Find your next ride.

The Great Southern Rail Trail is one of Victoria’s great multi-day cycling adventures, stretching around 130km through South Gippsland from Nyora to Yarram, with additional branches to Port Welshpool and Port Albert. Following the former South Gippsland railway, the gentle multi-use trail links 14 towns including Loch, Korumburra, Leongatha, Koonwarra, Meeniyan, Fish Creek, Foster and Toora. Expect predominantly smooth compacted gravel, historic railway bridges and cuttings, rolling green farmland, temperate forest and spectacular views towards Wilson’s Promontory and Corner Inlet. With cafés, accommodation and country towns dotted along the route, you can tackle a short section, plan an overnight adventure or load up the bike and explore the entire trail over several days. RTS Tip: Don’t rush this one — the towns are a huge part of the Great Southern Rail Trail experience. Fish Creek, Meeniyan, Foster and Loch all make great places to stop, refuel or stay overnight. For an easier family ride, try the 8.2km Koonwarra to Meeniyan or 10.2km Foster to Toora sections. If you’re going long, pack layers, water, basic bike spares and offline navigation as mobile coverage can disappear in some sections.

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.

The Denmark–Nornalup Heritage Rail Trail is a scenic gravel adventure through Western Australia’s Great Southern, following sections of the historic railway between Denmark and Nornalup. Trails WA lists the route at around 68km one way, passing through tall forest, wetlands, farmland and coastal bushland, with historic railway remnants and four original timber rail bridges adding plenty of character along the way. The trail is rated moderate for mountain biking, with surfaces varying from good-quality compacted sections near Denmark to rougher, sandy and sometimes boggy terrain further west. It’s a beautiful ride for those who enjoy exploration, history and quieter back-country gravel rather than a perfectly groomed rail trail. RTS Tip: Don’t assume the full Denmark-to-Nornalup route is currently continuous. Trails WA notes a 14km section between Parker Road and Bow Bridge is not yet open, so plan your route carefully rather than relying on the rail corridor all the way through. For an easier introduction, the approximately 12km Denmark River mouth to Hay River section has some of the best-quality riding and lovely views around Wilson Inlet.

Foster MTB Park, tucked into Whipstick Gully Reserve on the edge of Foster in South Gippsland, offers around 7km of hand-built cross-country riding through lush native bushland and an area rich in old gold-mining history. The main loop is predominantly blue intermediate, mixing flowing singletrack with tight corners, short climbs, rocky sections, jumps and natural technical features. More experienced riders can branch onto the short black-rated Bruised Elbow and Gravel Pits trails for a tougher challenge. Maintained by the volunteer-run Prom Coast MTB Club, the network is compact enough for repeated laps while still packing plenty of variety into the ride. RTS Tip: Foster MTB Park connects directly with the Great Southern Rail Trail, so it’s easy to turn a short MTB session into a much bigger day on the bike. Ride the singletrack first, then jump onto the rail trail towards Fish Creek or Toora for some easier kilometres and brilliant South Gippsland scenery. Keep an eye out for historic mine workings around Whipstick Gully and check the Prom Coast MTB Club for local trail updates before riding.

The Torbay to Elleker Rail Trail, around 15 km west of Albany in Western Australia’s Great Southern, is an 8 km one-way cycling and walking trail following the former railway corridor between Torbay Community Hall and Elleker. The compacted-earth trail is mostly flat and easy-going, travelling through a surprisingly varied landscape of farmland, wetlands, karri forest and she-oak woodland. It’s particularly well suited to mountain bikes, gravel bikes and hybrids, and makes an approachable 16 km return ride. Starting at the historic Torbay Community Hall, built in 1912, the trail initially passes through low forest before opening into rolling agricultural country. One of the more unusual sights along the way is Wilsons Wrecking Yard, where hundreds of old cars, trucks, buses and pieces of farm machinery are scattered across the property beside the railway corridor. From here, the scenery changes again as the trail enters wetlands and increasingly lush forest on the approach to Elleker. The final section crosses Marbellup Brook before reaching parkland at Hassell Road in Elleker. The route is especially attractive during spring wildflower season, when the surrounding bush and wetlands put on plenty of colour. Elleker provides a convenient turnaround point, with toilets and refreshments available nearby. The trail is also significant for bikepackers because it forms part of the Munda Biddi Trail, Western Australia’s epic long-distance off-road cycling route. This makes the Torbay–Elleker section useful both as an easy standalone ride and as part of a much larger cycling adventure through the Great Southern. The railway corridor continues the story of the line that eventually connected Elleker, Torbay, Denmark and Nornalup. The first Elleker–Torbay section was constructed in the 1880s to support the region’s timber industry, with the railway later extended west. Today, another section of the same former corridor forms the Denmark–Nornalup Heritage Rail Trail. RTS Tip: For an easy ride, start at Torbay Hall and ride the full 8 km to Elleker, grab a drink or snack, then retrace your route for around 16 km total. The compacted-earth surface is generally straightforward, but sections are more like narrow natural singletrack than a wide manicured rail trail, so a gravel bike or MTB is ideal. If you’re visiting in September or spring, keep an eye out for the wildflowers — recent riders report this as one of the highlights of the trail.

