New mountain bike trail launched in Upper Hunter

Mountain biking enthusiasts in the Hunter are invigorated by a new mountain bike trail in the Upper Hunter.

The Scone Mountain, National Park Mountain Bike Trail has launched, offering varied experiences for different types of riders including advanced, intermediate and beginner.

The trial, developed in partnership with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services, uses a low maintenance design to strike a balance between conservation and recreation.

The development is the result of a $200,000 investment from the New South Wales Government’s Place to Play grant program to improve the community’s outdoor recreational facilities.

The official opening is scheduled for Monday afternoon at 2 p.m. The council invites all community members and visitors to join in the celebration.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully says the new mountain bike trails are a fantastic addition to the Upper Hunter area.

“This is a fantastic new addition to the community of Scone that will benefit the town’s economy and attract visitors from across the Hunter and beyond to try out the great mountain biking opportunities now on offer.”

Kylie Yeend, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Hunter Central Coast Area Manager, says the project is an excellent example of how we can combine conservation with recreation to create exceptional wildlife experiences in our national parks and reserves.

“The Scone Mountain National Park provides habitat for a variety of endangered species including the spotted quoll, spotted warbler, swift parrot and rain honeyeater,” she says.

“We look forward to seeing the community and visitors enjoy these new trails and hope their enjoyment will fuel a desire to protect our national parks and the native wildlife that call them home.”