Mountain bike trails in Victoria

Anglesea Bike Park is a purpose-built mountain bike facility on Victoria’s Surf Coast, just a short ride from the centre of Anglesea. Opened in 2006, it was Victoria’s first professionally designed Mountain Cross (4X) track and was designed by renowned trail builder Glen Jacobs of World Trail. The park’s approximately 400m 4X track features rollers, jumps, tabletops, berms and flowing straights, with features ranging from small and approachable through to larger options for more experienced riders. Alongside the main track, riders can explore dirt jumps, skills features and log rides, making the park a great place to practise technique or simply have some fun on the bike. Surrounded by tall pines and located only around 1km from Anglesea’s town centre and beaches, it’s an easy addition to a day of riding and exploring the Surf Coast. Facilities include parking, toilets, shelter and picnic areas. RTS Tip: The bike park closes during rain and when heavy rain is forecast to protect the track surface, reopening once conditions have dried out. Check conditions before heading over, particularly after wet weather.

Ararat Hills offers a network of mountain bike riding in the bushland of Ararat Regional Park, just outside the centre of Ararat in western Victoria. The area has a mix of established and informal trails winding through dry forest and hilly terrain, with climbs, rocky sections and natural singletrack providing plenty of variety for riders looking to explore. Ararat has an active local MTB community, with the Ararat Dirt Riders helping to develop and maintain riding opportunities in the region. A larger purpose-built mountain bike trail network has been planned for Ararat Regional Park, but the project has faced delays and is not yet the completed trail network originally proposed. Some designated walking trails within the park also specifically prohibit bicycles, so riders should stick to recognised, bike-legal trails and check current Parks Victoria information when planning a ride. RTS Tip: Ararat Hills is more of an exploratory, natural-style riding area than a fully developed MTB park, so having a current trail map is worthwhile. Stick to recognised bike-legal trails, as some walking tracks within Ararat Regional Park do not allow bikes.

Avon Mt Hedrick is a true backcountry mountain biking destination, offering an extensive network of hand-built trails for riders who enjoy technical terrain, natural features and genuine adventure. Designed by local riders, the network ranges from Blue through to Double Black Diamond, with rugged singletrack, steep descents, rocky sections and natural obstacles that reward strong technical skills and confident bike handling. This is not a polished trail centre—it's an authentic, grassroots riding experience where exploration is all part of the adventure. The trail network has minimal signage, so carrying a navigation app such as Trailforks is highly recommended. First-time visitors are encouraged to connect with the local mountain bike community, who are often happy to guide newcomers through the best trails. Like nearby Blores Hill, Avon Mt Hedrick sits within a rain shadow, meaning it often stays dry when much of southern Victoria is wet. This makes it an excellent winter riding destination, while summer can bring hot and dry conditions, so riders should plan accordingly and carry plenty of water. For experienced, self-sufficient mountain bikers seeking challenging natural trails away from the crowds, Avon Mt Hedrick delivers an outstanding backcountry riding experience in one of Gippsland's hidden gems.

Beasleys Nursery is a popular turnaround and rest stop for riders exploring Melbourne’s Main Yarra Trail and Mullum Mullum Creek Trail network. Located in Warrandyte beside the trail, it marks an important eastern connection point, with the Main Yarra Trail extension continuing towards Alexander Road and ultimately forming part of the developing cycling connection into Warrandyte. The ride out to Beasleys takes you through leafy creek corridors and bushland, with connections to the Main Yarra, Mullum Mullum and EastLink trails opening up plenty of options for longer loops. Beasleys itself has a café and nursery, making it a particularly handy destination for a relaxed recreational ride or coffee stop before heading back. RTS Tip: Make Beasleys your coffee or lunch turnaround, or use it as a waypoint on a longer ride through Warrandyte. There’s a bike repair station, drinking fountain, picnic table and map board near the nursery, making it a useful spot to regroup before continuing your ride.

Beechworth MTB Park is a compact but feature-packed mountain bike destination just a couple of kilometres from Beechworth in Victoria’s High Country. Around 19km of trails are packed into the park, ranging from green beginner riding through blue and black trails to a double-black option, with Beechworth’s distinctive granite terrain delivering rock gardens, slab rolls, pinch climbs, flowing descents and plenty of technical features. The network includes a skills area, jumps line, beginner Green Loop, cross-country loops and gravity trails, with most riding pedal-accessed and some lower trails able to be self-shuttled. Highlights include the 10km Intermediate XC Loop, Snakes and Ladders and Don’t Be A Hero, while the nearby Flame Trees Trail provides another great option if you want to extend your Beechworth riding. The trails are maintained by local riders from the Beechworth Chain Gang. RTS Tip: There’s no drinking water at the trailhead, so arrive self-sufficient, particularly if you’re planning a longer session. Newer riders can start with the 1.2km Green Loop and skills area before progressing onto the more technical trails — and with Beechworth so close, it’s easy to combine a ride with a food or coffee stop in town.

Big Hill Mountain Bike Park is one of Australia’s original and most iconic mountain bike networks, located just 500m from the centre of Mount Beauty in Victoria’s High Country. Unlike many newer bike parks, Big Hill’s trails have largely been built by hand rather than machine, giving the network a raw, natural and distinctly old-school character that sets it apart from other destinations across North East Victoria. The park offers a huge network of cross-country, trail and downhill riding, with everything from beginner-friendly trails through to world-class XC and gravity terrain. Expect tight hand-cut singletrack, roots, rocks, steep climbs, fast natural descents and technical features, with trails that reward riders who enjoy natural terrain rather than manicured bike-park flow. A great way to explore Big Hill for the first time is through its colour-coded loops. The Green Loop is around 5km with 182m of climbing and provides a good introduction to the park. The Yellow Loop steps things up to around 10km and 315m of climbing, while the Orange Loop packs 11 trails and roughly 356m of climbing into its 10km route, including favourites The Claw and Rachel’s Way. For experienced riders, Big Hill has a serious pedigree. Its steep, fast hand-cut singletrack has been used for downhill, cross-country and enduro racing for decades, with Team Mount Beauty describing the trails as having produced numerous cycling champions. The club continues to host major events including rounds of the Victorian Downhill Series. The network is maintained by Team Mount Beauty, a volunteer cycling club founded in 1995. The club is closely connected with the park and continues to maintain trails, organise events and work with the different landowners across Big Hill. Big Hill is also perfectly positioned for a Victoria High Country MTB road trip. Bright, Yackandandah, Beechworth and Falls Creek are all within the wider region, making Mount Beauty an excellent base for several days of riding. For riders searching for Mount Beauty MTB, Big Hill MTB Park, Victoria High Country mountain biking, natural singletrack or downhill riding in North East Victoria, Big Hill is absolutely one to have on the ride list. RTS Tip: Big Hill is famous for being raw, natural and a little complicated to navigate — and that’s part of its charm. Team Mount Beauty openly acknowledges that navigation can be challenging and is working to improve signage, so download the current map before heading out. First-time riders can start with the Green Loop before progressing deeper into the network

Black Hill Bike Park is a compact mountain bike network within Black Hill Reserve, just minutes from central Ballarat. Built into the steep slopes of the hill and its historic mining landscape, the park packs plenty into a relatively small area, with six cross-country trails, four downhill trails, two pump tracks, a skills area and an advanced jump park. Riding ranges from approachable green and blue trails through to steep Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond descents, with rocky terrain, jumps, technical features and fast gravity riding. The lookout at the top provides great views across Ballarat and is a handy starting point for exploring the network. Riders looking for a challenge can tackle trails such as Claim Jumper, Sluice, Alluvial and Open Cut, while the Green and Westside XC loops provide easier options for building skills or warming up. RTS Tip: Black Hill has some seriously technical gravity trails, so check the trail grading before dropping in and ride within your ability. Parking and a trail map can be found near the lookout at the end of Sim Street, with designated shuttle pick-up available from the Queen Street side of the hill.

Blores Hill Mountain Bike Park is one of Gippsland's premier mountain biking destinations, offering a diverse network of flowing cross-country trails through beautiful native bushland with spectacular views across the Gippsland Plains. The park features 14 purpose-built trails ranging from beginner-friendly rides to challenging technical descents. Riders can expect a fun mix of flowing singletrack, bermed corners, rock gardens, bridges, jumps and natural granite outcrops that keep every lap exciting. The well-designed trail network is rideable year-round and offers plenty of variety for riders looking to build confidence or test their technical skills. As you wind through the forest, panoramic viewpoints provide stunning vistas across the surrounding countryside, making Blores Hill as rewarding for its scenery as it is for its riding. Shared-use trails also allow walkers and horse riders to enjoy parts of the reserve, so riders should remain aware of other trail users. With something to suit families, recreational riders and experienced mountain bikers alike, Blores Hill Mountain Bike Park has earned its reputation as one of Victoria's standout riding destinations, combining flowing trails, technical features and beautiful natural surroundings into an unforgettable day on the bike.

Bowden Spur Mountain Bike Area in Kinglake National Park is home to Shepherds Track, a purpose-built 2km downhill trail designed for experienced gravity riders. Dropping around 233m down the spur, Shepherds is rated Double Black Diamond and packs in steep gradients, dirt jumps, rock gardens, flowing berms, off-camber sections and technical rocky terrain. Built in 2012, it remains one of the more challenging downhill MTB experiences within easy reach of Melbourne. This is a dedicated downhill/enduro ride rather than a broader trail network, with vehicle access to the car park at the top of Bowden Spur allowing riders to organise shuttle runs. Parks Victoria recommends downhill or enduro bikes, along with a full-face helmet and body armour. RTS Tip: Shepherds is genuinely advanced terrain — this isn’t the place to progress onto your first black trail. Experienced riders should arrive with appropriate protective gear, plenty of water and a plan for getting back to the top. There’s no drinking water at the trail, and conditions can change quickly with weather, fire danger or maintenance, so check Parks Victoria updates before heading out.

