Full description* This is surely one of the most picturesque and delightful off-road rides in Sydney. It is a good opportunity to build skills and confidence riding on gravel. The unsealed trail is wide and there are plenty of lovely spots to stop and reflect on just how delightful it all is. Taken at a slow pace, it is a fairly gentle ride through lush forest beside a pretty river. Ridden faster, it is exhilarating.
From the Audley café, we ride south along a short sealed section and past gates to the start of the dirt trail. Passing under an imposing rock outcrop, we enter the gravel trail proper. Overall the trail rises imperceptibly on the way out, with ups and downs that are mostly fairly gentle, until the point furthest from the café, where there is a few hundred metres of hill to climb, with a few rough patches.
Then, we turn around, roll back down that hill and back along the trail.
The gravel surface is occasionally a little bit rough but usually in good condition, though there are some muddy patches at the bottom of some of the descents, where the shade stops the dirt from drying out.
The trail is mostly very peaceful. We may pass a few walkers or other riders. There are no toilets, cafés, water refills or bailout points on the trail itself. At the end, the café is well worth visiting and there are toilets.
This is a ‘gravel’ ride. The surface is unsealed, so it might be rocky, muddy, sandy or damaged by recent weather. There may be occasional steep climbs or descents. Conditions may change dramatically, for example with rising water crossings, washed out channels, fallen trees and other hazards. You should have a good level of fitness and a flexible and problem-solving approach.
It is only suitable for ‘gravel’ bikes or mountain bikes (MTB). Do not attempt this ride on a road bike or with tyres less than 40mm width.
The route is usually suitable for riders with these minimum skill levels: beginners on a gravel bike or an MTB.
Check the National Parks and Wildlife website to ensure the track is open and accessible: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/cycling-trails/lady-carrington-drive/local-alerts.
You must be self-sufficient with water, snacks, a first aid kit and be able to perform repairs such as punctures and slipped chains. There are no water refill points or toilets. Phone reception may be weak or non-existent. The weather may change, so ensure you have suitable clothing.
Distance: 21.00
Elevation Change: 226
Ride with GPS
Check public transport alerts: www.transportnsw.info/alerts#/metro-train
Risk warning
As a participant in this dangerous recreational activity, you may be exposing yourself to a significant risk of
harm. Bike North, the ride organisers and leaders wish to warn you of the risks and hazards that are an
inherent part of cycling, and to take care to prevent putting yourself, your fellow participants and/or others
into danger. By registering for this ride, you accept the warning as to risk, and you agree to ride in a safe
and responsible manner and to obey all Australian Road Rules.
All riders must wear an approved helmet and carry water, at least one spare tube plus a pump.
Health Warning
Riders must not attend if sick, have Covid-19, influenza or symptoms of any communicable disease.
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