EXPLORE // 10B Bike Trail in Dharawal National Park
A Great Ride Through a Gorgeous National Park Perfect For Weekend Mountain Biking Warriors
By Jenae Johnston
Feeling the need for speed?!
I gave the 10B trail a crack on two wheels and it was every bit as good as stomping along in boots.
Rugged bush, wide open gravel trails, flocks of Black Cockatoos – suitable for a day out with the tribe enjoying the great outdoors and the all-important fresh air and exercise.
Full disclaimer, I’m no mountain bike rider, guys.
The thought of gaps, berms and drops is terrifying!
But forget technical, this trail is for your everyday punter…phew!
I borrowed a bike, packed the essentials – helmet, water, snacks and a bike repair kit – and I took experienced MTB riders for backup!
Of course, as always…..lycra is optional.
So, here’s what you need to know about the 10B Bike Trail at Dharawal National Park.
LENGTH
A great long-distance ride for the weekend warrior at 30kms return with the option to explore offshoot trails – just check the signage first as not all are legally accessible.
DURATION
A round trip at roughly a 2-3hr ride at a cruisy pace including a rest stop at Stokes Creek Gorge.
WHERE TO DO YOU ACCESS THE TRAIL?
The best starting point is on Appin Road where there are some parking spaces and a gated entrance. Here’s a link to the location on Google Maps:
You need to lift your bike over the service gate… yep get the guns out!
HILLS + SPILLS
Signage is good on this trail.
The start of the trail has an information board with the gates fully signposted along the way.
The trail is generally kept in good condition – no major potholes and minimal corrugations, however take be cautious after heavy rains.
LEVEL :: MEDIUM
A wide gravel trail for easy-going mountain bike riding or optional higher speed, fairly flat and smooth without the hazards of a single track.
Great fun for families, keeping the tweenies and teens challenged with the distance.
With younger kids, consider going only a partial distance or let them hitch a ride with a kids seat on your bike.
Beginner advice is to go with an experienced MTB rider that is happy to take a slower pace and take in the sights with you.
Moderate fitness is advised for the distance and incline.
For those that aren’t big bike riders like myself, expect a sore butt from the seat, sore legs and if you are also a bit of a Nervous Nellie [like me], I grip the handlebars like crazy when I’m going fast so I get sore hands and arms!
But, if you are an experienced rider or less of a complainer, it should be a piece of cake and just remember – no pain no gain!
GOOD TO KNOW
Easy to navigate. Just remember you are on the 10B trail, so don’t turn off onto the 10C trail etc.
A good mountain bike will assist otherwise expect stacks and/or flats on fixies or cruiser bikes. You should always carry spare tubes and repair kits. If you get a flat – you’re walking out!
Carry a basic medical kit, it’s super easy to have a stack on gravel.
If you are a beginner or mildly uncoordinated, wear the appropriate clothing and padding to avoid gravel rash. A Camelbak is great for hands-free hydration too.
THE TRAIL
Starting in a Gymea Lily filled landscape on a fine crushed gravel road, this soon turns into a scrubby heath with plenty of wildflowers and coarser red gravel, a little slipperier under the wheels, especially with a bit of speed.
A return trail with a cruisy ride in with a light descent, enjoy coasting down towards the halfway mark at the gorge.
There is a massive descent towards the gorge.
Trust me, once you get there – you know you are at the descent, it’s really steep, well it is for a non-MTB rider at least!
Your reward is Stokes Creek Gorge which is a perfect spot to chill out, have a bite to eat and even go for a dip if you feel like it.
It’s a peaceful spot, abundant in birds and has some lovely cascades. You can continue on from here, but this point is a good distance for a day out.
The ascent back up the hill is hell, and you should totally walk it without shame. Kudos to you if you ride up!
The return trip is not flat. Yes, it looks flat but that light coasty cruise on the way there, now turns into a consistent uphill ride, a constant incline.
Throw your gears back, take your time and enjoy the thought of only 15kms to go! LOL – sort of.
TAKE CARE
Remember that Dharawal is an important National Park, housing many sensitive areas of vegetation and wildlife.
Stay on the designated trails and respect this National Park.
WHY SHOULD YOU DO THE 10B BIKE TRAIL AT DHARAWAL NATIONAL PARK?
The wind in your hair, the glide…taking on the bush on a bike is a great way to explore beautiful Dharawal National Park.
An abundance of birds and gorgeous flora, take your nature experience up a notch and throw in some fast-paced fun on this hidden gem.
***
We love sharing our awesome outdoor adventures with The Fold readers and want to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy when giving our walks and rides a crack for themselves. So, always check the weather forecast before you venture out. If you’re heading into a National Park, be sure to consult the National Parks website for up-to-date information about current alerts. Prepare yourself with the right equipment, clothing, safety items, with plenty to eat and drink if you’re going on longer hikes, and always let someone else know where you’re going and what time you are expected to be back. Have fun and stay safe!
