Promisedland

The Promisedland MTB Trails, in Cordalba State Forest near Childers and Bundaberg, Queensland, offer a substantial network of dedicated mountain bike singletrack through rugged forest and rocky gullies. Located around 46 km south-west of Bundaberg and 14 km north-west of Childers, the network has grown from its original 20 km to around 38 km of riding, with trails ranging from easy beginner loops through intermediate singletrack to more difficult technical options. The terrain has a distinctly natural cross-country MTB character, weaving through tall open eucalypt forest, patches of vine scrub and rocky gullies. Riders can expect dirt and root-covered singletrack, short climbs, flowing sections, rocks and technical features, with fire and management roads used to connect different parts of the network. Most of the riding is aimed at intermediate riders with moderate fitness, although there are green options for newer riders and black trails for those wanting more challenge. The official trail map includes shorter options such as the 800 m Joey Trail, along with trails and connectors including Grass Tree, Start Straight, Dingo, Cow Bones and Drifty Bars. Longer loops can be created by combining multiple trails, making Promisedland suitable for anything from a quick introductory ride to several hours exploring Cordalba State Forest. The network was developed through a partnership between Mountain Biking Bundaberg Inc. and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, with local volunteers playing an important role in building and maintaining the trails. Facilities at the main trailhead include parking, shelter and toilets, making it a useful MTB destination for riders travelling through the Bundaberg and Childers region. RTS Tip: Promisedland has plenty of intersecting trails, so download the official Cordalba State Forest MTB map before riding and use the easier loops to get your bearings before linking together a longer ride. The terrain can be rocky and conditions hot, particularly through the warmer months, so carry plenty of water, tools and spares. For a first visit, start around the Hilltop trailhead and build your ride from there — there’s enough singletrack here to make Promisedland far more than a quick roadside MTB stop.