Bikepacking a Hume & Hovell Inspired Route | 400 km Yass to Albury
Written by Chris Russell
Our epic, Hume and Hovell inspired bikepacking adventure from Yass to Albury was a thrilling 401.54km journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in New South Wales. Throughout our six-day journey, we encountered diverse terrains and beautiful vistas, from the single tracks along Blowering Dam to the fast and rough descent into Tumbarumba. Highlights included the climb up Snubba Road with its spectacular views and the scenic final leg into Albury, crossing Lake Hume via the Wymah Ferry. Despite a few challenges like muddy trails and rain, the trip was a success and the perfect adventure.
Featuring Chris Russell and Nathan Ferguson. Filmed by Dean Johnson and Pat Ryan. Edited by Dean Johnson. Photography by Dean Johnson and Pat Ryan.
Route Planning
The Hume and Hovell is a multi-day hiking track inspired by the historic expedition of explorers Hamilton Hume and William Hovell in 1824, 200 years ago! The track traverses from Yass to Albury through a mix of private farmland, NSW State Forests, and National Parks. It is important to note that cycling on the track within private farmland and National Parks is strictly prohibited.
Therefore, I meticulously planned a Hume and Hovell inspired bikepacking route to avoid these restricted sections and instead utilised the rideable fire trails and sealed roads. Our route also took advantage of the campsites established along the Hume and Hovell Walking Track, providing convenient spots and limited facilities for each camping night. The walking track route bypasses the town of Tumut and Tumbarumba, however, by cycling, we could use these towns for accommodation and resupply. Our journey covered 401.54 km with a total elevation gain of approximately 6767 m and descent of around 8365 m over six days. This route offers something for everyone, making it an unforgettable experience for those considering the Hume and Hovel as a bikepacking route.
Day 1: Yass to Wee Jasper
Distance: 68.42 km Elevation Gain: 1124 m Descent: 1227 m
Our journey began in the frost and fog at Cooma Cottage, just outside Yass. This historic homestead was the home of Hamilton Hume, an Australian explorer who, along with William Hovell, led the expedition from Sydney to Port Phillip in 1824. Though it was unfortunate that the cottage was closed (opening hours can be found here), the site itself is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the early colonial era of Australia.
Rolling out of Yass on Wee Jasper Road, we cycled through picturesque farmland. The undulating terrain provided a gentle warm-up as we made our way towards the Murrumbidgee River. We paused for lunch just after the intersection with Mountain Creek Road, enjoying the countryside.
The descent into Wee Jasper was nothing short of epic, with breathtaking views that made every moment memorable. Wee Jasper is a small village known for its stunning limestone caves and outdoor recreational activities including fishing, hiking and camping.
Upon arrival, we stopped at the main office at Billy Grace Campsite (managed by Reflections). This campsite is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area. We then headed 6 km further to Micalong Creek Reserve. Despite a brief possum incident, it was a great place to spend the night, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature.
Day 2: Wee Jasper to Tumut
Distance: 73.37 km Elevation Gain: 1335 m Descent: 1446 m
Leaving Micalong Creek Reserve, we began a climb up Nottingham Road. This route, chosen for its better surface for cycling, offered a more pleasant experience compared to the typical deep, large blue metal stones of Wee Jasper Forest Road.
We lunched at Micalong Swamp, a picturesque spot where we rejoined the Hume and Hovell track. The duckboards provided a path across the swamp, and the thick mud caused a few chain drops. Descending into Argalong was fast and rough in spots with the fire road being passable only by bike or motorbike. After Argalong, we faced a couple of sharp climbs before an exhilarating tarmac descent down Argalong Road, the descent offered stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
We rode into Tumut at sunset, a charming town on the banks of the Tumut River and known for its vibrant community and beautiful surroundings. Tumut offers a variety of accommodation options, from camping by the river to hotels and cozy B&Bs, making it a great place for visitors. Since both Nathan and I live in Tumut, we spent the night at our respective homes, it was great to see my kids!