Buxton MTB Park is a purpose-built mountain bike network in the Black Range State Forest, around 100km north-east of Melbourne. The park offers around 23km of singletrack across nine trails, with gentle climbs, fast flowing descents, berms, rollers, jumps and sections winding through lush tree ferns. Most of the network is intermediate, with options ranging from the easy 600m Platypus Circuit through to more challenging black trails. The 13.3km Acheron Ridge is the park’s signature loop, combining jumps, berms, log drops and fast singletrack, including the flowing descent through Spider Gully. Other highlights include Off Camber for a shorter dose of flow and airtime, and Cathedral for riders looking for a more technical challenge. All trails are pedal-accessed, one-way and well signed from the main trailhead. RTS Tip: Buxton MTB Park has a seasonal winter closure, generally from the Tuesday after the King’s Birthday weekend in June until the beginning of the September/October school holidays to protect the trails. There’s no drinking water at the trailhead, so bring plenty with you. Toilets, parking, picnic tables and a shelter are available.

Candlebark Park in Templestowe offers a compact network of legal mountain bike trails beside the Yarra River, providing an easily accessible taste of bush riding within Melbourne’s north-east. The natural-style singletrack winds through open woodland and riverside parkland, with a mix of flowing sections, short climbs, descents and technical features suited mainly to beginner and intermediate riders. Parks Victoria formally permits bikes on the designated Candlebark mountain bike trail network. The park connects directly with the Main Yarra Trail, making it easy to incorporate the MTB trails into a longer ride from Melbourne or link into the surrounding Yarra Valley cycling network. Nearby Westerfolds Park provides additional shared trails, toilets and drinking water. RTS Tip: Candlebark is best suited to riders looking for natural cross-country-style singletrack rather than a highly developed bike park. Stick to the designated bike-legal trails and consider using the Main Yarra Trail to ride in rather than drive. Plans are also underway to connect and upgrade the existing Candlebark trails with new MTB flow trails at neighbouring Fitzsimons Reserve.

The Cascades Trail is an epic 30km point-to-point mountain bike adventure dropping from the summit of Lake Mountain to Marysville in Victoria’s High Country. With around 1,550m of descending and 500m of climbing, the trail takes riders through changing alpine environments, from snow gums and granite at the summit to fern-lined forest and valley terrain as you descend towards Marysville. Rated a deep blue/intermediate trail with advanced features, Cascades packs plenty into its 3–5 hour journey, including steep berms, rock gardens, slabs, jumps, rollers, fast sections and some solid climbs. It’s a true adventure ride rather than a cruisy gravity descent, with remote sections and no facilities once you leave the Lake Mountain summit. RTS Tip: This is a directional point-to-point ride, so organise your transport before setting off — either book a bike shuttle from Marysville or arrange your own drop-off at Lake Mountain. Carry plenty of water, food, tools and spares as there are no facilities along the trail, and check seasonal opening and trail conditions before heading up as riding is generally available from November to April, depending on snow.

Colquhoun MTB Park is a cross-country mountain bike network in Colquhoun State Forest near Lakes Entrance in East Gippsland. The park is packed with hand-built singletrack winding through eucalyptus forest, with flowing sections, short climbs, berms, rollers, timber bridges, log rollovers and optional jumps and drops. Most trails are graded blue intermediate, with shorter options and a pump track making it possible to tailor the ride to your ability. The 15.5km Scalectric Loop is a local favourite, linking together some of the best singletrack in the park and including the rollercoaster-like Lollipop section. Riders can also connect into the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, opening up options for longer adventures through the surrounding forest and towards Lakes Entrance. RTS Tip: Facilities at the trailhead are limited, so bring your own water, food and riding essentials. For a first visit, the Scalectric Loop is a great way to sample the park, while newer riders can stick to the shorter trails before building up to the full loop.

Dinner Plain MTB Park delivers beautiful high-country riding through the snow gums and alpine meadows of Victoria’s Dinner Plain village. The park features around 26km of pedal-access singletrack, with 7 green, 8 blue and 1 black trail, making it particularly good for families, newer riders and intermediates while still offering something for those wanting to step things up. Highlights include the berms and rollers of Sir Jax Pump A Lot, the scenic Moby’s Old Dog, New Tricks, fast and flowy Shut Up Ollie, and black-rated Jabba-Wookie, where rocks, berms and a quicker descent add more technical challenge. With accommodation, cafés, pubs, toilets, water and repair stations all within the village, it’s an easy place to park, stay and ride. RTS Tip: Make a weekend of it and add the Brabralung Trail, which links Dinner Plain with Mount Hotham through snow gum woodland and open alpine plains for a 26km return ride. Dinner Plain’s MTB trails are generally a green-season experience, operating around October to May depending on snowfall, so check conditions before travelling. There’s currently no bike hire in the village, so BYO bike.

Djuwang Baring – Creswick Trails is an impressive 60km purpose-built mountain bike network winding through Dja Dja Wurrung Country around the historic gold-mining town of Creswick in Victoria’s Central Goldfields. Meaning “long track” in the Dja Dja Wurrung language, the network includes around 70 skill-rated trail segments arranged as stacked loops around a central spine, making it easy to build anything from a short family ride to a full day on the bike. The focus is on beginner and intermediate riding, but there are also difficult and extremely difficult trails, gravity lines, cross-country riding and around 30% of the network is adaptive-MTB suitable. Forest, old mining landscapes and scenic sections around St Georges Lake give the network plenty of character beyond the riding itself. RTS Tip: Start at Hammon Park Trailhead, just a short walk from Creswick’s town centre, where you’ll find parking, toilets, water, a pump track, learn-to-ride area, bike wash and repair station. Download the trail map or Trailforks before heading deeper into the network as mobile coverage varies. Check the current trail status too — seasonal maintenance and fire-danger closures can affect access.

Eildon MTB Park is an 18km mountain bike network right on the edge of Eildon, with a mix of cross-country and downhill riding ranging from beginner-friendly trails through to technical old-school singletrack. Originally developed from courses used for national XC and downhill racing, the park combines tight turns, steep pinch climbs, flowing descents, rockier technical sections and dedicated gravity riding. Key trails include the easy Darlingford Loop, intermediate Tea Tree Twisty, technical Sticks & Stones and the black-rated Karalika Express downhill trail. Most of the network is pedal accessed, while Karalika Express can be self-shuttled, making Eildon a great option whether you’re after a relaxed loop or something faster and more challenging. RTS Tip: Start with Darlingford or Tea Tree Twisty to get a feel for the terrain before progressing onto the harder trails. Facilities are limited at the trailhead, with toilets and drinking water available in Eildon township, so arrive prepared if you’re planning a longer session.

Erica Mountain Bike Park, tucked into the tall forests and fern gullies surrounding the small Gippsland town of Erica, offers around 15km of official cross-country and all-mountain singletrack split across two distinct trailheads. The Eastern Trailhead at Mill Park has 9.3km of intermediate riding across Bones, Crazy Snake and Silvertop Spur, delivering classic hand-cut XC riding through beautiful forest. South of town, the Western Trailhead steps things up with the difficult Wheel Nuts and Winchline, where faster, more technical terrain makes for a considerably tougher ride. With Erica sitting at the gateway to Walhalla and the Mountain Rivers region, it’s also a great base for linking MTB with some of Gippsland’s nearby rail-trail adventures. RTS Tip: If it’s your first visit, start at Mill Park, only around 500m from the centre of Erica, before progressing to the more technical Western trails. There are no major facilities at the trailheads, but toilets, food and other amenities are available nearby in Erica township. The park is free to ride with no booking required, and it’s worth checking conditions before heading out, particularly after wet weather.

The Eumeralla Track Network is a popular cross-country mountain bike network on the edge of Anglesea, with around 30km of trails winding through the coastal bushland between the Great Ocean Road, Hurst Road and Eumeralla Scout Camp. The network offers a great mix of mostly green and blue-rated riding, with flowing singletrack, short climbs and descents, rollers, jumps and natural features catering for a broad range of riders. The formal trails are signposted with difficulty ratings and can easily be linked together to create anything from a quick loop to a longer cross-country ride. The network also connects well with Anglesea’s wider riding scene, including Anglesea Bike Park, making it easy to put together a bigger day on the bike. RTS Tip: For your first visit, start from the Hurst Road Carpark, Mountain bike Trail Head and use the official Eumeralla map or Trailforks to navigate the network. Stick to the formal signposted trails, as there are also a number of informal tracks around Anglesea that aren’t part of the sanctioned network.

Falls Creek MTB Park is one of Victoria’s premier alpine mountain bike destinations, with more than 50km of purpose-built gravity and cross-country trails winding through spectacular High Country terrain. Designed and built by World Trail, the network caters for a wide range of abilities, from beginner-friendly green trails through to fast blue flow and technical black runs, with everything starting and finishing within the ride-in, ride-out Falls Creek village. Highlights include the flowing Skyline and Flowtown, the beginner-friendly Greenline, and a huge 10km top-to-bottom gravity run linking High Voltage, Wishing Well and Flowtown. Riders can pedal the network or use the seasonal MTB shuttle service to maximise descending time, making Falls Creek a brilliant destination for anything from a first taste of alpine MTB to a full weekend of gravity laps. RTS Tip: Falls Creek MTB Park is a seasonal summer riding destination, generally operating from November to April, with snow and alpine conditions affecting opening dates. Check the official trail report and shuttle schedule before travelling, particularly early or late in the season.

