West MacDonnell Backroads

West MacDonnell Backroads – Red Centre Gravel Cycling The West MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs offer an incredible backdrop for gravel and adventure cycling, with desert roads, remote backcountry tracks and huge Central Australian landscapes creating a riding experience unlike almost anywhere else in Australia. Known as Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, the ranges stretch west from Alice Springs through ancient rocky country dotted with spectacular gorges, waterholes and towering red escarpments. For cyclists, the adventure isn't about one defined gravel route. Instead, the wider West MacDonnell and Red Centre backroads provide opportunities to link quiet roads, dirt tracks and remote outback routes into anything from a day ride to a serious multi-day bikepacking journey. Close to Alice Springs, riders can start with the dedicated Simpsons Gap Bicycle Path, a sealed off-road cycling route running approximately 17km from near Flynn's Grave to Simpsons Gap. From there, experienced adventure riders can look further afield towards the network of roads and permitted tracks surrounding the ranges. For those chasing something much bigger, the wider Red Centre also forms part of established long-distance bikepacking routes combining gravel roads, 4WD tracks, sandy riverbeds and remote outback riding. The landscape is the real highlight. Expect red quartzite ranges rising sharply from the desert, river red gums lining normally dry creek beds, huge skies and some spectacular Central Australian sunsets. This is also Arrernte Country, and riders should respect the cultural significance of the landscape, follow access requirements and stay on roads and tracks where cycling is permitted. RTS Tip: Don't assume every track shown on a map through the West MacDonnell Ranges is open to bikes. Some routes are walking-only, culturally sensitive, restricted or require permits. Remote Central Australian riding also requires serious preparation. Water can be extremely limited, mobile reception is unreliable and temperatures can be extreme. Check current NT Parks, road, weather and access information, carry offline navigation and appropriate emergency communication, and plan water and resupply carefully. Ride The State will work on adding suitable West MacDonnell and Red Centre cycling routes as individual Ride Cards over time. Until then, use official access information and verified mapping when planning your adventure.