The best cycling routes in Orara West State Forest

Orara West State Forest offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find everything from easy, mostly paved paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains and unpaved sections. Routes vary in length, typically from around 10 km to over 50 km, winding through lush green countryside, tall trees, and rainforests.

Yes, for a more relaxed experience, consider the Swimming Hole loop from Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve. This easy 10.6 km path is often on mostly paved surfaces, making it ideal for any fitness level.

For a more challenging ride, the Bonville Coffee – Valery Road gravel section loop from T.J. Andrew Park is a difficult 51.8 km route featuring gravel sections and considerable elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Bongil Bongil National Park via Bandarri National Park loop from Coffs Harbour, which spans about 58 km with over 1200 meters of ascent.

The forest is rich in natural beauty. Cyclists can enjoy picturesque views of farmland and woodlands. Notable natural attractions include waterfalls like Fig Tree Falls, especially after rain, and Bangalore Falls, which offers superb views from its lookout. You might also encounter the Urumbilum River, a great spot for picnicking.

Yes, Tuckers Nob is a local landmark that offers expansive views towards the Dorrigo escarpment and the Bellinging Valley all the way to the sea. While some routes might pass near it, reaching the summit often involves a hike or specific access, providing rewarding vistas for those who venture there.

The touring cycling routes in Orara West State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from smooth forest rides to rugged adventures, and the beautiful natural surroundings including lush rainforests and scenic views.

Many of the routes in Orara West State Forest are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your path. Examples include the Bonville Coffee – Hearthfire coffee loop from Isles Drive Reserve, a moderate 49.9 km ride, and the Swimming Hole loop from Arthur Keough Park, a moderate 11.8 km option.

The mid-north coast of New South Wales generally offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. However, after rainfall, waterfalls like Fig Tree Falls are particularly beautiful. It's always a good idea to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially if planning to tackle unpaved sections.

The region, including adjacent Bindarri National Park, is considered a 'biodiversity hotspot' and a crucial wildlife corridor. While cycling, you have a good chance of encountering diverse flora and fauna, as it's home to various species, some of which are rare or threatened.

Generally, recreational cycling on designated trails within State Forests in NSW does not require specific permits for individuals. However, it's always advisable to check the latest regulations from Forestry Corporation NSW or the National Parks and Wildlife Service for any updates or specific requirements, especially for larger groups or events. For information on 4WD touring routes in the broader Orara Escarpment area, which might share some tracks, you can refer to the NSW National Parks website.

While Orara West State Forest itself is a natural area, its proximity to Coffs Harbour and surrounding towns means that cafes and pubs are accessible within a reasonable distance. Routes like the Bonville Coffee – Hearthfire coffee loop from Isles Drive Reserve suggest coffee stops, indicating that amenities are available in nearby communities.