Flame Trees is a fun cross-country MTB loop just outside Beechworth in Victoria’s High Country, running alongside the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. Built for riders stepping into mountain biking but still entertaining when ridden at speed, the approximately 10km clockwise loop mixes flowing singletrack with rocky sections, frequent gradient changes, short technical descents into shaded gullies and snaking switchback climbs back towards the rail trail. The trail is managed by the volunteer Beechworth Chain Gang and makes a great alternative to the more technical Beechworth MTB Park, particularly for families and newer riders wanting to build their confidence. RTS Tip: Leave the car in Beechworth and make the ride a little bigger — it’s around a 5km cruise along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to reach Flame Trees near the old Baarmutha railway station site. Alternatively, there’s a small car park where Diffey Road crosses the rail trail. There are no toilets or drinking water at the Flame Trees trailhead, so fill your bottles and come prepared before heading out.

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.

The Yaugher Network is the northern half of the famous Forrest MTB Trails and delivers a more traditional cross-country experience through dry eucalypt forest and spectacular grass-tree country. Sitting just north of Forrest township, the network ranges from beginner through to expert, with a greater concentration of technical black trails than the Southern Network. The 12km blue-rated Yaugher Super Loop forms the backbone of the network, linking into trails including Grass Trees, Marriners Run, Foxtail, J2, Yo Yo, Casper Black, Barre Warre and Vista. With relatively little elevation but plenty of fast singletrack, obstacles and technical features, Yaugher proves you don’t need huge climbs to get a serious workout. RTS Tip: Use the Yaugher Super Loop as your base and add side trails depending on your ability — it provides access to the wider network and makes navigation much easier on a first visit. You can also leave the car in Forrest and ride around 5 minutes up the Tiger Rail Trail to the Yaugher Trailhead. Download the trail map or Trailforks before heading out, and check current trail conditions before riding.

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.

Granton DH, near Marysville in Victoria, is an old-school downhill riding area on the slopes around Mount Gordon, built for experienced riders who enjoy steep, natural and technical terrain. The network includes the Granton Downhill Long Track and Granton Downhill Short Track, with the short track dropping around 250m over approximately 1.7km and carrying a double-black rating on Trailforks. Expect steep gradients, rough natural singletrack and a much less manicured experience than a modern bike park. Granton/Narbethong is also recognised as an established downhill riding location in AusCycling’s Victorian Mountain Bike Strategy. RTS Tip: Granton is one for confident gravity riders, not beginners looking for an introduction to downhill. The trails are steep and natural, so inspect unfamiliar sections before committing and come prepared with appropriate protective gear, spares and offline navigation. Trail information and recent condition reports are limited, so check Trailforks and local updates before making a dedicated trip.

Haunted Hills Mountain Bike Park is one of Australia's most unique riding destinations, combining fun, purpose-built trails with a spooky theme inspired by the area's colourful local legends. From ghost stories and mysterious happenings to eerie encounters and historic folklore, the park embraces its haunted reputation at every turn. Themed features are scattered throughout the network, including tombstone-style trail signs, the aptly named Mad Cows trail, and a distinctive skull-and-crossbones pump track that has become a favourite photo stop. Adding to the atmosphere, parts of the trail network run alongside a historic cemetery, making for a truly memorable riding experience. Beyond the theme, Haunted Hills offers a well-designed trail network catering to riders of all abilities. Whether you're looking for flowing beginner-friendly trails, technical challenges or a session on the pump track, there's something for everyone to enjoy. With its combination of creative trail design, family-friendly facilities and unforgettable atmosphere, Haunted Hills Mountain Bike Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Gippsland—and don't forget to grab a photo at the iconic park entrance before you ride.

Humevale is a favourite with Melbourne road cyclists looking for a solid climb without heading too far from the city. Starting near Whittlesea, the Humevale Road climb winds steadily into the hills through farmland and bushland, delivering a sustained but generally manageable ascent that makes it popular for training rides, climbing challenges and weekend road loops. The quiet rural setting and gradual change from open countryside to forest make the climb as enjoyable for the scenery as it is for the elevation, with plenty of options to incorporate it into a longer ride through Melbourne’s northern ranges. RTS Tip: Humevale is a great climb for riders wanting to build confidence on longer ascents—the gradient is generally steady enough to find your rhythm and settle in. Save a little for the final kilometres, watch for vehicles on the open road and consider linking it with Kinglake for a much bigger climbing day.

Located near Wodonga in Victoria’s north-east, Hunchback Hill MTB Park is a popular local mountain bike network with purpose-built singletrack spread across the slopes of Hunchback Hill. Expect a mix of flowing trail, rocky sections, punchy climbs and more technical features, with the terrain and elevation providing plenty of variety for riders looking to build skills or put together a solid trail session. Its location close to Wodonga makes Hunchback Hill an easy ride destination for locals and a worthwhile stop for riders travelling through Victoria’s High Country. RTS Tip: Don’t underestimate Hunchback Hill—the climbs and rocky terrain can make a relatively short ride feel like a proper workout. Explore a few different trail combinations rather than sticking to one loop, and check current trail conditions before riding, particularly following wet weather.

Connecting the historic towns of Beechworth and Yackandandah in Victoria’s High Country, the Indigo Epic Trail is a purpose-built mountain bike adventure designed to be ridden as one big journey or explored in smaller sections. Around 56 km in length, the trail winds through native forest and rugged High Country terrain, combining flowing singletrack, sustained climbs, fast descents and plenty of natural features along the way. With trail networks and rider-friendly towns at either end, it’s much more than a point-to-point ride — stay overnight, organise a shuttle or make it part of a bigger Beechworth and Yackandandah MTB trip. RTS Tip: Make a weekend of it. Ride the Indigo Epic in one direction, organise a shuttle or overnight stay, and leave some time to explore the local Beechworth and Yackandandah trails too. It’s a substantial ride, so carry enough water, food, tools and spares for a few hours on the bike and check current trail conditions before setting out.

La Larr Ba Gauwa Park at Harcourt, Victoria, is one of Central Victoria’s standout mountain bike destinations, with around 34 km of purpose-built cross-country MTB trails set amongst the granite outcrops and bushland of Mount Alexander. Located near Castlemaine and Bendigo and around 1.5 hours from Melbourne, the Harcourt MTB network features 11 trails ranging from beginner green through intermediate blue to advanced black, with natural granite incorporated throughout the riding. Expect technical rock gardens, slabs, hand-built stone sections, switchback climbs, berms, jumps, drops and fast, flowing descents, along with impressive views across the Harcourt Valley and surrounding ranges. The beginner-friendly Wanyarra provides an approachable introduction to the park, while intermediate riders have plenty to explore on trails including Girra, Wilkerr, Murnong, Barramul, Gart Gart, Milipa and Gurri. Experienced riders can step things up on the black-rated Werpil, Mir and Milakuk, where steeper terrain, technical climbing, rock features and challenging descents showcase the distinctive granite landscape that Harcourt is known for. The name La Larr Ba Gauwa means “stones and mountain” in the Dja Dja Wurrung language, reflecting both the cultural significance and defining terrain of the area. RTS Tip: All Harcourt MTB trails are ridden anti-clockwise, so follow the mapped direction and inspect unfamiliar jumps, drops and technical features before committing. Riders park in Harcourt township and use the purpose-built off-road path to reach the trailhead, and there is no potable water at the park, so fill up before you ride. Also check the latest official park update before travelling, particularly following fire or severe weather events, as closures can affect access.

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, near Marysville in Victoria’s Yarra Ranges, transforms into an alpine mountain biking destination once the snow melts, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly loops to one of Victoria’s standout long-distance MTB descents. Around two hours from Melbourne, riders can explore high-country terrain, snow gum and alpine forest, rocky singletrack and flowing descents, with spectacular views across the surrounding ranges. The headline ride is the Cascades MTB Trail, an approximately 30 km point-to-point descent from Lake Mountain to Marysville. Despite the huge amount of descending, Cascades is a genuine all-mountain adventure rather than a pure downhill run, with pedalling and climbing mixed amongst long flowing descents, rocky sections and more advanced features. There are also shorter trails around the resort village. Trigger Track provides around 1.7 km of beginner flow and minor rock features and can be used as an easier introduction to the start of Cascades, while Lenny’s Loop is a 2 km beginner trail aimed at families and developing riders. Lower Granite Grind adds a longer 5 km option through mountain ash forest and old logging areas, while the short Ski Run 21 provides a more technical intermediate challenge. Trail availability varies throughout the season, so riders should always check which trails are open before travelling. For riders tackling Cascades, a seasonal MTB shuttle operates from Marysville to the Lake Mountain trailhead, making it possible to concentrate on the ride down rather than organising your own vehicle shuttle. Lake Mountain’s MTB season generally operates during the warmer months, with summer access typically running from November through April. RTS Tip: Don’t be fooled by the word “descent” — Cascades is a 30 km alpine MTB adventure, so arrive prepared for more than just gravity riding. There is no potable water on the trail, so carry enough water, high-energy food, puncture and repair gear, plus a warm or waterproof layer as conditions can change quickly in the mountains. If riding point-to-point, organise your Marysville shuttle or vehicle logistics before heading up to Lake Mountain.

Lysterfield Park, around 30 km south-east of Melbourne, Victoria, is one of Australia’s best-known urban mountain biking destinations, with approximately 24 km of purpose-built MTB trails catering for beginners through to highly experienced riders. The network winds through native eucalypt forest, plantations and rocky hills surrounding Lysterfield Lake, combining flowing singletrack, berms, jumps, rock gardens, steep climbs and technical descents. Lysterfield also has an important place in Australian cycling history as home to the State Mountain Bike Course used for the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games. There’s plenty for newer riders and families, including the 6.3 km Lake Circuit Trail, Trail Mix and Lower Blair Witch, plus a dedicated Skills Park and pump track where riders can practise berms, jumps, drops and bike handling before heading onto the main network. Intermediate riders can explore trails including Lower Buckle, Upper Buckle, Middle, Red Gum, Hug, Upper Blair Witch, Snipe and Dog Pound, while experienced riders can step up to black trails such as Follow Me, Aneurysm and the 6.4 km State MTB Course. The short Granite Link takes things another step further with double-black technical terrain. With picnic areas, toilets, lake access and multiple riding options, Lysterfield Park works equally well for a family outing, skills session, quick after-work ride or a longer day linking together the MTB network. The trails are also supported by the volunteer-run Lysterfield District Trail Riders (LDTR), who help maintain and advocate for this hugely popular Melbourne mountain bike network. RTS Tip: If it’s your first visit, warm up on the Lake Circuit, Trail Mix or Skills Park before progressing into the blue and black singletrack. Experienced riders shouldn’t miss the 2006 Commonwealth Games State MTB Course, which is ridden anti-clockwise and packs technical rock sections, steep climbing and fast descending into 6.4 km. Check current Parks Victoria trail conditions before travelling, particularly after wet weather, and arrive early on busy weekends as parking can fill quickly.

