After plenty of anticipation from cyclists, runners, walkers, hikers and four-legged friends, the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has officially opened, offering a unique, all-abilities way to explore the region’s untouched beauty. The scenic 24-km Tweed section runs from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and weaves past landmarks like the Tweed Regional Gallery and the heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, while crossing 18 historic railway bridges (five of which are heritage listed) along the way.

Following the trail, explorers will get to roll through the charming villages of Stokers Sliding, Burringbar and Mooball, passing through the stunning countryside on a mostly compacted gravel surface (suitable for all riders and mobility devices), with about 5-6km of the trail section smoothly sealed. There are six rest stops along the way, each with bike racks, picnic tables and shady spots, plus there’s a bike-repair station at Murwillumbah Railway Station for tune-ups and bike pumps dotted across various locations. That’s just the start – the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will eventually span 132 kilometres of scenic New South Wales countryside. Future stages will take the rail trail down through Mullumbimby, towards Byron Bay and back in to Bangalow, then through Lismore and Casino.

Keen? Throw the bikes in the car, gather the crew and plan a fun-filled day tackling the Tweed tip of the rail trail. You’ll find maps (plan those coffee stops), info and details over at the Northern Rivers Rail Trail website.

Image credit: Kiff & Culture, courtesy of Tweed Tourism Co.