Glenview / Ferny MTB Trails)

Glenview – Ferny Forest, on the eastern side of Ewen Maddock Dam near Landsborough on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is one of the region’s best introductions to mountain biking. The purpose-built Ferny Forest MTB Loop is approximately 12–13 km, winding through blackbutt forest, lush fern gullies and melaleuca wetlands with scenic viewpoints across Ewen Maddock Dam. The trail is designed primarily for beginner riders and families, with mostly flat terrain, gentle undulations and very few intimidating technical features. Rather than big climbs or steep descents, Ferny Forest is all about twisty, flowing singletrack, giving newer riders the chance to practise cornering, pumping and carrying momentum through the forest. That doesn't mean experienced riders won't have fun. The relatively smooth terrain makes Ferny Forest a great place for a fast XC lap, and the later sections include some particularly enjoyable flow where riders can work on pumping the trail for speed. The original trail was developed in 2015 by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Trailworx and volunteers from the Bushrangers MTB Club, which continues to assist with maintenance. The scenery is a big part of the ride. The trail passes through dense ferns and forest before opening to views across Ewen Maddock Dam towards the Glass House Mountains, making it feel more like a forest adventure than a suburban beginner loop. Access is available from the Steve Irwin Way rest area, with parking close to the trail. The dedicated MTB loop is primarily for mountain biking, while walkers and runners are directed towards the main multi-use tracks around the dam. Riders should also follow the marked riding direction around the circuit. RTS Tip: Ferny Forest is an excellent choice for a first proper MTB ride with kids or someone new to singletrack. There are no lung-busting climbs or major technical features, but there's enough twisting and flowing trail to make it genuinely fun as skills improve. Stronger riders can use it for a quick fast lap or combine it with other trails around Ewen Maddock Dam for more distance.