Nitmiluk National Park is set to become the Top End’s mountain bike mecca, thanks to the completion of Stage 1 of a bike trail network designed to capture the growing adventure tourism market.
The first stage of the two stage bike trails project offers two looped trails, totalling just over 10km, designed in consultation with the Jawoyn Traditional Owners to further enhance the visitor experiences in this ancient park
The 5.7km Jalkwarak trail caters for beginners, while the 4.4km Jatete trail offers more challenging terrain to suit more experienced riders. The trails will also suit walkers.
In addition, there are two mountain bike hubs with bike repair stations, orientation signage and seating under a large shelter.
Three further trails are under construction and are expected to be completed by the end of the 2020 Dry Season.
This project has supported Aboriginal jobs throughout planning and construction, and provides further employment opportunities with ongoing maintenance works.
The trails are part of a $5.5 million investment the Territory Government has made in Nitmiluk National Park to improve the visitor experience.
Other works include upgrades to the Baruwei walk, improving the stairs and viewing platform and installing new interpretive signage. Installation of handrails at Lily Ponds will also make accessing the main pool safer and easier for visitors.
This comes in addition to a $10 million investment to upgrade, refresh and develop tourism infrastructure in the Nitmiluk Gorge, including a new $1.9 million jetty.
Source: NT Government