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Royal National Park
Established in 1879, The Royal National Park is the worlds second oldest national park
- after Yellowstone National Park in the USA.
It offers riverside picnics, great surf beaches, clifftop heathland walks, rainforest cycle tracks, and much more. In July 2006, the park was added to the national Heritage list.
Cycling in Royal National Park
Popular Bicycle Rides:
Please note that some tracks may be closed periodically for rehabilitation. Please observe track signage.
Lady Carrington Drive.
This is an undulating 3 metre wide track which is 9km one way. Recommended for children and family groups and those seeking a chance encounter with an echidna or lyrebird.
East Heathcote Trails.
A variety of loops can be accessed from Heathcote Station or streets. Terrain is generally flat although some steep sections are encountered at creek crossings. The Lakes Trail has now been upgraded for cycling access.
Loftus Loop Trail.
Comprises some 8km of fire trail and 2km of single track accessible from a variety of locations. Terrain varies from flat, wide open trails, to steep rocky firetrail medium grade single track. WARNING: Steep sections of fire trail are not recommended for inexperienced riders. Take care at Tramway crossings- Trams have right of way at all times.
PLEASE NOTE:
While cycling in Royal National Park is allowed on unmarked fire trails (which are 4WD tracks closed to public access), you are only allowed to ride on those tracks which are specially marked at the trackhead and at periods along their length by a cycling post.
If there is no post, do not take your bicycle down a single track.
Not only do you risk damaging the park environment and colliding with other park users, but riding along unauthorised trails or offtrack through bushland, invites a fine of up to $3,300.
CYCLING CODE OF CONDUCT
Royal National Park has one of the richest diversity of plants and animals of any park of its size in the southern hemisphere. In addition it has many rare, threatened and endangered species within its boundaries. Park users can help protect this rich diversity by following this code of conduct when using the park.
1. Keep your bicycle clean or wash your bicycle before entering the park.
The mud on you bicycle may be harbouring weed seeds, plant or soil diseases or fungal spores that are a serious threat to the park's diversity.
2. Stay on designated cycling routes.
Cycling is only permitted on fire management trails and tracks specifically chosen for bicycle access. These tracks will be obvious as guide posts displaying the bike logo are placed at intervals along the track. Remember if not on a fire trail - no sign, no ride.
3. Observe cycle route closures.
Cycling is only permitted on designated cycling tracks and fire trails. Riding on unauthorised areas may cause erosion and damage vegetation or habitat. Cyclists found in unauthorised areas will receive fines up to $3,300.
4. Give way to walkers, slow down on blind corners and stay to the left. Ring your bell or call out to walkers that you are coming. The cycle routes are shared access.
This will improve public safety and reduce the risk of collision for all park users.
5. Do not make new trails, move bush rocks or logs, or prune or cut native vegetation.
It is illegal and destroys native habitats for species such as the endangered broad-headed snake and red-crowned frog. It will result in prosecution and substantial fines.
6. Safety first.
Always wear a helmet and the appropriate clothing. Carry water and a first aid kit.
Ride within your capabilities. Don't speed.
7. Do not ride on tracks after heavy rainfall or skid your bicycle.
These actions cause serious erosion. Wet tracks are more easily eroded.
8. Observe park closures.
The park is closed between sunset and sunrise.
Tracks may also be closed on Total Fire Ban or park fire ban days. If in doubt ring 95420648 to confirm.
9. Protect your future access by ensuring others are aware ot this code of conduct.
Crown Copyright 2002
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