Seven Community Groups bringing the Rail Trail to life (You’ll want in)

The Rail Trail is known for its fresh air, wide-open spaces and feel-good adventures, but there is another side to it that deserves a spotlight. Community.

Every week, local groups are using the trail to bring people together through movement, volunteering, nature and shared experiences. Some gather to run. Some ride under the full moon. Some roll up their sleeves to plant trees. Others help make the trail more accessible, so more people can enjoy it.

If you’ve been looking for a way to meet people, move your body, volunteer your time or simply feel part of something local, here are a few groups already making the Rail Trail even better.

Accessible trishaw ride on the Rail Trail with two passengers seated in front and a rider pedalling behind, travelling along a paved section with greenery and houses in the background. Two people riding bikes on the Rail Trail pause near a shelter, with sunlight filtering through trees and wet pavement reflecting the scene. Group of Rail Trail users with bikes gathered at a Northern Rivers Rail Trail sign, pausing at a shady trailhead surrounded by trees and open space.

Cycling Without Age

Cycling Without Age is all about making sure more people can experience the joy of the Rail Trail.

With chapters now open in Burringbar and more recently Casino, the group offers free trishaw rides for people with mobility restrictions, creating meaningful moments through fresh air, conversation and shared experience. It is a beautiful reminder that connection can be as simple as slowing down and taking someone along for the ride.

Whether you want to volunteer your time or book a free ride for yourself or a loved one, this is a community group doing something genuinely special.

Contact Cycling Without Age via the Northern Rivers Rail Trail website. Cycling without Age Burringbar | Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

Motion Social Club

Looking for a winter fitness fix that feels more social than serious? Motion Social Club might be your answer.

The group meets on the trail at Lismore Station every Sunday morning at 7am, offering a relaxed, welcoming way to get moving. It is a great option for families too, especially those keen to get active together without the pressure of formal training or competition.

Think movement, conversation and a solid start to the day.

Get in touch with Motion Social Club via Instagram.

Naughtons Gap Landcare Group

If your ideal volunteer session involves a pair of gloves, a shovel and a good cause, Naughtons Gap Landcare Group is worth a look.

This passionate local group is helping shape the future of the Rail Trail by planting shade trees and creating wildlife habitat along the corridor. With more than 2,000 trees already planted, their work is already having a visible impact on the landscape.

Their regular working bees are practical, social and deeply rewarding. It is a hands-on way to give back and help care for a place the whole community enjoys.

Keen to get involved? Contact the Naughtons Gap Landcare Group on 0457 052 636.

Rivers Run Club

Rivers Run Club proves that fitness does not have to be intimidating.

This friendly crew hits the trail three times a week, welcoming everyone from first-time joggers to seasoned runners. The atmosphere is inclusive, low-pressure and community-focused, with coffee and conversation often just as important as the run itself.

If you have been waiting for a sign to get started, this might be it.

Connect with Rivers Run Club via Instagram.

Murbah Mooners

Possibly one of the most charmingly specific groups around, Murbah Mooners combines cycling, moonlight and post-ride pub rewards.

The group rides once a month under the full moon, turning the trail into a social evening adventure. The final destination? The Victory Hotel at Mooball for a burger and a pint.

A little exercise, a little fresh air and a very decent excuse to leave the house.

Join in the fun and find out more via the Murbah Mooners Facebook Group Page.

Northern Rivers Cycling Club

If you have been meaning to build confidence on two wheels, Northern Rivers Cycling Club offers a welcoming way in.

The club hosts regular full moon rides along the Lismore to Casino section of the trail, creating a social and supportive environment for riders of all abilities. Whether you are new to group rides or just keen to meet fellow cyclists, it is a great way to get involved.

No pressure. Just pedals, people and a pretty special setting.

Find out more via Facebook

Bangalow Runners

Bangalow Runners likes to keep things flexible, which means the Rail Trail sometimes gets its turn in the spotlight.

The group shares its run locations on Instagram, so when the trail features in the mix, it is your cue to join in. Expect a relaxed vibe, all paces welcome and plenty of friendly faces.

It is less about serious splits and more about enjoying the run.

Find Bangalow Runners on Instagram.

A Trail That Brings People Together

What makes these groups so special is not just what they do, but what they create. Connection, belonging and a reason to show up.

The Rail Trail is more than a route from one place to another. It is a shared space where community happens naturally, whether that looks like planting trees, riding alongside others, pushing yourself on a run or simply stopping for a chat.

Know a local group we should feature next?

We know there are more community groups out there using and enjoying the Rail Trail in their own way. Drop us a line at hello@northernriversrailtrail.com.au or shoot us a DM on socials.

Accessible trishaw ride on the Rail Trail with a passenger seated in front under a red blanket and a rider pedalling behind, travelling along a smooth paved section in bright sunny conditions. Group of Rail Trail users gathered at a station platform with dogs on lead, with people standing and sitting near the old rail building surrounded by trees. Group of Rail Trail users sitting at an outdoor table at a station platform café, with bikes and a dog nearby under a covered heritage rail building.