Tumbarumba has evolved into a peddler’s paradise with options for riders of all abilities. Photo: Josef Winkler.
The small but bustling town of Tumbarumba is the gateway to the Snowy Mountains and has evolved into a must-visit location for cyclists of all stripes.
Tumbarumba offers a mixture of riding terrain, from the flowing downhills of the pine forest to the sealed rail trail to nearby Rosewood.
Tumbarumba sits 700 m above sea level and was originally a gold-mining town that was settled in the 1850s.
Today the area is known for its great riding atmosphere, village cafe culture and typical small-town charm.
The local pub and bakery will cater for cyclists, which is great after spending a whole day on the bike.
Each cycling trail network is connected by a variety of designated bike paths, which will separate you from the other road users which is an excellent bonus for visiting riders.
Tumbarumba has a special place in my heart – the fresh air, the smell of pines, and riding in among the towering pine trees just hits differently.
Riverina Highlands Rail Trail connects Tumbarumba to Rosewood and comprises 21 km of sealed trail. Photo: VisitNSW.
Nearby attractions like Paddy’s River Falls and the Bago State Forest have long been popular, but cycling tourism has boomed in the past few years with the completion of the Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail.
This development, also known as the Riverina Highlands Rail Trail, opened in 2020 and was the first of its kind on a government rail corridor.
What it lacks in adventure, it makes up for in spectacular scenery and accessibility as the 21-km family-friendly trail winds its way through subalpine countryside and farms.
The trail networks are connected by designated bike paths to keep riders safe from cars. Photo: Josef Winkler.
For riders looking for a challenge, Tumbarumba offers what the locals call Mason’s Hill, which is the main mountain bike trail network developed through the pine forest.
The main 9- to 10-km outer loop is known for the fast-flowing downhills after a nice gentle climb to the top of the forest.
The three main connecting trails are named ‘Pump it’, ‘Thump it’ and ‘Jump it’ and will take you about six and a half minutes, with plenty of flowing jumps and berms to hit.
It is one of the best feelings, flowing down a trail without having to put a pedal stroke in!
Mason’s Hill offers plenty of downhill fun for mountain bikers. Photo: Josef Winkler.
The “Police Paddock” is another short but fun little trail network, that is very open and on quite tacky dirt. This trail is great for beginners but also caters for more experienced riders.
With so many options, a trip up to Tumbarumba can be just for the day, or you can go for a whole weekend. You can ride the mountain bike trails one day, then enjoy a leisurely ride along the rail trail the next day.
Stay at one of the local pubs, or enjoy the free camping just out of town. If you camp, Henry Angel Track Head is right on the Hume and Hovell trail, which is used by walkers, hikers and riders.
Rather than just driving through Tumbarumba, plan to stop in and make the most of a great little town bustling with big energy right on our doorstep.
There is new trail development in the works for a new mountain bike park so keep an eye out for that in the future.
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