Maldon MTB Park, on Mount Tarrengower at Maldon in Central Victoria, is a classic gravity mountain biking destination known for steep, rocky and challenging downhill trails. Only a few minutes from historic Maldon and around 40 km from Bendigo, the mountain rises to approximately 570 metres above sea level, providing the elevation and naturally rugged terrain that have made it a long-standing favourite with Victorian downhill riders. The main gravity network features four established descents — The Valley and City Link at intermediate level, the advanced Rough ’n’ Wild, and the expert-level Rocky Road. Expect fast natural singletrack, rock gardens, rough technical sections, drops and challenging lines rather than smooth modern bike-park flow. Maldon is particularly well known for its shuttle riding, with organised ride days using the sealed Mount Tarrengower Road to quickly return riders to the summit. The Valley offers one of the more approachable introductions to the mountain, with alternative lines around harder features, while City Link becomes progressively rougher and rockier. Rocky Road is a significant step up, essentially delivering an extended technical rock garden with few easier alternatives. The surrounding Maldon Historic Reserve also provides impressive views across Victoria’s historic Goldfields from Mount Tarrengower. Beyond the downhill park, Maldon is worth considering as a broader cycling destination. Riders can explore gravel routes around Mount Tarrengower and the surrounding Goldfields, while the rugged Castlemaine to Maldon Trail provides another MTB adventure between the two historic towns. RTS Tip: Maldon is proper old-school gravity riding, so don't underestimate the trail grades. Rocks, loose surfaces and technical features are a big part of the experience, and Rocky Road in particular is intended for highly experienced riders. Check Maldon MTB’s current shuttle or ride-day information before travelling, inspect unfamiliar features before committing and check Parks Victoria conditions and fire restrictions during warmer weather.

Moama MTB Park, also known as the Five Mile Mountain Bike Trail, offers around 7 km of purpose-built mountain bike trails near Moama and Echuca on the NSW–Victoria border. Located within Murray Valley Regional Park beside the Murray River, the trails wind beneath towering river red gums and are designed to cater for a broad range of abilities, making Five Mile a great option for beginners, families and experienced riders looking for a fun cross-country session. The network combines fast, rolling singletrack with berms, rollers, jumps, drops, wall rides and flowing bridge features, packing plenty of variety into its relatively short distance. There’s also a dedicated skills area and pump track, giving newer riders somewhere to practise bike handling while more experienced riders can session features before heading back onto the main trail. The relatively flat Riverina landscape means the riding is more about carrying speed, cornering and enjoying the flow than tackling long climbs. Set around 8 km from Moama along Perricoota Road, Five Mile mountain bike trail is easy to combine with a wider Echuca–Moama cycling trip. After riding, the nearby Five Mile picnic area provides a scenic spot beside the Murray River to relax, picnic or make a longer day of the visit. Parking is available at the MTB trail, although NSW National Parks notes that it can become busy on weekends. RTS Tip: Five Mile is a brilliant spot for riders wanting to build MTB skills without huge climbs. Use the pump track and skills area first, then take those skills onto the rollers, berms and features of the main trail. Summer temperatures in the Murray region can be extreme, so ride early, carry plenty of water and check current Murray Valley Regional Park alerts before travelling. Mobile reception can also be limited within the park, so download any information you need before setting out.

Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort is one of Australia's most unique mountain biking destinations, transforming from a winter ski resort into a spectacular alpine riding playground throughout the warmer months. Open almost year-round, the resort offers breathtaking scenery, cool mountain air and riding for everyone from first-time trail riders to elite downhill racers. The cross-country trail network winds through snow gum woodlands and alpine forests, with flowing singletrack, challenging climbs and rewarding descents. Riders can explore iconic locations including the summit, enjoy panoramic views from Anthill Lookout, and pass through fields of wildflowers and towering Mountain Ash forests. Elevated boardwalks protect sensitive alpine environments while providing enjoyable riding across wetter sections, and picnic areas along the way make it easy to stop and take in the scenery. Cross-country trails are free to access, with bike hire available from the Adventure Hub. For gravity riders, Mt Baw Baw's downhill track is one of Australia's most iconic alpine descents. Dropping around 300 vertical metres from the village, the trail features a demanding mix of berms, rock gardens, log drops, rollovers, jumps and technical features that have challenged some of the country's fastest riders. While the main line is designed for experienced downhill riders, many of the larger obstacles include alternate B-lines, making the trail accessible to confident intermediate riders looking to progress their skills. Whether you're chasing flowing alpine cross-country trails or one of Australia's most technical downhill runs, Mt Baw Baw delivers an unforgettable mountain biking experience surrounded by some of Victoria's most spectacular alpine scenery.

The Portland MTB Trail is a fun and accessible 7.5km singletrack loop that offers an enjoyable ride for beginners and intermediate mountain bikers. The trail is well signposted, with each section marked as sectors 1–11, making navigation straightforward despite the unusual numbering system. 2 other loops available with 13km in total. While you won't find perfectly groomed flow trails or large man-made features, the track makes good use of the natural terrain. The ride begins with a long, gentle descent where you can build some speed, with a handful of small to medium jumps adding a bit of excitement along the way. One of the highlights is a winding section that snakes through a small gully, providing some enjoyable corners and a more natural trail feel. The remainder of the loop is relatively straightforward but remains entertaining from start to finish. The trail surface can become quite heavy after rain, so it's worth checking local weather conditions before heading out. As the only dedicated mountain bike trail in the Portland area, it's a worthwhile stop for riders exploring the region or looking to tick off another NSW trail.

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

Mount Major MTB Park at Dookie, around 30 km east of Shepparton in Victoria’s Goulburn Valley, is a purpose-built mountain biking area offering both cross-country and downhill riding across the rocky slopes of Mount Major. The network ranges from easier XC riding through to very difficult gravity trails, with natural singletrack, rock gardens, log crossings, steep climbs, fast descents and technical rocky outcrops. The main Cross Country course is around 10 km, while the mountain also features several shorter downhill runs dropping from near the summit. The easier Melon Track runs for around 1.5 km with flowing open corners and a gully crossing, while the much harder East and Skyline tracks descend for approximately 1.3 km across rocky terrain, off-camber sections and technical outcrops. Mount Major has also hosted high-level competition, including the 2011 Australian Mountain Bike Championships, giving this relatively compact regional Victorian MTB park a strong racing history. The climb to Mount Major’s summit is part of the experience, with the peak reaching around 381 metres above sea level and providing sweeping views over Dookie, surrounding farmland and the Goulburn Valley. The MTB park is located on land associated with the University of Melbourne’s Dookie agricultural campus and remains part of a working farm, so riders may encounter livestock as well as vehicles using Mount Major TV Road to access communications infrastructure. RTS Tip: Mount Major has everything from approachable XC to genuinely difficult rocky descending, so check the trail grading before dropping into an unfamiliar line. Access is via Mount Major TV Road, and cyclists may need to lift their bike over the access gate. Remember you’re riding through a working agricultural property — watch for livestock, road crossings, snakes during warmer months and seasonal magpies, and dogs, camping and fires are not permitted.

Mt Buller Bike Park, in Victoria’s High Country around three hours north-east of Melbourne, is one of Australia’s iconic alpine mountain biking destinations. The Mt Buller and Mt Stirling network offers more than 120 km of cross-country trails, alongside dedicated gravity riding, beginner trails, skills areas and a pump track. Trails range from approachable green riding through to demanding black backcountry adventures, with everything from smooth alpine flow and berms to rocky technical singletrack, sustained climbing and fast gravity descents. The riding spans elevations from around 600 metres to 1,700 metres, delivering spectacular High Country scenery along the way. Cross-country riders have plenty to explore, including the renowned 10 km Stonefly, while gravity riders can tackle trails including Copperhead, ABOM, Outlaw and International. Mt Buller’s gravity network offers more than 11 km of descending trails, with shuttle services operating during the green season to help riders maximise their laps. Copperhead also holds a special place in Australian MTB history as the country’s first purpose-built flow trail. The headline adventure is the 46 km Australian Alpine Epic, a black-rated point-to-point ride crossing Mt Buller and Mt Stirling before descending towards the Delatite River. It’s a genuine backcountry ride rather than an all-downhill cruise, with around 1,000 metres of climbing, substantial descending and an expected ride time of roughly 6–8 hours for experienced, self-sufficient riders. Mt Buller is primarily a summer mountain biking destination, with trails progressively opening from around November and the full network usually operating from December through April, depending on conditions. With accommodation and services in Mt Buller Village, bike hire, shuttles and an enormous variety of trails, it’s an easy place to turn a single ride into a full Victorian High Country MTB weekend. RTS Tip: Alpine riding deserves alpine preparation. Even in summer, conditions at Mt Buller can change rapidly and cold temperatures or even snow are possible. Carry water, food, repair gear and an extra layer, particularly if heading onto Stonefly or the Australian Alpine Epic. Before setting out, check the current Mt Buller trail report — the MTB network closes over winter and individual trails can also be affected by weather or maintenance.

