Sydney Cycle Trail – A Great Reminder of What’s in Our Own Backyard

The Sydney Cycle Trail is a 220km loop around Sydney that links together bike paths, shared paths, quiet roads, parks, waterways and some of the city’s most iconic locations.

As a warm-up for an upcoming bikepacking trip in Europe, we decided to tackle the trail over two days. While we didn’t complete the full 220km loop—making a few strategic shortcuts so we could get home in time to watch the football—we still covered plenty of ground and got exactly what we were looking for.

What surprised me most was just how much cycling infrastructure exists across Sydney. Like many people, I knew bits and pieces of it, but I had never connected it all together into one ride. Once you do, you start to see the city very differently.

The trail takes you through a constantly changing landscape. One moment you’re riding alongside the harbour, the next you’re following rivers, winding through parklands or cruising along dedicated cycleways. There are certainly a few sections where you need to navigate shared paths and suburban streets, but overall it is an impressive piece of cycling infrastructure.

For us, the ride wasn’t about speed or setting records. It was about spending two days on the bikes, testing some gear, building a bit of fitness and enjoying the simple pleasure of exploring. In many ways, that’s what bikepacking is all about—slowing down enough to see what’s around you.

Overall, it was a fantastic couple of days of riding and a great way to prepare for our European trip. If you’re looking for a cycling challenge, a weekend adventure or simply a new way to experience Sydney, I’d highly recommend giving it a go.