Mount Marlay MTB Trails

The Mount Marlay MTB Trails in Stanthorpe, Queensland, deliver a unique mountain biking experience on the granite terrain of the Southern Downs and Granite Belt. Located just 1.5 km from Stanthorpe’s main street, the compact network makes excellent use of Mount Marlay’s roughly 100 metres of elevation, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly cross-country riding to seriously technical black and double-black gravity lines. Expect exposed granite slabs and boulders, rocky technical features, flowing singletrack, berms and challenging descents, with panoramic views across Stanthorpe and the surrounding Granite Belt. The easier side of Mount Marlay includes Green Granite, Rusty and The Grape Escape, providing a great introduction to the distinctive granite riding. On The Rocks and Hammerhead step up the technical challenge and can also be used for climbing towards the summit, while experienced riders can tackle gravity trails including Tankslapper and Gnarly Marlay. Tankslapper and Gnarly Marlay are downhill-only, with the harder trails packing a surprising amount of technical riding into relatively short distances. Another advantage of riding Mount Marlay is the sandy, granite-based soil found around Stanthorpe. Unlike many clay-based Queensland MTB networks, the local trails can often recover quickly after rain, although riders should still check current conditions before setting out. With Passchendaele State Forest and Broadwater State Forest also offering riding nearby, Stanthorpe makes a great base for a bigger Granite Belt mountain biking weekend. RTS Tip: Don’t underestimate Mount Marlay because it’s a compact network — the harder trails make full use of the granite and black really does mean black here. Start with Green Granite, Rusty or The Grape Escape to get a feel for the surface before progressing onto the technical gravity lines. If you’re heading for Tankslapper or Gnarly Marlay, inspect unfamiliar features first and follow the designated downhill direction.