Sterling Valley

The Sterling Valley MTB Trail, between Tullah and Rosebery on Tasmania’s West Coast, is a rugged 12 km point-to-point mountain bike adventure through spectacular myrtle rainforest beneath Mount Murchison. This is very much an old-school West Coast ride rather than a manicured trail-centre experience, combining historic tracks with steep climbing, wet roots, rocks, mud and a long technical descent into Rosebery. The official West Coast MTB guide grades it intermediate with difficult sections, making it best suited to confident and experienced riders. The ride begins around 300 m west of the Anthony Road junction on the Murchison Highway, south of Tullah. From here, riders climb gradually through button grass and forest before the route becomes steeper and more rugged on its way towards Sterling Saddle. The full climb gains roughly 320 m, with slippery logs, rocks and sections where even capable riders may find themselves off the bike. Once over Sterling Saddle, the character changes dramatically. The trail drops towards Rosebery through dense, atmospheric rainforest on technical natural singletrack, with slippery roots, rocks, steep sections and potentially deep mud. As the descent continues it becomes faster and more flowing, delivering a brilliant finish through the forest towards Rosebery. Discover Tasmania specifically highlights Sterling Valley as a technical ride for experienced mountain bikers. Sterling Valley also has strong links to Tasmania’s MTB history, having featured in the legendary Wildside MTB event. Unlike the newer purpose-built networks at nearby Zeehan and Queenstown, this route retains its raw adventure character. Maintenance is a collaborative effort involving Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, West Coast MTB Club and West Coast Council. RTS Tip: Sterling Valley is a ride to prepare for, not simply turn up and explore. The official point-to-point route takes around 1.5–2 hours, but allow extra time for wet conditions, fallen trees or technical sections. A shuttle or vehicle at Rosebery makes logistics much easier; otherwise you'll need to factor in the road return. Download the route offline, carry tools, food, water and wet-weather gear, and let someone know your plans. Tasmania’s West Coast weather can turn quickly, and this trail is renowned for being wet, muddy, slippery and remote even when conditions elsewhere seem good.