Cycling Routes Safe for Families and Beginners

The 6.2 kilometre loop around Tuggerah Lake starts at the picnic area near Lake Haven and stays on a sealed path separated from cars for its full length.

Interest in these routes has grown this winter as families look for outdoor activities close to home after the Telstra network outage on 8 July disrupted indoor routines across the coast.

Two established paths for new riders

Central Coast Council maintains the lakeside circuit with regular surface checks and added lighting at three points last year. The second option runs from Gosford waterfront through East Gosford to the Terrigal boardwalk turnoff, covering 4.8 kilometres of mostly level ground past the old railway alignment.

Both routes sit within five minutes of surf lifesaving clubs at Avoca and Terrigal, so parents can combine a short ride with a supervised beach visit if needed.

A 2025 Central Coast health survey recorded a 27 percent rise in family bike outings on these paths compared with the previous year, with the largest increase among households with children aged five to ten.

Practical steps before heading out

Bike hire at the Terrigal kiosk costs $18 for two hours including helmets, with bookings taken on the same day. Riders should start before 10am to avoid peak foot traffic near the lake playground and carry water, as the only refill point on the Gosford-Terrigal section is at the East Gosford jetty.

Local riders recommend checking the council website the night before for any temporary closures after heavy rain, then parking at the Lake Haven boat ramp or the Gosford waterfront car park to begin the ride.