Places that Rock : Thredbo Valley Trail
Thredbo was the original destination for mountain bikers, the Cannonball run and the various fire trails and now, illegal walking trails earning their spot in mountain bike history.
Thredbo was the original destination for mountain bikers, the Cannonball run and the various fire trails and now, illegal walking trails earning their spot in mountain bike history. However little expansion has come about since then, that was until in recent years and a few forward thinking minds at Thredbo HQ decided to reinvest in summer time activities. We will be digging deeper in our Alpine Issue, out in early February.
This forward thinking lead to the Thredbo Valley Trail (TVT) coming into existence, twenty kilometres from Friday Flat along the path of the river to Lake Crackenback. It is the first piece of trail in the National Park in many years and the first step in creating one of Australias largest trail centres, which should, in time, lead from the top of Thredbo’s Eagles Nest and all the way to that other riding hub that is Jindabyne.
Heading out of Jindabyne pass through town toward Thredbo and onto the Alpine Way, from there you can access the trail from four points, which, in order are Lake Crackenback, The Diggings, Ngarigo and Thredbo. Just look for the signage to the right of you along the way.In Thredbo you will need to head to Friday Flat going right as you look at the mountain or away from Thredbo land access through the Bridal Loop. Although signage quite clearly marks the trail head, don’t be afraid to ask directions at the bike shop which you will find at the main Thredbo Chairlift. At the two campsites of Ngarigo and The Diggings look to the east and west as the trail follows the river. At Lake Crackenback head into Crackenback and follow Bullocks Drive all the way along. Park up and head under the ski tube bridge to begin your journey. If in doubt the activities centre can easily give you directions on the way in.
We recommend starting the TVT at the Lake Crackenback end for the full experience, also so that you get the slight uphill out of the way. We would also advise a few runs of Thredbo’s famous flow track before your return journey if you so choose. Lake Crackenback will also be offering a shuttle on Saturdays and more regularly during peak holidays, giving you the option to take a ride at the start or end of your ride.
TECHNICAL NATURE
The Thredbo Valley Trail is a shared use trail (we even encountered some fly fishermen) and so the trails are built accordingly. The width is around a meter with corners slightly benched and berms only in certain spots. Rocks are littered throughout but easily rollable and there are plenty of photo opportunities and chances to view the river and surrounds. The trail is built to accommodate everyone from newbie riders to families, there is something for everyone with often a hidden A line or option of an A line for the more experienced rider with a keen eye.
Apart from the river the other big feature is the proliferation of suspension bridges and metal boardwalks along the way with 3 suspension bridges and another 2 rigged bridges. The boardwalks not yet counted.
YOU WILL NEED
All your regular trail necessities, c02, tube, multi tool and water. You can fill up on water at the two camping spots you pass through and the Snowy River to some extent. The latter is your choice.
DISTANCE
The sum total of the Thredbo Valley Trail is 20 kilometres from end to end but can be turned into a round trip for an enjoyable 40 kilometres.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
It’s best to hit this trail toward midday or early afternoon giving you the perfect excuse to grab some lunch at the Cafe near the lift or pub in Thredbo or the locally famous ’The Larder’ at Lake Crackenback which has a very nice steak sandwich we can attest to. If you wish to see some of the local fauna a dusk or dawn run can increase your chance of such sightings.
IN THE AREA AND LOCAL EVENTS
Lake Crackenback plays host to several events each year including Snowy Mountain Bike Festival and the Triple Trail event. Thredbo regularly plays host to national and state level downhill and enduro events. Jindabyne has its own network of trails around town and at Bungarra Alpine Centre. Check out our full Alpine Issue (#146) in early February, or enquire at the store in town. For riding and current news in Thredbo (http://www.thredbo.com.au/activities/summer-activities/biking) and Lake Crackenback (www.lakecrackenback.com.au) please consult their respective websites.
BEST TIME OF THE YEAR
Spring! The flowers are out, the river is flowing and the trails are prime as the winter snows melt away. Summer is of course prime time for riding as is Autumn. Winter is out but if you’re a member of the fat bike persuasion perhaps you can give it a go.
LOCAL BIKE SHOPS
Lake Crackenback Bike Hire shop located on Bullocks Drive
Thredbo bike shop and repair, found in the main office.
FACILITIES
Toilets – Yes at all stops
Drinking Water – Yes at all stops along the way
Parking – Yes at all stops along the way, largest at Thredbo and Lake Crackenback
Trails Signposted – Light for now, most coming in over Christmas and New Years
Mobile reception – Not all carriers and will flake in and out for most. Enjoy it though you’re in the mountains
Shelter – Limited at camping areas
BBQ Facilities – Yes at camping areas
Accommodation – Yes at Thredbo, Lake Crackenback and Jindabyne
RATINGS
Technical 2/5
Fitness 2/5
Cross Country 5/5
Trail 3/5
All Mtn 0/5
Downhill 0/5
Jump 1/5 (find the line)
