Gravel rides in Tasmania

The Ben Lomond Gravel Climb is one of Tasmania’s most iconic cycling challenges, climbing deep into Ben Lomond National Park before tackling the spectacular switchbacks of Jacobs Ladder. From the turn onto Ben Lomond Road, riders face roughly 18km of predominantly gravel climbing, gaining more than 1,000m on the journey towards the alpine plateau. The finale is the unforgettable Jacobs Ladder — a steep, narrow series of switchbacks cut dramatically into the mountainside, with gradients pushing into double figures and huge views opening across north-east Tasmania. It’s a serious climb, but for experienced gravel riders it delivers one of the most memorable ascents in Australia. RTS Tip: Save something for Jacobs Ladder — the final switchbacks are the steepest and roughest part of the climb, and the descent demands just as much respect. Conditions can change rapidly at this elevation, so pack layers, check the weather and current park alerts before setting out. During snowy or icy conditions the access road can close without notice, making this one best planned around suitable conditions.

Bruny Island North is a beautiful gravel loop exploring the quieter northern end of one of Tasmania's most iconic islands, combining smooth gravel roads, coastal views, rolling farmland and a little local history into a brilliant day on the bike. Covering approximately 45km with around 914m of climbing, the route is roughly 55% gravel and 45% sealed road. There aren't any major sustained climbs, but don't expect a completely easy spin — the terrain continually rolls up and down throughout the ride, adding up to a surprisingly solid day. Starting from the Kettering ferry terminal, the adventure begins with a ferry trip across to Bruny Island. Once on the island, riders make their way towards beautiful gravel roads hugging Barnes Bay, before heading inland towards the historic Bruny Island Quarantine Station. From there, the route continues through Killora and along the island's north-western coastline, delivering some fantastic water views before reaching Dennes Point at the northern end of the island. The return journey winds back through quiet farmland, forests and classic Bruny Island countryside before eventually reconnecting with the road to the ferry. The gravel is generally smooth and enjoyable rather than highly technical, making this a great option for confident gravel riders looking for an adventure without taking on the much rougher terrain found on some of Tasmania's more demanding gravel routes. Allow some extra time to stop at the Quarantine Station, enjoy the coastal views and explore along the way — this is definitely a ride where the experience is more important than racing the clock. RTS Tip: Your ferry crossing is part of the adventure, so check the current timetable before setting out and allow enough time to make the return ferry. Dirty Freehub recommends 40mm+ tyres, and riders should carry their own supplies and check current weather and road conditions before heading out. Follow the mapping link for the detailed route, GPX and additional ride information.

Tasmania is an incredible destination for gravel riding, with quiet backroads, forest tracks, remote fire trails and rugged cycling routes stretching across the island. From shorter gravel bike rides around Hobart and southern Tasmania to remote adventures through the Central Highlands, North East, West Coast and rural backcountry, Tasmania offers an enormous variety of terrain for gravel cyclists. Expect everything from fast-rolling country gravel and farmland to steep forest roads, rocky 4WD tracks and big climbs through some seriously wild landscapes. For riders looking to make a bigger adventure of it, Tasmania is also brilliant for bikepacking and multi-day gravel cycling. Routes can link small towns, national parks, forests and remote communities, while longer adventures such as the Tasmanian Trail show just how much of the state can be explored away from the main roads. The changing landscape is a huge part of the experience. One ride might take you through farmland and rolling hills, while another heads deep into temperate forest, alpine country or towards Tasmania's dramatic coastline. Add historic towns, local food and plenty of places worth stopping along the way and it's easy to turn a gravel ride into an entire Tasmanian road trip. Whether you're searching for an easy gravel day ride, a challenging loop or a multi-day Tasmanian bikepacking adventure, there's a huge amount of riding waiting to be discovered. RTS Tip: Tasmania has loads of individual gravel routes to explore, 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 browse the Ride with GPS Tasmania gravel collection, find a route that suits your distance and ability, and start planning your next Tassie gravel adventure. Tasmania's weather and remote conditions can change quickly, so always check current access, weather, road and trail conditions before setting out and come prepared for the route you're tackling.