Mt Buller Bike Park, in Victoria’s High Country around three hours north-east of Melbourne, is one of Australia’s iconic alpine mountain biking destinations. The Mt Buller and Mt Stirling network features more than 120 km of cross-country MTB trails, alongside dedicated gravity trails, beginner riding, a pump track and skills areas. With trails ranging from around 600 to 1,700 metres elevation, riders can expect everything from smooth alpine flow and berms to rocky technical singletrack, sustained climbing, fast descents and spectacular High Country views. There’s riding for virtually every ability. Beginners can start with the 3 km Family Trail, while intermediate riders can explore trails including Gang Gangs, Misty Twist, Snowgums, Trigger Happy and the Delatite River Trail. More experienced XC riders can tackle the renowned 10 km Stonefly, while gravity riders have ABOM, Copperhead, Outlaw and International. Copperhead has a special place in Australian MTB history as Australia’s first purpose-built flow trail. The headline adventure is the 46 km Australian Alpine Epic, an advanced backcountry ride through the Mt Buller and Mt Stirling alpine landscape. Mt Buller describes it as the Southern Hemisphere’s first IMBA Epic Trail, and it remains one of the signature long-distance mountain bike rides in the Victorian High Country. Mt Buller is primarily a green-season mountain bike destination, with trails progressively opening from November and the full XC network typically available from December through April, depending on weather and trail conditions. Accommodation, bike hire, food and other services in Mt Buller Village make it easy to turn a day of riding into a full Victorian High Country MTB weekend. RTS Tip: Alpine riding deserves alpine preparation. Even in summer, conditions at Mt Buller can change quickly and temperatures can drop below zero, so carry food, water, repair gear and an extra layer when heading onto longer trails. If it’s your first visit, don’t try to cover everything in a day — choose a section of the network that suits your ability and save the Australian Alpine Epic for when you’re properly prepared for a big backcountry ride. Always check the current trail report before travelling, as the MTB network closes for winter and individual trails can close due to weather or maintenance.

Muckleford Nature Conservation Reserve, near Castlemaine and Maldon in Central Victoria’s Goldfields, offers natural cross-country and gravel-style riding through classic Box-Ironbark forest and historic gold-mining country. Rather than a modern purpose-built MTB park, the reserve and surrounding Muckleford bushland contain a mixture of natural singletrack, bush tracks and fire roads, making it a good choice for XC mountain bikes and gravel riders who enjoy exploring quieter, less-developed trail networks. Mapped MTB routes within the reserve include easier green-rated singletrack links, while the wider area provides plenty of scope for building longer loops. A major attraction for riders is the reserve’s proximity to the Castlemaine–Maldon Trail, which passes through Muckleford and follows the historic Victorian Goldfields Railway for much of its route. The Castlemaine-to-Muckleford section is around 8 km, followed by approximately 9.7 km from Muckleford to Maldon, travelling through woodland, open farmland and increasingly forested country. Despite sometimes being called a rail trail, it does not simply follow the old railway formation and includes rough surfaces, loose gravel and short, steep climbs through gullies, making it better suited to confident riders and wider tyres. For a longer adventure, riders can combine Muckleford with the surrounding Maldon Historic Reserve and Muckleford State Forest. A mapped 20 km Maldon bush ride uses the Castlemaine–Maldon Trail to reach Muckleford Railway Station before continuing through native bushland towards Smiths Reef Dam and returning past historic gold-mining remains. In spring, the Box-Ironbark forest and surrounding reserves can also put on an impressive display of native wildflowers. RTS Tip: Muckleford is best approached as an exploration ride rather than a signed bike-park experience, so download your route before setting out and be prepared for loose gravel, rough bush tracks and some surprisingly steep sections. For a brilliant Goldfields adventure, link the reserve with the Castlemaine–Maldon Trail and Muckleford Railway Station. With a little planning, you can even ride one way between Castlemaine and Maldon and take your bike back aboard the Victorian Goldfields Railway. There are no reliable drinking-water facilities along the Castlemaine–Maldon trail, so carry what you need.

Mystic Bike Park in Bright, Victoria, is one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations, sitting just minutes from the centre of town in the heart of the Victorian High Country. The park offers 60+ km of purpose-built MTB trails and more than 20 individual trails, with around 450–500 metres of vertical elevation across the mountain. Riders can choose from beginner-friendly singletrack through to technical cross-country, fast flow trails, jump lines and expert downhill terrain, all winding through the distinctive pine plantation overlooking Bright and the surrounding alpine ranges. Mystic is particularly well known for its gravity riding, with favourites including Hot Wheels, Flowmingo, Flight School, Couch Surfer, Wiggles and Tombstone. The network is designed with progression in mind, so developing riders can build confidence on easier flow trails before moving onto bigger jumps, steeper terrain and advanced technical descents. There’s also a pump track and BMX track at the base, while technical XC trails provide plenty for riders who would rather earn their descents. Mystic operates as a professionally managed, paid-access bike park, with both pedal access and uplift options. Pedal access is available daily and the park operates year-round, while shuttle uplifts run on weekends and holidays, providing access to the higher gravity trails. Bike hire, e-bike hire, coaching and guided riding are also available, with water, toilets, tools and a bike wash located at the main Coronation Avenue trailhead. Its location makes Mystic an ideal base for a bigger Bright mountain biking holiday. Riders can combine park laps with nearby High Country gravel routes, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, Great Valley Trail and other MTB destinations around Mount Beauty, Falls Creek and Dinner Plain. RTS Tip: Mystic is a big network with a serious progression from beginner trails through to double-black downhill, so use your first few laps to get familiar with the terrain rather than jumping straight onto the hardest lines. A Mountain Pass is required even if you’re pedalling, with shuttle access purchased separately. Check the current trail status before travelling, inspect unfamiliar jumps and technical features before committing, and if you’re planning a gravity day, booking your shuttle ahead is worthwhile during weekends and busy holiday periods.

The Nerrina MTB Trails, on the northern outskirts of Ballarat, Victoria, offer a compact network of old-school natural mountain biking through the historic Nerrina goldfields. The riding area contains roughly 6–7 km of mapped singletrack across around 10 trails, with a mixture of cross-country, trail and gravity-style riding. Unlike a manicured modern bike park, Nerrina is characterised by natural rocky terrain, old mining workings, short punchy climbs, rock gardens, drops, jumps and technical descents, making it a fun option for riders who enjoy raw, locally developed trails. Popular trails include Yarrowee Rock Run, Nuggety Dam, The Golden Mile, Kids Play, Big Kids Play, Gap Track, Rock Track and Off to Church. Difficulty ranges from easier riding around Nuggety Dam through to blue and black-diamond singletrack, with features including rock chutes, gap jumps and drops. The Golden Mile runs through remnants of Ballarat’s historic gold diggings, adding another layer of interest to the ride, although riders need to stay on the established line because old mine workings remain throughout the area. Nerrina also connects into the wider Ballarat trail network and Goldfields Track, opening up options for longer XC rides rather than simply lapping the local descents. It remains an active local riding area, with Ballarat’s Club MUD using Nerrina alongside Black Hill, Mt Clear and Creswick for its junior MTB riding program. RTS Tip: Nerrina is an unsanctioned trail network, so ride with extra care and understand that trails may not receive the same formal inspection, signage or maintenance as a managed bike park. Download a current map before heading out, watch carefully for historic mine workings and inspect unfamiliar jumps, drops and technical features before committing. For a bigger Ballarat MTB day, use Nerrina as part of a longer ride incorporating the Goldfields Track, or pair it with nearby Black Hill for more purpose-built XC and downhill riding.

Nestled on the forested slopes of Mt Nowa Nowa in East Gippsland, Nowa Nowa MTB Park is one of Victoria's most beginner-friendly mountain bike destinations. Designed around a unique climb-then-descend layout, riders pedal a gentle 5 km ascent to the top of the mountain before choosing from a variety of flowing singletrack descents back to the trailhead. The network offers around 35 km of trails, including 20 km of dedicated mountain bike singletrack and 15 km of shared walking and cycling trails. Most trails are graded green, making the park an ideal destination for riders building confidence, while the blue-rated Jumping Jackaroo and Wallaby Ramble provide extra excitement with flowing berms, rollers and small jumps for more experienced riders. Jumping Jackaroo is the signature descent, delivering around 15 minutes of fun, flowing trail featuring sweeping corners, log rollovers and optional jumps. Riders looking to maximise the downhill can also take advantage of the vehicle-access shuttle road leading to the upper trailhead. Just minutes from the township of Nowa Nowa and within easy reach of Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale, the park combines accessible riding with welcoming local businesses, making it an excellent destination for families, weekend riders and anyone exploring East Gippsland. Ride Highlights One of East Gippsland's most beginner-friendly MTB parks Unique climb-once, choose-your-descent trail design Signature Jumping Jackaroo flow trail Smooth singletrack with berms, rollers and small features Shuttle road to the upper trailhead Scenic Mt Nowa Nowa summit lookout Close to Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale Suitability Perfect for beginners, families and riders looking for flowing cross-country trails without technical terrain. Intermediate riders will enjoy the blue-rated descents, while experienced riders can use the shuttle road for repeated downhill laps. Night riding is permitted, and the park is IMBA-rated, making it a versatile destination for riders of all ages and abilities.