The Forrest MTB Trails – Southern Network wraps around the township of Forrest in Victoria’s Otways, delivering a brilliant mix of flowing singletrack through tall eucalypt forest, fern-filled gullies and classic Victorian bush. Part of Forrest’s almost 100km, 36-trail MTB network, the Southern trails use a stacked-loop design, with easier trails close to the trailhead and increasingly challenging options as you venture further out. Start with green trails such as Roller Coaster, Forrest Loop and Stomp Wallaby, progress onto blue trails including Barlidjaru, Third Time Lucky and the Red Carpet sections, or tackle the difficult Follow the Dog and Miller’s Mongrel. A pump track, jump lines and dedicated skills park at the trailhead make this an especially good network for families, progression and mixed-ability groups. RTS Tip: Start at the Forrest Southern MTB Trailhead and use the skills park and Roller Coaster to warm up before heading deeper into the network. Don’t miss Red Carpet if you’re comfortable on blue trails, and adaptive riders have a particularly good selection here, with nine Southern trails built to adaptive-friendly guidelines. Drinking water, parking and accessible toilets are available at the trailhead, making this a great base for a full day of Forrest riding.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Northern NSW The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of NSW’s standout cycling experiences, transforming the former Casino to Murwillumbah railway corridor into a scenic shared trail through the lush landscapes, historic villages and rolling farmland of the Northern Rivers. When complete, the trail will stretch approximately 132km from Murwillumbah to Casino. As of 2026, two substantial sections are open, providing around 54km of rideable rail trail: Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek (24km) and the now-connected Casino to Lismore section (29.7km). The northern Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek section takes riders through Stokers Siding, Burringbar and Mooball, passing beautiful countryside, 18 historic railway bridges and two tunnels, including the atmospheric Burringbar Range Tunnel. The surface combines around 6km of sealed asphalt with 18km of compacted gravel, making it suitable for gravel bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes, e-bikes and most recreational riders. At the southern end, riders can now travel the full 29.7km between Casino and Lismore, passing through agricultural country, historic railway infrastructure and the impressive Naughtons Gap area. Surfaces vary between asphalt, crushed granite, compacted gravel and short concrete sections, with the former railway alignment keeping gradients generally gentle. One of the best things about the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is that it’s about far more than simply ticking off kilometres. The trail connects riders with small towns, cafés, local produce, accommodation and regional attractions, making it ideal for a relaxed day ride or as part of a longer cycling getaway. The ultimate vision is to connect the two open sections through Byron Shire and the remaining Lismore corridor, eventually creating one continuous 132km trail between Casino and Murwillumbah. Those missing sections are not currently open as rail trail, so riders shouldn't attempt to follow the undeveloped railway corridor between the two completed sections. For riders searching for Northern Rivers cycling, rail trails in NSW, Murwillumbah bike trails, Casino to Lismore cycling, family-friendly bike rides or cycling holidays in northern NSW, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is already a brilliant destination — and it will only get better as the remaining sections are developed. RTS Tip: With two separate sections currently open, plan your ride around either Murwillumbah–Crabbes Creek (24km) or Casino–Lismore (29.7km) rather than assuming the full 132km corridor is rideable. Both sections have plenty of reasons to stop along the way, so allow more time than the distance might suggest. Check current trail conditions before setting out, particularly after heavy rain or flooding.

Southern Districts BMX Raceway is a dedicated BMX racing facility in Medina, around 20 minutes south of Perth, and home to the Southern Districts BMX Raceway club. The track and surrounding facilities have been established in the area for more than 30 years, set among large gum trees and maintained grassed areas that provide plenty of space for riders, families and spectators. The velodrome-style BMX track is designed for BMX racing and caters for a broad range of riders, from young Mini Wheelers and developing Sprockets through to experienced racers. The venue regularly hosts club racing, coaching and larger BMX competitions, and has previously been selected to host the WA BMX Racing State Championships. A particularly handy feature of the venue is the excellent vehicle access around the perimeter, allowing spectators to watch racing from around the track, while the surrounding lawns and shade trees create a relaxed setting during warmer weather. RTS Tip: This is an active BMX race facility, so check the club's current schedule before heading out. If you're new to BMX and interested in giving racing a go, Southern Districts welcomes new riders and recommends speaking with club members before buying equipment — they can help point you towards the right bike and gear.

The Southern Flinders Rail Trail is an 80 km gravel adventure running from Laura to Wilmington, taking riders through the changing landscapes, small towns and railway history of the Southern Flinders Ranges. Following much of the former railway alignment, the trail passes through Stone Hut, Wirrabara, Booleroo Centre and Melrose, with Mount Remarkable and the Flinders Ranges providing an impressive backdrop along the way. While predominantly an easy-going rail trail, this isn't necessarily smooth cruising from start to finish. Surfaces vary between fine and coarse gravel, with rougher sections, stock grids, creek crossings and exposed stretches adding a little adventure. Mountain bikes are particularly well suited to the full route, although some of the smoother sections are suitable for hybrids and other capable gravel bikes. The trail can be tackled as one longer journey or broken into individual sections, making it easy to build into a Southern Flinders riding getaway. Highlights include the Rocky River around Stone Hut and Wirrabara, views across the Appila Plains, railway remnants around Booleroo Centre and the spectacular approach towards Mount Remarkable and Melrose. The final 20 km between Melrose and Wilmington runs beneath Mount Remarkable before crossing open plains and small creeks, with views towards the wider Flinders Ranges. Melrose makes an excellent base for exploring the northern sections of the trail, particularly if you want to combine the rail trail with the town's extensive mountain bike network. Bike-friendly Under the Mount is one accommodation option right at the foot of Mount Remarkable, while Beyond the Mount can make the logistics easier with rider and bike transfers, including pick-ups and drop-offs along the rail trail. Rail Trails Australia specifically lists Beyond the Mount as a transport option for the route. Autumn through spring is generally the best time to ride, particularly around the more exposed northern sections where summer temperatures can be high. Riders tackling longer stretches should carry plenty of food and water, allow extra time for creek crossings and wind, and be aware that mobile coverage can be limited. Distance: Approx. 80 km Surface: Fine & coarse gravel Difficulty: Easy–Intermediate Best for: MTB, gravel/adventure riding & bike touring Route: Laura – Stone Hut – Wirrabara – Booleroo Centre – Melrose – Wilmington Location: Southern Flinders Ranges, SA