The Don to Devonport Cycleway is a relaxed and scenic 11km sealed shared-path network exploring Devonport’s coastline, rivers and railway heritage. The main ride between Don Reserve and central Devonport is around 8km, following the Don River, passing alongside sections of the heritage Don River Railway, then continuing past Coles Beach and around the Bass Strait coastline before reaching the Mersey River foreshore. Riders can extend the journey another 3km south to Horsehead Creek, following the Mersey beside the working railway and port. Wide concrete and bitumen paths, gentle gradients and plenty of places to stop make this a great option for families, casual riders and anyone wanting to explore Devonport by bike. RTS Tip: Make it a bigger adventure by connecting into the North-West Coastal Pathway. From Don, the developing coastal route continues west towards Turners Beach, Ulverstone, Burnie and beyond, while from Devonport you can head east along the Mersey towards Latrobe. If you’re keeping it local, add the Old Tramway loop through Don Reserve for a little more variety before cruising back along the coast.

The Hobart Intercity Cycleway is one of greater Hobart’s key cycling routes, following a former railway corridor north from the city through New Town, Moonah, Glenorchy and toward Claremont. Predominantly sealed and separated from road traffic, it provides an accessible ride for families, recreational cyclists and commuters, with plenty of opportunities to join or leave the trail along the way. The route mixes urban scenery with quieter stretches, passing parks, neighbourhoods and remnants of Hobart’s railway history while providing useful connections to other paths across the city. RTS Tip: This is a great trail for exploring Hobart without the car. Start close to the city and ride as far north as you like before turning around, or use the cycleway as the backbone of a longer ride by connecting with other local paths. Keep an eye out at road crossings and busy shared sections, particularly around the more populated areas.

The Kaoota Tramway Track is a scenic 6 km rail trail near Kaoota and Margate, around 28 km south-west of Hobart, Tasmania. Following part of the historic Kaoota Tramway, the gently graded route winds through dense wet forest, dry eucalypt woodland, fern-lined sections and rocky hillsides between Kaoota Road and Lawless Road. The wide former tramway formation and relatively gentle gradient make it an enjoyable ride for mountain bikes and bikes with wider tyres, with a 12 km out-and-back providing an easy half-day cycling adventure. Built in 1906, the original 20 km, two-foot-gauge tramway carried coal from the Kaoota mine to the wharf at Margate, later transporting timber, fruit and passengers. Today riders can still look for remnants of its industrial past, including old sleepers, rails and traces of coal beside the trail. The route passes through The Gorge, around Perrins Ridge, across Platypus Creek and over Perrins Saddle, giving this short Tasmanian rail trail plenty of variety and character. RTS Tip: The trail may be gently graded, but the surface can be rocky, bumpy and muddy, particularly after wet weather, so wider tyres are a good choice. There is only limited parking at the trail entrances and no toilets on the track. For a bigger adventure, experienced riders can investigate connections towards Nierinna Creek Track and Margate, but stick to public trails as substantial sections of the original tramway corridor remain on private property.

The Lake Dulverton Rail Trail is an easy 7 km cycling and walking trail between the historic town of Oatlands and Parattah in Tasmania’s Southern Midlands, around 83 km north of Hobart. Starting near the shores of Lake Dulverton, the trail follows the former Oatlands–Parattah railway corridor through an important wetland environment before continuing across open agricultural country towards the old railway settlement of Parattah. The predominantly fine-gravel surface and gentle railway gradients make it a great option for touring bikes, hybrids, gravel bikes and recreational riders, with a return trip creating an achievable ride of around 14 km. The original railway opened in 1885, connecting Oatlands with the main Hobart–Launceston railway at Parattah, and operated until 1949. Today the rail trail combines this railway heritage with classic Tasmanian countryside, lake views and excellent opportunities for spotting waterbirds around Lake Dulverton. Riders can finish at historic Parattah Railway Station, or use the trail as part of a much bigger cycling adventure — including the Oatlands–Andover–Parattah loop, which extends the ride to around 66 km using quiet country roads and gravel through the surrounding sheep country. RTS Tip: For an easy ride, pedal the 7 km from Oatlands to Parattah and return for around 14 km, leaving some time to explore historic Oatlands before or after your ride. There is no drinking water along the rail trail, so fill your bottles before setting off. If you’re chasing more kilometres, use the trail as the starting point for one of the longer gravel loops through Andover and the surrounding Southern Midlands countryside.

