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Gravel Riding Around Adelaide Adelaide is a brilliant base for gravel riding, with everything from relaxed urban trails and rolling vineyard country to challenging climbs and big days exploring the Adelaide Hills. From the city, riders can quickly escape onto a mix of gravel roads, shared trails, fire tracks and quieter back roads. Easier adventures can be found through the Adelaide Park Lands and surrounding suburbs, while riders looking for more climbing and adventure can head into the Mount Lofty Ranges and Adelaide Hills, where an extensive network of gravel roads and trails opens up plenty of possibilities. For a bigger challenge, routes around Cleland Conservation Park and sections of the iconic Mawson Trail take riders deeper into the hills, combining sustained climbing, changing surfaces and some spectacular South Australian scenery. One of the great things about gravel riding around Adelaide is the variety. You can squeeze in a shorter ride close to the city, build a full-day loop through the hills or use Adelaide as the starting point for a much bigger multi-day adventure. With city access, hills, vineyards, conservation parks and an enormous network of unsealed roads within reach, Adelaide offers plenty to explore — whether you're new to gravel or looking for your next big day on the bike. RTS Tip: Adelaide has a huge variety of gravel riding to explore, and Ride The State will be working to add the routes from this area as individual Ride Cards over time. Until then, check out the mapping link to browse the Ride with GPS collection and find a route that suits your distance, climbing and adventure level.

The Adelaide Super-Drome at State Sports Park in Gepps Cross is one of Australia’s premier indoor track cycling venues and a major hub for cycling in South Australia. The centrepiece is a 250m softwood track with steep 43-degree banking, built to full UCI standard and equipped for high-level competition and training. The Super-Drome is home to AusCycling SA and the Australian Cycling Team’s track program, while also hosting state, national and international-level racing. It’s not just for elite riders either, with AusCycling running public cycling sessions catering for different ages and skill levels. RTS Tip: This isn’t a velodrome where you can simply roll in and ride whenever you like. Check the current AusCycling SA track program for public sessions, training opportunities and events before visiting. If you’ve never ridden a steeply banked indoor velodrome before, an organised introductory session is the best way to experience the track safely.

The Darwin to Adelaide River Rail Trail is Australia's only long-distance rail trail that starts in a capital city, offering an unforgettable journey through the Northern Territory's tropical landscapes, railway history and remote Top End wilderness. Following the route of the historic North Australian Railway, the complete adventure stretches 137km, combining sealed shared paths, gravel rail corridor, quiet roads and remote backcountry riding. The ride begins in the heart of Darwin, where a high-quality 28km sealed shared path follows the original railway alignment to Coolalinga. Along the way you'll pass restored railway bridges, heritage-listed rail infrastructure, interpretive signage and the beautifully restored 700m section of original railway track at The Narrows, providing a fascinating glimpse into the Territory's railway past. Beyond Coolalinga, the trail becomes a true adventure. Riders travel through tropical savanna, creek crossings, rural landscapes and remote bushland as they follow sections of the original rail corridor towards Adelaide River. Historic railway bridges, embankments, culverts and relics from both the 1880s railway and World War II are scattered throughout the route, making it as much a history tour as a cycling adventure. While the urban section is suitable for most riders, the remote sections are unmaintained, with loose gravel, sandy patches, seasonal creek crossings and limited services. These sections are best suited to experienced riders on mountain bikes, bikepacking or adventure bikes who are well prepared with water, food, navigation and repair equipment. During the wet season (typically January to March), some sections may become impassable. Whether you're looking for a relaxed ride out of Darwin or tackling the full 137km Top End adventure, the Darwin to Adelaide River Rail Trail delivers a unique combination of tropical scenery, rich railway heritage and remote exploration unlike anywhere else in Australia. It's a bucket-list ride for history lovers, adventure cyclists and bikepackers alike.

The Amy Gillett Bikeway is a beautiful 23 km sealed rail trail through the Adelaide Hills, running from Oakbank to Birdwood via Woodside, Charleston and Mount Torrens. Following a former railway corridor, the route combines gentle gradients, rural scenery and charming Hills townships, with almost the entire journey on dedicated traffic-free shared paths. The trail is fully sealed and generally easy-going, making it a great option for families, beginners and recreational riders as well as touring, hybrid and mountain bikes. The route changes character as you travel, from open farmland and vineyards to shady railway cuttings, wooded corridors and elevated sections with views across the surrounding Adelaide Hills. There are plenty of reasons to make a day of the ride. Woodside offers cafés, bakeries and easy access to Melba's Chocolate Factory, while Charleston and Mount Torrens provide further opportunities to stop and explore. At the northern end, Birdwood is home to the National Motor Museum. Toilets and picnic facilities are available at several points along the route. The final 6 km Mount Torrens to Birdwood section adds a particularly scenic finish, descending through woodland, vineyards and grazing country alongside Angas Creek and crossing the restored heritage-listed Burford's Hill Railway Bridge. Named in honour of Australian cyclist Amy Gillett, the bikeway has become one of the Adelaide Hills' standout recreational cycling routes and is an excellent way to combine riding with the region's food, wine, history and country scenery. Distance: Approx. 23 km one way Surface: Sealed Difficulty: Easy Best for: Families, recreational riding, touring, hybrid & MTB Route: Oakbank – Woodside – Charleston – Mount Torrens – Birdwood Location: Adelaide Hills, SA

Anstey Hill Recreation Park brings a surprisingly varied MTB network to Adelaide’s north-eastern suburbs, with around 25km of shared-use trails and eight designated mountain bike routes ranging from easy through to advanced. Beginners can start on the short Little Quarry Loop, while intermediate riders can explore loops including Yellow-tail, Silver Mine, Wednesday, Bursaria and Pink Gum. For experienced riders, Grand Canyon Downhill and Wildside Downhill are dedicated one-way advanced descents, throwing in jumps, drop-offs, rock gardens, berms and technical singletrack. Add in old quarries, historic mine workings, native bushland and views across the Adelaide Plains and there’s plenty to explore without travelling far from the city. RTS Tip: Anstey Hill mixes shared-use trails, MTB-only descents and walking-only tracks, so check the park map and signage as you ride. If you’re chasing the technical stuff, work your way towards Grand Canyon and Wildside, while newer riders will find the Little Quarry Loop a much friendlier starting point. Avoid riding when trails are wet or muddy, and check park and fire closures before heading out.

Beacon Hill MTB Trails Beacon Hill on Sydney’s Northern Beaches is home to a well-established local mountain bike trail network, offering a mix of singletrack, technical features, rocky terrain and challenging descents tucked into the bushland around Beacon Hill and Oxford Falls. The network has developed into a popular riding spot for local mountain bikers, with trails ranging from easier lines through to more technical riding featuring rock rolls, drops, steep sections and natural trail features. It’s the kind of area where riders can link different trails together to create anything from a quick local lap to a longer session exploring the network. The rocky sandstone terrain gives Beacon Hill a distinctly Sydney mountain biking feel, with technical lines and natural features rewarding confident bike handling. Trailforks lists a substantial collection of individual trails in the Beacon Hill riding area, with options spanning different difficulty levels and riding styles. Its location on the Northern Beaches of Sydney also puts Beacon Hill within reach of other well-known MTB areas, making it easy to include as part of a bigger day exploring mountain bike trails around the Northern Beaches. Whether you’re searching for mountain biking in Beacon Hill, Northern Beaches MTB trails or mountain bike riding near Sydney, there’s plenty here for riders who enjoy natural, technical local trails. RTS Tip: Beacon Hill is a local trail network rather than a formal bike park, and individual trail access and conditions can change. Check current trail status and mapping before riding, respect closures and surrounding bushland, and ride within your ability — particularly on unfamiliar technical features.

Belair National Park brings mountain biking into the beautiful bushland of the Mount Lofty Ranges, just 25 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD. Riders can explore designated cycling and shared-use trails through woodland, valleys and historic sections of South Australia’s oldest national park. For an easier ride, the 4km Microcarpa Loop combines relatively gentle riding with some intermediate sections, while experienced riders can tackle the 13km Adventure Loop, featuring sustained climbing, steep fire roads and tight, technical singletrack descents. With picnic areas, toilets, a café and plenty to explore beyond the bike, Belair is an easy place to turn a ride into a full day out. RTS Tip: If it’s your first visit, start with Microcarpa Loop before stepping up to the Adventure Loop — the latter packs in considerably more climbing and technical terrain. Many of Belair’s trails are shared with walkers and horse riders, so watch your speed, follow the give-way rules and stick to designated cycling trails. Avoid riding in wet or muddy conditions to help protect the trails.

Bells Gully, also known as Prospect Hill, is a designated mountain bike network tucked among the pine plantations of Kuitpo Forest in the southern Adelaide Hills. The area is particularly popular with intermediate riders, with a collection of fun, flowing singletrack, cross-country trails and faster descending lines woven through the forest. Trails range from easier options through to blue, black and more technical lines, making Prospect Hill a great place to build skills and explore different trail combinations. A popular introduction is the roughly 7km Prospect Hill Loop, which links together intermediate singletrack for a good taste of what the network has to offer. RTS Tip: Navigation is worth having sorted before you start — the network isn't extensively signposted and forestry operations can occasionally affect trail access. Download or save the Trailforks map before your ride and check current trail reports and ForestrySA information for closures. The main MTB access is from the small car park on Brookman Connor Road opposite Gate BG9.

Brownhill Creek Recreation Park offers a scenic shared-use riding experience just 8km from Adelaide, following the narrow creek valley beneath huge river red gums and blue gum woodland. The main Shared Use Trail is around 3km one way and can be ridden by bikes, with a relatively gentle route through the heart of the park past historic sites including old manure pits, quarries and remnants of the area’s early market-gardening history. The park is culturally significant to the Kaurna people, who knew the area as Wirraparinga — meaning scrub and camping place. While the park itself offers a relatively short ride, it makes a useful gateway into Adelaide’s wider trail network. More adventurous riders can continue beyond Brownhill Creek towards Pony Ridge and Belair National Park, opening up longer rides with steeper climbs and more challenging terrain. RTS Tip: Stick to the designated Shared Use Trail, public roads and trails specifically open to bikes — the park’s dedicated walking trails aren’t open to mountain bikes. Brownhill Creek Recreation Park closes on Catastrophic Fire Danger days and may also close during Extreme Fire Danger, so check current park conditions before heading out during warmer weather.

Cleland National Park, just 22km south-east of Adelaide, offers a scenic network of mountain biking and shared-use trails through the Adelaide Hills, with native woodland, cool gullies and some brilliant views across the city and surrounding ranges. Rather than a purpose-built MTB park, Cleland is about linking established trails and fire tracks into longer adventures. Popular riding options include the 4km Measdays Loop, 7km return Steub Trail, 12km one-way Chambers Gully to Crafers Link and the more challenging 10km Wine Shanty Trail. With everything from gentler fire-road riding to steeper intermediate climbs and descents, it’s a great place to build a bigger exploratory ride around Mount Lofty and Crafers. RTS Tip: For a bigger ride, use the Chambers Gully to Crafers Link and add the Steub Trail spur up to Mount Lofty Summit for another 2.6km. Many trails are shared with walkers, so keep your speed under control and give way appropriately. Download the park bike map before setting off as mobile reception can be patchy, and check current park alerts — Cleland can close during high fire danger and has some scheduled closures during 2026–27.