The Tenterfield Northern Loop is a short but sweet 7.8 km loop on gravel tracks and quiet backroads north of Tenterfield. Starting in Rouse Street, the highlight of this easy to intermediate ride is the Tenterfield Station Homestead, a historic pastoral property with a fascinating story. Part of the broader Tenterfield Shire’s off-road cycling network, the Loop is suitable for casual riders looking to explore the local history just outside town, and those trying out gravel riding. Distance: 7.8 km loop Surface: Gravel tracks and quiet backroads

Bare Creek Bike Park is a purpose-built freeride and gravity MTB park in Belrose on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, packing downhill trails, flow lines, dirt jumps, skills features and a pump track into a compact riding area. The park was funded and built by the NSW Government and is now managed by Northern Beaches Council. The park features around 1.6km of dedicated downhill and flow trails, but this is definitely a case where kilometres don’t tell the whole story. Bare Creek is designed for session-style riding and progression, where riders climb back up and repeat individual lines, jumps and features rather than heading out for one long MTB loop. There’s something for a surprisingly broad range of riders. Newer riders can start on the asphalt pump track and skills area, then progress towards the intermediate gravity trails. Trash Panda delivers berm-focused flow with optional drops, while Bin Chicken introduces intermediate freeride jumps. Things get considerably bigger on the advanced side. The Trio of Dips – Mild, Medium and Spicy – leads into higher-speed jump riding, while Livewire and the Pro Line feature serious freeride terrain. The hardest lines contain large mandatory gaps and drops and are intended only for riders with advanced or professional-level jumping skills. The dedicated dirt jump area adds another dimension, with multiple lines designed for MTB and BMX bikes, while the return trail makes it easy to keep lapping your chosen gravity lines. Facilities include toilets, drinking fountains, bike maintenance stations, parking and a dedicated access road. Bare Creek is also an interesting example of what can be achieved with an unusual site. The bike park was developed on a former landfill, allowing freeride-style jumps and features that would be difficult to construct within environmentally sensitive bushland elsewhere on the Northern Beaches. The trails were constructed by specialist trail builders Dirt Art and are supported by volunteer Trail Care crews. For riders searching for Bare Creek Bike Park, Belrose MTB, Northern Beaches mountain biking, Sydney jump trails, gravity MTB or freeride mountain biking in Sydney, this is one of the city’s standout places for riders who want to work on jumps, drops and bike-park-style skills. RTS Tip: Bare Creek is built around progression, but don’t assume that means every trail is beginner-friendly. Start with the pump track and skills area and work upwards — the advanced and Pro lines contain genuinely large features. The clay-based trails are also particularly sensitive to wet weather, and individual trails can close at short notice. The park normally operates 7am–7pm daily, but always check the current trail status before heading out.

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.

Duck Creek MTB Park, just east of Alstonville in the NSW Northern Rivers, packs a heap of variety into a compact 9–10km purpose-built trail network. Built and managed by Northern Rivers Dirty Wheels Mountain Bike Club, the park combines cross-country, flow, technical and freeride-style trails, ranging from approachable green runs through to challenging black descents. Expect flowing berms, jumps, bridges, rock features and technical singletrack, with around a dozen descending trails making it easy to climb back up and session your favourites. Pinzen Needles is a great introduction for less experienced riders, while trails such as Pacific Rim turn up the difficulty with steeper, more technical terrain. RTS Tip: Duck Creek is maintained by club volunteers, so check the latest trail status before riding, particularly after the Northern Rivers has had heavy rain. There are no toilets or drinking water at the park, and parking is limited, so arrive prepared. If you enjoy the trails, consider supporting Northern Rivers Dirty Wheels — rider and club support is what keeps this little network running.

The Emerald Creek Ride is a scenic mixed-surface adventure from Mareeba to Emerald Creek Falls on the northern Atherton Tablelands. Covering approximately 32 km one way, the route leaves Mareeba on sealed roads before winding through rural residential areas and farmland, eventually transitioning onto forested dirt roads as you make your way towards the falls. Rated around beginner to moderate for fitness, this is less about technical mountain biking and more about enjoying a longer gravel and backroad adventure through the changing landscapes surrounding Mareeba. The reward at the end is Emerald Creek Falls in Dinden West Forest Reserve, where Emerald Creek tumbles from the rainforest-clad Lamb Range through open eucalypt woodland and across huge granite boulders. Once at the day-use area, it's worth swapping the bike for walking shoes and exploring the falls. A 1.9 km return Grade 3 walking track leads to a lookout with views across the falls, valley and northern Atherton Tableland, while a more challenging 1.6 km return track heads towards the bottom of the falls. RTS Tip: Remember, the published route is 32 km one way, so if you're riding out and back you're looking at roughly 64 km for the day. Carry plenty of water and supplies and be prepared for the unsealed forest-road sections. Give yourself some extra time at Emerald Creek too — the falls and surrounding granite country are well worth exploring before you point the bike back towards Mareeba.

