Maps/Getting there
Most of these Blue Mountains rides can be found on Lands and Property Information Topographic Maps:
- Katoomba 8930-I-S - 1:31680
- Jamison 8930-2-N - 1:25000
- Springwood 9030-IV-S - 1:25000
- Penrith 9030-3-N - 1:25000
These maps are widely available - as well as the LPI and its agents, many local servos, newsagencies, tourist/bushwalking/camping shops carry a range. Maps are cheap but valuable, and are a big help if you get confused with my notes - and of course to find other rides!
Online maps
- The Department of Lands now has online topos - see http://maps.nsw.gov.au/.
- What about aerial photos? Try the Department of Lands' Airview site.
- Google Earth and Google Maps know all (scary really) - except whether we're allowed to ride all the tracks we can see. I've discovered quite a few tracks while staring at Google Earth.
Getting there from Sydney
- If catching the train, use the Blue Mountains line (they leave from Central Station's Country or Inter City platforms) - look for trains going to Mt Victoria, Katoomba or Lithgow. Some trains don't stop at all stations, although most do, make certain first! The train doors always open on the same side after Glenbrook - on the right as you face the front of the train. Put your bikes on the left so you don't have to keep moving them for other passengers getting on and off. Bikes travel free outside of peak hours - you still have to pay. There is often trackwork on the railway line, and buses are used to get passengers around the work - this can interfere with riding, as bikes might not be taken on the bus, depending on space and the friendliness of the driver. Check with CityRail's InfoLine ph:13 1500 or their website. CityRail fares.
- If coming by road, head west towards Katoomba and Mt Victoria on the M4 motorway and the Great Western Highway - drive sensibly and watch for cops.
another fAt hIpPy production