The Coast Park Path Rail Trail is a fantastic 25km coastal cycling route through Adelaide, combining sections of historic railway corridors with some of the city’s best beachfront riding between Woodville, Grange, Glenelg and Marino. The route is made up of three distinct sections. From Woodville to Grange, riders follow a railside path alongside the operational Grange railway line and the route of the former Grange Tramway. From Grange, the ride hits the coast and follows the beachfront south through some of Adelaide’s most popular seaside suburbs towards Henley Beach and Glenelg. From Glenelg, the trail continues south towards Brighton and Marino, following sections associated with the former Glenelg to Marino railway. Expect long stretches of ocean views, sandy beaches, jetties and plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee, food or a swim along the way. The trail is mostly flat and sealed with concrete or paving, making it an excellent option for families, recreational cyclists, e-bikes and riders looking for an easy coastal day out. Ride the full 25km point-to-point, choose a shorter beachfront section or turn around whenever you’ve had enough. It also connects beautifully into Adelaide’s wider cycling network. Riders can link with the River Torrens Linear Park Trail, Mike Turtur Bikeway, Outer Harbor Greenway and Coast to Vines Rail Trail, opening up plenty of possibilities for longer rides and loops. The bigger Adelaide Coast Park vision stretches approximately 70km along the metropolitan coastline from North Haven towards Sellicks Beach, with much of that wider coastal route already available. The 25km Woodville–Marino section highlighted here is the portion Rail Trails Australia specifically identifies for its railway heritage. Whether you're searching for Adelaide rail trails, cycling along Adelaide beaches, family-friendly bike rides in Adelaide or easy cycling trails in South Australia, the Coast Park Path is a brilliant way to explore the city on two wheels. RTS Tip: This is a popular shared path, particularly around Henley Beach, Glenelg and Brighton, so expect plenty of walkers, runners and families during busy periods. Slow down through crowded beachfront precincts, give way appropriately and allow some extra time for stops — this is definitely a ride where there’s no need to rush.

Coast to Vines Rail Trail – Adelaide to McLaren Vale & Willunga The Coast to Vines Rail Trail is one of South Australia’s standout cycling experiences, taking riders from Adelaide’s southern coastline through rolling countryside and into the famous vineyards of McLaren Vale and Willunga. Running for around 37km from Marino Rocks to Willunga, the trail follows sections of the former railway line that once connected Adelaide with the Southern Vales. The route is predominantly sealed and follows gentle railway gradients, making it suitable for recreational cyclists, families, e-bikes and touring riders, while still being long enough to create a fantastic day on the bike. Starting near the coast at Coast to Vines Marino Trailhead, riders initially enjoy views across Adelaide’s coastline before heading inland through Hallett Cove, Old Reynella, Hackham and Noarlunga. Shady railway cuttings, historic bridges and sections of the original railway formation provide reminders of the route’s past along the way. As the suburbs disappear, the landscape opens into farmland and rolling hills on the approach to McLaren Vale. Vineyards begin to dominate the scenery, with cafés, restaurants, cellar doors and local produce making this a ride where taking your time is definitely part of the experience. The final 8km from McLaren Vale to Willunga is known as the Shiraz Trail, following a gentle climb through the Southern Vales wine region before finishing near the historic Willunga township. There are plenty of ways to ride it. Tackle the full 37km point-to-point, ride a shorter section around McLaren Vale, or turn it into a roughly 74km return adventure. The trail also connects with the Southern Vales Loop, opening up even more cycling around Willunga, Aldinga and the surrounding wine country. Whether you're searching for Adelaide rail trails, cycling in McLaren Vale, bike rides near Adelaide, family-friendly cycling in South Australia or cycling trails through the Fleurieu Peninsula, the Coast to Vines Rail Trail is an absolute beauty. RTS Tip: Allow extra time for this one. Between the coastal views, historic towns, cafés and McLaren Vale wine country, there are plenty of reasons to stop along the way. The trail is shared with walkers and other users, so keep speeds appropriate, particularly through busier sections. If you don't want to tackle the whole trail, choose one of the individual sections and make a day of exploring the area by bike.

Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, around 20km north of Adelaide between Golden Grove and Salisbury, is a fantastic urban MTB playground with more than 20km of shared-use and purpose-built riding trails. The network is particularly good for beginner and intermediate riders, with progression options including the Beginners’ Circuit, Easy Does It and KAFNARFA Circuit, before stepping up to longer rides such as the 3km Ruins Loop, 3km Babbler Loop and 4km Valley Circuit. More experienced riders can seek out Short and Sweet, a 1.7km trail packed with technical features, while Pedler’s Paddock adds a pump track and jump lines for riders wanting to practise their skills. RTS Tip: Cobbler Creek is made for mixing and matching trails, so don’t feel tied to one designated loop — use the connector tracks to build a ride that suits your ability and time. Families and newer riders should start around Pedler’s Paddock and the Smith Road picnic area, while more confident riders can head deeper into the park. Many trails are shared with walkers, so give way appropriately, avoid riding when trails are wet or muddy and check fire conditions before visiting.

The Copper Rail Trail is a rugged 39km rail trail from Port Wakefield to Halbury across South Australia’s Wakefield Plains. Following the former railway corridor, the trail passes through open grain country, pockets of revegetated native bush and historic railway sites on its way through Bowmans, Balaklava and Halbury. Unlike the sealed Copper Coast Rail Trail, this is very much an adventure-style route, with surfaces ranging from compacted earth and coarse gravel to loose rubble and sandy sections. The first 25km runs from Port Wakefield through Bowmans to Balaklava, before continuing for around 11km along the Shamus Liptrot Rail Trail to Halbury. From there, adventurous riders can follow a signed back-road route towards Leasingham and connect with the Riesling and Rattler Trails, creating the potential for a much bigger multi-day gravel journey. RTS Tip: This isn’t your typical smooth rail trail — a mountain bike or gravel bike with wider tyres is the best choice, and expect loose gravel, sand and rough sections along the way. There are no facilities between Port Wakefield and Balaklava, so carry plenty of water, food, tools and spares. For a shorter ride, tackle one section at a time, or link it with the Shamus Liptrot Trail for a bigger adventure through the Wakefield Plains.

Eagle Mountain Bike Park, just 12km south-east of Adelaide’s CBD at Leawood Gardens, is one of South Australia’s best-known purpose-built MTB destinations. The park offers approximately 21km of cross-country trails catering for a range of abilities, alongside a dedicated downhill trail, skills development area, jumps park and trials zone. The network ranges from intermediate trails such as Fledgling, Hawkeye, North Face, Southside, Top Deck, Valley Trail and Blue Gums, through to more demanding technical options including Get Pitted, Hills Hoist, Jammin and Sunset Boulevard. Advanced riders can also tackle extreme-rated lines including The Mixer, Eagle 4X and On the Verge, making Eagle a compact but seriously varied place to ride within easy reach of the city. RTS Tip: Eagle’s rocky terrain can be tougher than the distances suggest, so use the easier trails and Pump and Skills Zone to warm up before progressing onto the harder lines. The park is open sunrise to sunset and closes during Total Fire Bans and catastrophic fire danger, so check conditions before heading out. Parking and toilets are available, but take your own drinking water and plenty of spares — Eagle’s rocks can be pretty unforgiving on tyres.

The Eudunda Hampden Rail Trail is a newly completed 5km shared trail following the former railway corridor from Eudunda to the tiny settlement of Hampden in South Australia’s Mid North. Officially opened in April 2026, the trail has a smooth fine-gravel surface and follows a steady, gentle climb out of Eudunda through historic railway cuttings, pine-lined embankments and open farmland. Along the way you’ll pass the former Eudunda Railway Station, silo art, old railway infrastructure and Centenary Gardens, before reaching Hampden. The easy gradients make it a great option for families and newer riders, while its connection to the 300km Lavender Cycling Trail between Murray Bridge and Clare gives longer-distance riders plenty of scope to keep exploring. RTS Tip: Ride Eudunda to Hampden first and enjoy the easy downhill roll on the way back. Eudunda is the best place to start, with parking, toilets, picnic facilities, cafés, a bakery and supermarket nearby, while there are no facilities at Hampden. If 10km return isn’t enough, continue from Hampden onto the Lavender Cycling Trail or one of the local gravel loops for a much bigger day out.

Fox Creek Bike Park, at Cudlee Creek in the Adelaide Hills, is one of South Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations, with more than 50km of singletrack spread across over 800 hectares. The huge network caters for everyone from beginners through to experienced gravity riders, combining cross-country, flow, downhill and technical trails with 180m of vertical elevation, plus a dedicated jumps park and skills area. Trails range from the beginner-friendly Green Goblin Guts and flowing Blue Groove through to black and double-black gravity runs including Fox Long, Patterson’s Curse, F.A.M.E. and Fox Fast. There’s even adaptive riding, with Allen’s Orange Whip recognised as South Australia’s first adaptive MTB flow trail. Entry to the park is free. RTS Tip: Start from the main Trail Hub and use the easier flow trails and skills area to get a feel for Fox Creek before progressing onto the harder gravity lines. Download Trailforks and check the live trail status before heading out, as individual trails can close for maintenance or forestry operations. The park also closes on Total Fire Ban days, and riders should avoid the trails when they're wet or muddy.

The Gawler Greenway is a developing railside cycling route following Adelaide’s operational Gawler railway line north from the CBD. The main completed section currently runs around 14km from the Adelaide Parklands to Dry Creek, combining sealed shared paths with a handful of quiet-road and on-road connections. It passes through inner-city neighbourhoods, former railway areas, industrial precincts and wetlands, while connecting riders with other major routes including the Dry Creek Trail, Port River Bikeway and Tapa Martinthi Yala. The long-term vision is a continuous 45km greenway from Adelaide to Gawler, with several additional sections further north already completed but not yet fully connected. RTS Tip: Don’t expect a continuous Adelaide-to-Gawler rail trail just yet. The main Greenway currently finishes at Salisbury Highway near Dry Creek, although you can use connecting paths to continue north via Tapa Martinthi Yala and the Stuart O’Grady Bikeway, or pick up separate railside sections around Mawson Lakes and Parafield. Having a map handy is worthwhile, as a few sections around the Islington railyards use less-obvious on-road connections.

The Kangarilla MTB Tracks, south of Adelaide in South Australia’s southern Mount Lofty Ranges, offer a collection of informal-style mountain bike, gravel and multi-use trails around Kangarilla. Riders can explore a mixture of dirt and gravel roads, fire tracks and bush trails through rolling countryside, with connections towards the wider Kuitpo Forest, Mount Bold and Tom Roberts Trail areas. The terrain varies from relatively easy gravel riding to steeper and rougher off-road sections, making Kangarilla a useful starting point for riders wanting to piece together a longer MTB or gravel adventure through the Adelaide Hills. The broader Kangarilla trail network includes routes suitable for mountain bikes, e-bikes and gravel bikes, while the nearby Tom Roberts Trail network also permits cycling on sections depending on terrain. RTS Tip: Kangarilla is more of an explore-and-link riding area than a formal signed MTB park, so having a current trail map or downloaded route makes a big difference. Check exactly where cycling is permitted before linking trails towards Mount Bold, Kuitpo or surrounding reserves, and be prepared for changing surfaces and some surprisingly steep sections. For a shorter skills session, Kangarilla Recreation Ground also has a small set of beginner-friendly rolling bike jumps.