The Mount George Trails are one half of the George Town Mountain Bike Trails in northern Tasmania, offering a compact but seriously fun network of purpose-built gravity and adventure riding just minutes from town. Mount George features 10 named trails, with the 2.8km Keystone providing the main climb before riders can choose from a collection of descents including Buzzcut, Desperado, Hebe Jeebies, Helter Smelter, 6061, Gadanga Dang and Megawatt. Expect rocky terrain, flowing sections, technical features and around 120m of elevation to play with, with trails spanning green through to advanced grades. Combine Mount George with the much larger Tippogoree Hills network nearby and George Town offers more than 100km of purpose-built riding across its two trail networks. RTS Tip: Mount George is shuttle-friendly, but you can easily earn your descents by pedalling up Keystone and linking several runs together. There’s no drinking water or toilets within the trail network, so stock up in George Town before heading out and check the live trail status before riding — trails can close for maintenance, extreme weather or fire conditions.

GreenValleys Mountain Bike Park is a privately owned gravity MTB park at Tongarra, at the foot of Macquarie Pass on the NSW South Coast. Around 20 minutes inland from Shellharbour and roughly 90 minutes from Sydney, it specialises in downhill, freeride, slopestyle and technical gravity riding. GreenValleys is very much a progression-focused gravity playground. The park features purpose-built downhill and freeride trails alongside a skills park, jumps, drops and an impressive collection of more than 50 timber ramps and drop features. There’s also a large airbag for riders developing their jumping and aerial skills. The terrain is aimed predominantly at intermediate and advanced riders rather than complete beginners. Trails make use of the steep foothills of the Illawarra Escarpment, with technical descents, jumps, drops and freeride features providing plenty for experienced riders to session. The park itself specifically notes that it is not currently designed for beginners. One of the big attractions is shuttle-assisted riding. On scheduled Social Gravity Days, riders are transported back to the trailhead via the park’s sealed uplift road, meaning more time descending and considerably less time pushing or pedalling back uphill. GreenValleys also has a strong racing pedigree and regularly hosts gravity competition. In June 2026 it hosted Round 1 of the AusCycling NSW/ACT Gravity Series Downhill, continuing its role as an important venue for competitive gravity riding in NSW. There are facilities including parking, toilets, picnic areas and camping options, making it possible to build a visit into a bigger Illawarra riding weekend. For riders searching for GreenValleys MTB, Illawarra mountain biking, downhill MTB near Sydney, shuttle mountain biking in NSW or freeride MTB parks, this is one of the state’s standout privately operated gravity destinations. RTS Tip: GreenValleys currently operates differently from a normal public bike park. During 2026, while it works through a planning proposal with Shellharbour Council, the park is focusing on scheduled shuttle days and selected events, with coaching offered only on limited pre-scheduled dates. Don’t simply turn up expecting to ride — check the calendar and book your ride day in advance.

The Hamilton–Coleraine Rail Trail is a 37km walking and cycling trail through the beautiful red-gum country and rolling farmland of western Victoria. Following the former railway line that operated between 1888 and 1977, the trail passes through Wannon, Parkwood and open farming country before finishing at the beautifully restored Coleraine Railway Station. Expect coarse gravel, compacted earth, historic cuttings, 15 railway bridges, wetlands, mature red gums and plenty of opportunities to spot kangaroos, wallabies and birdlife. The entire 37km corridor is now accessible, although a temporary roughly 2km route bypasses the unusable Wannon River railway bridge. RTS Tip: Allow extra time around Wannon and take the short detour to spectacular Wannon Falls, where you’ll find toilets, picnic facilities and even free camping. A mountain bike or capable gravel bike is the best choice, particularly for the rougher central sections. There are also several crossings of the Glenelg Highway, so take extra care with traffic and follow the trail signage through the temporary Wannon River connection.

Just outside Launceston, Hollybank Reserve offers mountain biking through beautiful Tasmanian forest, with purpose-built trails winding beneath towering trees and through lush bushland. The network includes flowing singletrack, climbs, descents and technical features, with options that allow riders to put together anything from a quick spin to a longer trail session. Hollybank’s forest setting gives it a distinctly Tasmanian feel and makes it an easy MTB escape for riders staying in Launceston or exploring the wider north-east trail scene. RTS Tip: Hollybank can be a great addition to a north-east Tasmania MTB road trip, particularly if you’re travelling between Launceston and the bigger trail destinations further east. Check current trail conditions and closures before heading out, especially after wet weather, and choose trails that match your ability.