The Melba Flats to Zeehan Rail Trail is a remote 9 km adventure trail on Tasmania’s rugged West Coast, following historic railway formations between Melba Flats and the mining town of Zeehan. Unlike a manicured recreational rail trail, this is a genuine exploratory mountain bike ride across open button-grass plains, with compacted earth, grass, gravel, old railway sleepers, creek crossings, washouts and sections that can become wet or overgrown. The trail is relatively isolated and poorly signposted, making it best suited to mountain bikes and self-sufficient riders comfortable with navigation and rougher terrain. The route has an interesting railway history, with two separate railway lines once running roughly parallel between Zeehan and Melba Flats. One was the two-foot-gauge North East Dundas Tramway, built to transport ore from the mines around Williamsford to Zeehan, while the other was the wider-gauge Emu Bay Railway, which connected Zeehan with Tasmania’s north-west coast. Remnants of both corridors can still be encountered, including old sleepers, railway formations, bridge sites and other infrastructure slowly being reclaimed by the West Coast landscape. One of the biggest attractions for adventurous riders is the opportunity to extend the ride beyond Melba Flats. The trail connects with the 19 km Montezuma Falls Rail Trail, following more of the old North East Dundas Tramway towards Montezuma Falls and Williamsford. Linking the trails can create an adventurous ride of around 55–56 km return from Zeehan, taking riders from exposed button-grass plains into lush rainforest and past historic mining and railway remains on the way to one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. RTS Tip: Don’t approach Melba Flats to Zeehan expecting a smooth family rail trail — this is West Coast adventure riding. Navigation can be tricky, creek crossings and washouts may require some hike-a-bike, and sections can be boggy or overgrown. Download your route before leaving, carry food, water, repair gear and suitable wet-weather clothing, and allow considerably more time than you normally would for a 9 km ride. For experienced riders wanting a bigger mission, link it with Montezuma Falls and Williamsford for a memorable full-day MTB adventure.

The Montezuma Falls Rail Trail is a spectacular and adventurous mountain bike ride on Tasmania’s West Coast, following the historic North East Dundas Tramway between Williamsford, Montezuma Falls and Melba Flats near Zeehan and Rosebery. The main rail-trail route is approximately 19 km one way, travelling through dense temperate rainforest filled with myrtle, sassafras and leatherwood before reaching Montezuma Falls, one of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls. The old tramway’s gentle gradients disguise a surprisingly adventurous ride, with compacted earth, fine gravel, mud, creek crossings, washouts and sections shared with 4WD vehicles. The most accessible section runs approximately 5.5 km from Williamsford to Montezuma Falls, creating an 11 km return ride. Following the old railway formation through lush rainforest, this section is generally easier than the rest of the route and provides a brilliant introduction to West Coast Tasmania cycling. At the falls, riders reach the impressive suspension bridge spanning the gorge, with remnants of the original curved timber railway trestle still visible nearby. Beyond Montezuma Falls, the approximately 14 km section to Melba Flats becomes considerably more adventurous. The former railway formation is also used by 4WD vehicles and can contain deep puddles, muddy sections, rocky washouts and creek crossings where the original timber bridges have disappeared. At Melba Flats, adventurous riders can connect with the Melba Flats to Zeehan Rail Trail, creating the possibility of a much bigger West Coast MTB journey through historic mining country. The trail follows a railway constructed in the late 1890s to carry ore from mines around Dundas and Mount Read towards Zeehan. Today, old railway formations, mining remnants and the abandoned settlement of Williamsford provide reminders of the region’s mining boom, while the surrounding rainforest has reclaimed much of the landscape. RTS Tip: Choose your ride carefully. Williamsford to Montezuma Falls and return is the shorter option, while continuing towards Melba Flats turns this into a much more remote MTB adventure requiring proper preparation, wider tyres, food, water, repair gear and offline navigation. Important: as of August 2026, the Williamsford-side Montezuma Falls walking track is temporarily closed due to windfall and a landslip. Access to the southern end of the suspension bridge via the 4WD track remains available. Check the latest Tasmania Parks alerts before travelling, as conditions and access can change.