The Kapunda Rail Trail is a short, easy cycling and walking trail through the historic copper-mining town of Kapunda, around 78 km north of Adelaide in South Australia. The approximately 1–1.5 km shared trail, also known locally as The Swann Path, follows part of Kapunda’s former railway corridor from around Davidson Reserve and Coghill Street. Along the way, riders pass heritage streetscapes, interpretive signage and reminders of the town’s industrial past, including the Old Pump House, making it a relaxed ride that combines cycling with some of Kapunda’s fascinating railway and copper-mining history. While the existing Kapunda Rail Trail is short, the town is an excellent cycling base for exploring the wider Barossa and Light Country region. Kapunda sits at the northern end of the long-distance Kidman Trail, while the Mawson Trail also passes through the area, providing opportunities to incorporate the rail trail into a much longer gravel, touring or bikepacking adventure. Plans have also been developed for cycling connections between Kapunda and the wider Barossa trail network. RTS Tip: Don’t come to Kapunda expecting a long standalone rail-trail ride — this one is best combined with exploring the town’s heritage sites or incorporated into a bigger cycling route. Take time to read the interpretive signs along The Swann Path, then consider adding the Kapunda Mine Site, Kidman Trail or surrounding Light Country gravel roads to turn a short rail-trail visit into a bigger day on the bike.

The Kersbrook MTB Trails, around 40 km north-east of Adelaide in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia, offer a rugged network of mountain bike trails within Mount Gawler Forest Reserve near Kersbrook. Managed on ForestrySA land and supported by the local Kersbrook Trail Krew, the area is known for its more natural, gravity-focused style of riding, with singletrack, steep descents, technical rock sections, berms, drops and jump features alongside forest roads used for climbing and linking trails. Popular trails include Kersy Koasta, Senduro, Jumps Revamp, North of the Wall and Dead Man’s Climb, with options ranging from intermediate trail riding through to considerably more technical downhill terrain. Surrounded by pine plantation and native bushland, Kersbrook provides a distinctly different experience from the larger Fox Creek Bike Park nearby and is a great option for experienced riders wanting to explore more of the Adelaide Hills MTB scene. The wider Kersbrook area also contains shared-use forest trails and the Old Kersbrook Loop, a 7.5 km route through Mount Crawford Forest Reserve that is open to mountain bikers, providing additional options for riders looking for a less gravity-focused adventure. RTS Tip: Kersbrook has a rawer, more technical feel than a manicured bike park, so check the grading and features of each trail before committing — some lines include sizeable jumps, drops, gaps and rock gardens. Download a current trail map, check ForestrySA access conditions before travelling and remember that forest operations or fire restrictions can affect access.

Lynton Reserve, in Adelaide’s southern foothills near Belair and Windy Point, South Australia, offers a surprisingly varied mountain bike network only a short distance from the Adelaide CBD. Developed across former quarry land and Grey Box grassy woodland, the reserve features a mixture of MTB-only trails, shared-use trails, vehicle tracks and connecting singletrack, with steep terrain and excellent views across the Adelaide Plains. The riding ranges from easier links through to technical descending, rocky and loose sections and the Mitcham 4X Track, giving more experienced riders plenty to explore. One of Lynton’s strengths is its connection with the wider Mitcham foothills trail network. Riders can link Lynton Reserve with Sleeps Hill, Randell Park, Saddle Hill, O’Deas Reserve and Shepherds Hill, creating much longer MTB rides through Adelaide’s southern suburbs. The area is also accessible by train, making it an unusually convenient option for riders looking for mountain biking close to Adelaide without needing to travel deep into the Adelaide Hills. RTS Tip: Lynton packs a lot of elevation and technical riding into a relatively small area, so check the trail grading rather than judging a trail by its length. Some tracks are designated for walkers only while others are MTB-only or shared, so follow the trail signage and current City of Mitcham map. The terrain can also become loose and rocky when dry and muddy after rain, so check conditions before riding.

The Marino Rocks Greenway Rail Trail is a 16 km sealed cycling route connecting the Adelaide CBD with Marino Rocks in South Australia’s southern suburbs. Following the active Adelaide–Seaford railway line, the greenway uses a combination of separated shared paths, quiet local streets and on-road cycling sections to provide an important commuter and recreational cycling connection between the city and coast. Starting from the Adelaide Parklands, the route travels south through areas including Goodwood, Clarence Park, Edwardstown, Oaklands Park, Brighton and Marino, finishing near Marino Rocks Railway Station. The smooth asphalt surface and generally gentle gradients make the Marino Rocks Greenway suitable for road bikes, hybrids, e-bikes, touring bikes and recreational cyclists. Along the way it intersects several of Adelaide’s major cycling routes, including the Mike Turtur Bikeway and Sturt Creek Linear Park Trail, with further connections towards the Patrick Jonker Veloway. Regular railway stations along the corridor also make it easy to create a one-way ride and catch an Adelaide Metro train back. One of the biggest reasons to ride the Marino Rocks Greenway is where it can take you next. At Marino Rocks it connects directly with the Coast to Vines Rail Trail, which continues south through Adelaide’s coastal suburbs towards McLaren Vale and Willunga. Riders can also divert towards the Coast Park Path for a seaside ride through Brighton and Glenelg, making the greenway a useful backbone for much longer Adelaide cycling adventures. RTS Tip: If you don’t want to ride the full return distance, use the Seaford railway line to your advantage — ride the 16 km from Adelaide to Marino Rocks and catch the train back, or take the train out and enjoy the ride towards the city. For a bigger day, continue from Marino Rocks onto the Coast to Vines Rail Trail. Be aware that this isn’t entirely an off-road rail trail; several sections use quiet streets and bike lanes, so follow the greenway signage carefully and take extra care at road crossings.

The Mawson Trail is one of Australia's most iconic bikepacking adventures, stretching almost 900 kilometres from the Adelaide Hills to the historic outback town of Blinman in the Flinders Ranges. Designed primarily for mountain bikes and sturdy adventure bikes, it weaves through forests, vineyards, farming country and rugged outback landscapes, delivering an unforgettable journey across the very best of South Australia. The route passes through many of South Australia's most recognised cycling destinations, including the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Bundaleer Forest, Melrose, Quorn and the spectacular Flinders Ranges. Along the way you'll encounter quiet back roads, forest fire trails, rocky four-wheel-drive tracks and remote station tracks, with scenery changing dramatically as you head north into the ancient red ranges. While many riders tackle the trail over 10–14 days, the Mawson Trail is also commonly ridden in sections, making it accessible for long weekends or shorter bikepacking adventures. Towns along the route provide plenty of accommodation, food and resupply options, while a number of local operators offer shuttle services and rider logistics. Melrose is a particularly popular base, with options including cycling-specific accommodation at Under the Mount and shuttle services from Beyond the Mount. The trail is well signposted with green and white Mawson Trail markers, but riders should still carry official maps or offline navigation. A good level of fitness, mechanical knowledge and self-sufficiency is recommended, particularly through the Flinders Ranges where water, phone reception and services become limited. Whether you're chasing the challenge of completing Australia's premier long-distance off-road trail or simply exploring one of its many incredible sections, the Mawson Trail is a true bucket-list ride that showcases the diversity and beauty of South Australia. Ride Highlights: Nearly 900 km of epic bikepacking from the Adelaide Hills to Blinman. Ride through the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Bundaleer Forest, Melrose and the Flinders Ranges. Mix of forest trails, gravel roads, station tracks and remote outback riding. Plenty of accommodation, food and resupply options along the route, with local shuttle operators available to assist with transport and section riding. Suitable for full end-to-end adventures or shorter sectional rides. One of Australia's premier long-distance mountain bike and adventure cycling experiences.

The Mike Turtur Bikeway is a popular 9 km sealed cycling route connecting the edge of Adelaide’s CBD with the beachside suburb of Glenelg. Following the Glenelg tram corridor, the bikeway provides a mostly separated and relatively flat ride through Adelaide’s inner suburbs, making it equally useful for commuters and riders looking for an easy way to pedal from the city to the coast. Starting at South Terrace and Peacock Road beside the Adelaide Parklands, the route follows the tram line through Goodwood, Glandore and Plympton before finishing at Brighton Road in Glenelg, just a short distance from Jetty Road and the beach. Most busy road crossings are controlled by traffic lights or overpasses, although riders should remain aware of pedestrians, tram crossings and several road intersections along the way. The bikeway is asphalt and concrete throughout and is suitable for recreational riders, families, touring and hybrid bikes and mountain bikes. It also connects with several other Adelaide cycling routes, including the Adelaide Parklands Trail, Sturt River Linear Park Trail, Coast Park Path and Westside Bikeway, making it easy to incorporate into a much longer loop or day of exploring by bike. The route follows a railway corridor dating back to 1873, which was later converted for electric tram operation. The bikeway itself opened in 2010 and is named after South Australian cycling identity Mike Turtur, Olympic and Commonwealth Games cyclist and long-time race director of the Tour Down Under. Distance: 9 km one way Surface: Asphalt & concrete Difficulty: Easy Best for: Recreational riding, commuting, families, touring & exploring Adelaide Route: Adelaide Parklands – Goodwood – Glandore – Plympton – Glenelg Location: Adelaide, SA Note: As of June 2026, construction associated with new tram and trail overpasses is affecting parts of the bikeway, with detours and further closures planned from August. Riders should check current trail conditions before setting out.

Morialta Conservation Park, at Woodforde in the Adelaide Hills foothills just 10 km east of Adelaide CBD, offers scenic mountain biking through rugged gorge country, native bushland and the steep hills surrounding Morialta Falls. Unlike a purpose-built MTB park, cycling at Morialta is restricted to designated vehicle tracks, which are shared with walkers and other park users. These tracks provide opportunities for cross-country and adventure-style riding, with sustained climbing, fast fire-road descents and impressive views across the park and towards Adelaide. Morialta is best known for its dramatic quartzite cliffs, waterfalls and deep wooded gorges, providing a spectacular backdrop for a ride close to the city. The wider park contains an extensive walking network around First, Second and Third Falls, although these walking trails should not be confused with the cycling routes — bikes are permitted only on the vehicle tracks specifically designated for riding. There are no MTB-only trails within Morialta Conservation Park. With toilets, picnic facilities and parking available within the park, Morialta can work well for riders looking to combine a shorter off-road ride with exploring one of Adelaide’s best-known conservation parks. It also sits within the broader Adelaide Hills cycling and mountain biking region, making it another option for riders searching for MTB and gravel-style riding close to Adelaide. RTS Tip: Download the Morialta Shared Use Trail Map before riding and pay close attention to signage. Many of Morialta’s best-known trails are walking-only, and mountain bikes are permitted only on designated vehicle tracks. These are shared trails, so control your speed, give way appropriately and avoid riding in wet or muddy conditions.

