Northern Rivers Rail Trail
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is transforming the former Casino to Murwillumbah rail corridor into a new and exciting recreation and nature trail. Traversing some of the most spectacular countryside in Australia, it winds its way through scenic villages and towns, rail tunnels and historic bridges. Visitors of all ages and abilities are free to explore and discover the natural beauty of the region.
When completed, the 132 km trail will connect Murwillumbah, before tracking south through the Tweed Valley to Crabbes Creek, through Byron Shire to Eltham, and on through Lismore and Bentley, finishing at Casino.
This extensive Rail Trail network showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Northern Rivers region, promoting health and well-being, eco-tourism, and economic development.
Local councils working together
The completed Rail Trail will pass through 4 local government areas.
The Tweed section: Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek 24 km (now open)
The Tweed section preserves the area’s railway heritage, with the Rail Trail incorporating the heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, 18 railway bridges and passing through 2 railway tunnels. The Tweed section of the Rail Trail is asphalt from the Murwillumbah Railway Station to the Tweed Regional Art Gallery & Margaret Olley Centre, and between Burringbar and Mooball stations. As it passes through the countryside, the remaining surface is compacted gravel.
The Rail Trail connects small villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, providing an alternate transport route for residents and visitors alike.
Funding: Construction of the Tweed section has been jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments:
- $7.8 million NSW Government (Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund)
- $6.5 million Australian Government (Regional Jobs and Investment Packages Fund)
- + $600,000 NSW Government to cover the cost of operating and maintaining the section of rail trail for the first 3 years.
Visit the Northern Rivers Rail Trail website.
Richmond Valley section: Bentley to Casino 13.4 km (now open)
The Richmond Valley section starts at the heritage-listed Old Casino Station and connects with the Spring Grove Road and Naughtons Gap car parks. It moves through rich agricultural lands, passes over a tunnel housing a mixed colony of Bent-winged bats, to finish at the historic Bentley Bridge.
The Richmond Valley section also features a bridle pathway running parallel to the main trail, allowing horse riders a set path through some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes. Read more about horse riding.
Funding: Construction of the Richmond Valley section has been funded by the Australian Government.
- $7.5 million from the Australian Government’s National Tourism Icons Program.
Visit the Northern Rivers Rail Trail website.
Lismore section: Eltham to Bentley 31.8 km (construction has commenced)
Lismore City Council has commenced construction of the 16.3 km South Lismore to Bentley section, that is due for completion in late 2024. Work is underway to secure funds for the 15.5 km section between Eltham and South Lismore.
For more information and updates from Lismore City Council, visit their dedicated project page.
Byron section: Yelgun to Eltham 62.8 km (planning and approval stage)
For more information and updates from Byron Shire Council, visit their dedicated project page.
Visiting the Tweed section
Join us for a journey along the 24 km Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Discover the stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and historical wonders that make the Northern Rivers Rail Trail a must-visit destination for cyclists and nature enthusiasts alike. Spoiler alert! You’ll pedal through lush forests, alongside tranquil rivers, and past charming small towns. This GoPro footage captures the essence of the Rail Trail, showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds every turn.
Getting here and parking information
Plan your visit to the Tweed Shire Rail Trail with ease. Check out the Getting here section on our official website for directions and parking information.
Frequently asked questions
Got questions? We've got answers! Visit our FAQ page for detailed information on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
Interactive map
Explore the Tweed Shire section and the entire Northern Rivers Rail Trail with our Interactive Map. Plan your journey, discover nearby attractions, and more.
Business Connect Program
Are you a local business owner looking to connect with the rail trail project? Learn more about our Business Connect Program to explore partnership opportunities.
Northern Rivers Rail Trail website
For more information and to get involved, please visit our official Northern Rivers Rail Trail website.
We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey as we bring the Northern Rivers Rail Trail to life, one section at a time. Together, we'll create a sustainable, vibrant, and connected Northern Rivers region. For more information and to get involved, please visit our official Northern Rivers Rail Trail website.
Tweed section Economic Impact Assessment Report
The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has been a catalyst for economic growth in the Tweed.
The opening of the Tweed section in March 2023 has positively impacted on the region's economy. This report, published in April 2024, combines quantitative economic analysis and insights from business operators to assess the early impacts of the NRRT and its future potential as a regional economic driver.
Download a copy of the report here(PDF, 672KB).
Northern Rivers Rail Trail map
Explore the progress of the 132 km proposed Northern Rivers Rail Trail on the map below.