The North Mount Lyell Rail Trail, south of Queenstown on Tasmania’s West Coast, follows part of the historic North Mount Lyell Railway through remote rainforest towards Kelly Basin and the abandoned port settlement of East Pillinger on Macquarie Harbour. The historic route is around 12 km, travelling through the extraordinary wilderness of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area on an old railway formation surrounded by dense temperate rainforest. For cyclists, it’s important to understand that only the first section is currently rideable. From the Bird River turnoff, approximately 5 km of the old railway formation to Bird River is accessible to bicycles and 4WD vehicles. From Bird River onwards to Kelly Basin and East Pillinger, the route is walking-only, so riders cannot cycle the full historic 12 km trail. The rideable section uses compacted earth and follows relatively gentle railway gradients, but its remote West Coast location gives it much more of an adventure feel than a typical recreational rail trail. The original North Mount Lyell Railway was built to connect the North Mount Lyell mine with the company’s industrial operations and port at Pillinger in Kelly Basin. Passenger services began in 1900, with stops including Gormanston Junction, King River and Ten Mile, but the railway had a relatively short life and finally closed in 1929. Parts of the original alignment between Linda and Darwin were later submerged beneath Lake Burbury. East Pillinger itself is one of the fascinating remnants of Tasmania’s mining era. Established by the North Mount Lyell Copper Company in the late 1800s, the settlement once contained wharves, a sawmill, brickworks, ore-processing facilities, railway infrastructure and workers' accommodation. Today, walkers reaching the site can explore surviving brick kilns, boilers, railway relics, a jetty and building ruins slowly being reclaimed by the rainforest. RTS Tip: Don’t plan this as a 12 km bike ride to Pillinger — bikes are only permitted for approximately 5 km from the Bird River turnoff to Bird River, with the remainder designated for walking. This is remote West Coast Tasmania, so carry food, water, repair gear, warm and waterproof clothing and offline navigation. If you want to continue to Kelly Basin and East Pillinger, secure your bike appropriately at Bird River and allow around 3–4 hours for the return walk, plus extra time to explore the historic ruins.

The North-East Tasmania Rail Trail is a beautiful 26 km gravel cycling and walking trail from Scottsdale to Tulendeena at Billycock Hill, around 60 km north-east of Launceston. Following the former Launceston–Scottsdale railway corridor, the trail travels through rolling farmland, open bushland and increasingly dense forest, with spectacular fern-lined railway cuttings, old station sites and huge embankments providing reminders of the railway that once crossed this part of north-east Tasmania. The predominantly compacted gravel surface and gentle railway gradients make it suitable for mountain bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, touring bikes, e-bikes and families. Starting at the old Scottsdale Railway Station, the first 10 km descends through farmland and bushland towards Tonganah, passing Lings Siding, crossing the Tasman Highway twice and eventually crossing the Great Forester River. Riders looking for a shorter trip can turn around at Tonganah for approximately 20 km return, while an even easier family option is the roughly 3 km ride from Scottsdale to Northeast Park. Beyond Tonganah, the character of the ride changes dramatically. The remaining 16 km climbs steadily towards Tulendeena and Billycock Hill, winding through tall forest, enormous tree ferns, deep railway cuttings and impressive embankments. Historic station sites at Trewalla, Kamona and Tulendeena have shelters where riders can stop along the way. At the trail's highest point there are views towards Bass Strait, and on a clear day it is even possible to see the peaks of Flinders Island. For riders wanting the scenery without the full climb, a great option is to arrange a drop-off at Tulendeena/Billycock Hill and ride approximately 16 km predominantly downhill to Tonganah. From Tulendeena, adventurous riders can also continue roughly 3.4 km down the steep gravel Snake Track to Legerwood, home to the town's famous carved memorial trees. The trail is also planned to become considerably longer. Stage 3 proposes another 40 km between Scottsdale and Lilydale Falls, which would create a continuous trail of around 66 km and include the remarkable approximately 700 m-long railway tunnel at Tunnel. As of 2026, that extension remains in planning and forms part of Dorset Council's broader proposed regional trail network. RTS Tip: If you're riding the full trail from Scottsdale, remember that the easy descent towards Tonganah is followed by a long, gradual 16 km climb to Billycock Hill — but you get a brilliant run back down on the return. There are no food services along the trail or at Tulendeena, so stock up in Scottsdale and carry enough water and food for your ride. For a shorter adventure, shuttle to Billycock Hill and enjoy the predominantly downhill ride through the fern-filled forest to Tonganah.