The Mount Barker District MTB Trails, in the Adelaide Hills around 35 km south-east of Adelaide, South Australia, provide a growing collection of mountain bike and cycling options around Mount Barker, Hahndorf and the surrounding district. One of the key purpose-built riding areas is Aston Hills Mountain Bike Park, featuring trails designed for a range of ages and abilities, including an easy climbing trail, flowing descents, a pump track and dedicated skills zone. Trails such as Aston Flow, Easy Climb and Lower Path make it particularly well suited to families, beginners and riders looking to practise their MTB skills. The wider Mount Barker district provides plenty of opportunities to extend the ride beyond the bike park. Riders can explore cycling connections around Laratinga Wetlands, the Mount Barker Linear Trail, Newenham Linear Park and the Mount Barker Rail Trail, creating longer recreational and mixed-surface rides through wetlands, farmland and the growing Adelaide Hills township. The Mount Barker Rail Trail also connects towards Laratinga Wetlands and the Summit Sport and Recreation Park, making it possible to combine several local cycling routes into one bigger outing. Nearby Hahndorf adds another MTB option at Tara-Illa Bike Park, which contains mountain bike and walking trails of varying difficulty. Combined with Mount Barker’s growing trail network, this makes the district a handy cycling base for riders wanting to explore more of the Adelaide Hills rather than visiting a single standalone bike park. RTS Tip: If you’re new to the Mount Barker MTB scene, start at Aston Hills Mountain Bike Park and use the Easy Climb, pump track and skills zone to warm up before exploring the flow trails. For more kilometres, link your ride into the Mount Barker Linear Trail and Laratinga Wetlands network. Download your route before setting out and pay attention to signage, as the wider district includes a mixture of MTB trails, shared paths and walking trails rather than one continuous mountain bike network.

The Mount Barker Rail Trail is an easy 5 km cycling and shared-use trail through Mount Barker and Littlehampton in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia, around 33 km south-east of Adelaide. Running alongside the historic railway corridor used by the SteamRanger Heritage Railway, the trail provides a mostly off-road connection from Childs Road in Littlehampton through Mount Barker to Bluestone Linear Park. The predominantly smooth, sealed surface and gentle gradients make it particularly suitable for families, beginner cyclists, e-bikes, hybrids and recreational riders, although there are a couple of short gravel sections along the way. Starting in Littlehampton, riders pass beneath the South Eastern Freeway before following the railway towards Mount Barker. The route travels beside Purtinga Wetlands, follows creek-side paths into the town centre and passes close to Mount Barker Railway Station and the SteamRanger depot. Continuing south, the trail crosses Alexandrina Road and Wellington Road before finishing at Bluestone Linear Park, where additional paths, playgrounds and picnic facilities provide an easy extension to the ride. One of the best features of the Mount Barker Rail Trail is the number of connecting cycling routes. A 2 km link leads to Laratinga Wetlands, while riders can continue another 3.5 km towards Summit Sport and Recreation Park. The Newenham Linear Park Trail adds another 3.6 km of riding along Western Flat Creek, making it easy to turn the relatively short rail trail into a much longer exploration of Mount Barker. More adventurous riders can also investigate connections north towards the Amy Gillett Bikeway at Oakbank. The railway itself dates back to 1884, when the line connected Adelaide with the railway towards Strathalbyn, Goolwa and Victor Harbor. Regular passenger services ended in 1984, but the corridor remains active today through the volunteer-run SteamRanger Heritage Railway, so riders may even have the bonus of seeing a historic steam or diesel train while exploring the trail. RTS Tip: The Mount Barker Rail Trail is only around 5 km on its own, so make the most of the excellent connecting paths. Add Laratinga Wetlands for an easy scenic detour or link into Newenham Linear Park and the Summit Sport and Recreation Park for more kilometres. There are several road crossings along the route, including busy Alexandrina and Wellington Roads, so use the designated crossings and take extra care with younger riders.

The Mount Gambier Rail Trail is a high-quality sealed cycling and shared-use trail running through the heart of Mount Gambier on South Australia’s Limestone Coast. The network covers approximately 10.5 km, following sections of the city’s former railway corridors from the eastern side of Mount Gambier through the CBD and historic Railway Lands before branching north towards Wandilo Road at Suttontown and west along the former Millicent railway towards Compton. Its smooth asphalt surface, gentle railway gradients and central location make it suitable for road bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, e-bikes, families and recreational cyclists. One of the highlights is riding directly through the Mount Gambier Railway Lands, where the former railway station and yards have been transformed into landscaped parklands while retaining pieces of the city’s railway history. Riders can see the restored station buildings, old signal box, railway turntable and remains of the former locomotive depot, with toilets, picnic facilities, shops and cafés all close to the trail. The central location makes the rail trail a particularly easy way to explore Mount Gambier by bike. The trail also provides convenient cycling connections to some of Mount Gambier’s best-known attractions. From the eastern end, riders can follow a sealed path for approximately 1.2 km to Umpherston Sinkhole, while other connections lead towards Blue Lake / Warwar, Cave Garden, Engelbrecht Cave, the Crater Lakes precinct and local BMX and pump tracks. This makes the Mount Gambier Rail Trail a great backbone for a longer sightseeing ride around the city rather than simply an out-and-back cycle. The railway corridor has an extensive history. The railway reached Mount Gambier in 1887, eventually connecting the city with Wolseley, Millicent and Beachport, while a separate connection to Heywood in Victoria opened in 1917. Passenger services to Adelaide ended in 1990 and the line officially closed in 1995, with sections of the former corridor subsequently transformed into the cycling and recreation trail used today. RTS Tip: Use the Rail Trail as your cycling highway through Mount Gambier rather than treating it as a standalone ride. Add the short connection to Umpherston Sinkhole, explore the Railway Lands and then link towards the Crater Lakes and Blue Lake / Warwar for a much bigger Mount Gambier cycling adventure. The trail itself is flat and approachable, but there are numerous road crossings — particularly around the CBD and Princes Highway — so slow down and take extra care at intersections.

Mt Osmond, only around 8 km south-east of the Adelaide CBD, offers steep and rocky mountain biking across the slopes of Mount Osmond Reserve, with connections into Cleland National Park, Chambers Gully and Eagle on the Hill. Rather than a purpose-built bike park, the area combines shared-use tracks, fire trails and designated MTB lines across Adelaide’s Hills Face. Expect sustained climbing, loose and rocky terrain, fast natural descents and some technical sections, all backed by impressive views across Adelaide and the plains towards the coast. One of the key routes through the area is the historic Old Bullock Track, which links Mount Osmond with Eagle on the Hill near Measday’s Lookout and provides access towards the wider Cleland trail network. The Mount Osmond Reserve tracks are officially classified as Grade 3 shared-use walking and cycling trails, with some sections becoming particularly steep and rocky. Riders can use the network to build larger loops incorporating nearby Chambers Gully, Wine Shanty Track and Cleland National Park, making Mt Osmond a useful gateway into a much bigger Adelaide Hills MTB adventure. For riders looking for more gravity-focused terrain, the wider Mt Osmond riding area also contains established MTB descents such as Bullock Track DH, a blue-rated downhill-only trail, and WC Downhill, which features jumps, drops, rock gardens and steep technical sections. These trails are a significant step up from the reserve’s easier shared-use riding and are better suited to confident mountain bikers with good technical skills. RTS Tip: Mt Osmond is a mixture of shared-use tracks, designated cycling routes and trails where cycling may not be permitted, so download a current map and follow local signage rather than assuming every visible singletrack is bike legal. Be prepared for steep climbing and loose rock, give walkers plenty of space on shared trails, and if you’re chasing a bigger ride, link Old Bullock Track into Chambers Gully and Cleland for a brilliant Adelaide Hills loop.

The O-Bahn Bikeway is a 16 km sealed shared path running from the Adelaide CBD through the River Torrens corridor to Modbury. Following Adelaide’s unique O-Bahn guided busway for much of its length, the trail combines riverside parklands, urban riding and one of the more unusual public transport systems you’ll encounter on two wheels. Starting near the eastern end of Grenfell Street, the route passes through the Adelaide Parklands before joining the River Torrens and following a scenic corridor through St Peters, Felixstow, Klemzig, Windsor Gardens and Paradise. Numerous bridges, underpasses and sections beside the river keep interaction with busy roads relatively low, although there are some short stretches on quiet suburban streets. One of the trail’s defining features is riding alongside the O-Bahn, a German-designed guided bus system where buses travel on dedicated concrete tracks at speeds of up to 90 km/h before being able to leave the guideway and continue on normal roads. The bikeway provides plenty of opportunities to watch the system in action while enjoying the surrounding linear parks and waterways. The route is predominantly asphalt and relatively easy riding, making it suitable for recreational riders, touring and hybrid bikes and mountain bikes. Family-friendly stops include parks and playgrounds along the Torrens, while the trail also passes close to Hope Valley Reservoir before finishing around Tea Tree Plaza in Modbury. For riders wanting to explore further, the O-Bahn Bikeway connects into Adelaide’s extensive cycling network, including the Adelaide Parklands Trail, City to Levels Bikeway and Dry Creek Trail, making it easy to incorporate into a longer loop or cross-city ride. Distance: 16 km one way Surface: Asphalt / sealed shared path Difficulty: Easy Best for: Recreational riding, commuting, touring, hybrid & MTB Route: Adelaide CBD – River Torrens – Paradise – Modbury Location: Adelaide, SA

The Outer Harbor Greenway Railside Trail is a 23 km cycling and shared-use route from the Adelaide Parklands to Outer Harbor, providing a valuable bike connection between central Adelaide, Bowden, Woodville, Port Adelaide, Semaphore and the Lefevre Peninsula. The route generally follows Adelaide’s operational Outer Harbor railway line, combining sealed shared paths with quiet suburban streets and short on-road sections. Its predominantly flat terrain makes it suitable for road bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, e-bikes, families and recreational cyclists. From the Adelaide Parklands, riders follow the River Torrens / Karrawirra Parri before heading through Bonython Park and alongside the railway through Bowden, Brompton and West Croydon towards Woodville Station. This first section is around 8 km and includes a combination of separated paths, quiet streets and grade-separated crossings of several major roads. From Woodville, the Greenway continues another 6 km towards the historic Port Adelaide precinct, passing through suburban streets and shared paths before entering the former Port Dock railway yards. This is a great section for riders interested in Adelaide’s transport history, passing close to the South Australian Aviation Museum, National Railway Museum and South Australian Maritime Museum before reaching the Port River waterfront. The final 9.5 km from Port Adelaide to Outer Harbor crosses the Port River via the historic Birkenhead Bridge, then follows the railway corridor north through the Lefevre Peninsula. The trail finishes near Lady Ruthven Reserve and the Outer Harbor Lookout, where riders can connect directly with the coastal cycling network. One of the best things about the Outer Harbor Greenway is its connections. At Woodville, riders can branch onto the Grange Greenway towards the coast, while around Semaphore and Outer Harbor there are connections with the Semaphore Rail Trail and Coast Park Path. The Coast Park connection opens up the possibility of continuing south along Adelaide’s coastline towards Grange, Henley Beach, Glenelg and beyond. RTS Tip: The Outer Harbor Greenway is ideal for a one-way ride using Adelaide’s train network. Ride the 23 km from Adelaide towards Outer Harbor, explore Port Adelaide and Semaphore along the way, then catch an Outer Harbor Line train back rather than retracing the entire route. It isn’t completely separated from traffic, so take care through the quiet-street sections and at road crossings. For a bigger adventure, continue from Outer Harbor onto the Coast Park Path and turn it into a much longer Adelaide coastal ride.

