Riding a bicycle has many health benefits but is also one of the best ways to see Sydney. Whether you are just starting or have been cycling for years there is a riding path to suit anyone. We have put together some of our favourites so be sure to get out there and enjoy some of these when you can!
The Bay Run
20m away from the water it is a scenic 7km circuit
- Distance: 7km loop
- Level: Easy
- Location: Inner West
- Coffee break: Nield Park Pavilion
- Scenery: Iron Cove Foreshore
The bay run is around Iron Cove bay which is between Rozelle and Drummoyne in Sydney's inner west. Like most loop rides you can access it from many points. Locals of all ages and abilities can safely enjoy this shared route with bicycle users, walkers, joggers and skaters. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a tasty refreshment at the Nield Park Pavilion afterward.
The Bay Run Image: www.sydneycyclepaths.com.au
Narrabeen Lagoon Trail
- Distance: 8.4km
- Level: Easy
- Northern Beaches
- Picnic spots
- Scenery: Native Wildlife and Cultural Heritage
Narrabeen Lagoon Trail Photo: www.sydney.com
Ride around the lagoon hugging 8.4km flat sealed route with wooden boardwalks and smooth gravel. Take in the local ecosystems surrounded by native flora and fauna and interesting cultural heritage. Stop at one of the many picnic areas for some sustenance.
Middle Creek Reserve, Jamieson Park, Berry Reserve or Bilarong Reserve are the main entry points to the bike trail although you can join anywhere. Also, a great place to capture the picturesque setting with your camera!
Prospect Loop Cycleway
- Distance: 29km - 35km
- Level: Medium
- Western Sydney
- Prospect Dam picnic ground
- Scenery: Range of terrain
If you’re getting to the loop via public transport, start from Guildford Station and look for Prospect Canal Cycleway running adjacent to Trenton Road. Bring your own food and break up the ride by stopping off for something to eat at Prospect Dam picnic ground. It’s the ultimate trail to get your legs moving, but be sure to pack plenty of food, water and sunscreen.
Separated from the main road this sealed cycleway allows you to explore Western Sydney safely. Ideal for experienced and beginner riders the Prospect Loop takes riders along the historic water infrastructure. The long trail connects Guildford and Canley Vale on the Parramatta-Liverpool train line and as far as Abbotsbury (worth visiting Calmsley Hill City Farm).
Joining the loop is easy via public transport from Guildford Station with the Prospect Canal Cycleway running adjacent to Trenton Road. Pack a picnic lunch and stop off at the Prospect Dam picnic ground for a relaxing break.
Image: Calmsley Hill City Farm www.sydney.com
Centennial Parklands
- Distance: 3.5km loop
- Level: Easy
- Eastern Suburbs
- A few food and drinks outlets to stop at along the way
- Scenery: shady groves, beside beautiful ponds
Centennial Parklands is very bicycle friendly and is located in the Eastern Suburbs, the expansive space (three interconnecting parks) abounds with trails that take you through beautiful open green parklands. It’s great for those seeking a ftness challenge, but likewise fun for those looking for an easy going ride.
The Grand Drive Cycle Lane is a 3.5km loop and is popular with cyclists, but exploring the park through a self guided route is also an option to see more of the park. Children and beginners can even practice with the ‘Learners Cycleway.’ Food and drinks outlets along the trail will help you stay refreshed. No need to have your own bike as you can hire one at Centennial Park Cycles.
Centennial Park www.sydney.com
10B Cycling Trail
- Distance: 15km one way
- Level: Easy/medium
- Dharawal National Park, South Sydney
- Creek crossing which has a broad rock platform perfect for a quick break
- Scenery: Keep an eye out for the yellow tailed black cockatoos
Dharawal National Park, South Sydney Image: www.sydney.com
The 10B Cycling Trail is in Dharawal National Park not far from Stanwell Tops and the perfect route for adventurous cyclists seeking a distance ride with a gorgeous picnic area on the journey.
Appin Road entry way will lead you through Dharawal National Park via an unsealed road through an open forest. Starting easy the challenge kicks in around the last 3km while descending into Stokes Creek Gorge with a climb back up to the park’s northern entrance at Wedderburn. Keep an eye out for the yellow tailed black cockatoos along the way.
More Useful Resources
Bicycle NSW has a variety of bike riding resources which can be found on the Get Riding page
We’d love you to join Bicycle NSW and support our advocacy to make NSW better for bike riding. You will also ride easy, covered by our global comprehensive insurance and enjoy many other Member-only benefits.