Narrow Neck Trail

The descents were exhilarating and the climbs excruciating. And then it hit me– cramps!

Over two months ago on a blistering winter August Sunday, the Adventure Riders visited Katoomba and rode our bikes on Narrow Neck. The trail extends from Glen Raphael Drive into the heart of the Blue Mountains slicing picturesque views of the Jamison and Megalong Valleys.

25 km/hour winds and over blew incessantly and added a more pronounced chill into the already glacial-like temperatures in the heart of the valley. 9 degrees felt like 4 and below.

Together with five other enthusiastic souls– Jay, Ronnel, Chester, France and Boboy, we met at the clearing some 2 km in from the main road.

Bluish hues emanating from Eucalyptus trees blanketed this remarkable valley of the Blue Mountains. Howling winds drowned out our cheerful banter but the rich and natural valley views more than made up for it.

Ride footage

One can only imagine how in awe Western explorers Wentworth, Blaxland and Lawson must have felt when they finally crossed the valley peninsula in 1813 and seeing for the first time this vast wilderness which the original inhabitants of the land, the Indigenous Australians, have been enjoying for millennia.

The trail, for the most part, is well maintained hard packed gravel– suitable for mountain bikes, gravel, cross or hybrid, and wide enough for three to four cyclists to ride shoulder to shoulder. For the technically-inclined, big gearing is recommended but not mandatory. I had a 46/30-tooth front chainring and 11-30 cassette (ratio 1) and I did fine, I think, except for the super sharp (>16% gradient) climbs. Ouch!

The first climb out of the clearing warms you up but the second one punches you in the gut. if you can’t see the top of the climb, then it’s hard. You are rewarded though by break neck descents attesting to the notion that what goes up must come down.

Strong headwind and a climb. Not a good combination! Thanks France for picking up my ‘flying’ water bottle.

Narrow Neck trail is not by any means a long hard day in the saddle. The 18-km out and back loop meanders atop a ridge with a sheer drop and narrow section on both sides. Lush bushland greens command an inspired view and in some areas leafless tree branches from both sides of the track appear like royal guards paying tribute to this wanderer on wheels.

An intimidating climb awaits the rider right around the corner!

At the end of the trail, a picnic table awaits the weary rider with a grand view of Wild Dog Mountains, the Kanangra Wilderness, and parts of Lake Burragorang. The temptation to camp in and explore the area on foot is an avenue we wish to undertake next time.

The western winds didn’t ease as we rode back. Each of us rode at our own pace. I took the rocky and loose descents like a daredevil and let the momentum carry me to the next insufferable climb.

Sculptured rocks molded by centuries of interminable winds.

About 3 km from where we were parked on a not so hilly terrain, my legs finally gave way and I suffered my first debilitating cramps from bike riding. Boom!

I felt my thighs tighten. Pain consumed me and I almost fell off my bike. I’ve had cramps before from a 50k run once and the feeling is all too familiar. So near yet so far!

Ronnel led the bunch as they caught up to me. Perfect timing for a breather.

We completed the ride mid morning and reflected on what an enjoyable Sunday that was going out with friends who share the passion as you and enjoying what nature has to offer.

Jay, Ronnel, Chester, France, Boboy and myself.

If you like long day explorations on foot or riding gravel or mountain biking, the Narrow Neck trail is one you can’t miss. It is a must visit site and we, as visitors, are especially grateful to the tireless efforts of the NSW Park Rangers for maintaining this magnificent piece of Aboriginal land.

Atop a mountain overlooking a vast wonderland with whipping, roaring winds, one can feel how infinitesimal man is against nature.