Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area

Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area MTB Trails Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area, just 4 km from central Launceston, is one of the city’s established mountain biking areas, offering a combination of purpose-built singletrack and a much larger network of shared-use tracks. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service lists more than 35 km of tracks and trails across the reserve, including around 7–8 km of purpose-built MTB singletrack developed in partnership with the Launceston Mountain Bike Club. The purpose-built singletrack stretches roughly from Gorge Road towards Hoo Hoo Hut, with interconnected loops allowing riders to put together different combinations rather than following one fixed circuit. The riding ranges from relatively approachable sections through to more technical terrain, with rocks, roots, tight corners, short steep climbs and natural obstacles adding plenty of challenge. Parks Tasmania describes Trevallyn as offering a mix of beginner and technical riding suitable for a range of abilities. Beyond the dedicated MTB trails, experienced riders can explore the reserve’s extensive multi-use tracks and fire trails, which considerably expand the amount of riding available. These routes tend to have a more natural character, with some short sections becoming steep, rocky and rooty, particularly compared with the purpose-built singletrack. The setting is a big part of Trevallyn’s appeal. The reserve covers around 440 hectares around the South Esk River and Lake Trevallyn, bordering Launceston’s famous Cataract Gorge. Dry open forest, rocky gorge country and riverside scenery give the network a surprisingly wild feel considering how close it is to the city. There are several useful starting points, including Apex Hut/Aquatic Point, Trevallyn Dam Picnic Area and Hoo Hoo Hut, with picnic tables, shelters, toilets and barbecues available at these main visitor nodes. The wider reserve is shared with walkers, runners and horse riders, so riders need to be particularly mindful when using the multi-use tracks. RTS Tip: Trevallyn is a great option if you want proper singletrack without travelling far from Launceston. Start with the purpose-built MTB loop to get a feel for the rocky, rooty terrain before exploring the more technical multi-use tracks. Download a map before riding, give way to walkers and horse riders on shared trails, and check current conditions before heading out. The trails are maintained with significant volunteer input from the Launceston Mountain Bike Club, so respect closures and avoid riding soft or damaged trails after bad weather.