Trail surface and conditions

Rail Trail width

The width of the trail between Casino to Bentley is generally four metres with some parts reducing to 2.5 metres. From Bentley to Lismore the trail is slightly narrower and is generally 3 metres in width also reducing at times to 2.5 metres.

Always keep to the left and be aware of other users. Leave plenty of room to pass – a metre matters. You can read more about trail safety and rules here.

Rail Trail surface

The first kilometre of the Rail Trail, from Old Casino Station to past the Naughtons Gap Road carpark is asphalt, with the remainder of the Rail Trail up until the Back Creek Bridge, Bentley a crushed granite, with a spray seal on the section over the Naughtons Gap Tunnel. From Bentley through to Lismore the trail has been constructed using compacted gravel for durability and resilience to weather for 14 kms, with asphalt and concrete sections totaling 2.6 kms at key entry points for improved accessibility.

Rail Trail Gradient

As a former railway line, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is relatively flat with no hills or mountains. The Casino to Lismore section has a maximum grade of slope of 4.5%, making it a suitable trail for all types of users, transport, and fitness levels. There are some shorter and steeper sections where pathways and bypass bridges have a slope up to 15%.