The Parafield Railside Trail is an easy 3 km sealed cycling and shared-use path in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, running alongside the Gawler railway line from Mawson Lakes Interchange to Parafield Railway Station. Around 15 km north of the Adelaide CBD, the trail is wide, predominantly flat and well sheltered by trees and shrubs, making it ideal for families, beginner cyclists, commuters, road bikes, hybrids and e-bikes. Starting at Mawson Lakes Interchange, the trail heads north beneath the road overpass, crosses a small creek and then follows a linear reserve between the railway and Parafield Airport. Trains regularly pass alongside the route, while aircraft movements at the airport add a little extra interest for younger riders. Around 300 metres from Mawson Lakes, a narrow footbridge provides access to Greenfields Railway Station, although riders will generally need to walk bikes across the bridge. At the northern end, the trail reaches Parafield Station and Kings Road. Riders can cross the railway here and follow a combination of cycle paths and quiet streets south to create an alternative return route to Mawson Lakes rather than simply retracing the same trail. The path also continues east from Parafield Station for around 500 metres alongside Kings Road towards Dakota Drive and the Parafield Airport precinct. Although short on its own, the Parafield Railside Trail is particularly useful as part of Adelaide’s wider northern cycling network. At Mawson Lakes it connects directly with the Dry Creek Trail, which provides more than 20 km of additional riding. From Parafield, quiet-street connections towards Salisbury can eventually link riders with the Penfield Railside Trail and Little Para River Trail, making it possible to build a much longer northern Adelaide cycling loop. RTS Tip: At only 3 km one way, Parafield is perfect for a short family ride or as a link in a bigger Adelaide cycling adventure. For more kilometres, connect to the Dry Creek Trail at Mawson Lakes or continue north towards Salisbury and the Penfield trail network. There are no facilities directly along the Parafield trail, but shops, cafés and services are readily available around Mawson Lakes. Both ends also have railway stations, making it easy to incorporate the trail into a bike-and-train trip.

The Penfield Railside Trail is an easy, mostly flat 7 km shared trail running from Salisbury to Edinburgh North, around 20 km north of Adelaide CBD. Following sections of the former Penfield railway corridor, the trail combines relaxed riding with an interesting glimpse into South Australia’s wartime and industrial history. The original Penfield branch line opened in 1941 to service the major munitions factories and defence facilities operating around Edinburgh during World War II. Today, riders can still spot remnants of the old railway infrastructure, including sections of the former corridor, ballast, culverts, warehouses and the remains of Penfield 3 Station. The route also passes alongside RAAF Base Edinburgh and through Adelaide’s northern defence and industrial precincts. The trail is predominantly sealed asphalt and shared path, making it suitable for recreational riders, families, commuters, touring bikes and mountain bikes. It begins near Salisbury Railway Station, providing convenient train access, and can also be linked with surrounding cycling routes for a longer ride through Adelaide’s northern suburbs. There are no shops, cafés or facilities directly along the trail, and signage is limited, so riders should be prepared to self-navigate. For those interested in railway or military history, nearby attractions include the Penfield Park miniature railway and National Military Vehicle Museum. Distance: Approx. 7 km one way Surface: Sealed / asphalt Difficulty: Easy Best for: Recreational riding, families, commuting & rail-trail exploring Start/Finish: Salisbury – Edinburgh North

The Pewsey Vale MTB Trails, between the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley in South Australia, offer an extensive network of natural mountain bike trails around Pewsey Vale and the Mount Crawford forest area. The network has around 68 mapped MTB trails covering roughly 50 km, ranging from easier green singletrack through blue intermediate riding to black and double-black terrain. Unlike a heavily developed bike park, Pewsey Vale has a distinctly natural, old-school trail feel, with rocky singletrack, forest tracks, technical features, jumps, drops and plenty of interconnected lines to explore. Popular trails include Poppin’ Pimples, Sack & Back, Bi-Way, The Gauntlet, Across the Vale, Flow On and Boulders Bypass. Easier trails such as Bi-Way and Flow On provide options for developing riders, while The Gauntlet introduces features including berms, rock gardens and bridge features. Poppin’ Pimples adds a more gravity-focused experience with old-school jumps and rock drops, while the wider network contains increasingly technical terrain for confident riders. Pewsey Vale is particularly suited to intermediate and advanced trail, XC and all-mountain riders who enjoy exploring a less formal trail network. The landscape mixes forest, open grassland and farmland, and its relatively remote setting gives the riding a very different feel from Adelaide’s more developed metropolitan MTB parks. Local riding groups describe Pewsey Vale as one of South Australia’s lesser-known MTB gems, with natural terrain and rocky features forming a big part of its character. The network also sits within a much larger riding region around Mount Crawford, making it possible to build substantial loops using singletrack, gravel roads and access trails. Routes through nearby Kaiserstuhl Native Forest Reserve can add around 20 km of riding and incorporate trails such as Retrenchment, Potty Mouth and Can of Rings. RTS Tip: Download a current trail map before heading to Pewsey Vale — the large number of intersecting natural trails can make navigation surprisingly tricky on a first visit. Start with the green and blue trails to get a feel for the terrain before moving onto the harder rocky lines, and inspect unfamiliar jumps and drops before committing. The area is forest land and conditions or access can change, so check current trail reports before travelling and be self-sufficient with water, food, tools and spares.

Randell Park, in Belair in Adelaide’s southern foothills, is one of four official trail zones within the City of Mitcham’s off-road cycling and walking network. Located west of Old Belair Road and north of Sheoak Road, the reserve covers around 47 hectares of bushland and contains approximately 9 km of shared-use and mountain bike trails. The terrain ranges from easier flowing tracks to steep, technical descending, with rocky singletrack, old quarry workings, gullies, switchbacks and punchy climbs providing plenty of variety surprisingly close to the Adelaide CBD. The reserve’s history has helped shape the riding. Randell Park was previously used for quarrying and grazing, and riders still pass old quarry faces, exposed rock formations and remnants of the area’s industrial past. The landscape now includes pockets of Grey Box, Drooping Sheoak and Golden Wattle, with elevated sections providing impressive views across the Adelaide Plains towards the coast. Trail difficulty varies considerably across Randell Park, from green-rated riding through to highly technical double-black terrain. Recognised MTB lines include Randell Park Track 1, Randell X Over, Parkers Blue and Brown Hill Steep, with the latter delivering an extremely steep double-black descent. This makes Randell Park particularly useful for riders wanting a compact network where they can progress from easier shared trails into much more demanding technical riding. Randell Park can also form part of a much bigger Adelaide foothills MTB ride. The wider City of Mitcham network contains around 40 km of off-road trails across four trail zones, including nearby Lynton Reserve, Sleeps Hill, Ashby Reserve, Saddle Hill and O’Deas Reserve, with connections towards Shepherds Hill Recreation Park. RTS Tip: Don’t judge Randell Park by its relatively small size — some of the trails become very steep and technical very quickly. Check the trail grading at the trailhead and build up progressively before tackling the harder lines. Many trails are shared with walkers, so control your speed and give way appropriately. For a longer ride, link Randell Park with Lynton Reserve and the wider Mitcham trail network for a great Adelaide foothills MTB adventure.

The Renmark – Paringa Rail Trail is an easy 4 km sealed cycling and walking trail in South Australia’s Riverland, connecting the Murray River towns of Renmark and Paringa. Around 260 km north-east of Adelaide, the trail follows the former railway reserve and provides a largely off-road alternative to riding along the busy Sturt Highway. With a smooth hot-mix surface, gentle gradients and plenty to see along the way, it’s particularly well suited to families, beginner cyclists, e-bikes, hybrids, touring bikes and recreational riders. Starting near Darnley Taylor Park and Renmark Plaza, the trail follows the former railway corridor east towards the Murray River. Riders pass the site of the old Renmark railway station and freight yards, where an original railway crane remains, before crossing several historic railway bridges over the wetlands and waterways between Renmark and Paringa. There are also direct connections from the rail trail into the Renmark Riverfront Trail and Paringa Paddock MTB Trails, making it easy to turn the short rail trail into a longer Riverland cycling adventure. The highlight is crossing the historic Paringa Bridge over the Murray River. Built in 1927, the bridge originally carried both road vehicles and trains, with the railway running through its central corridor. That former railway section is now used as the cycle path, while road traffic travels on separate decks alongside it. The bridge still has its original lifting span, which operates daily to allow larger river vessels to pass. After crossing into Paringa, riders can detour to Bert Dix Memorial Park and Lock 5. The 6.7 km Lock 5 Loop Trail incorporates part of the former railway route before following the Murray River towards Lock 5, providing an excellent extension for riders wanting more distance. Alternatively, head into Paringa Paddock, where two main loops and several alternative trails provide easy, flat mountain biking through the Murray River floodplain. The railway itself was part of the historic Barmera line. Rail reached Paringa in 1913, but construction of the Murray River bridge was delayed by World War I, meaning trains did not reach Renmark until 1927. The line was extended to Barmera the following year before eventually closing west of Paringa in 1984, with the tracks removed by 1986. RTS Tip: At only 4 km one way, this is a great trail to combine with Renmark’s other cycling routes. Ride from Renmark across the Paringa Bridge, add the Lock 5 Loop or Paringa Paddock MTB trails, then return via the riverfront for a much bigger ride. Take particular care at the Sturt Highway crossings at either end of Paringa Bridge. The bridge lifting span currently operates daily at 9:30 am and 2:30 pm, so time your ride carefully — or stop at Bert Dix Memorial Park and watch the bridge lift.

The Semaphore Rail Trail is an easy 4.2 km sealed cycling and walking trail in Adelaide’s north-west, running from New Port through Semaphore to Semaphore Park. Around 16 km from the Adelaide CBD, the route follows parts of the former Semaphore railway corridor before reaching the coast and continuing alongside the operating Semaphore–Fort Glanville tourist railway. Mostly flat and well surfaced, it’s particularly suited to families, beginner riders, hybrids, e-bikes and recreational cyclists. Starting near Semaphore Road and Panama Drive at New Port, the trail heads west towards Glanville Station and then follows Semaphore Road through the heart of Semaphore. This section mixes shared path, marked bicycle facilities and a short on-road section before reaching Semaphore Beach and Jetty. Cafés, shops, playgrounds and facilities along Semaphore Road make this an easy ride to combine with a stop for lunch or coffee. From Semaphore Jetty, the ride turns south and becomes particularly scenic. A sealed railside path runs through the coastal parklands beside the Semaphore and Fort Glanville Tourist Railway, where riders may find themselves cycling alongside one of the little steam trains. The trail continues through the dunes past historic Fort Glanville before finishing at Semaphore Park, where there are toilets, picnic facilities and a playground. There’s plenty of railway history packed into the short route. The original Semaphore railway opened in 1878, connecting Port Adelaide with the new Semaphore jetty and helping move supplies towards nearby military installations. The line remained in service for a century before closing in 1978. Today, the wide median along Semaphore Road provides one of the clearest reminders of where the railway once ran. The trail really comes into its own when connected with Adelaide’s wider cycling network. Near Glanville it intersects the Outer Harbor Greenway, providing connections towards Port Adelaide, Adelaide CBD and Outer Harbor. At the coast, riders can also join the Coast Park Path, opening up much longer rides along Adelaide’s metropolitan coastline. RTS Tip: At only 4.2 km, Semaphore is perfect for a relaxed family ride, but it’s even better as part of a bigger loop. Combine the Outer Harbor Greenway, Semaphore Rail Trail and Coast Park Path for a longer adventure through Port Adelaide and along the coast. If riding with kids, the Semaphore Jetty to Semaphore Park section is a great choice — it’s flat, scenic and you might even get to ride alongside a steam train. Be aware that bikes aren't permitted on Semaphore Jetty itself, so park the bike and explore the jetty on foot.