The North-West Tasmanian Coastal Cycleway, also known as the North West Coastal Pathway, is an ambitious shared cycling route linking the towns and cities of Tasmania’s spectacular North West Coast. The developing route stretches between Latrobe, Devonport, Don, Turners Beach, Ulverstone, Penguin, Burnie, Somerset and Wynyard, combining dedicated sealed cycleways, former railway corridors, coastal paths and some on-road connections. The long-term vision is for a roughly 110 km continuous off-road pathway, although several gaps remain as of 2026. The scenery is a major reason to ride it. Sections hug the edge of Bass Strait, cross rivers and estuaries and pass beaches, coastal reserves, farmland and historic railway infrastructure. Riders can explore the waterfronts of Devonport, Ulverstone, Penguin, Burnie and Wynyard, with cafés, accommodation, swimming beaches and other facilities available in the towns along the way. The predominantly sealed surfaces on completed sections make the pathway suitable for road bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, e-bikes, touring bikes, families and recreational cyclists. One of the biggest recent additions is the 13.2 km Wynyard to Burnie section, completed in October 2024. Much of this high-quality asphalt pathway follows the former railway corridor through Somerset and Cooee, providing a scenic separated connection between the two towns. Other enjoyable sections include Latrobe to Devonport, the coastal ride from Devonport through Don, and the paths around Turners Beach, Ulverstone and Penguin. The route also makes an excellent backbone for a bigger North West Tasmania cycling or MTB trip. From Latrobe, riders can detour towards the Wild Mersey MTB Trails, while Penguin provides access towards the Dial Range and other North West Coast riding. Devonport also provides a natural arrival point for riders travelling to Tasmania, with cycleway connections extending from the city towards the surrounding coastal towns. RTS Tip: Don’t assume the entire North-West Coastal Cycleway is continuous off-road yet. As of 2026, gaps remain around Wivenhoe–Heybridge and West Ulverstone–Penguin, with some sections requiring on-road riding. Check the latest route before setting out, particularly if you're planning a long point-to-point ride. For an easy standalone option, the Wynyard–Somerset–Burnie section is a brilliant choice, while experienced tourers can use the completed paths and road connections to build a much bigger journey along Tasmania’s North West Coast.

