The best cycling routes in Scabby Range Nature Reserve

There are 4 touring cycling routes documented in Scabby Range Nature Reserve on komoot. These include 3 moderate routes and 1 difficult route, offering options for various fitness levels.

The terrain in Scabby Range Nature Reserve is characterized by high-altitude wilderness, with much of the area exceeding 1,600 meters. You can expect rugged landscapes, including prominent peaks like Mount Kelly and Mount Scabby, and areas of thick fire-affected regrowth scrub. Some segments of routes may be unpaved and difficult, occasionally requiring cyclists to push their bikes.

Yes, all the touring cycling routes listed for Scabby Range Nature Reserve are circular. For example, you can explore the Westermans Hut – Brayshaw's Hut loop from Pheasant Hill, or the more challenging Hospital Creek Hut – Brayshaw's Hut loop from Yankee Hat Carpark.

For experienced and fitter cyclists seeking a challenge, the Hospital Creek Hut – Brayshaw's Hut loop from Yankee Hat Carpark is a difficult 38.1 km route with over 550 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Boboyan Homestead Ruins – Naas Creek River Crossing loop from Shanahans Mountain, which covers 32.7 km with nearly 690 meters of ascent.

The moderate routes typically take between 2 hours 20 minutes and 2 hours 55 minutes to complete. More difficult routes, such as the Hospital Creek Hut – Brayshaw's Hut loop, can take over 3 hours 50 minutes, depending on your pace and conditions.

While the reserve is known for its remote wilderness, routes often pass by historical elements such as old stockyards in Sams Creek Valley, and the Boboyan Homestead Ruins. The landscape itself, with peaks like Mount Kelly and Mount Scabby, and the unofficially named Scabby Tarn, offers significant natural points of interest.

Given its high-altitude alpine environment, the best time for touring cycling is generally during the warmer months. Winter conditions can be harsh, with snow and ice making many trails impassable or extremely challenging. Always check current conditions before planning your trip.

Scabby Range Nature Reserve offers a challenging and remote environment. The routes listed are moderate to difficult, with significant elevation gains and rugged terrain. This makes it generally more suitable for experienced cyclists rather than families with young children or those seeking easy, paved paths.

General access to Scabby Range Nature Reserve is limited, primarily via a dry-weather 4WD fire trail. It's advisable to check with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service or the Australian Alps National Parks for any specific access requirements or permits, especially if planning multi-day expeditions. You can find more information about the reserve at theaustralianalpsnationalparks.org.

Access points for routes often include locations like Pheasant Hill, Yankee Hat Carpark, and Mount Clear Campground. These are typically starting points for the circular routes. It's recommended to verify parking availability and conditions before your visit, especially given the remote nature of the reserve.

The reserve is home to various wildlife, including grey kangaroos, red-necked wallabies, ringtail possums, southern bush rats, and broad-toothed rats. Over 35 bird species have also been identified. Cyclists should be mindful of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.