The Central West Cycle trail links the major towns of Mudgee, Dubbo and Wellington and a handful of smaller ones including Gulgong, Dunedoo, Mendooran and Ballimore. The 400 kilometre loop has rapidly become an iconic, must-do ride!
It was opened in 2020 by a group of local cyclists who'd grown tired of lobbying for a rail trail in the Mudgee area. Instead, the intrepid riders developed a route that links together quiet back roads, nature trails and bush tracks.
You can start and finish anywhere and many of the towns you pass merit an extended stay. The trail is well-marked with hundreds of yellow CWC signs and decals.
The CWC trail has a useful website to help with route planning, transport and accommodation. A lively and active Facebook group shares trail tales, photos and route tips.
Thousands of riders have tackled the CWC trail over the last three years. It’s a great example of ‘build it and they will come’. The bike touring is boosting many aspects of the local economy. Farmers have set up bunkrooms and tearooms and country pubs are again thriving.
The volunteer trail organisers have just published a printed guidebook with clear maps, photos, key features and direction notes. Head to the CWC shop to purchase the guide and support the further development of this fabulous project.