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 Rocherlea Rail Trail, in Launceston, northern Tasmania, is an easy sealed cycling and walking trail connecting Rocherlea with Mowbray, with onward cycling connections towards Inveresk and central Launceston. The dedicated old-railway section is around 3–4 km one way, following part of the former Launceston–Scottsdale railway corridor behind the Mowbray Golf Course. Its sealed surface and relatively gentle gradient make it a good option for families, beginner cyclists, e-bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes and commuters looking for an easy bike ride in Launceston. Starting near Hume Street in Rocherlea, the trail heads south towards Mowbray through a mixture of suburban open space, sporting areas and former railway land. The Rocherlea end features several attractive railway cuttings and embankments, with the disused railway corridor running beside the trail and views opening towards Launceston. Riders can exit around Dover Street in Mowbray, which is a convenient turnaround point for a short approximately 6–8 km return ride. Riders wanting more distance can continue towards Inveresk and the Launceston CBD, although the connection isn't completely continuous. A missing link around the Mowbray racecourse means cyclists currently need to use local streets between sections of the trail. From the Vermont Road area, another sealed section continues towards Remount Road, with the route eventually joining a gravel path along the flood levee towards Inveresk. At Inveresk, riders arrive at one of Launceston's major cultural precincts, home to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and Launceston Tramway Museum. From here, the trail connects into Launceston's wider riverside and urban cycling network, making the Rocherlea Rail Trail useful not only as a standalone recreational ride but also as a north–south cycling connection into central Launceston. The trail also preserves part of Tasmania's railway history. The Launceston–Scottsdale railway opened in 1889, passing through Rocherlea as it travelled into north-east Tasmania. The line was later extended beyond Scottsdale, and after passenger services disappeared, it continued carrying freight including logs and woodchips. Freight operations ultimately ceased in 2005, leaving sections of the former corridor available for recreational trails. RTS Tip: For a simple family ride, stick to the sealed Rocherlea–Mowbray section and return the same way. If you're looking for more kilometres, continue towards Inveresk and Launceston, but download the route first — the racecourse creates a break in the old railway corridor and requires some local-street navigation. The trail is also a useful starting point for riders interested in exploring more of northern Tasmania's railway history, with the separate North-East Tasmania Rail Trail at Scottsdale following another section of the former Launceston–Scottsdale railway.

The Spray Tunnel and Comstock Tramways, just outside Zeehan on Tasmania’s West Coast, offer a fascinating 6 km mountain bike and walking route through one of the region’s historic mining landscapes. The ride follows sections of four interconnected former mining tramways, travelling over compacted-earth tracks through forest and old mine workings before reaching the remarkable Spray Tunnel. The highlight is undoubtedly the Spray Tunnel, a narrow, keyhole-shaped former railway tunnel cut through the hillside to transport ore from the Spray Silver Mine. Official tourism information describes it as approximately 100 m long, 3 m high and 2.2 m wide. Inside, it becomes extremely dark and glow-worms can sometimes be seen on the tunnel ceiling, making riding or walking through it one of the more unusual rail-trail experiences in Tasmania. Beyond the tunnel, riders can continue along the old tramway towards Comstock, passing through a landscape filled with remnants of Zeehan’s mining boom. Old mine sites, abandoned boilers, tramway cuttings and other industrial relics remain scattered throughout the area. The tramway surfaces are generally compacted but conditions can become muddy, puddled and rough, particularly given the West Coast’s high rainfall. The trail can also be incorporated into a much bigger MTB ride. A popular Spray Tunnel–Oonah Hill loop of around 15 km combines the historic tramways with purpose-built mountain bike trail, climbing into the open buttongrass country before descending back towards Zeehan. The surrounding Silver City MTB Trails now provide even more options for extending a visit into a full day of riding. RTS Tip: Take a bike light or good torch — the Spray Tunnel gets deceptively dark in the middle, and having a light also gives you a chance to spot the glow-worms overhead. Stay on the established route around the old mining areas, as historic mine shafts and workings remain in the landscape. For a bigger adventure, combine the tramways with Oonah Hill and the Silver City MTB network, but download your maps first and be prepared for rapidly changing West Coast weather.

