20km of New Mountain Bike Trails Open in Wollongong After 10 Years of Planning

A new network of MTB trails in the Illawarra escarpment near Mount Kembla and Balgownie in Wollongong, NSW has officially opened today.

The Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Network is the latest destination for cyclists in NSW, with 20km of new, sustainable trails now officially open for public use.

The new MTB trails sit along the escarpment of the Illawarra State Conservation Area, one of the most iconic landscape features in the Illawarra, an hour and a half south of Sydney. It’s a significant place for the Aboriginal community in Dharawal Country.

The project has been over ten years in the making, with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service working with Wollongong City Council and other stakeholders since 2015 to ensure that bike trails are accessible but minimise damage to the environment and culturally significant areas. The project gained speed in response to ad hoc track development that was becoming unsustainable for the local environment.

‘Our community has been advocating for this Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Network for a long time, I’m absolutely thrilled to see stage one now open to the public’, said Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park.

‘These beautiful and thrilling bike trails will expand riding activities for locals and encourage visitors from all over the country to experience what our region has to offer.’

The network now offers a range of trails for differing abilities, featuring 4 green runs, 13 blue, and 8 black trails. This section is stage one of the $13.4 million Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Network project, which will consist of 70km of trails in Balgownie and Mount Kembla once complete.

Stage two of the project is awaiting approval, expected in the next couple of months, with construction planned to commence in 2026.

The project also involves working with the local Aboriginal community to plan the removal of any MTB tracks on Mount Keira that aren’t included in the Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike strategy. Mount Keira holds cultural significance to the local Aboriginal community and is the location of ceremonial and spiritual sites.

‘Sustainability is at the heart of every decision made for the network and we’ve worked alongside many stakeholders to ensure the trails cater for all riders, while protecting the park’s natural and cultural values’, said Director, South Coast, NSW Parks and Wildlife Service, Julie Peterson.

‘The Kembla Mountain Bike Trails offer more than just a ride, they are an invitation to connect with nature and responsibly take in all the Illawarra Escarpment can offer.’

Tips for riding the Illawarra Escarpment Mountain Bike Network

• Check which trails are open before you go, as there’s a lot of rain in the region and trails can close due to heavy rains or strong winds
• Bring the right gear, including protective gear like shoes, gloves, helmets, and glasses, plus plenty of water for the day
• Remember to leave no trace, taking all of your rubbish with you
• Be aware of your capabilities and set out on the right level of trail

You can find more information on how to get there, maps, and more on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Photos by John Spencer/DCCEEW