This is a lovely little group of three dirt roads in Arcadia that make a nice morning’s off-road riding. All up, it’s 32kms of wide, quiet trails with some stunning views, especially on the first leg out along Coba Ridge. It’s sometimes a little bit technical, occasionally a bit sandy but flowing and a real buzz.
This ride has three out-and-back legs. These legs are roughly the same length and can be done in any order. They each come past or near the car park area, providing bail-out opportunities if required.
Leg 1: Starting at the wide car park a few hundred metres down a good dirt road just off Bloodwood Rd Arcadia, we ride along a few hundred metres of quiet roadway to the start of the Coba Ridge trail. This wide, quiet trail has plenty to enjoy as we make our way with occasional ups and downs, out along Neverfail Ridge Trail to a dramatic look-out. After resting here and enjoying the view, we turn around and make our way back.
Leg 2: Passing the cars, we next make our way down a wide smooth dirt road under powerlines, with another lookout just near the end-point turn-around. We return almost to the cars and then turn right for the next leg.
Leg 3: Entering Smugglers Ridge requires wheeling the bikes around a locked barrier or lifting them over it. From there, the trail is flowing, sometimes a bit sandy and can take a bit of concentration and effort. There is an obvious resting and turn-around point just before the trail starts to descend to the river. Return to the cars.
The route is usually suitable for riders with these minimum skill levels: intermediate on a gravel bike or beginners on an MTB.
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 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.
Check the National Parks and Wildlife website to ensure the track is open and accessible: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/marramarra-ridge-to-smugglers-ridge-walking-track/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: 36.00
Elevation Change: 552
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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