Yarra Valley Gravel Network

Yarra Valley Gravel Network – Gravel Riding Near Melbourne The Yarra Valley and Yarra Ranges offer an incredible network of gravel roads, forest tracks and cycling trails, making the region one of the best places to explore by gravel bike within easy reach of Melbourne. Rather than one defined route, the Yarra Valley Gravel Network opens up a huge range of riding around Warburton, Yarra Junction, Seville, Healesville and the surrounding ranges. Expect plenty of variety. One ride might take you along smooth gravel through rolling farmland and vineyards, while another can disappear deep into towering mountain ash forest on remote backroads and fire trails. Add some proper climbing into the surrounding ranges and there's enough terrain here to create everything from an easy half-day spin to a seriously challenging gravel adventure. Warburton and the Upper Yarra are particularly good bases for exploring. The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail provides an accessible backbone through the valley, while the surrounding forest roads allow riders to branch off into much bigger and more adventurous loops. Head further into the ranges and the terrain becomes steeper and more remote, with gravel routes linking forests, small towns and mountain landscapes around places such as Mount Donna Buang, Healesville and Toolangi. For bikepackers, the network can become even bigger again. Long-distance routes such as the Great Forest Way demonstrate just how easily the gravel roads around the Yarra Valley and surrounding ranges can be linked into a genuine multi-day cycling adventure. Best of all, this huge variety of gravel riding sits remarkably close to Melbourne, making the Yarra Valley a brilliant option for a day trip, cycling weekend or longer gravel escape. RTS Tip: There isn't one single Yarra Valley gravel route — there's a whole network waiting to be explored. Ride The State will continue working on adding the best loops and gravel routes as individual Ride Cards over time. Until then, use the available mapping links to find a route that suits your distance, bike and ability. Forest roads can change considerably with weather, seasonal closures and maintenance, so check current access, fire and road conditions before setting out.