Northern Rivers Rail Trail: E-Bike Hire & Flexible Shuttle

Summary

Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek e-bike ride with local stops

You’ll start right at Murwillumbah Station and set off on an e-bike along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail—past cane fields, through rainforest tunnels, stopping for gelato or lunch wherever catches your eye. With all gear sorted and friendly help if you need it (plus an optional shuttle), it’s one of those days that feels easy but sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

You know that little thrill when you first hop on an e-bike? That was me at Murwillumbah Station, fiddling with the seat while the staff—super patient—walked us through the basics. I could hear magpies somewhere behind the old platform, and honestly, I was a bit nervous about looking like a total beginner. But our guide just grinned and said, “Don’t worry, everyone wobbles at first.” The air smelled like wet grass and distant coffee from someone’s thermos.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail winds out of town almost quietly—you’re rolling past cane fields before you realize it. There’s this long tunnel in the Burringbar Range where it goes pitch black for a minute (they give you lights, but still). My partner tried singing inside and the echo made us both laugh too loud. We stopped for gelato at a spot just off the trail—salted caramel, if you’re wondering—and then later at a café where I probably mispronounced half the menu. Nobody cared; people here have that relaxed way of chatting, like they’ve got all afternoon.

We passed families with kids in those little tag-along trailers—one dad waved as his daughter pointed out cows. The rain held off but everything felt damp and green. At Crabbes Creek we debated riding back or calling for the shuttle (legs said shuttle, pride said ride). Ended up letting them pick us up—no shame there. I still think about that tunnel echo sometimes when things get too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — E-Bike ride on Northern Rivers Rail Trail

• Receive e-bike instructions and safety briefing
• Start ride from Murwillumbah Railway Station
• Cycle through Burringbar Range tunnel
• Explore lush hinterland and rainforests
• Stop for gelato and lunch at café or pub
• Feed friendly animals along the trail
• Browse local shops
• Return to starting point or arrange shuttle pickup

Top questions

How far is the Northern Rivers Rail Trail ride?

The main route from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek is about 48km return.

Can families with small children join this e-bike tour?

Yes, tag-along bikes, chariots, and infant seats are available for families.

Where does the e-bike hire start?

The hire starts at Murwillumbah Railway Station.

Is there a shuttle if I only want to ride one way?

Yes, there’s an optional shuttle pickup for a small fee if you don’t want to cycle back.

Are helmets and safety gear included?

Yes, helmets and all necessary gear are provided with your e-bike hire.

What kind of bikes are used for this trail?

Bosch-powered high-end e-bikes are provided for comfort and distance.

Is lunch included in the booking?

No, lunch is not included but there are cafés and pubs along the trail where you can stop to eat.

Do I need cycling experience to join?

No special experience is needed—the trail suits all ages and abilities.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Bosch-powered e-bike set up just for you, helmet for safety, gel seat for comfort (trust me—it helps), waterproof pannier bags for your stuff, a light for that dark tunnel stretch, map and bike lock. If you’re traveling with kids or toddlers they’ve got tag-alongs or chariots ready too. And if your legs give out halfway? You can book their shuttle bus back without fuss.