Kate Reed Nature Recreation Area, on the southern outskirts of Launceston, Tasmania, is a popular local mountain biking destination offering around 15 km of tracks and trails through approximately 120 hectares of native bushland. The network is known for its narrow, tight and twisty singletrack, small hills, short punchy climbs and fun descents, with around 6 km designated as mountain-bike-preferred trail. The relatively approachable terrain makes Kate Reed particularly good for beginners, families and XC riders, while more experienced mountain bikers can still find plenty of features and fast, flowing sections to keep things interesting. Just around 10 minutes from Launceston’s CBD, it’s an easy option for a quick MTB session or a few hours exploring Tasmania’s northern trail network. The reserve is also used for walking, running and orienteering, while the Launceston Mountain Bike Club regularly uses and helps maintain the MTB trails. Access is available via the Silverdome complex on Oakden Road or from the Kings Meadows connector near the Midland Highway, although parking and access conditions vary between entrances. RTS Tip: Kate Reed is a great choice if you’re newer to mountain biking or want a fun XC ride without committing to a huge trail network. After periods of heavy rain, give the singletrack time to dry — the local trail crew specifically asks riders to stay off wet trails to prevent damage. If parking at the Silverdome, also be aware that its access gate is locked outside business hours.

Kyogle MTB Park is a volunteer-built mountain bike network in Boorabee State Forest on Yongurra Road, just minutes from the centre of Kyogle in the NSW Northern Rivers. The forest is known for its rich, dark loam and fast, flowing singletrack, creating a very different riding experience from the rocky terrain found across many other NSW MTB destinations. The network caters for a broad range of abilities, with green and blue gravity trails, dedicated climbing trails and black-rated features for experienced riders. It’s designed so newer riders can start comfortably before progressively stepping up to longer and faster descents. For beginners, Chain Gang is a roughly 600m green trail with an undulating downhill profile, while Too Easy extends the easier riding and also provides an accessible climbing route. Little Twisties is specifically aimed at kids, making Kyogle a good option for families and developing riders. The blue network is where Kyogle really comes alive. Trails including Marble Run, Bogroll, Downright, Flowvid and Fireflyer deliver longer flowing descents, with Fireflyer and Flowvid each stretching to around 1.5km. For advanced riders, Long Drop adds a cascading series of black-rated drops before feeding back into Fireflyer. The club currently lists its separate black jump trail as closed for repairs, so check current conditions before riding. The trails are built and maintained by the Kyogle Track and Trail Mountain Bike Club, working within Boorabee State Forest. Kyogle Council has also identified mountain biking as an important opportunity for the region, with a broader strategy aimed at developing Kyogle as a Northern NSW MTB destination. Best of all, normal trail access is free, and the network is conveniently located right on the eastern edge of town, making it easy to combine a ride with Kyogle’s cafés, accommodation and other local attractions. For riders searching for Kyogle MTB, Northern Rivers mountain bike trails, Boorabee State Forest MTB, family-friendly MTB in Northern NSW or flow trails near the Gold Coast, Kyogle is a great little network to add to the ride list. RTS Tip: Kyogle is particularly good if you love flow without enormous climbing. Start on Chain Gang and Too Easy, then work through the blues as your confidence builds. The park has previously run special shuttle days, but don’t assume shuttles operate for everyday riding. Check the club’s latest trail conditions before travelling, especially for the black features.

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.

The Mount Marlay MTB Trails in Stanthorpe, Queensland, deliver a unique mountain biking experience on the granite terrain of the Southern Downs and Granite Belt. Located just 1.5 km from Stanthorpe’s main street, the compact network makes excellent use of Mount Marlay’s roughly 100 metres of elevation, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly cross-country riding to seriously technical black and double-black gravity lines. Expect exposed granite slabs and boulders, rocky technical features, flowing singletrack, berms and challenging descents, with panoramic views across Stanthorpe and the surrounding Granite Belt. The easier side of Mount Marlay includes Green Granite, Rusty and The Grape Escape, providing a great introduction to the distinctive granite riding. On The Rocks and Hammerhead step up the technical challenge and can also be used for climbing towards the summit, while experienced riders can tackle gravity trails including Tankslapper and Gnarly Marlay. Tankslapper and Gnarly Marlay are downhill-only, with the harder trails packing a surprising amount of technical riding into relatively short distances. Another advantage of riding Mount Marlay is the sandy, granite-based soil found around Stanthorpe. Unlike many clay-based Queensland MTB networks, the local trails can often recover quickly after rain, although riders should still check current conditions before setting out. With Passchendaele State Forest and Broadwater State Forest also offering riding nearby, Stanthorpe makes a great base for a bigger Granite Belt mountain biking weekend. RTS Tip: Don’t underestimate Mount Marlay because it’s a compact network — the harder trails make full use of the granite and black really does mean black here. Start with Green Granite, Rusty or The Grape Escape to get a feel for the surface before progressing onto the technical gravity lines. If you’re heading for Tankslapper or Gnarly Marlay, inspect unfamiliar features first and follow the designated downhill direction.

