Self Guided E Bike Tour – Unicorn Falls, Rainforest & Rail Trail

Self Guided E Bike Tour – Unicorn Falls, Rainforest & Rail Trail offers an inviting way to explore New South Wales’ lush landscapes without the hustle and bustle of the coast. For $107.97 per person, you get around 6 hours of adventure, with about 3 to 3.5 hours of actual cycling, on a premium e-bike that handles hills with ease. Starting in Mooball near the Moo Moo Roadhouse and finishing at the historic Billinudgel Hotel, this tour takes you through a series of striking natural sights and charming towns, with plenty of opportunities to stop for food, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the flexibility of a self-guided format, allowing you to set your own pace, and the chance to see hidden gems like Unicorn Falls — a waterfall tucked away in the National Park, accessible by a scenic ride. Plus, riding through the Railway Tunnel and across bridges adds an authentic touch of adventure that’s perfect for those craving more than just a typical sightseeing tour.

The only caveat? There is some gravel and a downhill section on the route, so a moderate level of cycling experience and fitness is recommended. If you’re not comfortable on unpaved roads or steep descents, you might find parts of the journey a bit challenging. That said, with an e-bike doing most of the work, even hill climbs feel manageable.

This tour suits adventurous travelers over 14 who enjoy outdoor activities, want to avoid crowded tourist spots, and are eager to explore the hinterland’s nature, small towns, and scenic railway relics. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

• Flexible Self-Guided Experience: You control your pace, making it ideal for all kinds of travelers.
• Stunning Natural Sights: Includes waterfalls, rainforests, and scenic railway tunnels.
• Well-Equipped E-Bikes: Gear includes a helmet, lock, pannier, and powerbank, ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Moderate Fitness Needed: Some gravel and downhill sections require basic cycling skills.
• Charming Towns and Food Stops: Uki, Main Arm, and The Pocket offer quaint cafes, ice cream, and local flavor.
• Ideal for Explorers: Best suited for those over 14, weighing under 120kg, with some cycling experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Unicorn Falls E Bike Tour

Starting Point: Mooball and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

The adventure kicks off at the Mooball station, right next to the Moo Moo Roadhouse. It’s a perfect spot for breakfast or a quick coffee before you hit the trail. The location offers ample parking, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re arriving by car. This initial stretch along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail sets the tone with gentle, scenic riding.

As you pedal along, you’ll encounter highlights like the Burringbar Range Tunnel, a 524-meter-long relic of the old railway line. Riding through this tunnel feels like stepping back in time. Along the way, historic bridges like the Mills Creek bridge offer perfect photo opportunities. The trail’s surface is a mix of smooth pavement and some gravel, so you’ll want to handle both comfortably. This segment is the least physically demanding, but it’s a beautiful introduction to the area’s natural beauty.

Uki and the Hinterland Towns

Leaving the Rail Trail at Stokers Siding, the route meanders into the quirky town of Uki. This is a favorite for many travelers, with its relaxed vibe and local cafes. Suggestions include Village & Co, Bastion Coffee, and Uki Pies — perfect spots for a snack or refreshing drink. We loved this part because it gives the feeling of stepping into a small, friendly community far from the tourist crowds.

From Uki, the journey takes a turn into the mountainous surroundings of Mount Jerusalem National Park. This is where the scenery truly changes — lush, green, and peaceful. The ascent brings you closer to Unicorn Falls, a hidden gem that offers a refreshing swim and a peaceful retreat. Navigating your way to the falls involves some moderate climbing, but the e-bike makes it manageable. The waterfall itself is a highlight — a cool, inviting spot after the climb, perfect for a quick dip or just enjoying the sounds of rushing water.

Main Arm and The Countryside

Descending from the mountains, you’ll pass through Main Arm, a tiny but lively village with a local store and friendly atmosphere. Here, a quick stop for ice cream or a snack is highly recommended. Many reviewers, like Tama_B, have appreciated this authentic experience, praising the “great experience and service” along the way.

The final stretch takes you through The Pocket, a picturesque rural area dotted with cows and, if you’re lucky, some friendly alpacas. This part of the ride is perfect for soaking in the countryside’s tranquility. The open fields and gentle hills serve as a calming backdrop before reaching the finish line.

The Finish Line: Billinudgel Hotel

Your day concludes at the historic Billinudgel Hotel, a perfect spot for a well-earned drink. Sitting outside by the parking lot, you can reflect on your day while enjoying local fare. The tour operator will pick you up here for the return to Mooball, but if you’re using Uber or other transport, you can depart directly from this point.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need

The package provides premium e-bikes, helmets, lights, locks, and a phone powerbank, which makes the journey smooth and worry-free. You should bring your own water bottle and fully charged smartphone with the Ridewithgps app for navigation. The tour is suitable for those with moderate cycling experience and good fitness, given the gravel roads and some downhill sections.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

One reviewer highlighted the “great experience and service,” noting the challenge of reaching Unicorn Falls but also the satisfaction of completing the ride. They also recommended visiting local spots like Hosanna Farms for a BBQ or farm visit, adding an extra layer of local flavor to the day.

The route’s well-balanced mix of nature, history, and small-town charm, combined with the flexibility of self-guiding, makes this an attractive choice for independent-minded travelers. The only potential concern is the gravel and downhill sections, which might not be suitable for everyone, but the e-bike’s assistance generally offers enough support for most riders.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers over 14 years old with some cycling experience. It appeals to those eager to explore the hinterland’s natural beauty and historic relics at their own pace. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or couples looking for a day out that combines outdoor activity, scenic sightseeing, and authentic local flavor.

If you’re looking for a relaxed bike ride through lush scenery with the bonus of waterfalls and charming towns, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day away from tourist crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own bike for this tour?
No, the tour includes a premium e-bike, helmet, lock, and other accessories, so you just need to bring yourself and a water bottle.

What is the duration of cycling?
The actual cycling time is about 3 to 3.5 hours, within the total tour duration of 5-6 hours, which includes stops for food, swimming, and sightseeing.

Is there any physical fitness required?
Yes, you should have moderate fitness and some cycling experience, as the route includes gravel roads and a downhill section.

Can I go at my own pace?
Absolutely. This is a self-guided tour, giving you the freedom to stop, explore, and rest whenever you like, as long as you finish by 4 pm.

What stops are included?
Highlights include Unicorn Falls, the Rail Trail with its historic tunnel and bridges, the quirky towns of Uki and Main Arm, and the scenic countryside of The Pocket.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, provided all participants are over 14 years old and under 120kg. It’s a fun, active adventure for families with some cycling experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a fully charged smartphone with the Ridewithgps app, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.

Is there a support vehicle?
No, but the self-guided format means you are responsible for navigation and timing, although the provided equipment helps make it straightforward.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Advance booking is recommended, typically about 23 days ahead, via the provider’s website or the booking platform.

In essence, this self-guided e-bike tour offers a genuine opportunity to explore New South Wales’ stunning hinterland in a relaxed, flexible way. It’s perfect for those who want to see waterfalls, ride historic railway tunnels, and soak in the countryside without the constraints of a guided group. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic rides, and discovering local towns at your own pace, this experience is a wonderful choice.