Kembla Mountain Bike Trails
The Kembla Mountain Bike Trails dish up almost 20 km of purpose built goodness made for every type of rider – from tiny shredders finding their balance to seasoned pros chasing that sweet, sweet flow. This family friendly playground serves up green, blue and black trails, plus beginner loops, XC, enduro and gravity fed downhill runs that’ll have you grinning all the way back to the car.
Tucked into the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, the network gives you the best of both worlds – epic panoramic views over Wollongong and surrounds, wrapped in a landscape rich with natural and cultural heritage. It is the kind of riding experience you don’t just remember… you brag about.
A joint project by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Wollongong City Council, the Kembla trails are fast becoming a must ride stop on Australia’s mountain biking map.
Opening Times
The trails are generally open every day during daylight hours. They may close during high winds or wet weather, so always check the trail status before rolling in.
Kembla Trail Map
On-Site Facilities
Main Trail Entrance – right next to the moto track
Roll in through the main gateway and you’ll find:
- A gravel car park ready for you and your bike obsessed mates
- Pit toilets (practical, not pretty – but hey, they do the job)
- A bike cleaning station to give your wheels some post ride TLC
- Info, emergency and wayfinding signs so you actually know where you’re going
- Mobile phone service… mostly (yes, there are a few “oops no bars” moments)
- Adaptive rider access at the far end of the car park
- Easy entry to the green trails – perfect for beginners finding their groove
Lower Entrance – Kembla Heights
For riders who like things steep, fast or spicy, this is your starting line:
- Access straight into the blue and black trails only – beginners, steer clear
- A gravel car park around 800 m below the trail entrance
- Another bike cleaning station (because mud happens)
- Info, emergency and wayfinding signage
- Mobile reception in most spots… but not all
- Strictly blue and black trail access – no gentle warm ups here
Please note that no drinking water is available on site. Please ensure you bring enough drinking water for your time riding the trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available?
Before you hit the trail: there are pit toilets at the trailhead just off the fire road. After that, you’re on your own – no shops and no water along the way. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay fuelled, happy, and hydrated out there.
How much does it cost to ride the trails?
Good news – it won’t cost you a thing. Riding and parking at the Kembla Mountain Bike Trails is totally free, and there’s no need to book ahead. Just turn up, hit the trails, and enjoy the ride.
Is there a shuttle bus?
There’s no shuttle service operating right now, and private shuttling isn’t allowed. It’s pedal power all the way.
Is there parking?
There are two free car parks on Harry Graham Drive that service the trails, with limited spaces available:
- Main trail car park – located next to the Wollongong Motorcycle Track
- Lower car park – beside the Mount Kembla Bowling Club in Kembla Heights
The main car park is shared with the Wollongong Motorcycle Club and can get very busy on race days, so it’s worth factoring that into your plans.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Car parks fill up quickly during peak times
- For safety and to keep traffic moving, please park only in designated areas
- If parking is full, you can park elsewhere and ride up or down Harry Graham Drive to access the trail entrances
Are the trails suitable for kids?
They sure are!
Riding with kids, or simply new to mountain biking? You’re in the right place. The Kembla trails feature a range of green trails ideal for beginners. For a smooth start, enter via the main car park beside the moto track.
Are ebikes welcome on the trails?
If it’s pedal-assist, you’re good to go. Self-powered e-bikes aren’t allowed on the trails.
Can I go bushwalking or hiking at the trails?
For safety reasons, the trails are for mountain bikes only. Dogs aren’t permitted in the park either.
Wollongong Mountain Bike Club
The Wollongong Mountain Bike Club (WMBC) has been flying the flag for mountain biking in the Illawarra since the late 1990s, officially becoming an incorporated sporting club in 2003. Back then, riding in Wollongong meant tackling unsanctioned trails scattered across the escarpment – a far cry from the purpose-built parks we’re starting to see today.
For years, WMBC and its passionate members have worked tirelessly to champion safe, legal, and sanctioned riding spaces for the region’s mountain bike community. Thanks to that dedication, those long-held goals are now becoming a reality.
Run as a not-for-profit and powered by volunteers who genuinely love getting out on the trails, WMBC is all about creating a positive mountain biking culture. The club proudly supports riders of all ages and abilities, including men, women, families, and adaptive riders.
Love mountain biking? Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just getting started, WMBC welcomes new members who want to ride, connect, and help shape the future of mountain biking in the Illawarra.