The Shamus Liptrot Rail Trail is an easy 11 km cycling and walking trail between Balaklava and Halbury on South Australia’s Adelaide Plains, around 100 km north of Adelaide. Following a disused railway corridor through open farming country and established native vegetation, the trail has a generally fine-gravel surface and very gentle gradient, making it well suited to gravel bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, touring bikes and families. The trail was created in memory of Shamus Liptrot, a talented local junior cyclist from Halbury who died in 2011, several years after suffering serious injuries in a cycling accident. A memorial to Shamus can be found near the junction of the trail and Bridge Road, around 1 km from Balaklava. The former railway line itself dates back to 1876, with the Balaklava–Blyth line operating until its closure in 1988. Starting in Balaklava, riders can access the trail near War Memorial Drive and Railway Terrace before heading east. Early in the ride, the route crosses the Wakefield River via Dunn’s Bridge, an impressive single-span bowstring-arch bridge built in 1880 and heritage listed in 1995. Farther along, the trail passes through a well-vegetated railway corridor that provides welcome shade across what is otherwise largely open agricultural country. Around 7 km from Balaklava, riders can make a short detour to Devil’s Garden, a small area of mallee-box woodland with links to the region’s early transport history. Interpretive information tells the story of the sandhills, flooding, bullock teams and old corduroy roads that existed before the railway transformed transport across the Wakefield Plains. The trail finishes at Halbury, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the ride. A signed back-road cycling route continues across the range towards Leasingham, where riders can connect with the Riesling and Rattler Trails. In the opposite direction, the Shamus Liptrot Trail connects at Balaklava with the Copper Rail Trail towards Port Wakefield, creating the basis for a much longer gravel or bikepacking journey between the Clare Valley and Gulf St Vincent. RTS Tip: For an easy outing, ride Balaklava to Halbury and back for around 22 km. There’s a very gentle climb heading towards Halbury, which means the return to Balaklava is generally the easier direction. Stop at Dunn’s Bridge and Devil’s Garden along the way, and take care at the small creek bridge east of Balaklava — the crossing is narrow with an uneven surface and riders are advised to dismount. For a bigger adventure, continue from Halbury towards Leasingham and the Riesling Trail, or head west from Balaklava along the Copper Rail Trail.

Shepherds Hill MTB Trails Shepherds Hill Recreation Park, around 11 km south of Adelaide’s CBD, packs an impressive amount of mountain biking into a relatively small suburban park. There are around 16 km of MTB trails, ranging from family-friendly green loops through to short, punchy cross-country riding and intermediate downhill trails. Expect rocky Adelaide foothills terrain, loose surfaces, tight corners, short steep climbs and fast descents, all amongst remnant grey box woodland with views across the Adelaide Plains and coastline. The network is particularly good for skills progression. Easier shared-use options include the River Red Gum Loop, Seaview Loop and Grey Box Loop, while riders wanting more challenge can tackle the Diagonal Ascent before dropping into the dedicated Intermediate Downhill. The official park map clearly separates shared-use trails from the dedicated MTB descent, making it easy to put together several different loops. At the Ayliffes Road entrance, riders will also find two excellent skills areas. The Kids Zone provides a safe, easy dirt area where younger and newer riders can practise bike handling, while The Bowl is a bikes-only pump and jump track with features suitable for different abilities. It makes Shepherds Hill especially good for families or riders wanting somewhere to session skills before heading onto the main trail network. Its location also makes Shepherds Hill part of a much bigger Adelaide foothills riding area. Nearby trail networks include Sturt Gorge/Craigburn Farm, Lynton Reserve, Randell Park and the wider City of Mitcham trails, giving experienced riders plenty of scope to incorporate Shepherds Hill into a longer MTB adventure. RTS Tip: Start at the Ayliffes Road trailhead with a few laps of the Kids Zone or The Bowl, then use the easier loops to warm up before tackling Diagonal Ascent and the Intermediate Downhill. Many of Shepherds Hill’s trails are shared with walkers, so keep speeds under control and give way appropriately. Also watch the Archery Club warning flags — there is no access through that area when the red flag is flying. The park closes on Catastrophic Fire Danger days and may also close on Extreme days, so check conditions before heading out.

The Smithfield Magazine Rail Trail, around 33 km north of Adelaide, is a short 3.5 km cycling and walking trail connecting Smithfield Interchange with the former Smithfield explosives magazine near Andrews Road. The route follows the alignment of the historic railway branch that once served the magazine, combining sealed shared path, quiet streets, a short on-road section and some unsealed trail near Smithfield Station. Its mostly flat terrain makes it suitable for families, recreational cyclists, hybrids, gravel bikes and mountain bikes. Starting at Smithfield Interchange, riders head south beside the Gawler railway corridor before reaching the wetlands of Playford Waters Park. From here the route heads west via Arcadia Drive and Davoren Road towards Stebonheath Park, which has toilets, picnic facilities, barbecues and a playground. The final section continues towards Magazine Place and Andrews Road, where two surviving magazine buildings can still be seen from outside the former site. The history behind this little trail is fascinating. The Smithfield Magazine was established during World War II in 1941 as a storage facility for munitions produced at the nearby Salisbury Explosives and Filling Factory. Around 95 widely separated buildings were constructed across the enormous site, many surrounded by earth mounds and blast-protection structures. A broad-gauge branch connected the complex with the main Gawler railway line, while an extensive narrow-gauge tramway moved explosives and materials between buildings within the magazine. The main railway connection was removed around 1967. Although short on its own, the trail is particularly useful because of its connections to Adelaide’s northern cycling network. From Andrews Road, riders can reach the Stuart O’Grady Bikeway in around 1.5 km, opening up riding towards Gawler or Adelaide. The Smith Creek Trail branches off near Stebonheath Park, while a roughly 4.3 km connecting route provides access towards the Penfield Railside Trail. RTS Tip: At only 3.5 km one way, Smithfield Magazine works best as part of a bigger ride. Combine it with the Smith Creek Trail, Penfield Railside Trail or Stuart O’Grady Bikeway to add plenty more kilometres. Near Smithfield Station the original rail alignment becomes gravel and then unformed, but you can avoid this section using Graeber Road and Iberia Drive for a fully formed alternative. Take extra care around Davoren Road and Peachey Road, particularly around school times when traffic can be considerably busier.

The Stockade Rail Trail, around 11 km north of Adelaide’s CBD, is a short 2.6 km cycling and walking trail between Pooraka and Walkley Heights/Northfield. Following part of the former Stockade railway reserve, the route passes through Unity Park, wetlands, mature eucalypts and the Dry Creek corridor before reaching the historic Stockade area near Yatala. The trail is mostly wide gravel with gentle gradients, making it suitable for mountain bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, families and beginner riders. Starting on the eastern side of Main North Road at Pooraka, the trail follows the clearly visible former railway corridor beneath rows of tall gums. It passes the Winds of Change sculptures before entering Unity Park, where riders can explore additional paths around the wetlands. The former Northfield Station site is particularly easy to spot today — it’s now occupied by the Cross Keys BMX track and Pooraka Skate Park. Beyond Northfield, the route becomes a little more adventurous. The original railway reserve is interrupted near Briens Road, requiring riders to briefly use the adjoining Dry Creek Trail before returning to the old railway formation. This section has looser gravel and a steep descent and climb, so it requires more care than the otherwise easy rail trail. The trail has an interesting history dating back to 1857, making its railway one of the oldest in South Australia. The Stockade branch originally carried stone from quarries associated with Yatala Labour Prison, before later carrying passengers. Stockade Station was eventually relocated and renamed Northfield, with passenger trains continuing until 1987 and freight movements serving the Gepps Cross livestock facilities until 1995. Despite its short length, Stockade is useful as part of a much bigger Adelaide ride. It connects directly with the Dry Creek Trail, which runs more than 20 km between the Tapa Martinthi Trail and Wynn Vale Dam, while the nearby Levels–City Bikeway provides an approximately 18 km connection towards central Adelaide. RTS Tip: At only 2.6 km, Stockade is best combined with the Dry Creek Trail and Levels–City Bikeway rather than ridden on its own. For families, the Pooraka–Unity Park section is the easiest option, with wetlands, toilets and picnic facilities nearby. Take extra care around the Briens Road detour, where the surface becomes loose and considerably steeper, and don’t expect extensive rail-trail signage — downloading the route before you ride will make navigation much easier.

Sturt Gorge Recreation Park MTB Trails, around 13–15 km south of Adelaide’s CBD, is one of the city’s standout mountain biking destinations, with more than 40 km of singletrack and shared-use trails spread through the gorge and the adjoining Craigburn Farm area. The riding ranges from easy family-friendly trails through to flowing intermediate singletrack and rocky, technical descents, all amongst grey box woodland, open grasslands, steep gullies and the rugged Sturt River valley. Entry to the park is free. Craigburn Farm is the main hub for purpose-built MTB riding. Easier options include Surf and Turf (1.2 km), Walk the Dog (1.8 km) and Lakeview (1.5 km), while intermediate riders have a great selection including Sidewinder (2.8 km), Gunners Run (3 km), Cow Bones Loop (2 km), Little River (1.5 km) and Horners Corners (2 km). Sidewinder contours along the hillside, while Gunners Run delivers flowing singletrack with plenty of variety and works well in either direction. For more technical riding, Sticks and Stones (1.5 km) features challenging rock gardens, while Craigberms (700 m) packs bermed corners and big dips into a short, fun descent. Longer intermediate adventures can incorporate de Rose Trail, Lomandra Trail, Wattle Trail, Spring Creek and Tapa Turrungka, with some steep climbs and more natural terrain as you move away from the central Craigburn Farm network. The River Trail provides a more adventurous way to explore the gorge, extending for around 8 km through the Sturt River valley and linking with other routes across the park. It includes steep sections and some walking-only portions, so riders need to pay attention to signage rather than assuming the entire trail is bike-accessible. Sturt Gorge is also geologically significant. The park protects Sturt Tillite, rock formed from glacial material around 800 million years ago, as well as nationally threatened grey box grassy woodland. This combination of natural history and surprisingly rugged terrain makes the park feel far removed from suburban Adelaide despite being only a short drive from the CBD. RTS Tip: For your first visit, start in Craigburn Farm and link Sidewinder, Gunners Run and Cow Bones Loop for a good taste of the network before progressing to Sticks and Stones or Craigberms. If you want a bigger adventure, use the connecting trails to explore deeper into Sturt Gorge — but download the official map first, as some routes contain walking-only sections. Many trails are shared with walkers and horse riders, and cyclists must give way. Avoid riding when trails are wet or muddy, and remember the park closes on Catastrophic Fire Danger days and may also close on Extreme days.