The Strahan to Regatta Point Rail Trail is a short but beautifully scenic 3 km sealed cycling and walking trail on Tasmania’s wild West Coast. Following the shoreline of Macquarie Harbour, the route links central Strahan with historic Regatta Point, combining harbour views, railway heritage and an easy, virtually flat ride. The smooth concrete surface makes it suitable for families, beginner riders, hybrids, mountain bikes, touring bikes, e-bikes, scooters and wheelchairs. Starting near Strahan’s waterfront, the trail follows the curve of the harbour past historic buildings and interpretive displays before continuing towards Regatta Point. It’s an easy ride with virtually no climbing, making the approximately 6 km return journey a relaxed way to explore Strahan by bike. The route follows part of an important former railway corridor. The Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company built its railway from Queenstown to transport copper from the mines to the coast, with the line reaching Regatta Point and Strahan in 1899. At Regatta Point it connected with the government railway towards Zeehan, creating a vital transport link across Tasmania’s otherwise extremely difficult West Coast terrain. Today, Regatta Point remains an active railway destination as the Strahan terminus of the West Coast Wilderness Railway. Heritage rail journeys still depart from the station and travel alongside Macquarie Harbour and into the rainforest towards the King River, adding a great piece of living railway history to the ride. RTS Tip: This is more of a relaxed waterfront cruise than a challenging rail-trail ride, so take your time and enjoy the harbour. Ride the roughly 6 km return trip between Strahan and Regatta Point, stop to explore the historic railway station, and combine it with Strahan’s other waterfront paths for some extra kilometres. Current trail information can be inconsistent about access status, so check conditions locally before setting out, particularly after West Coast storms or maintenance works.

The Strahan to Zeehan Road is an unusual piece of Tasmania’s rail-trail history. Rather than being a dedicated off-road trail, much of the modern B27 between Strahan and Zeehan follows or closely parallels the formation of the former Strahan–Zeehan railway. Rail Trails Australia lists the historic route at approximately 41.8 km, with a sealed surface and gentle railway-style gradients through the wild landscapes of Tasmania’s West Coast. It is suitable for touring, gravel and mountain bikes, although riders need to be comfortable sharing a rural road with vehicles. The route travels north from Strahan, leaving Macquarie Harbour behind and crossing a landscape of button grass plains, rainforest, rivers and rugged West Coast ranges before reaching Zeehan. Although the road undulates, its railway heritage means much of the route has relatively manageable gradients compared with many other West Coast roads. The B27 remains a sealed single-carriageway road through largely undeveloped country. Around 15 km south of Zeehan, adventurous riders can find one of the few places where the original railway formation separates significantly from the modern road. An unsignposted 4WD track follows the old railway easement for approximately 5 km near the Badger River. However, this is not a continuous alternative route: the track eventually ends abruptly at a steep ravine where a railway bridge once stood, so riders must turn around rather than attempting to continue through. The railway between Zeehan and Strahan was once a vital West Coast transport connection, at a time when roads through this rugged landscape were extremely limited. Following the decline of the railway system and gradual construction of better roads, portions of the former formation were incorporated into the modern road corridor. Zeehan makes a rewarding destination, particularly for riders interested in mining and railway history. It can also be used as a base for several excellent off-road rides, including the Spray Tunnel and Comstock Tramways, Silver City MTB Trails, Melba Flats to Zeehan Rail Trail and Montezuma Falls Rail Trail. RTS Tip: Don’t mistake this listing for a conventional traffic-free rail trail — most of the Strahan–Zeehan journey is on the sealed B27 road. It’s best suited to confident road, touring or gravel riders comfortable with remote-road riding. Carry plenty of food, water, tools and wet-weather gear, as services between the towns are extremely limited and West Coast conditions can change quickly. If exploring the old railway formation near Badger River, remember that it dead-ends at the missing bridge site and is not a through-route.

Journey into one of Australia's last great wilderness areas on the spectacular Tarkine Drive, a route that winds through the ancient takayna / Tarkine region of north-west Tasmania. While primarily known as a scenic touring drive, it's also an unforgettable destination for gravel riders and bikepackers looking to experience remote forests, rugged coastlines and quiet country roads. The route passes through vast cool-temperate rainforests that have remained largely unchanged since the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana. Along the way you'll discover towering myrtle and sassafras forests, wild rivers, windswept beaches, dramatic lookouts and fascinating geological formations, making it one of Tasmania's most rewarding nature experiences. Highlights include the powerful Southern Ocean views at Edge of the World, the tranquil Lake Chisholm sinkhole walk, Trowutta Arch, the towering rainforest of Julius River Forest Reserve, Milkshake Hills, Sumac Lookout, and numerous picnic areas and short walks that invite you to slow down and explore. For cyclists, the Tarkine Drive offers an incredible mix of quiet sealed roads, rolling terrain and a true wilderness atmosphere. The roads are generally lightly trafficked, with long stretches passing through untouched forest and coastal landscapes. Riders should be completely self-sufficient, as services are limited once inside the Tarkine. Carry plenty of food, water and suitable repair equipment, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions at any time of year. Whether you're chasing an epic bikepacking adventure, a scenic gravel ride or simply one of Australia's most unique cycling destinations, the Tarkine Drive delivers an unforgettable journey through some of the country's most pristine and remote landscapes.

