Narrow Neck, Katoomba

Narrow Neck, Katoomba

A challenging ride suitable for experienced trail cyclists, the track traces the elevated platform of Narrow Neck Peninsula near Katoomba. 

With breathtaking scenic views, wild flowers and photo opportunities at every turn; keen bush walkers won’t want to miss out either.  From the gate, you’ll cycle through open forest, heath and swamplands with superb scenic views, to the left and to the right, all the way.

At one point, the cliffs fall away on either side and you’ll feel on top of the world.

Distance:
19km (return)

Elevation Climb:
762m

Difficulty:
Medium difficulty

Time suggested:
1-2 hours each way, depending on ability (Walk: 5-6 hours return)

The Trail:

Narrow Neck features some very steep climbs in both directions. Don't be fooled by thinking you're following the elevated platform - this is no flat ride! For the first couple of kilometres you'll meander up and down. 3km in, you'll have a long steep downhill run, followed by an equally steep climb. This one's a real test! The 4km - 6km mark is a fairly steady gentle climb then it's mainly down hill to the lookout.

The end of the peninsular features a couple of lookouts and views in all directions. You'll be able to spot Sydney to the east, the backwaters of Lake Burragorang to the south east and views forever to the south west.

Enjoy a rest and recharge, stock up on some energy food and water, and then you'll be ready to start the long climb back. You've got 4km of climbing to look forward to, then a bit of a break, then a really steep climb. While you catch your breath, take a moment to turn around a say goodbye to the beautiful view of Lake Burragorang. You then have a fairly easy ride until the last climb to the gate.

Getting there:

Narrow Neck trail is located at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains National Park.

By car

• From the West: turn left off the Great Western Highway into Valley Road.
• Valley Road will turn into Narrow Neck Road, then turn right at the roundabout into Cliff Drive.
• Turn sharp right into Glenraphael Drive.
• Follow Glenraphael Drive for 1km to the carpark and locked gate.

• From the East: Continue past the first turnoff into Katoomba at Yeaman Bridge Road.
• Turn left at Bathurst Road then left into Valley Road.
• Valley Road will turn into Narrow Neck Road, then turn right at the roundabout into Cliff Drive.
• Turn sharp right into Glenraphael Drive.
• Follow Glenraphael Drive for 1km to the carpark and locked gate.

By train

• Exit Katoomba Railway Station and head into Katoomba town centre.
• Follow Katoomba Street to the bottom of the hill and turn right into Waratah Street, then turn left into Cascade Street.
• Turn right into Neale Street then left into Peckmans Road.
• Turn right into Kamillaroi Road and this will turn into Oak Street.
• Turn left onto Cliff Drive and then take a sharp right into Glenraphael Drive.
• Ride 1km to the locked gate and enjoy the trail.

Narrow Neck can be accessed by foot or mountain bike only and is approximately 9.4 kilometres from the locked gate. You'll have to lift your bikes over the gate.