This historic cycling track near Audley and a short drive from Sydney follows the river and offers birdwatching, pretty picnic areas and history to explore.

Lady Carrington Drive is an easy bike trail that follows the Hacking River upstream from Audley. Cycling over 15 creeks, each identified by its Aboriginal name, you’ll also pass blue gums, turpentines and patches of rainforest. Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching. Keep your ear out for the mimicking call of the lyrebird and your eyes peeled for lace monitors and echidnas.

With three picnic areas along the track, you’ll have plenty of chances to stop and soak up the atmosphere. At Palona Brook, there’s a short detour to explore the sandstone cave. 

Useful information

This is a one-way trail that can be ridden in either direction. If starting at the northern end, drive across Audley Weir, past Varneys Bridge and follow the signs to Fig Tree Flat car park. Alternatively, if starting from the southern end turn off Princes Highway at Waterfall train station. Follow McKell Avenue to the end then turn left onto Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and continue for approximately 0.5km. 

Organise a car pick up at the either end, or turn round and do it all again.

Keep your eyes out for walkers on this shared track.

Check the weather before you set out as Lady Carrington Drive can become boggy when it rains.