The Tasmanian Trail is Australia's premier cross-state bikepacking adventure, stretching approximately 480 kilometres from Devonport on Tasmania's north coast to Dover in the far south. Traversing forests, farmland, alpine plateaus, historic towns and remote wilderness, it offers one of the country's most rewarding multi-day cycling experiences. Designed for mountain bikes, gravel bikes and experienced bikepackers, the trail follows a combination of forestry roads, gravel roads, quiet country lanes, 4WD tracks and purpose-built trail sections. Along the journey you'll climb through the spectacular Great Western Tiers, cross the Central Highlands, ride beside Arthurs Lake, pass through Bronte Park, follow the Derwent and Huon Valleys, and experience the ever-changing landscapes that make Tasmania such a unique cycling destination. While incredibly scenic, the Tasmanian Trail is a genuine adventure rather than a casual touring route. Expect long climbs, remote sections, changing weather, rough trail surfaces and limited resupply opportunities between towns. Riders should be self-sufficient, carry appropriate navigation, food, water and repair equipment, and allow plenty of time to enjoy the journey rather than simply race from end to end. The trail is typically completed over 6 to 10 days, depending on pace and route choices, although many riders choose to tackle individual sections as weekend adventures. Accommodation options include campgrounds, huts, country towns and local accommodation providers, allowing riders to tailor the experience to suit their preferred style of adventure. Whether you're chasing your first big bikepacking expedition or looking to tick off one of Australia's true bucket-list cycling adventures, the Tasmanian Trail delivers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tasmania—where every day brings new landscapes, new challenges and a deep sense of wilderness that few rides can match.

Wielangta Tramway Trail The Wielangta Tramway Trail, around 65 km north-east of Hobart in south-east Tasmania, is a remote 6.5 km forest trail following the route of a former timber tramway near Rheban and the Sandspit River. The compacted-earth route passes through beautiful blue gum forest, fern-filled gullies and pockets of cool temperate rainforest, giving it a wonderfully wild feel. It is open to mountain bikes and walkers, with access from Wielangta Road. The original tramway followed the Sandspit River through Wielangta Forest, carrying timber from logging areas to sawmills at the former Wielangta settlement and eventually towards the coast opposite Maria Island, where sawn timber could be loaded onto ships. At its peak, Wielangta supported several sawmills as well as a general store, bakery, blacksmith and school before bushfires devastated the settlement in the 1920s and it was abandoned in 1928. Although the original railway formation was built with gentle gradients, today's trail is considerably more adventurous. Former timber trestle bridges have disappeared, leaving steep dips and climbs around old bridge sites, while sections can be washed out, muddy or underwater. Creek crossings and steep sections may require riders to get off and carry or push their bikes, particularly following heavy rain. The surrounding Wielangta Forest is particularly significant. It contains remnant glacial refugia forest, blue gums and cool temperate rainforest and provides habitat for threatened wildlife including the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle, swift parrot, spotted-tail quoll and Wielangta stag beetle. The name Wielangta is a local Aboriginal name meaning “tall trees.” RTS Tip: Don't let the 6.5 km distance or “rail trail” label fool you — Wielangta can feel much more like a backcountry MTB adventure than a conventional rail trail. A mountain bike with good tyres is the best choice, and expect to walk sections where bridges have disappeared or the formation has washed out. Conditions can become very wet and muddy after rain, so a summer or drier-weather visit is likely to provide the best riding. The area is remote with no public transport, so download your route beforehand and carry everything you need.