Cycle – Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek
Description: The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a recreation and nature trail following the old railway line from Murwillumbah in the Tweed Valley, through the Byron Shire and on to Lismore and Casino, a total distance of 132 kilometres. The first completed section as a recreational trail from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek Station (24 Kilometres) opened on 1 March, 2023.
This section of the trail passes through natural bushland that provides shade for most of the journey yet allows glimpses of the surrounding farmland and vistas of distant mountains. There are 26 bridges (easy bypasses for 10 of them) as well as two tunnels. The Burrringbar tunnel is around 500m in length, (head & tail lights recommended), as is quite dark for most of its distance. It is home to glow worms and microbats. The Hulls Road Tunnel, passing under the motorway, is only 50m in length with plenty of ambient light.
Leaving Murwillumbah, the trail is sealed to the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre which we will can visit on the way back. As well as the art galleries (free entry), the centre has a cafe for those who wish to enjoy lunch in comfort. There are further sealed sections through Stokers Siding Station, Burringbar and Mooball giving a total of 6 kilometres of sealed trail. The rest of the trail (18km) is solid, compacted gravel which is smooth but loose stones make it a little skittish in places, so care is required. Most of the station sites have water taps to replenish bottles if needed.
Being an old railway line, gradients are easy with a maximum gradient of 4% for most of the route. Even where original bridges are bypassed, steeper gradients are short and easy being no more than 6-7% in my estimation.
Each of the townships is different in character with water, toilets and refreshments available. They also make a convenient rest stop and turn-a-round for riders who find the full 49km too much.
Please do not attend this activity if you are feeling unwell.
Please register for this activity via the NPAQ website completing all fields.
Activity Grading: Easy. 49km – a moderate level of cycling fitness is required to complete the return trip.
Meet: Murwillumbah Railway Station at 8.30am
What to Bring: Bicycle, helmet, pump, spare tube/puncture repair kit, sunnies, water, snacks, $5.00 NPAQ Fee as well as money for refreshments/lunch, positive outlook. Note: As it is early winter, expect the day to be cool to warm. Protective clothing and sunscreen are recommended.
Directions: From Brisbane, travel down the M1 into NSW. A few kilometres past BP Chinderah, be in the left lane to exit left to the overpass to Murwillumbah. Follow the Tweed Valley Way towards the Murwillumbah Railway Station. There is parking for users of the rail trail at the station with the signed entry on the left just before the third roundabout after leaving the motorway. Allow plenty of travel time as progress can be very slow through the road works. Carpooling is encouraged.
Nominations: Via NPAQ Website.
Leader: Frank Freeman (0427 655 514; Email: frank_fr@bigpond.net.au
NPAQ Activity Report
Cycle – Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek
Under cloudy skies, five intrepid cyclists left Murwillumbah to cycle the 24 km to Crabbes creek. The sun broke through soon after and warmth crept into the day. However, this was lost when the group entered the forest after Stokers Siding and the cool temperatures returned. Stops were made at each of the villages and the sites of stations now removed to allow time to read the information boards outlining the history of the area and the source of the name. A longer stop was enjoyed at Burringbar to enjoy a cuppa and sustenance.
From Burringbar, it was only about 6km to Crabbes Creek which provided a photo opportunity of the elated group. (We made it!). Soon it was back on the bikes for the return trip. A stop at the Tweed Art gallery was a great place for lunch and a look around the gallery to enjoy the exhibits and gain an appreciation of the talent of Margaret Olley, a well-known artist who lived in the local area. A replica of her studio and many pieces of her furniture gave a insight into her lifestyle.
All too soon, it was back on the bikes for the final few kilometres into Murwillumbah and the journey home. A great day was had by all.