Tangari Park, also known as 80 Acres Park, in Woodcroft offers a fun local riding spot for BMX and bike riders in Adelaide’s southern suburbs. The park’s BMX-style dirt track features a series of rollers, berms and jumps that make it great for practising bike handling, pumping through features and building confidence. With open parkland surrounding the riding area, it’s an easy option for a quick session, younger riders developing their skills or anyone looking to squeeze some bike time into the day. RTS Tip: This is a great spot for sessioning rather than chasing kilometres. Start slowly to check the condition and shape of the jumps and rollers, particularly after rain, then build your speed as you become familiar with the lines.

Tara Illa MTB Trails is a small community-focused mountain bike park on the edge of Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills, just a short ride from the town’s main street. Built on a former landfill site, the network was designed by Destination Trails to provide an accessible place for locals, families and visiting riders to enjoy purpose-built mountain biking close to town. The network currently features three main trails: Round the Outside, a green easy descending trail; Climbing Trail, a green shared-use climbing route; and Blueberry Thrill, a blue flow trail offering a faster and more challenging descent. The trails were designed to IMBA standards, with the green options providing a good introduction for newer riders while Blueberry Thrill adds flow and progression for more confident riders. RTS Tip: Park at Blueberry Hill Lookout on Fairview Road and follow the short link trail into Tara Illa. The network is compact, so it’s perfect for a quick session or a few repeated laps, and its location close to Hahndorf makes it easy to combine your ride with a coffee, meal or wander through town afterwards. Be mindful that some access trails are shared with walkers and neighbouring Yantaringa Reserve includes sensitive Bush for Life vegetation.

The Westside Bikeway Rail Trail is a 9km sealed shared trail through Adelaide’s inner western and south-western suburbs, following much of the former railway corridor between Mile End and Morphettville. The flat, easy-going route passes through landscaped linear reserves, residential areas and pockets of shade, with remnants of the old railway still visible along the way, including the former Plympton railway station platform. The trail connects with the Sturt River Linear Park Trail and Mike Turtur Bikeway, allowing riders to continue through to Glenelg and the coast. Its sealed surface and gentle gradients make it well suited to recreational riders, families, commuters and anyone looking for an easy urban ride close to Adelaide. RTS Tip: Extend your ride onto the Mike Turtur Bikeway for an easy run through to Glenelg and the beach. There are several major road crossings along the Westside Bikeway, so take care through intersections and use the designated pedestrian and cycling crossings.

The Wool Rail Trail, near Blyth in South Australia’s Mid North, is an exciting new rail-trail project following the former railway corridor north of the town. The first completed section, known as the Dean Nicolle Eucalypt Walk, opened in August 2025 and currently provides 2.2 km of fine-gravel shared trail between Blyth and Poysden Road. Mostly flat and easy to ride, it’s ideal for families, beginner riders, gravel bikes, mountain bikes and hybrids. What makes this short section particularly special is the revegetation along the old railway corridor. More than 2,000 trees representing almost 300 species of eucalypts have been planted, with around 200 species identified by signs. Interpretive boards along the trail also tell the story of the former railway yards, surrounding farming country and the development of the Eucalypt Walk. The ride begins beside the Blyth BMX track, near the former Blyth railway station precinct. After around 200 m it joins the old railway embankment and continues north to Poysden Road. A seat around halfway provides views towards the Hummocks and Barunga Ranges, making this a pleasant little out-and-back of approximately 4.4 km. The corridor has a long railway history. The line reached Blyth in 1876 as part of South Australia’s narrow-gauge Port Wakefield railway system and was extended north to Gladstone in 1894. It was converted to broad gauge in 1927 before eventually closing in 1989, with the tracks removed soon afterwards. The exciting part is what could come next. The Wool Rail Trail is planned to eventually utilise the former railway corridor from Hoyleton through Blyth and Brinkworth to Yacka, potentially creating a trail of around 57 km. There are also longer-term possibilities of connecting south towards the Copper Rail Trail and into South Australia’s wider rail-trail network. Further development is already receiving funding, including works on the corridor between Alm Road and Klemm Road in the Brinkworth–Blyth area. RTS Tip: For now, treat the Wool Rail Trail as an easy 4.4 km return ride from Blyth, perfect for families or as a relaxed addition to a Clare Valley cycling trip. Take time to read the eucalypt and railway-history signs rather than rushing through — the revegetated corridor is really what makes this section unique. There are no facilities along the trail itself, but Blyth has a café and other services near the start. Keep an eye on this one too: if the proposed extensions are completed, the Wool Rail Trail could eventually become a significant 57 km Mid North cycling route.

Albany offers a diverse collection of mountain bike trails close to the city, with much of the riding centred around Albany Heritage Park and the slopes of Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide. Existing trails include the Pilot Trail, Clarence Downhill, Watertank Track, Pipeline Track and Adelaide Trail, providing everything from easier recreational riding through to technical downhill terrain. The 700m Clarence Downhill is a highlight for experienced riders, dropping around 76m through jumps, drops, rock features and wooden berms. The area is also undergoing a major trail redevelopment, with the broader Heritage Park project adding purpose-built green and blue MTB trails and improved connections between Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide. RTS Tip: Albany's trail network is changing as the new Heritage Park trails are progressively completed, so check current trail status before riding and follow any temporary closure signage. Once fully delivered, the upgraded network will make it even easier to link the two mountains and build a bigger ride directly from Albany.

Adelaide is a fantastic base for gravel riding, with an enormous variety of routes stretching from easy-going urban gravel through to challenging adventures deep into the Adelaide Hills. Close to the city, riders can explore the Adelaide Park Lands and surrounding trail networks before heading higher into the hills, where quiet back roads, gravel roads, fire trails and forest tracks create seemingly endless opportunities to put together an adventure. For riders looking for something more challenging, the riding around Cleland Conservation Park and the Adelaide Hills brings plenty of climbing into the mix, while sections of the iconic Mawson Trail provide opportunities to venture further afield and link Adelaide into much bigger gravel and bikepacking adventures. One of the best things about gravel riding around Adelaide is the sheer variety. You can head out for a shorter spin, build a solid day in the hills or use the city as the starting point for a much bigger adventure. With the hills sitting remarkably close to Adelaide, it doesn't take long to leave the city behind and find yourself surrounded by classic South Australian landscapes. RTS Tip: There are loads of individual gravel routes to discover around Adelaide, and Ride The State will be working on getting these added as individual Ride Cards over time. Until then, check out the mapping link to explore the Ride with GPS collection, choose a route that suits your distance and ability, and start planning your next Adelaide gravel adventure.

Barossa Rail Trail – Gawler to Angaston Explore one of South Australia's most famous regions by bike on the Barossa Rail Trail, a scenic 40km cycling and walking trail from Gawler to Angaston through the heart of the Barossa Valley. Following sections of the historic railway corridor, the trail links Gawler, Lyndoch, Rowland Flat, Tanunda, Nuriootpa and Angaston, creating a fantastic way to travel between some of the Barossa's best-known towns without simply jumping in the car. The fully sealed shared path winds through vineyards, rolling countryside and historic townships, with wineries, cafés, local produce, parks and attractions providing plenty of excuses to stop along the way. Whether you're chasing the full 40km journey or just looking for an easy section between towns, the route can be adapted to suit the day. Much of the trail follows relatively gentle terrain, making it a great option for recreational cyclists, families and e-bike riders, although there are some hillier sections as the trail moves through the southern Barossa. For a shorter ride, break the trail into sections such as Angaston to Nuriootpa (6km), Nuriootpa to Tanunda (7km), Tanunda to Lyndoch (14km), or Lyndoch to Gawler (13km). Or put them all together for a brilliant point-to-point Barossa cycling adventure. One of the best things about riding the Barossa Trail is how easy it is to turn the ride into a full day or weekend away. Stay in one of the towns, explore the surrounding gravel roads, visit local attractions and use the trail as the backbone for discovering more of the Barossa by bike. For riders searching for cycling in the Barossa Valley, bike trails near Adelaide or family-friendly cycling in South Australia, the Barossa Rail Trail is an easy one to put on the list. RTS Tip: You don't need to ride the entire 40km in one go. Choose a section between towns, organise a return shuttle or make the full trail part of a bigger Barossa cycling getaway. The trail is shared with walkers and other riders, so ride accordingly and allow plenty of time for stops along the way — this is definitely a ride where the journey is part of the experience.

Bennett’s MTB Tracks – Chain of Ponds Bennett’s MTB Tracks is a local mountain bike trail network at Chain of Ponds in South Australia, offering riders another place to explore off-road riding within easy reach of Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills. The trail area has a recognised MTB car park at Chain of Ponds. The network is best suited to riders looking for a more natural, local mountain biking experience, with bush trails and changing terrain rather than the highly developed feel of a major purpose-built bike park. Expect a mix of MTB singletrack, natural surfaces, climbs and descents, with opportunities to link different tracks together and explore the surrounding area. It’s a good option for riders who enjoy discovering smaller local trail networks and adding something different to their Adelaide mountain biking list. Its location around Chain of Ponds also puts riders within reach of the wider Adelaide Hills, where there are plenty more mountain bike, gravel and cycling adventures to combine into a bigger day or weekend on the bike. Whether you're searching for mountain biking in the Adelaide Hills, MTB trails near Adelaide or riding around Chain of Ponds, Bennett’s MTB Tracks is another local network worth discovering. RTS Tip: Bennett’s is a local trail network and detailed official information is limited, so check current mapping, access and trail conditions before heading out. Respect any signage or closures and ride within your ability on unfamiliar trails.

Edwardstown Velodrome, at the Edwardstown Soldiers’ Memorial Recreation Ground in South Plympton, is a classic 400m outdoor cycling track and an important part of Adelaide’s track cycling scene. The wide concrete track circles Edwardstown Oval and is home to South Coast Cycling, which runs junior and senior training, track racing and carnivals at the venue. Friday-night racing during the summer season caters for a range of ages and abilities, with everything from scratch races and handicaps to junior participation events, making Edwardstown a much more community-focused alternative to Adelaide’s indoor Super-Drome. RTS Tip: If you want to experience proper track riding here, check South Coast Cycling’s schedule before heading down. Organised training and racing require riders to follow the club’s track rules, and racing requires an appropriate AusCycling licence. Newer riders can work their way into the discipline through coached sessions, with club loan track bikes also available for some training sessions.

Hanson Reserve Velodrome in Woodville Gardens is a classic Adelaide outdoor cycling venue and home base for Port Adelaide Cycling Club track activities. The 404.48m velodrome was completely rebuilt and returned to service in 2019, with a new concrete track and specialist cycling surface, safety fencing and lighting for night training and racing. The venue hosts track training, motor-paced sessions and racing, while the adjoining clubrooms include toilets, showers and change facilities. When the track and oval aren’t booked for organised sport, the velodrome is also available for general community use, making it one of Adelaide’s more accessible places to experience outdoor track riding. RTS Tip: Before jumping onto the track, have a read of the Hanson Reserve Riding Etiquette — the venue has specific guidance around track entry, riding lines, overtaking and stopping. During organised Port Adelaide Cycling Club sessions, riders need to register and the club has exclusive use of the track, so check the schedule before heading down.

