The Route
From Hornsby head towards Galston Gorge, the descent into Galston Gorge includes six hairpin bends and crosses a single-lane timber bridge over the Berowra Creek before climbing back out. This section traverses the Berowra Valley Regional Park, with glorious views of the gorge.
Supplies may be purchased in the village of Glenorie, around 20km into the ride, where there is a supermarket, bakery and other shops. There are other isolated shops/cafes through to Cliftonville at 52km.
CAUTION needs to be taken on the Cliftonville Road descent as it is very steep, around 13%, ending at a ‘T’ intersection.
From Cliftonville the route follows the Hawkesbury River, along the very quiet River Road, to Wiseman’s Ferry. There are two 400m lengths of gravel on this road, they are quite managable on a road bike.
At Wiseman’s Ferry (67km), the route bypasses the village centre and takes an 18km loop around the Marramarra National Park, along Singleton Road, Laughtondale Gully Road, and return on the Old Northern Road. The climb up Laughtondale Gully Road is gravel (4.3km gravel), but manageable on a road bike, and well worth the effort. The return along the Old Northern Road provides panoramic views from Hawkins Lookout (82km) and the descent back into Wiseman’s Ferry (84km) is magic.
There is a good cafe, hotel and a few little shops in Wiseman’s Ferry. Accommodation is also available in the area, in caravan parks and river lodges, and is the best place to stay if you are taking a two-day ride.
On leaving Wiseman’s Ferry, cross the Hawkesbury River on the Wiseman’s Ferry ferry, and continue to follow the Hawkesbury River towards Spencer.
Spencer (112km) is a sleepy little village located amongst mangroves on the Hawkesbury River. It has a small cafe/shop that is open sometimes, and a caravan park. This is a good place to rest and eat a muesli bar in preparation for the Mangrove Mountain ascent.
The climb up Mangrove Mountain (16km; 370m) is worth the effort with the changing scenery, from the mangrove river flats near Spencer, skirting the Dharug National Park, to orchards near the top.
The village of Mangrove Mountain (134km) has a small shop, the next being at Peats Ridge (144km) where there is a cafe – the Corrugated Cafe.
Care needs to be taken on this section (139km to 158km) as it can be fairly busy, including trucks.
Following the ridge line, the route undulates through orchards and small farms until joining the Old Pacific Highway and through the Popran National Park and the final descent to again cross the Hawkesbury River near Brooklyn. A detour may be made here to visit Brooklyn, for its cafes and restaurants, or catch the train home.
Now the inevitable Old Pacific Hwy ascent that is the last real climb of the route. This section is very popular with local bicycle and motorbike riders for its smooth road surface, curves, and of course the view.
Once at the top, the route becomes busier as we re-enter the Sydney urbanity, and return to Hornsby to complete the ride.
How to get there
By Train
Hornsby is located on the Sydney Trains North Shore Line. Bicycles are permitted on Sydney Trains anytime, but not appreciated at peak travel times. Timetable information is available by calling 131500 or on www.131500.com.au
By Car
Parking is generally available along Jersey Street, north of the railway station.
Notes
- There are few services along the route, and once committed ‘phone-a-friend’ is the best option if you decide not to continue.
- Shops may not be open early or late, take sufficient supplies or stock up where possible.
- There is approximately 5km of gravel road, the remaining 195km is all sealed.
- There are 4 good climbs, one being gravel.
