York

York MTB Trails York, in Western Australia’s Avon Valley around 100 km east of Perth, has a long-standing mountain biking scene centred primarily around Wongborel / Mount Brown. The hill rises immediately beside the historic town and contains a network of natural cross-country and gravity trails, with rocky terrain, short steep climbs, technical descents and sweeping views across York and the surrounding farmland. York has hosted both XC and gravity-enduro racing, making it a popular regional riding destination. The riding on Wongborel / Mount Brown has developed organically over many years. Expect raw, natural singletrack rather than a manicured modern bike park, with loose rock, exposed features, tight turns and short, steep descents. The Shire’s trail planning documents identify numerous existing MTB trails across the reserve, while more recent regional planning recognises Mount Brown as a significant MTB-focused trail network. Gravity riders will find plenty to enjoy. Mount Brown has previously hosted WA Gravity Enduro and downhill racing, with events using multiple descending trails from the upper slopes. The descents are relatively short but technical, taking advantage of the hill’s rocky natural terrain and elevation before riders climb or pedal back towards the summit. For something much easier, York also has several recreational cycling routes around town. The Heron’s Highway offers loops from approximately 2.6 km to 7 km, combining dirt and gravel riverside tracks with quiet roads beside the Avon River. It’s rated easy and suitable for families, leisure cyclists and beginner mountain bikers, with views towards Walwaling / Mount Bakewell and Wongborel / Mount Brown. One important consideration is that the Mount Brown network is not a conventional formally graded trail centre. Shire documentation has previously noted that trails developed organically without formal grading, and current regional trail-tourism guidance describes the network as significant but officially unsanctioned. Riders should therefore approach the area as natural adventure riding, rather than expecting individually graded and maintained bike-park trails. RTS Tip: York is best suited to riders who enjoy raw, natural XC and gravity riding. If you’re heading onto Wongborel / Mount Brown, inspect unfamiliar features before committing and don’t rely on bike-park-style grading or signage. For families or newer riders, start with The Heron’s Highway beside the Avon River instead. York can get extremely hot in summer, so the cooler months — particularly winter and wildflower season from July to September — are a much better time to explore the trails.