NSW Rail Trails
Discover how Rail Trails are revitalising former rail corridors in regional NSW, turning them into recreational assets that bring social and economic benefits to their local communities.
A Rail Trail is an open public pathway built on a rail corridor no longer in use. Rail Trails follow the route of a previous railway line for all or most of their length, often connecting smaller communities and townships. Rail Trails are mainly used for outdoor recreation such as hiking, cycling, bushwalking and even commuting.
Two Rail Trail projects are operational in NSW, with the completed Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail running 21km through the Snowy Valleys region, and sections of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail open between Casino and Lismore, and Crabbes Creek and Murwillumbah. Further Rail Trails proposed by councils, in partnership with community groups are in development.
Rail Trails bring many benefits to the local community, from greater health and wellbeing to tourism and economic growth. They bring people together in the planning and delivery of the project, and once complete, offer a new source of outdoor recreation suitable for diverse age groups and people of differing abilities.
The NSW Rail Trails Framework (PDF 5.87MB) helps clarify the process for establishing a Rail Trail, the proposal, Planning pathways and approval processes, as well as providing guidance for its operation and maintenance.
The NSW Rail Trails Evaluation Summary Report (PDF 5.31MB) details lessons learned from the two pilot projects, key social and economic outcomes and avenues to optimise the success of future Rail Trail projects.
Read the frequently asked questions about rail trails and the rail trail development process.
As a first step, any councils considering the development of a rail trail should
contact Transport for NSW. Any further questions should also be directed to Transport for NSW.
