The best gravel rides in the New England Range

The New England Range offers a diverse selection of over 10 gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate rides to challenging climbs through its varied terrain.

The New England Range is characterized by vast networks of unpaved roads, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. You can expect a mix of terrain, from smoother gravel paths to more technical sections, often traversing serene forests, open meadows, and historic areas. The region's diverse topography, including prominent mountain ranges and numerous rivers, contributes to a rich cycling experience.

Yes, the New England Range has several moderate routes. For instance, the Queens Lake Nature Reserve loop from Lake Cathie Koala Reserve is a popular 27.3 km (17.0 miles) path offering a scenic ride through a nature reserve with varied terrain. Another great option is the Bonville Coffee – Fun Gleniffer Road switchback loop from Boambee Creek Reserve East, a 41.4 km (25.7 miles) route that provides a balanced challenge.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the New England Range offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Moonan Lookout – Stewarts Brook State Forest loop from Moonan Flat is a demanding 71.1 km (44.2 miles) trail with over 1600 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Gravel loop from Gloucester, which spans 96.7 km (60.1 miles) and leads through diverse landscapes.

The New England Range offers beautiful natural features. You might encounter stunning rock formations like the Granite Arch or the unique Eye of the Needle, Mt Norman. Waterfalls are also a highlight, such as Dangar Falls. Many routes also pass through state forests and nature reserves, offering opportunities to enjoy the region's serene forests and diverse landscapes.

Yes, the New England Range features several longer routes suitable for extended rides. The Yarratt State Forest loop from Taree covers 72.8 km (45.2 miles), while the Pelican Picnic Area loop from Diamond Head is 72.3 km (44.9 miles) long, offering ample distance for a full day out or a multi-day adventure if combined with other sections.

The New England Range is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from extensive networks of unpaved roads to serene forests and rolling hills, and the variety of routes that cater to different ability levels.

Many of the gravel bike trails in the New England Range are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Gravel loop from Coffs Coast Regional Park, a 43.9 km (27.3 miles) difficult route, and Bonville Coffee – Valery Road gravel section loop from T.J. Andrew Park, a 50.0 km (31.1 miles) difficult trail.

New England's distinct seasons enhance the gravel biking experience. While specific conditions vary, fall foliage rides are particularly popular for their vibrant colors. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes, while winter can present unique challenges and opportunities depending on snow and ice conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, many routes in the New England Range traverse protected natural areas. The Coramba Road Section loop from Ulong, for example, takes you through forested landscapes. The region is known for its dense woodlands and extensive networks of unpaved roads within these natural settings.

Yes, some routes are known for their specific gravel sections. For instance, the Gravel section on Gleniffer Road is a highlight for many gravel bikers, offering a quintessential experience of the region's unpaved surfaces. You can find this section on routes like the Bonville Coffee – Fun Gleniffer Road switchback loop from Boambee Creek Reserve East.