If you’re a Hunter Valley local, you’re no doubt familiar with the rural country town of Dungog.  Only an hour from Newcastle and the Valley, this charming little village is known for its picturesque natural beauty. 

And now, with the launch of a new, world-class mountain biking trail, Dungog has another claim to fame.  Winding through the pristine countryside of Dungog Common – a parcel of Crown Land on the outskirts of town – the mountain bike trail is set to bring a whole lot of professional and amateur riders, bushwalkers and nature lovers to the area.

What is Dungog Common?
We’re glad you asked!  The Dungog Common comprises 650 acres reserved for communal recreational use and environmental protection.  Traditionally home to the Gringai people, the Common is an area for locals and visitors to play and explore and quite literally, get back to nature.

The new Mountain Bike Trail
Whether you’re new to the game or a pro mountain biker, you need to check out the newly opened trail at Dungog Common.  Built by former mountain biking downhill racer, Mat Rowland, from EastCoast Mountain Trails, the purpose-built ‘blue-graded’ flow track is 1.2km in length and is certain to get the adrenalin flowing!

This first trail is just the beginning too.  Further improvements to the 30kms of single track and the development of a new a ‘green-graded’ flow trail that’s suited for beginners is already underway.   

If you’re keen to amp your mountain biking up a notch, be sure to check out local groups MTB Dungog and Trail Forks who can provide some trail and ride inspiration. 

Nature’s Playground
The kind of place you go to “get amongst it” the Common has a lot to offer.  In addition to Mountain Biking, Dungog Common boasts Horse-riding trails, Bushwalking and Trail Running courses and a purpose-built Mountain Bike ‘Fun Track’ that’ll keep aspiring BMX and mountain bikers entertained for hours.

Of course, if you just fancy some quiet time in nature, the Common is the perfect place for a family picnic.  Plans are set for an architecturally designed amenities facility as well as other communal recreation facilities.

Getting there
Dungog Common is situated to the west of the Dungog township, just 2km from the Railway Station and Dowling Street, which is lined with charming cafes and boutique stores. If you’re not familiar with the area, your best bet is to pop the street address (below) into your Sat Nav then follow the directions until you see a green shipping container which marks the main parking area.

Click here for more information on Dungog Common and Mountain Biking in the Dungog region. 

Photography credit: Ready Aim Media