New Italy MTB Forest – Tabbimoble New Italy Mountain Bike Forest is a purpose-built cross-country MTB network in Doubleduke State Forest at Tabbimoble, around 9km south of Woodburn on the NSW Northern Rivers. The network packs in around 30km of purpose-built singletrack, winding through beautiful sclerophyll forest and catering for a range of abilities. This is predominantly cross-country riding, but there’s plenty of variety in the terrain, with natural features, technical obstacles, bridges, drop-offs and steeper sections adding challenge as you progress through the network. Trails include memorable names such as Burntwood Frenzy, Yabba Dabba Do, Knobby Mayhem, Crumplstiltskin, Snakes N Ladders and Pocket Rocket. Several of these have also been identified as suitable for some types of adaptive cycles, helping make New Italy a more inclusive riding destination. The trails are built and maintained by volunteers from Northern Rivers Dirty Wheels Mountain Bike Club, which manages the network under an occupation permit from Forestry Corporation NSW. The club also manages Duck Creek Mountain Bike Park at Alstonville, making the Northern Rivers a great area to spend a few days exploring by bike. Navigation is straightforward, with all trails signposted and a trail map at the car park. Current mapping is also available through Trailforks. Some trails are one-way while others are multi-directional, so keep an eye on the trail bollards as you explore. For riders searching for New Italy MTB Forest, mountain biking near Woodburn, Northern Rivers mountain bike trails, MTB near Evans Head or cross-country mountain biking in northern NSW, this is a fantastic volunteer-built network to put on the ride list. RTS Tip: There are no toilets or drinking water at the trailhead, so arrive prepared. The forest can also be closed during excessively wet conditions to protect the trails, so check the current Northern Rivers Dirty Wheels trail status before making the trip and stay off the network whenever it is shown as closed

Pemberton MTB Park, in Pemberton, Western Australia, is a well-established mountain biking destination set amongst the towering karri forests of the state’s South West. Located right on the edge of town at Pemberton Pool on Swimming Pool Road, the broader park has more than 25 km of mountain bike tracks and dual-use trails, with riding suitable for beginners through to experienced trail and gravity riders. The current Trails WA network lists 16 individual trails, combining cross-country singletrack, flow trails, technical descents, climbing trails, skills features and dirt jumps. One of the best places for newer riders to start is the 1.5 km Skills Loop, a mostly flat green trail designed as an introduction to singletrack. It packs in roots, tree pinches, bridges, log rolls, rollers, bermed and off-camber corners and a small tabletop, allowing riders to practise common MTB features without committing to a difficult trail. From there, riders can progress into the wider forest network and trails such as Longshanks, Drop Bear, Nearly Gnarly and Wahoo. For riders chasing more speed, Cool Running is one of Pemberton’s signature trails. The machine-built downhill line makes excellent use of Pemberton’s famous karri soils, with fast flowing berms, jumps and plenty of opportunities to carry speed. Its dedicated uphill trail provides the return, although tight technical switchbacks and a steep final pitch make riders earn the next descent. Wahoo offers another step up, combining fast technical riding, off-camber corners and a rock garden with multiple line choices. The setting makes Pemberton particularly memorable. Huge karri trees surround much of the network, while the trailhead at Pemberton Pool provides parking, toilets, drinking water, picnic areas and barbecues. Shops, cafés and accommodation are only minutes away in town, making the park an easy destination for anything from a quick morning ride to a full South West MTB weekend. RTS Tip: Start with the Skills Loop if it’s your first visit, then progressively work into the longer and more technical trails. If gravity is your thing, save some energy for repeated laps of Cool Running and Wahoo — the descents are short enough to tempt you into “just one more”. Some trails are shared with walkers, so ride accordingly, and check current trail conditions before setting out. In warmer weather, throw your swimmers in the car too — Pemberton Pool is right beside the trailhead and makes a pretty good finish to a day on the bike.

The Railton to Sheffield Rail Trail is a scenic 12–13 km cycling and walking trail in North West Tasmania, linking the Town of Topiary at Railton with Sheffield, the famous Town of Murals, beneath the impressive backdrop of Mount Roland. Following much of the former Railton–Roland railway line, the trail travels through farmland, forest and bushland, with old railway cuttings and embankments adding plenty of character. The predominantly compacted-earth and gravel surface makes it best suited to mountain bikes, gravel bikes and hybrids with wider tyres. The railway between Railton and Sheffield opened in 1914, forming part of a branch line that once continued towards Roland before closing in 1957. Today the old corridor provides a mostly off-road journey between the two towns, although there is a short road section near Railton. Riders pass through places including Stoodley and Sykes Sanctuary, with the scenery becoming increasingly impressive as Mount Roland dominates the skyline approaching Sheffield. The ride is generally considered easy, but don't expect a perfectly groomed urban rail trail. The surface can be rough and uneven in places, and recent trail information notes longer grass can occur around the Sheffield end. Riding from Railton to Sheffield involves a gentle overall climb, making the return journey the easier direction. Allow roughly an hour each way for a confident rider, or take longer and make a relaxed half-day trip of the approximately 24 km return ride. A major reason to ride this route is its connection with the much larger Wild Mersey Mountain Bike Trails. Wild Mersey now provides more than 98 km of riding across Latrobe, Railton and Sheffield, and the modern MTB connection between Railton and Sheffield includes the easy Railton Rattler trail. This makes the area a brilliant base for combining a relaxed rail-trail ride with purpose-built singletrack, flow trails and more technical mountain biking. The Railton–Sheffield corridor also forms part of the Tasmanian Trail, the approximately 480 km multi-use route stretching from Devonport to Dover. For most riders, though, the two towns make natural endpoints: explore Railton's quirky topiary, then finish beneath Mount Roland among Sheffield's famous murals, cafés and heritage attractions. RTS Tip: Start in Railton and ride towards Sheffield so you tackle the gradual uphill first and enjoy the easier return. If you've brought a mountain bike, don't stop at the rail trail — combine it with the Wild Mersey MTB network for a much bigger North West Tasmania riding day. The old rail trail can be rougher than its easy grading suggests, so wider tyres are worthwhile, and download the route before setting off. If you're visiting in summer, be prepared for longer grass on some sections and check current trail conditions before riding.

