Exploring the Northern Rivers Rail Trail With My Family

As manager of Australian Cycle Tours, Erin is constantly in the field researching and improving our cycling holidays. With the release of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail she instantly knew she needed to enlist the help of her young family to experience this fantastic bike route. Read about Erin's cycling adventure with her family and how it helped her shape our Family Friendly Northern Rivers Rail Trail itinerary.

When we first heard about the newly opened Northern Rivers Rail Trail, it sounded perfect for our first proper family cycling holiday. What we didn’t realise was just how magical, fun and easy it would be to roll along forested paths, pedal through tunnels, and let the kids find freedom on two wheels.

As a parent, it’s rare to find something that balances everyone’s needs - active time for the kids, safe trails, great coffee, comfy accommodation, and just enough adventure to keep things exciting. This self-guided trip ticked all those boxes and more.

Getting to Murwillumbah and Settling In

We drove up from Sydney over two days and arrived in Murwillumbah, the starting point for the journey. The town itself is creative and welcoming - we wandered its colourful streets and stopped in for pastries and cheese tastings.

Our accommodation was spot on for families - clean, close to town and with a pool for afternoon downtime. It even had views of Mt Warning (Wollumbin), which was a stunning backdrop for the days ahead.

This first day gave us time to check in, stretch our legs and explore Murwillumbah. For families flying in, transfers from Gold Coast Airport can be arranged, but driving gave us the added freedom to explore.

Dinner was easy - there’s a great mix of dining options within walking distance.

Day 2: The Rail Trail Ride - Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek (28km)

This was the day the kids had been waiting for - hitting the trail. The e-bike pickup was smooth and simple. Rory (8) rode confidently on his own electric bike while Jacob (6) rode on a tag-along behind mine. My husband and I also had e-bikes, which made the ride even more enjoyable.

The trail was wonderfully flat and peaceful. We rode through farmland, bush, and heritage tunnels - the 500m Burringbar Tunnel was a highlight, with built-in bike lights making it easy to navigate.

Midway, we took a detour to Hosanna Farmstay, just off the trail. This is a must for families - Jacob fed the animals while we grabbed coffee and relaxed. In warmer months, there’s even a giant waterslide into the dam!

We finished the trail at Crabbes Creek and then cycled a few more kilometres to Mooball for our scheduled transfer back. It’s absolutely possible to ride the return route (48km total), and we actually chose to do this with plenty of breaks - the trail is that achievable.

Day 3: Tweed Coast Cycleway - Pottsville to Salt Beach (15km)

The coast called us today, and after a short transfer to Pottsville, we jumped on the dedicated Tweed Coast Cycleway. Think ocean breezes, raised boardwalks through melaleuca groves, and glimpses of white sand just beyond the dunes.

The kids loved the freedom of the path - it’s almost completely separate from traffic, so they could ride at their pace and stop often. The short distance meant no rush and plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Our overnight stay at Salt Beach gave us access to wide, uncrowded beaches and a resort-style setup, with pools and dining options all within the complex. It felt like a reward for the kids after two big days of cycling.

Day 4: Optional Ride to Fingal Head (11km)

On our final morning, we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast, a swim, and then set off for an optional ride to Fingal Head. It’s a quieter stretch but worth it for the lighthouse views and quiet coastal track.

The return transfer to Murwillumbah wrapped up the trip perfectly - unless you're keen to cycle the full loop back (we decided to soak in the views from the van this time!).

What Made This Trip Work So Well?

• Supportive infrastructure: Bikes, transfers, family-friendly accommodation all organised for you.
• Tailored for families: The distances are manageable, and there are tag-alongs or trailers for younger kids.
• Flexibility: You can cycle as much or as little as you like each day.
• Wildlife & nature: From farm animals to coastal birds, there’s plenty to keep little ones engaged.
• Quiet, safe trails: The Northern Rivers Rail Trail and the coastal paths are largely off-road, flat and scenic - a real win for family confidence.

We came home recharged and already planning our next ride. For families looking to explore somewhere new, without the stress of logistics or long drives every day, the Family Friendly Northern Rivers Rail Trail offers the perfect blend of nature, activity and comfort.