The Ocean Grove District Ride Centre, at Kingston Park in Ocean Grove on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, is a brand-new purpose-built riding facility designed for mountain bikes, BMX and other wheeled sports. The $3.5 million centre officially opened on 1 August 2026, giving local and visiting riders a dedicated progression-focused venue with jump lines, a pump track and skills features. Designed and constructed by World Trail, the centre features five dirt jump lines catering from beginner through to advanced riders. The lines incorporate rollers, berms, tabletops, hip jumps and a wall ride, allowing riders to progressively build confidence rather than having to jump straight onto large features. The overall facility is designed to accommodate around 100 riders at a time. A major feature is the approximately 130 m asphalt pump track, designed primarily for beginner and intermediate progression but suitable for a wide range of riders. Unlike the dirt jump lines, the asphalt circuit can also be used by BMX bikes, scooters and skateboards, making the centre particularly useful for families with kids interested in different riding disciplines. There are also skills and trials features designed to help riders improve bike control, stability and confidence before progressing onto the jump lines. Around the riding areas are landscaped spaces for spectators and families, along with shelters, seating and bike racks. The centre is fully fenced from the remainder of Kingston Park. The project has strong community roots. It grew from the huge number of informal bike jumps constructed around Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads during the COVID period. More than 60% of the makeshift jumps identified across Greater Geelong were in these two suburbs, prompting the City to work with local riders and the community to develop a permanent facility. Kingston Park was eventually selected because of its central location and existing park amenities. RTS Tip: This is a great destination for skills progression rather than traditional trail riding. Start on the pump track and beginner jump lines to get a feel for the features, then progressively work through the larger lines rather than jumping straight to the advanced options. It’s also a particularly good choice for families and mixed-ability groups, as riders can session different features while staying within the same compact facility. And because it only opened in August 2026, you’re riding one of Victoria’s newest dedicated bike parks.

Set amongst the spectacular Victorian High Country, Omeo MTB Park has quickly established itself as one of Australia's premier mountain bike destinations. With more than 114 kilometres of purpose-built trails, the network caters for every riding style, from gentle cross-country loops and scenic adventure rides to fast flow trails, jump lines and technical gravity descents. All trails begin from Livingstone Park, just a short pedal from Omeo's historic main street, making it a true ride-in, ride-out destination. Riders can spend days exploring the network, with long descents, flowing berms, natural rock features, technical alpine terrain and expansive mountain views combining to create an unforgettable riding experience. The trail network has been designed to progressively challenge riders of all abilities. Beginners can enjoy smooth green trails and cross-country adventures, intermediates will love the flowing descents and berm-filled trails, while advanced riders can tackle technical rock gardens, freeride features and big jump lines such as Bangarang, one of the park's signature expert trails. Livingstone Park also features an asphalt pump track, skills area, bike wash, maintenance station, picnic facilities and easy access to Omeo's cafés, accommodation and services, making it an ideal base for both day trips and multi-day riding holidays. Ride Highlights: Over 114 km of purpose-built mountain bike trails Nearly 600 metres of vertical elevation Ride-in, ride-out access from Omeo township Flow trails, gravity runs, jump lines and XC adventures Progressive trail network for every ability Asphalt pump track and skills area Alpine scenery and historic gold mining landscapes Bike wash, maintenance facilities and picnic area Great cafés and accommodation within riding distance Suitability Omeo MTB Park caters to everyone from first-time mountain bikers through to experienced gravity riders. Beginners can enjoy flowing green trails and family-friendly loops, while intermediate and advanced riders have access to long descents, technical alpine trails, freeride features and jump lines. With enough variety to keep riders entertained for several days, it's an ideal destination for both weekend escapes and dedicated mountain bike holidays.

Located at Stony Creek in South Gippsland, PBI Ride Farm brings gravity and cross-country mountain biking to a private ride park originally established for motorsports. The MTB area features downhill and cross-country trails, including flowy jump-focused riding, with an on-site shuttle taking some of the hard work out of getting back to the top. It’s a great option for riders looking for a dedicated riding destination and a day of repeated runs rather than a big pedal-powered trail adventure. Entry is paid and MTB operating days and hours can vary, so check directly with PBI before making the trip. RTS Tip: Make the most of the included shuttle and get plenty of laps in, but start with a cruisier run to get familiar with the trails before increasing the pace. PBI’s operations are weather dependent, so check the latest track update before leaving home — especially after rain.

Plenty Gorge MTB Trails, in Plenty Gorge Park in Melbourne’s north-east, offer a huge network of old-school cross-country mountain biking along the steep-sided Plenty River gorge. The local Plenty Gorge MTB Club describes more than 130 km of trails spread across the 1,350-hectare park, with the riding characterised by tight natural singletrack, roots, rocks, logs, creek crossings, short punchy climbs and technical descents. The gorge provides far more elevation than you might expect this close to suburban Melbourne, making Plenty Gorge a favourite for XC and trail riders who enjoy natural, technical terrain. The network stretches for roughly 11 km along the Plenty River, with trails weaving through grassy woodland, river flats, gullies and rocky ridgelines. Popular riding areas are concentrated around Yellow Gum Recreation Area and Goldsworthy Lane, with longer routes taking riders towards Blue Lake and through the wider Plenty Gorge Park. Rather than neatly defined bike-park loops, there are countless interconnected lines, making it possible to build anything from a quick after-work ride to a challenging 20 km-plus MTB loop. Plenty Gorge is best suited to intermediate and advanced riders. The local club specifically notes that there are no green trails in the Gorge, with typical riding involving roots, rocks, logs and steep sections. Even relatively short rides can accumulate plenty of climbing because the trails repeatedly drop into and climb out of the gorge — as the locals put it, there aren't many flat trails here. An important change is underway at Plenty Gorge. Much of the network has historically consisted of informal trails, but Plenty Gorge MTB Club and Parks Victoria are working together to formalise a sustainable MTB network. The current project is focused around the area known as “The Tank” on Goldsworthy Lane, with funding secured for approximately 21 km of formal mountain bike trails that will ultimately be assessed, signposted and maintained. RTS Tip: Plenty Gorge is famous for being a maze, so downloading a current trail map before you ride is highly recommended. Better still, the Plenty Gorge MTB Club runs regular social rides with experienced local ride leaders — a great way to learn the network. Start around Yellow Gum/Goldsworthy Lane, expect plenty of short climbing and technical natural singletrack, and carry water and basic repair gear. With the formalisation project continuing, stick to recognised trails and check current access information rather than relying on an old GPS route.

Quarry Park Mountain Bike Trails, in Footscray/Maribyrnong just 5 km from Melbourne’s CBD, provide a compact purpose-built MTB facility overlooking the Maribyrnong River valley and Melbourne skyline. Developed within a former quarry site, the park is designed for riders of different ages and abilities, with three one-way mountain bike trails, a skills park and pump tracks packed into a relatively small inner-city space. The trail network includes an easy green ascent trail, an easy descent, an intermediate descent and an intermediate descent featuring jumps. Rather than long cross-country riding, Quarry Park is all about short gravity laps and skills progression, with flowing bermed corners, rollers, rock features, drops and tabletop jumps. Riders can repeatedly climb back to the top and work on cornering, jumping and descending technique without needing to travel to one of Melbourne’s larger MTB destinations. The dedicated skills park adds rock gardens, rock and timber drop-offs, bermed corners, rollers and tabletop features, while the pump-track area provides both beginner and intermediate options. This makes Quarry Park particularly useful for kids, newer mountain bikers and developing riders, while the jump and intermediate lines give more experienced riders something to session. Its location is a major attraction. Quarry Park sits on the escarpment above the Maribyrnong River, with panoramic views towards Melbourne’s CBD, and can easily be incorporated into a longer urban cycling ride using the surrounding shared-path network. Entry is free and the facility is open at all times. RTS Tip: Quarry Park is a great place to practise MTB skills rather than chase big kilometres. Start on the green ascent and easier descent, spend some time in the skills area, then progress onto the intermediate and jump lines as your confidence builds. Current remediation works mean the MTB track is only partially open, so follow all directional signage and check the latest City of Maribyrnong information before travelling. Council encourages riders to arrive by bike; if driving, parking is available at Footscray Park off Farnsworth Avenue.

The RACV Goldfields Resort MTB Tracks, at RACV Goldfields Resort near Creswick, Victoria, offer a compact purpose-built mountain bike network amongst the bushland and rolling hills surrounding the resort’s golf course. The official resort circuit is approximately 4.5 km, making use of the natural terrain to deliver berms, jumps, sweeping hills and scenic viewpoints. The trails are a great option for a quick Creswick MTB ride, a warm-up before exploring the wider region or for resort guests wanting to get straight onto singletrack from their accommodation. The wider mapped network includes trails such as A Beautiful Hill, Flying Fifth, Dam Drop, Just Practicing, Last Leg, Ol’ Man Roo and Old Course, with a mix of green and blue-rated cross-country singletrack. Just Practicing provides an easier introduction, while trails such as Flying Fifth add berms and jumps and Old Course provides a longer intermediate singletrack loop. The riding is predominantly XC and trail focused rather than full-scale downhill, making it well suited to riders wanting short, repeatable laps. One of the biggest advantages of riding at RACV Goldfields Resort is its connection to the much larger Creswick mountain biking network. The Goldfields Track passes directly by the resort, while a roughly 15 km Creswick off-road cycling circuit also links with the resort singletrack. Creswick itself has become a significant Victorian MTB destination, with the newer Djuwang Baring mountain bike trail network adding around 60 km of purpose-built riding through the surrounding forest. The resort also caters particularly well for travelling mountain bikers, with secure bike storage, bike racks, bike-washing facilities and tools available on site. With accommodation, food and other resort facilities right beside the trails, it makes a convenient base for a Creswick, Ballarat and Victorian Goldfields mountain biking weekend. RTS Tip: Don’t limit your ride to the resort circuit. Use the RACV Goldfields MTB tracks as a starting point and link into the Goldfields Track and wider Creswick trail network for a much bigger day on the bike. If you’re newer to MTB, start on Just Practicing before progressing to the blue trails and jump features. The resort trails are on private property, so respect signage and current access conditions, and check the latest trail status before riding.

