation and nature trail that winds through some of the most picturesque countryside in northern New South Wales. When fully completed, the 132-kilometre trail will connect Murwillumbah to Casino, passing through historic villages, rolling farmland and scenic valleys.
Two sections of the trail are now open.
The northern section spans 24 kilometres from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek, passing through Stokers Siding, Burringbar, and Mooball. With a mix of sealed and compact gravel surfaces, it is accessible for walkers, cyclists, and runners. Along the way, cross 16 heritage railway bridges and explore the 524-metre-long Burringbar Range Tunnel, home to glow worms and microbats.
The southern section stretches 29.7 kilometres from Casino to Lismore, following the old rail corridor past open countryside, creek crossings and historic railway bridges. This section also features the Naughtons Gap Tunnel, offering a glimpse into the region's rail history. A dedicated bridle pathway provides over 20 kilometres of track for horse riders.
Ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail offers a unique way to experience the beauty and heritage of the region.
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Reviews & Ratings
Max B
Google review
What a beautiful track! 🚴♂️ I had a great time riding from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and back. Following the route of the old railway line, the track features a mix of gravel and asphalt and is an excellent example for repurposed infrastructure. Starting at the historic railway station in Murwillumbah feels like stepping back in time. Once the departure for countless rail journeys, it is now the start of many amazing bike trips! I was really amazed by how much the trail has to offer: excellent signage & heaps of stops along the way such as fruit and veg stalls, farm stays, cafés and cute little towns. I‘m a big fan of the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre - free and worth checking out if you are interested in art, and certainly a good place to rest. NSW really has a great opportunity here and you can only hope that the proposed plans to extend the trail to Casino becomes reality in the future.
christopher Jacob
Google review
I can’t recommend the rail trail enough! We don’t have enough scenic dedicated cycling / walking trails like this in Australia. I rode the entire return length of the Crabbes Creek to Murwillumbah section (55km). The highlight for me was the 500m old rail tunnel which is pitch black and pretty eerie to ride through. I rode with a normal bike but would recommend an ebike for anyone not used to cycling longer distances. The ride itself took me three hours including plenty of photo stops, but including food breaks and a visit to Murwillumbah shops and the Tweed Art Gallery (which I recommend), the entire trip took 5 hours. Definitely allow a full day to make the most of it! You ride along a mix of asphalt, concrete and gravel paths - all very well maintained and not overly hilly. The scenery and being among nature was amazing. I saw cows, bush turkeys, goats, and heard owls in the trees. I recommend stopping off at the homestead if you have kids, they would love all the animals there. All in all it was an amazing trip and I would do it again.
Dan C
Google review
The best section of rail trail I’ve been on. Beautiful countryside. My family camp on the trail. Very accessible for people with a disability. Our e-trike tackles this whole course no problem. Lots of places to stop. Mooball pub is a perfect place to stop for lunch.
Lanie McHugh
Google review
A beautiful trail. Thanks to recent rain and lightning everything was so green and lush. A very easy ride, mostly flat and only a few minor hills. Staff at betterbybike were super helpful & friendly. Went out of their way to accommodate a last minute booking change and gave me very clear briefing and instructions on safety. This is a brilliant fun ride for all ages. Don’t miss it.
Neroli Schutt
Google review
Perfect family activity. My teens loved it. So easy on e-bikes, which we hired. We found the interactive planner on the Rail Trail website particularly useful. Don’t forget to visit the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre on your way. A wonderful way to view this special part of Australia. 10/10
Get in touch
Where you'll be
284 Tweed Valley Way
South Murwillumbah NSW 2484