The Rosstown Rail Trail follows the historic route of the former Rosstown Railway through Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs, linking Elsternwick with the Oakleigh/Hughesdale area. The heritage route is around 8.5km long, while Glen Eira City Council identifies approximately 7.4km as the improved cycling trail between Elsternwick and Hughesdale. Rather than being one continuous off-road path, the route uses a combination of linear parks, shared paths and quiet local streets. The terrain is generally flat and suitable for riders of most abilities, making it a relaxed way to explore this part of Melbourne while following the footprint of a railway that never really fulfilled its intended purpose. The trail passes through suburbs including Elsternwick, Caulfield South, Carnegie and Murrumbeena, with sections travelling through attractive green corridors such as Marara Road Reserve. Recent improvements have included additional signage, bicycle markings, raised crossings and traffic-calming measures to make the route easier and safer to follow. The history behind the trail is particularly interesting. The private Rosstown Railway was the ambitious project of entrepreneur William Murray Ross, who planned to use it to transport sugar beet to his mill and refined sugar towards the Port of Melbourne. The project struggled with funding and construction delays, the mill never went into production, and the railway eventually fell into disrepair without becoming a successful operating line. RTS Tip: Rosstown is more of an urban heritage ride and cycling connector than a traditional continuous rail trail. There are on-road sections and intersections along the way, so keep an eye on the route signage. With Elsternwick Station near one end and the Djerring Trail and wider Melbourne cycling network accessible around the eastern end, it’s also easy to incorporate Rosstown into a much longer urban ride.

Terrey Hills offers a great mix of mountain biking and fire-trail riding through the bushland of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with routes extending into Ku-ring-gai Chase and Garigal National Parks. The area is particularly popular for longer XC-style adventures, combining wide fire trails, rocky sandstone surfaces, rolling terrain and some solid climbs with classic Sydney bushland scenery. Popular routes can be linked together to create anything from a shorter local spin to a much bigger day exploring trails such as Perimeter, Long and Duck Holes. RTS Tip: Terrey Hills is perfect for building your own adventure by linking the surrounding fire trails, but sandstone can become rough, sandy and slippery depending on conditions. Carry plenty of water and spares for longer loops, download your route before heading out and check current National Parks alerts and trail access.

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

Uki Mountain Bike Park is the Tweed Shire’s first official mountain bike park, located at Smiths Creek near Uki with the spectacular backdrop of Wollumbin / Mt Warning and the Tweed Valley. It’s a compact, purpose-built network focused on progression, flow and gravity-style descending, making it a great option for families, developing riders and experienced mountain bikers alike. The park packs more than 6.4km of purpose-built trails into the site, with eight MTB trails in total. There’s one green climbing trail providing access to seven descending trails: three green, three blue and one black diamond. All trails were constructed to International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) trail construction standards. The riding is designed around earning your turns, with no shuttle service operating at the park. Riders pedal up the green Trail 1 climbing trail, which connects with the different descending options. Across the network you’ll encounter flowing corners, constructed technical features, obstacles, bridges, drop-offs and steeper terrain as the difficulty increases. There’s a particularly strong progression pathway. Newer riders can start on the green trails before stepping up to the faster and more challenging blue descents, while the black diamond trail provides the most difficult riding in the park. Adaptive mountain bikes are also specifically supported on the 4 Rolling trail. Alongside the main trails is a pump track and skills area, designed particularly with children aged around 5–12 in mind, making Uki a good destination for families where riders may be at very different stages of their MTB journey. The park is a Tweed Shire Council facility operated in partnership with Tweed Valley Mountain Bike Riders, with volunteers playing an important role in maintaining the trails. Normal recreational access is free and no booking is required. Facilities include parking for around 20 vehicles, toilets and a water bubbler at the main trail hub. For riders searching for Uki MTB, Tweed Valley mountain bike trails, Northern Rivers MTB, family-friendly mountain biking or MTB near Murwillumbah, this is a great little purpose-built park to add to the ride list. RTS Tip: Uki’s trails are built on clay-based soil and are particularly vulnerable after rain, so don’t ride if the trails are wet or muddy. The park can close because of rain, high winds, fire danger, maintenance or club events, so check the current status before travelling. It’s normally open seven days from dawn to dusk.

The Waranga Rail Trail is a 19km shared-use trail connecting the historic towns of Rushworth and Murchison in northern Victoria. Following the route of the former railway line, the mostly flat trail travels through bushland, farmland and former gold-mining country, skirting the impressive Waranga Basin and passing the wetlands of Doctors Swamp Wildlife Reserve. The route combines fine gravel with a short asphalt section near Rushworth and crosses several restored railway bridges, including the historic bridge over the Stuart Murray Canal. With relatively gentle terrain and plenty to see along the way, it’s a great option for gravel bikes, hybrids and mountain bikes, with Rushworth or Murchison making an easy turnaround point for a 38km return ride. RTS Tip: Make time to explore the towns at either end — both Rushworth and Murchison have cafés, bakeries, picnic areas and facilities, making this an easy ride to turn into a relaxed day out. There are two crossings of the busy Murchison–Rushworth Road along the trail, so take care when crossing.