Red Hill MTB Park, more formally the mountain bike trail network within Arthurs Seat State Park on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, is one of the region’s best-known destinations for trail, enduro and downhill mountain biking. Located around Red Hill, Dromana and Arthurs Seat, the network uses the steep forested slopes of Arthurs Seat to deliver everything from beginner-friendly cross-country singletrack through to fast flow trails, technical rock gardens, steep chutes, jumps, drops and competition-level downhill terrain. There is a good progression of riding across the network. Wonga provides a wide, flowing introduction for first-time mountain bikers, while Loop Trail and Friends can be combined into a relatively gentle family-friendly lap. Riders ready to step up can tackle blue trails including High Roller, Rock Salt, Wombat and Slippery Gypsy, where roots, rocks, berms, tighter corners and faster descending start to become a bigger part of the experience. Experienced riders have plenty to keep them busy. Fall Line, Deadwoods and Crits deliver increasingly technical descending, while The Crusher is a challenging black trail featuring rock step-downs, drops, technical gullies and rapid changes in terrain. At the top end, Gunn Barrell is a double-black, competition-level downhill trail with steep rocky drops, gap jumps, high-speed sections and demanding technical features intended for advanced riders only. The network also extends towards Seawinds and McLarens Dam, with Sawtooth providing a roughly 2.8 km descending trail through natural bushland before transitioning into fast, flowing berms through the ferns. Riders can then earn their way back up via Bowsaw, a dedicated climbing trail with switchbacks, rocks and roots. This combination of climbing and descending trails makes Red Hill equally enjoyable for riders chasing a longer pedal-powered MTB adventure rather than simply gravity laps. Red Hill is also well positioned for a bigger Mornington Peninsula cycling trip. Nearby Red Hill Station Reserve has a free MTB skills park with jumps, a berm/wallride and skinny boardwalk features, while the Red Hill–Merricks Rail Trail provides around 6.5 km of easier shared riding through the surrounding countryside. RTS Tip: Red Hill has a big jump in difficulty between its easier trails and its black and double-black descents, so use Wonga, Loop Trail and High Roller to get a feel for the conditions before progressing. The natural roots and rocks can ride very differently when wet, and unfamiliar jumps and drops should always be inspected before committing. For a great first visit, build a loop using the dedicated climbing trails rather than trying to tackle everything at once — there’s enough variety here to easily fill a full day of Mornington Peninsula mountain biking

Reef Hills State Park, just 5 km south-west of Benalla in North East Victoria, offers a large network of natural cross-country mountain bike trails through more than 2,000 hectares of Box-Ironbark forest. The riding combines flowing singletrack, rocky sections, short climbs and descents, fire roads and historic mining tracks, making Reef Hills a great option for riders exploring the Benalla and Victorian High Country cycling region. Current mapping identifies around 45 MTB trails, with green, blue and black-rated options spread throughout the park. The terrain is predominantly XC and trail focused, with relatively modest elevation but plenty of undulating riding and interconnected tracks. Popular mapped trails include Tower Flow, which delivers flowing corners, berms and jumps before transitioning into flatter natural singletrack. The wider network provides plenty of scope to build longer loops, with easier green trails alongside intermediate blue and more technical black-rated options. Reef Hills also has a fascinating gold-mining history. Gold was discovered in the area during the 1860s, and riders exploring the park will encounter old workings, tracks and mine sites scattered through the forest. The Lion and Golden Crown mines are among the park’s significant mining heritage locations, while the surrounding Box-Ironbark woodland is particularly attractive during the spring wildflower season. Mountain biking has long been a popular activity at Reef Hills, although riders should understand that this is State Park riding rather than a formally managed bike park. Parks Victoria officially permits cycling on roads and vehicle tracks open to the public, subject to seasonal and safety closures. The park also contains informal singletrack, so riders should respect current signage and avoid creating or extending unauthorised trails. Its location makes Reef Hills an easy addition to a Benalla cycling weekend, with other North East Victorian MTB destinations including Yackandandah, Beechworth, Warby-Ovens and the High Country trail networks within reach. Benalla itself promotes Reef Hills as one of the region’s mountain biking locations alongside Mount Samaria State Park. RTS Tip: Reef Hills is a large, interconnected bush network, so download a current map before heading out and don’t rely on trail signage alone. Be particularly careful around the park’s shooting-range areas — cyclists must stay clear whenever warning signs or flags indicate the ranges are operating. Historic mining also means old shafts and workings can be present, so stick to recognised routes. Check current Parks Victoria conditions before travelling, especially during planned burns, fire restrictions or seasonal closures.

Rifle Butts MTB Park, on the southern outskirts of Mansfield in Victoria’s High Country, is a compact but surprisingly varied mountain bike network within Rifle Butts Reserve (Loyola G50 Bushland Reserve). Only a couple of kilometres from Mansfield township, the park offers around 8–10 km of interconnected cross-country singletrack, with green, blue and black-rated riding suitable for beginners, families and experienced mountain bikers. The trails are maintained by the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club, making Rifle Butts an excellent local alternative or addition to the larger MTB destinations at Mt Buller and Mt Stirling. The network is designed so that the higher you climb, the more technical the riding becomes. Around the base of the reserve, riders will find relatively flat and flowing singletrack with switchbacks, rollers and smaller jumps. Heading higher introduces steeper climbing, exposed rocks, boulders, rock gardens and technical drops. This progression makes Rifle Butts particularly good for riders developing their MTB skills without needing to commit to a huge trail network. Popular trails include Bogans’ Beginnings, a smooth and relatively flat beginner-friendly loop around the base; Fourteen Farts, which adds flowing trail and switchback climbing; and Critters, where riders tackle a punchier climb before descending through rollers, jumps and berms. More experienced riders can head onto Get Over It, with steep climbing, rock gardens and a technical rock-drop descent, or session Rubbish Run, a gravity-inspired flow trail featuring berms and jumps. A mapped Rifle Butts XC Loop links several of the trails into an approximately 4.5–5 km circuit, making a good introduction to the park before exploring individual lines. Because the network is tightly packed into a relatively small reserve, riders can easily repeat favourite sections or combine different trails to build a longer session. Rifle Butts also has a strong connection with the local cycling community. The Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club uses the park for junior development and local riding activities, and the venue has hosted Victorian Downhill Series racing, adding gravity riding to what has traditionally been a predominantly cross-country network. RTS Tip: Rifle Butts is a great choice if you’re looking for mountain biking close to Mansfield without heading all the way up Mt Buller. Newer riders should start around Bogans’ Beginnings and the lower trails, then progressively work higher up the hill as confidence grows. Experienced riders can link the rockier upper trails with Rubbish Run and the more technical descents for repeated laps. There are no reliable water facilities at the trailhead, so bring your own, and check current trail conditions before riding.

The Silvan MTB Trails, in the Silvan area of Dandenong Ranges National Park east of Melbourne, offer around 13 km of formally designated mountain bike singletrack, backed by an extensive network of management vehicle tracks that can be used to create much longer rides. Set beneath the Dandenong Ranges’ tall forest canopy, Silvan has a distinctly natural, hand-built character, with hard-packed clay, roots, logs, ruts, short punchy climbs and fast flowing descents. The official network provides beginner and intermediate opportunities, although much of the singletrack is best enjoyed by confident intermediate riders. Silvan isn’t a manicured bike park; much of its appeal comes from exploring interconnected forest trails. Popular trails include Magpie, Twisted Sister, Bakers Dozen, Yarbung, Temple of Zoom, Downhill and Huds. Magpie mixes pinchy climbing with roots, logs and flowing XC sections, while Temple of Zoom delivers 1.6 km of descending with speed, berms, ruts, steep corners and a few short climbs. The aptly named Downhill is a 700 m one-way descent with small jumps, ruts, steeper lines and log features, providing plenty of fun for trail and enduro bikes without being a full-on downhill race track. Huds sits farther south-east near the Silvan Reservoir boundary and RJ Hamer Arboretum. This 1 km one-way descent is smoother and faster, winding through the forest with large-radius corners before emerging near Silvan Road. Another standout is Tchan’s / Avec Plaisir, around 2.1 km of twisting singletrack featuring numerous corners, wide berms, fast straights and a large log rollover. For a longer outing, local riders have created several loops linking the singletrack with forest roads. A popular Hills and Valleys blue loop is around 16 km with roughly 500 m of climbing, combining trails including Magpie, Twisted Sister, Bakers Dozen and Burnt Out Climb. This gives a good indication of Silvan’s character: distances might not look huge, but the repeated climbing can make for a substantial workout. The easiest starting point is Silvan Reservoir Picnic Area, where there is parking, toilets, picnic tables, barbecues and drinking water. From here, ride around 500 m along Stonyford Road to Track 13, which leads into the Forest Flow network. Another option is RJ Hamer Arboretum, providing access towards Huds. The trails are managed by Parks Victoria with support from Yarra Ranges Mountain Bikers, who assist with ongoing maintenance. RTS Tip: Silvan is one of those networks where having a map makes a big difference. The singletrack is scattered through a much larger maze of forest management tracks, so download the current Parks Victoria map or Trailforks before setting off. For a first visit, start from Silvan Reservoir Picnic Area and build a loop around the central trails before venturing farther towards Huds or Tchan’s. The hard-packed clay, roots and steep sections can become much trickier after rain, and temporary closures can occur following storms or during trail works, so check current Parks Victoria conditions before riding.

