Northern Rivers Rail Trail: A Great Day Out Today, With Hopes for More Tomorrow
- Written by: ByronBay24
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has quickly become one of the region's most popular outdoor attractions, drawing locals and visitors alike to explore some of the most scenic countryside in northern New South Wales.
Built along sections of the former Casino to Murwillumbah railway corridor, the Rail Trail offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Northern Rivers. Whether walking, running or cycling, visitors can travel through picturesque villages, farmland, rainforest landscapes, historic tunnels and heritage railway infrastructure while enjoying a safe and accessible trail.
The project is ultimately planned to stretch for 132 kilometres across the Northern Rivers region, connecting communities from Murwillumbah through Byron Shire, Lismore and Casino. Several sections are already open and attracting strong visitor numbers, with the Murwillumbah-to-Crabbes Creek section proving particularly popular since opening in 2023.
For Byron Bay visitors looking for a day trip, the existing trail sections provide an excellent opportunity to discover charming hinterland towns, local cafes, country scenery and historic railway features. The trail has become a favourite among cyclists, families and visitors seeking an active alternative to the beach.
But supporters believe the best is yet to come.
Attention is now focused on completing the missing Byron Shire sections of the trail. Plans under consideration would see the rail trail extended through parts of Byron Shire, including areas around Mullumbimby, Byron Bay and Bangalow, helping to connect the currently separate trail sections into one continuous regional attraction.
Earlier this year Byron Shire Council voted to continue progressing rail trail planning and approvals, with supporters arguing that a completed trail would deliver significant tourism, recreation and economic benefits for the region.
Funding remains the major challenge. In May 2026 Byron Shire Council confirmed that a Federal Government funding application for part of the Byron section was unsuccessful, meaning further funding opportunities will need to be pursued before construction can proceed.
Despite those setbacks, supporters remain optimistic. Regional transport planning documents and local advocacy groups continue to promote completion of the remaining sections, seeing the trail as a major tourism asset for the Northern Rivers.
For now, the message is simple: go and experience what already exists. The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the region's standout attractions and offers a wonderful way to explore the countryside beyond Byron Bay's beaches.
And if supporters achieve their vision, today's enjoyable ride or walk could eventually become part of a much larger 132-kilometre journey connecting some of the Northern Rivers' most loved towns and landscapes.
https://www.northernriversrailtrail.com.au/
Image credit. NRRT