Day 3: Tumut to Buddong
Distance: 55.36 km Elevation Gain: 1624 m Descent: 858 m
After a quick restock of essentials from the shop, we started the day on the tarmac heading towards Blowering Dam, one of the largest dams in New South Wales. This area is popular for water sports, fishing, and camping. Picking up the Hume and Hovell track again, we cycled along a section of single track alongside Blowering Dam. This track is spectacular, offering views of the dam and surrounding mountains. It is also a favourite among local cyclists, though occasional motorcycle use has caused some damage to the track.
After Browns Bay campsite, we faced a choice: continue along the Hume and Hovell route, which uses the foreshore road before climbing up to Buddong via Boundary Road, or leave the track and head up the ridge via Snubba Road. We chose the Snubba Road option to tackle any hike-a-bike sections earlier in the day. The views while climbing Snubba Road were spectacular, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region.
We finished the day at Buddong Hut, deciding to stay there instead of Buddong Falls (a stunning cascading waterfall) as planned. This rustic hut pretty rough and ready but served as good shelter for the night.
Day 4: Buddong to Munderoo
Distance: 56 km Elevation Gain: 980 m Descent: 1445 m
From Buddong, we headed towards Paddys River Dam. This section of trail has had new bridges added after the 2020 bushfires, making the trail more accessible and enjoyable. The climb to Paddys River Dam was steady and rewarding. The dam itself is a scenic campsite with a new hiker's hut, the perfect spot for a break.
The descent from Paddys River Dam to Tumbarumba was fast and rough in spots. Tumbarumba, is known for its vineyards, historic sites, and outdoor activities. After resupplying at the local bakery and IGA, we rode leisurely to Munderoo Campsite. The countryside here is dotted with farmland and forests, providing a peaceful setting for the night.
Day 5: Munderoo to Samuel Bollard
Distance: 70.59 km Elevation Gain: 1695 m Descent: 1566 m
The day began with a short climb from the campsite followed by a big descent down the tarmac Jingellic Road. This road is necessary as the Hume and Hovell trail out of Mundaroo State Forest becomes landlocked by private farmland, with no cycling permitted. It was a shame to miss the new bridge over Coppabella Creek, but the scenery along Jingellic Road made up for it.
Rejoining the Hume and Hovell track, we entered Woomargama National Park. This park is a haven for wildlife and offers stunning views and diverse landscapes. Tin Mines Fire Trail was an enjoyable ride, and the climb towards North’s Lookout rewarded us with a spectacular view of the surrounding region.
A great descent and a couple of cheeky climbs later, we reached Samuel Bollard Campground. This day represented the biggest challenge for managing water, as the creeks would be dry during drier seasons, leaving watertanks at campsites as the only water source.
Day 6: Samuel Bollard Campsite to Albury
Distance: 77.8 km Elevation Gain: 809 m Descent: 1323 m
On the final day, we started with a tarmac descent down Tunnel Road. Departing from the Hume and Hovell walking track, we headed into national park and through private farmland, curving towards Albury from the east. The descent along Tunnel Road was thrilling, and the gravel along River Road provided a scenic route, following the Murray River as it flows into Lake Hume.
The Wymah Ferry, which we used to cross Lake Hume, is a unique and charming experience, providing a link across the lake. Murray River Road, the busiest road we encountered during our trip, had narrow shoulders, but the drivers were courteous. Rain started as we cycled on Murray River Road, marking the first wet weather of our trip. Eighteen kilometers from the finish, we crossed Bethanga Bridge, experiencing the thrill of crossing Lake Hume for the second time. Once we reached the outskirts of Albury, we jumped on bike paths that led us to the Hovell Tree. This historic site marks where Hume and Hovell crossed the Murray River, completing our own modern-day expedition inspired by these early explorers.