Welby MTB Trails sit within Mount Alexandra Reserve at Welby, near Mittagong in the NSW Southern Highlands, offering a compact but surprisingly varied network of cross-country mountain biking through native bushland. The trails are on Wingecarribee Shire Council land and are officially designated for mountain biking and walking. The network offers green, blue and black-rated riding, making Welby suitable for everyone from newer riders learning the ropes through to experienced mountain bikers looking for more technical terrain. The riding mixes fire trail and natural singletrack, with plenty of rocks, tight corners, short climbs and technical descents giving the network a distinctly old-school XC feel. The green loop is around 4.5km and mostly follows easier fire trails, making it the best introduction to the area. The blue route extends to around 8km, adding much more singletrack, rocky sections, a technical descent into a gully and some punchy climbing. More experienced riders can add the black sections, which contribute roughly another 3.3km of harder riding. Welby is also used for organised cycling events and has a long association with the Southern Highlands trails riding community. Its location just outside Mittagong and Bowral makes it particularly handy for a quick ride or as part of a bigger Southern Highlands MTB trip. For riders searching for Welby MTB, Mittagong mountain bike trails, Southern Highlands trails MTB, mountain biking near Bowral or XC trails south of Sydney, this is a great local network to add to the ride list. RTS Tip: Welby is relatively compact, so it’s easy to combine the different loops or knock out a couple of laps for a longer session. Stick to the marked MTB trails rather than creating or following unofficial lines. Also check conditions before travelling: Council may close the reserve during Extreme or Catastrophic fire danger, while a High rating means caution applies

Located just north of Melrose in Mount Remarkable National Park, the Willowie Forest Mountain Bike Trails add a distinctly Flinders Ranges flavour to the wider Melrose riding experience. The purpose-built network was designed and constructed by TrailScapes and features around 17 km of one-way singletrack, using a stacked-loop layout that allows riders to progressively take on more challenging terrain as they move further from the trailhead. The riding here feels a little different to the trails immediately surrounding Melrose. Expect raw, rocky terrain mixed with sections of fast, flowing singletrack, with less of the steep, rolling character of the town trails and more of the rugged landscape you'd expect from the Southern Flinders Ranges. The network caters for beginner through to intermediate riders, with family-friendly options alongside progressively more challenging features for riders wanting to step things up. One of the best things about Willowie is how easily it can be incorporated into a bigger Melrose ride. Rather than driving, riders can reach the network from town via an approximately 9 km cruise along the Southern Flinders Rail Trail, linking two very different riding experiences. Alternatively, there's parking at the dedicated trailhead just off the Horrocks Highway, with toilets, shelters, picnic tables and a bike repair station available. If you're making a few days of it, Melrose makes a great base for exploring Willowie alongside the town trails and wider Mount Remarkable network. Bike-friendly Under the Mount puts you right amongst the action for accommodation, while Beyond the Mount can help with rider and bike transport if you're looking to explore further afield or incorporate Melrose into a bigger Southern Flinders or Mawson Trail adventure. With purpose-built singletrack, rugged Flinders Ranges scenery and easy connections back into Melrose, Willowie Forest is well worth adding to the itinerary rather than treating it as an add-on to the town trails. Trails: Approx. 17–20 km Difficulty: Easy / Green to Intermediate / Blue Style: MTB singletrack, flow, natural & rocky terrain Best for: Beginners, families & intermediate MTB riders Access: Trailhead off Horrocks Highway or approx. 9 km ride from Melrose via the Southern Flinders Rail Trail Location: Willowie Forest, Mount Remarkable National Park, SA

Wingello Forest Trails are an established mountain bike network in Wingello State Forest in the NSW Southern Highlands, around halfway between Moss Vale and Goulburn. The forest combines pine plantation and native bushland with purpose-built singletrack, fire roads and forest tracks, making it a great destination for cross-country and trail riding. The traditional Wingello network is built around three marked routes. The Blue Trail is around 7km, following formed roads and fire trails through the pine plantation. The Yellow Trail is around 18km, extending through both pine plantation and native forest. The Red Trail was around 22km, mixing fire roads with more challenging sections of singletrack. There’s also a substantial collection of dedicated singletrack, with trails including Princesses Revenge, Genesis, Everglades, Flinging Scotsman, Cover Shot and Tangles. The riding ranges from approachable flowing trail through to more technical XC terrain, with plenty of opportunities to link individual sections into longer loops. The network has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years. Highlands Trails works closely with Forestry Corporation NSW to manage and care for the Wingello trails, with the first stage of the renewed Wingello Forest Trails officially opening in 2023 and further development planned over time. The Wingello State Forest campground makes this an especially good option for a riding weekend. Camping and trail access are free, with toilets, picnic facilities, parking and a children's nature playground available within the forest. For riders searching for Wingello MTB, Southern Highlands mountain bike trails, Wingello State Forest cycling or cross-country MTB south of Sydney, this is a long-established riding destination with plenty of scope to build anything from a short family ride to a much bigger XC adventure. RTS Tip: Use current trail mapping rather than relying solely on the traditional Blue, Yellow and Red loops. Current Trailforks information indicates that the original Red Loop has changed, with part of the former route permanently closed, while newer singletrack provides alternative riding. As this is a working State Forest, trails can also be affected by forestry operations, so check current access before heading out.