Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Northern NSW The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of NSW’s standout cycling experiences, transforming the former Casino to Murwillumbah railway corridor into a scenic shared trail through the lush landscapes, historic villages and rolling farmland of the Northern Rivers. When complete, the trail will stretch approximately 132km from Murwillumbah to Casino. As of 2026, two substantial sections are open, providing around 54km of rideable rail trail: Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek (24km) and the now-connected Casino to Lismore section (29.7km). The northern Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek section takes riders through Stokers Siding, Burringbar and Mooball, passing beautiful countryside, 18 historic railway bridges and two tunnels, including the atmospheric Burringbar Range Tunnel. The surface combines around 6km of sealed asphalt with 18km of compacted gravel, making it suitable for gravel bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes, e-bikes and most recreational riders. At the southern end, riders can now travel the full 29.7km between Casino and Lismore, passing through agricultural country, historic railway infrastructure and the impressive Naughtons Gap area. Surfaces vary between asphalt, crushed granite, compacted gravel and short concrete sections, with the former railway alignment keeping gradients generally gentle. One of the best things about the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is that it’s about far more than simply ticking off kilometres. The trail connects riders with small towns, cafés, local produce, accommodation and regional attractions, making it ideal for a relaxed day ride or as part of a longer cycling getaway. The ultimate vision is to connect the two open sections through Byron Shire and the remaining Lismore corridor, eventually creating one continuous 132km trail between Casino and Murwillumbah. Those missing sections are not currently open as rail trail, so riders shouldn't attempt to follow the undeveloped railway corridor between the two completed sections. For riders searching for Northern Rivers cycling, rail trails in NSW, Murwillumbah bike trails, Casino to Lismore cycling, family-friendly bike rides or cycling holidays in northern NSW, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is already a brilliant destination — and it will only get better as the remaining sections are developed. RTS Tip: With two separate sections currently open, plan your ride around either Murwillumbah–Crabbes Creek (24km) or Casino–Lismore (29.7km) rather than assuming the full 132km corridor is rideable. Both sections have plenty of reasons to stop along the way, so allow more time than the distance might suggest. Check current trail conditions before setting out, particularly after heavy rain or flooding.