If you like wide dirt trails in natural settings with spectacular scenery it’s hard to go past the Blue Mountains. I loaded my Merida ebike onto my car for the two-hour drive, having booked an overnight stay in Katoomba. The plan was for two rides on the first day (Faulconbridge and Oaks trail) and another two on the second (Narrow Neck and Hanging Rock trail).

I chose all rides based on information supplied by National Parks and Wildlife plus other sites on Blue Mountains activities. I filtered out rides that included words like challenging and exhilarating, and picked ones that promised views and moderate gradients. While there were wonderful views, the word ‘moderate’ is in the eyes of the beholder.

The Faulconbridge Trail is not far from the railway station on Grose Road. When you see this sign, the Trail gate is nearby.

During planning, I spoke to a NPWS ranger who assured me that the low gates were easily accessed despite the weight of an ebike and the hernia-risks for senior riders. What seems easy for a young ranger may not be so for others; it was a real struggle to get my bike under the bar and an overhead lift impossible.

The Trail is about 14kms return, with firm gravel surface under a canopy of trees, rustling leaves, and birdsong.

This is a ride where the destination makes it worthwhile. Faulconbridge Point lookout is beautiful and a lovely spot to have morning coffee. There are no fences or barriers, so stay well away from the edges.

Overall, this is a trail that most riders would enjoy. The few ascents and descents were manageable, there were some nice scenic glimpses between the trees and a magnificent panorama at the end. Very enjoyable, but not one I need to do again.