Kinchina Conservation Park, just west of Murray Bridge in South Australia’s Murraylands, offers an extensive network of mountain bike and shared-use trails through 414 hectares of native woodland, rocky gullies and distinctive granite outcrops. Around 70 km from Adelaide, the park is a great option for riders looking for accessible Murray Bridge mountain biking, with designated tracks that can be combined into a variety of loops. Key MTB routes include the 4.2 km Jailbreak Trail, 1.9 km Getaway Car Loop, 1.8 km Jailhouse Rocks Loop, 1.7 km Cemetery Trail and the more challenging 600 m Rocky Gully Link Trail. The wider network also connects with the Lavender Federation Trail, giving riders plenty of scope to extend their adventure. Another highlight is the 6.3 km Cypress Hill Trail, a multi-use green-grade mountain bike trail that winds through Callitris woodland on the northern side of Rocky Gully. Kinchina’s mixture of flowing tracks, rocky terrain, creek lines and natural bushland makes it suitable for everything from a shorter recreational ride to a longer cross-country MTB loop. Spring is an especially rewarding time to visit, when orchids, lilies and native wildflowers add even more colour to the landscape. RTS Tip: Kinchina is ideal for creating your own loop by linking several of the designated trails together. Most of the MTB routes are rated intermediate, while Rocky Gully Link is advanced, so check the park map and trail grading before setting out. Bikes must remain on formed designated tracks, and riders are asked to avoid the trails when they’re wet or muddy. The park can also close during Catastrophic Fire Danger and potentially on Extreme Fire Danger days, so check current park conditions during warmer weather.

Majors Road Pump Track at O’Halloran Hill in Adelaide, South Australia, is a purpose-built community cycling facility located alongside the Sam Willoughby International BMX Facility and the mountain bike trails of Glenthorne National Park–Ityamaiitpinna Yarta. The 220 m asphalt pump track is designed for riders of all abilities, with a continuous clockwise loop featuring rollers, berms, jumps and transfer lines. Long straights allow riders to build speed and rhythm, while the central features provide more advanced options for experienced BMX and mountain bike riders. Next door is the Sam Willoughby International BMX Facility, a competition-standard BMX racing venue with 5 m and 8 m start hills and a track designed to host state, national and international-level racing. It is home to The Cove and Happy Valley BMX Clubs; unlike the public pump track, the BMX race track is not open for unrestricted general public riding and requires an appropriate AusCycling licence and access during scheduled sessions. The location also makes Majors Road a great cycling hub for Adelaide’s southern suburbs, with the O’Halloran Hill mountain bike trails immediately nearby. Riders can use the pump track for a quick session or skills warm-up before heading out onto the surrounding MTB network. RTS Tip: The Majors Road Pump Track is the public riding option, so don’t confuse it with the international BMX race track next door. Practise pumping the rollers without pedalling and gradually work up to the faster and more technical transfer lines. If you want to ride the Sam Willoughby BMX track itself, check the facility calendar and participation requirements before visiting.

Nestled at the base of Mount Remarkable, Melrose is one of Australia's premier mountain biking destinations, boasting around 80 kilometres of purpose-built singletrack through spectacular South Australian landscapes. With flowing cross-country trails, technical descents, rocky challenges and breathtaking scenery, it's the kind of destination that keeps riders coming back. The trail network caters to a wide range of abilities, from beginners discovering mountain biking through to experienced riders looking for technical challenges. Popular trails including Greener Pastures, Hellrose, Throwing Copper, The Big Rhua and Dodging Bullets showcase the variety on offer, combining flowing singletrack, rocky terrain, rewarding climbs and exhilarating descents. Many of Melrose's trails traverse private property, generously made accessible by local landowners. Riders are asked to respect this access by staying on marked trails, following signage, helping prevent the spread of weeds and leaving dogs at home where required. One of Melrose's greatest strengths is the community built around its trails. Visitors can connect with the friendly locals from Bike Melrose through regular social rides, while Over The Edge Melrose offers bike hire, guided rides, skills coaching and maintenance support, making it easy for first-time visitors to get out and experience the network. Melrose is also incredibly easy to turn into a full riding getaway. Much of the town's accommodation is within riding distance of the trails, including Ride The State Foundation Partner Under the Mount, offering bike-friendly accommodation right at the foot of Mount Remarkable and an ideal base for exploring the area. Want to explore beyond what you can reach straight from town? Fellow RTS Partner Beyond the Mount can help with bike transport and shuttle options, including connections between Adelaide, Melrose and further north towards Blinman—particularly handy for riders incorporating Melrose into a bigger Flinders Ranges or Mawson Trail adventure. With trails on the doorstep, a passionate local riding community and plenty of bike-friendly places to stay, eat and explore, Melrose is much more than somewhere to squeeze in a ride. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, tackling the 18/6/3 Hours of Melrose or making it part of a longer South Australian riding road trip, it's a destination well worth putting on the list.

Mount Gambier, on South Australia’s Limestone Coast, offers a distinctive mountain biking experience built around the city’s extinct volcanic landscape. The main riding area is the Crater Lakes precinct, where trails weave around the volcanic craters, Valley Lake and the slopes below Centenary Tower. The official Mount Gambier Crater Lakes Trail is approximately 4.2 km, combining cycling and shared-use sections with narrow trail, climbing and spectacular viewpoints across the crater lakes and surrounding countryside. Riders can start from several locations including Mark’s Lookout, Lions Lookout and Potters Point Lookout, making it easy to incorporate the trail into a wider exploration of the Crater Lakes area. Beyond the main Crater Lakes Trail, Mount Gambier has a collection of local MTB singletrack and connecting trails around the surrounding slopes. Expect a mixture of flowing cross-country riding, pine and eucalypt forest, volcanic rock, technical sections and short but punchy climbs and descents rather than a large modern trail-centre network. Local riding includes trails around the Crater Lakes and surrounding areas, with routes such as Blue Gums Ride, Reverse Pines Loop and Wheel Nuts appearing within the wider Mount Gambier MTB network. The real attraction is the setting. Riders can pedal through an extinct volcanic landscape overlooking Blue Lake / Warwar, Valley Lake / Ketla Malpi and the Leg of Mutton Lake crater, with lookouts around the rim providing expansive views across Mount Gambier and, on clear days, towards the Southern Ocean. This makes Mount Gambier a worthwhile MTB stop for riders travelling through the Limestone Coast between Adelaide and Melbourne, particularly when combined with the region’s other cycling and outdoor attractions. RTS Tip: Mount Gambier’s trail network has undergone changes following bushfire damage and rehabilitation work in the Crater Lakes precinct, so check the latest City of Mount Gambier trail information before riding and don’t rely solely on older GPS routes. Stick to currently open and designated cycling trails, and allow some extra time to explore the lookouts around the Crater Lakes — the volcanic scenery is a huge part of what makes riding here different.

Mount Lofty, rising above Adelaide in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia, offers a fantastic mix of mountain biking, shared-use trails and challenging road cycling within and around Cleland National Park. Rather than being a single MTB park, Mount Lofty forms part of a much larger network of fire tracks and designated cycling trails connecting Crafers, Cleland Wildlife Park, Chambers Gully and Mount Lofty Summit. Riders can expect sustained climbing, fast fire-road descents, natural surfaces, creek crossings, stringybark and blue gum forest and spectacular views across Adelaide and the surrounding Mount Lofty Ranges. Popular MTB options include the Crafers to Mount Lofty Link Trail, Wine Shanty Trail, Chambers Gully to Crafers Link, Measdays Loop and Adventure Loop. The Steub Trail provides a gentler 7 km return route between Cleland Wildlife Park and Mount Lofty Summit, while the 12 km one-way Chambers Gully to Crafers Link can be extended with a 2.6 km spur to the summit. Riders looking for a longer adventure can combine several of these shared-use trails into a substantial loop through Cleland National Park. Mount Lofty is also one of Adelaide’s iconic road cycling climbs. The Old Freeway/Crafers Bikeway provides roughly 9 km of climbing from near the Glen Osmond Tollgate towards Crafers, with riders able to continue to Mount Lofty Summit. The surrounding Adelaide Hills roads then open up numerous longer cycling routes through Stirling, Uraidla, Basket Range and Mount George. RTS Tip: Mount Lofty is a shared-trail riding area, not an unrestricted MTB network. Bikes are permitted on public roads and specifically designated cycling and shared-use tracks within Cleland National Park, while many of the famous walking trails are not open to bikes. Download the current Cleland bike trail map before riding and pay attention to signage. If you’re heading for the summit, be prepared for plenty of climbing — but the views across Adelaide make a pretty good reward.

O’Halloran Hill MTB Trails, in Adelaide’s southern suburbs, is one of the city’s most accessible purpose-built mountain bike destinations, with around 18 km of dedicated MTB trails within the O’Halloran Hill section of Glenthorne National Park–Ityamaiitpinna Yarta. Around 18 km south of the Adelaide CBD, the network makes excellent use of the park’s steep gullies and hillsides, with trails ranging from easy beginner riding through to intermediate flow, technical cross-country and advanced gravity lines. Expect berms, rollers, jumps, rock features, tight switchbacks and fast descending, with dedicated climbing trails helping riders get back to the top for another lap. Beginners and families have plenty to explore, including Easy As, Upstart, Haarsma’s Vision, Sylvanian Families, Wiggles and Grom Flow. Easy As is a descending-only introduction to berms and rock features and pairs with the 1.95 km Upstart climbing trail to create an excellent progression loop. Grom Flow adds big berms and rollers for younger riders wanting to develop their skills. Intermediate riders can step things up on Dam Revamp, Flat Pedal City, Blue Luge, Uprising, Vincenzos Gulf, Winding Wraith, Frogger and Fifty Shades of Clay. Dam Revamp combines open flowing terrain with berms, jumps and multiple line choices, while Blue Luge delivers a faster descending experience with bermed corners and rock features. The 3.4 km Fifty Shades of Clay adds a longer cross-country option for riders wanting more pedaling between the gravity laps. Experienced riders can tackle Shapeshifter, Flight Club and Rock XCarving. Shapeshifter retains an old-school downhill character with hand-built features and rocky sections, while Flight Club is a very difficult bike-park-style descent featuring large berms, jumps, gaps and transitions. Rock XCarving provides advanced XC riding with steep and highly technical rock sections. RTS Tip: O’Halloran Hill is brilliant for progression riding — start with the Easy As/Upstart loop, move onto Blue Luge and Dam Revamp, then tackle the advanced lines once you’re comfortable with the terrain. Don’t confuse the MTB network with the flatter trails on the other side of Majors Road; the more challenging mountain biking is specifically within the O’Halloran Hill section of Glenthorne National Park. The park closes on Catastrophic Fire Danger days and may close on Extreme days, so check conditions before travelling and avoid riding wet or muddy trails.