Smiths Gully MTB Park, around 40 km north-east of Melbourne in Victoria’s Nillumbik region, is an expansive network of natural mountain bike trails spread through the steep bushland and reserves surrounding Smiths Gully. Current mapping shows around 26 MTB trails and more than 40 km of riding, with the network focused primarily on cross-country and trail riding, plus several faster enduro-style descents. Unlike a manicured trail centre, Smiths Gully has a distinctly old-school, natural character with hardpack dirt, loose rock, roots, tight trees, steep hills and plenty of punchy climbing. Popular trails include Midden, Orchid, Marsben, Buldwij Trail, Ridge Road, Goat Track Descent and Boomers Drop In. Midden delivers tight switchbacks and fast XC sections broken up by short climbs, while Ridge Road feels more like an enduro stage with tight trees and fast descending. Boomers Drop In is another favourite, combining flowing high-speed sections, sweeping corners and steeper chutes. There’s plenty here for riders wanting a substantial workout. A popular Smiths Gully Short Loop is around 10 km with roughly 190 m of climbing, while the much bigger Tough Smiths Loop stretches to approximately 43 km with more than 800 m of climbing, linking many of the network’s best-known trails into a serious day out. A traditional starting point is the Smiths Gully General Store, with another common access point at Smiths Gully MTB Car Park on Clintons Road. The General Store makes a particularly handy base for a ride, with food and coffee available before or afterwards. The network is best suited to intermediate riders, particularly those who enjoy exploratory XC rather than clearly defined bike-park loops. Many trails are shared with walkers and horse riders, so speeds need to be controlled around blind corners and other trail users given plenty of room. RTS Tip: Smiths Gully is a maze of interconnected natural trails, so download a current map before setting out — it’s very easy to turn a planned quick lap into a much bigger ride. Start with the Short Loop from the General Store to get a feel for the terrain, then add trails such as Midden, Ridge Road and Boomers Drop In if you want more. Expect steep climbs and loose hardpack, particularly in dry weather, and be careful not to stray into nearby conservation areas where bicycles are prohibited.

Hidden deep within Boola Boola State Forest, Somewhere Good MTB is a true destination for riders who appreciate old-school, hand-built singletrack and a natural riding experience. The network weaves through lush fern-filled gullies, delivering tight, flowing trails packed with berms, roots, natural features and endless rhythm. Rather than machine-built flow, these trails embrace the terrain, creating fast, technical riding that rewards good line choice and bike handling. Expect a mix of playful descents, punchy climbs and feature-rich singletrack that keeps experienced mountain bikers engaged from start to finish. Surrounded by towering forest and a remote wilderness setting, the riding feels immersive and untouched. For riders seeking authentic singletrack with character, Somewhere Good more than lives up to its name—offering one of Victoria's hidden mountain biking gems that leaves visitors planning their next return.

The Spring Gully MTB Trails, on the southern edge of Bendigo, Victoria, are a well-established cross-country mountain bike network winding through the Red Ironbark and Grey Box bushland of Bendigo Regional Park. Built and maintained by volunteers from the Bendigo Mountain Bike Club with support from Parks Victoria, the network delivers classic Bendigo riding: dry hardpack, rocky singletrack, short punchy climbs, twisting descents and plenty of natural technical features. Spring Gully has a strong XC focus, with interconnected trails allowing riders to build anything from short laps to longer training rides through the surrounding bush. The network is particularly well known locally as a race venue, and has hosted AusCycling MTB National Series XCO racing, demonstrating that while there are approachable options, there is also plenty here to challenge experienced cross-country riders. For an easier introduction, the Spring Gully Mountain Bike Loop is approximately 3.9 km and is promoted by the Goldfields Track as a family-friendly ride. It winds through attractive ironbark and Grey Box forest and sits only around 1 km from the Goldfields Track, making it easy to incorporate Spring Gully into a much longer Bendigo MTB adventure. One of Spring Gully’s strengths is its connectivity. The wider Bendigo off-road network links the area with Spring Gully Reservoir, Diamond Hill, Salomon Gully, the Goldfields Track and trails towards central Bendigo. Spring Gully Recreation Reserve is described as a hub for mountain bike riders, allowing riders to piece together substantial off-road loops rather than limiting themselves to the immediate MTB trails. The riding here feels much more natural and old-school than a modern machine-built bike park. The terrain is undulating and can be rocky and loose, rewarding good line choice and momentum rather than relying on big built features. This makes Spring Gully particularly appealing to XC riders, intermediate mountain bikers and riders wanting to develop technical skills. RTS Tip: Start with the 3.9 km Spring Gully MTB Loop to get a feel for Bendigo’s rocky, hardpack terrain, then start linking into the wider network if you want more kilometres. Spring Gully connects beautifully with the Goldfields Track and Bendigo’s extensive bush trails, so download a map before heading out and you can easily turn a quick lap into a much bigger adventure. Stick to the marked trails within Bendigo Regional Park and respect any temporary closures or race signage.

Tamrookum Creek Bike Park is a privately owned gravity-focused mountain bike park in Queensland’s Scenic Rim, around 90 minutes from both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Set across an impressive 835-acre property with around 270m of elevation, the park has been built and managed by the team at All Mountain Solutions, with a strong focus on challenging enduro and downhill riding. The network features a mix of fast natural singletrack, steep descents, rock gardens, berms, drops and technical terrain, with trails including Turkey Run, Trap Door, Waterfall Way and Flat Out. Uplift shuttles operate during designated ride days, making it possible to maximise laps without having to pedal back to the top. RTS Tip: Tamrookum Creek is private property and isn’t open for casual riding every day — access is currently limited to designated open days, events and organised ride days. Check upcoming dates before making the trip. A full-face helmet and appropriate AusCycling licence are required for open days, and there’s no internet reception onsite, so organise everything before you arrive.

If there's one mountain bike trail that belongs on every Australian rider's bucket list, it's the Australian Alpine Epic. Stretching 46 kilometres from Mt Buller to Mirimbah, this legendary backcountry adventure is the only IMBA EPIC-accredited trail in Australia, taking riders through some of the country's most spectacular alpine terrain. Starting high on Mt Buller, the ride quickly leaves the resort behind as it traverses snow gum forests, alpine ridgelines and remote wilderness before crossing Mt Stirling and descending thousands of vertical metres into the Delatite Valley. Along the way you'll experience flowing singletrack, technical rocky sections, challenging climbs, exhilarating descents and breathtaking High Country views that make every pedal stroke worthwhile. Despite its reputation as a descending ride, don't underestimate the effort required. Riders should expect 6–8 hours on the bike, around 1,000 metres of climbing, extended remote sections and constantly changing terrain. This is a physically demanding ride designed for experienced mountain bikers who are confident riding black-rated trails and capable of being completely self-sufficient. Preparation is essential. Weather can change rapidly in the alpine environment, mobile reception is limited in places, and there are long sections without services. Carry plenty of water, food, tools, spare parts and appropriate clothing, and consider organising a vehicle shuttle from Mirimbah back to Mt Buller before setting off. For riders chasing Australia's ultimate mountain bike adventure, few experiences compare to the Australian Alpine Epic. Combining world-class singletrack, remote wilderness, technical challenges and unforgettable scenery, it's a ride that truly lives up to its name and deserves a place on every serious mountain biker's bucket list.

The Hill MTB Park in Maitland, NSW, is a compact mountain bike network built around fun, accessible riding with a mix of singletrack, climbs, descents and technical features to keep things interesting. The trails make good use of the hillside terrain, offering plenty of opportunities to practise cornering, bike handling and descending without needing to commit to a huge backcountry ride. It’s a handy local option for a quick trail session or for linking together multiple laps when you want more time on the bike. RTS Tip: The Hill is well suited to sessioning, so use your first lap to learn the trail layout and check the condition of any features before picking up the pace. After rain, give the trails time to dry and always check current local trail conditions before riding.

Thunder Point MTB Trails, in Warrnambool on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road coast, is home to a compact but distinctive cross-country MTB network of around 6–7 km. Wedged between the Warrnambool harness racing track and the cliffs overlooking the Southern Ocean, the trails deliver tight, twisting singletrack through dense coastal tea-tree and Moonah scrub. Despite having very little overall elevation, the constant short climbs, quick descents, roots, limestone, sandy corners and natural obstacles make Thunder Point much more entertaining than its distance suggests. The network is divided into three colour-coded loops – Green, Blue and Purple. The Green Loop provides the easiest introduction to Thunder Point’s narrow, twisty riding, while the Blue and Purple loops add more technical terrain and climbing. Around 60 wayfinding signs were installed across the network, with each loop designed to eventually return riders to their starting point. One of Thunder Point’s defining features is its unusual coastal surface. Sections closer to the ocean run across light sand over packed dirt and limestone, while the inland trails weave tightly through dense vegetation. Expect gnarled tree roots and stumps, small drops, jumps, off-camber corners and repeated punchy rises rather than long sustained climbs or descents. The sandy, free-draining ground also means Thunder Point can often remain rideable when wetter conditions have affected other Victorian MTB destinations. The trails have strong links with the Warrnambool Mountain Bike Club, which was established in 2007 and has invested significant volunteer effort into maintaining and protecting the sanctioned network. Importantly, riders should stick strictly to the approved trails: in July 2026 the club reported damage to vegetation and existing trails caused by unauthorised trail and jump construction within the reserve. Thunder Point is also easy to incorporate into a bigger Warrnambool cycling day. The coastal reserve sits close to Warrnambool’s Foreshore Promenade, while the Warrnambool to Port Fairy Rail Trail can be linked into a longer ride for riders wanting more kilometres after finishing the singletrack. RTS Tip: Don’t judge Thunder Point by its modest elevation or distance — the tight trees, constant direction changes and short sharp climbs can give you a surprisingly good workout. Start with the Green Loop, then add Blue and Purple as your confidence builds. Stay on the signed, sanctioned trails and avoid any informal lines or jumps; the coastal vegetation is sensitive and recent unauthorised building has caused damage within the reserve.

Walmer State Forest MTB Trails, around 6 km from Castlemaine in central Victoria, is one of the region’s best-known cross-country mountain biking areas. Often referred to locally as the Baco Trails, the forest contains an extensive maze of fast, flowing singletrack through beautiful Box-Ironbark woodland and historic goldfields country. The wider network has been mapped at around 60 km of riding, with terrain ranging from approachable XC trails to rocky intermediate loops with punchy climbs and technical features. The riding has a distinctly natural, old-school XC character. Expect smooth dirt mixed with loose rock, rocky outcrops, small berms and drops, creek-valley sections, switchbacks and occasional rock gardens. The relatively modest elevation doesn't mean an easy ride — repeated short climbs and loose surfaces can provide a surprisingly solid workout. Four commonly mapped loops provide a good framework for exploring the forest: the approximately 10 km Baco Loop, 6 km Switch Loop, 21 km Woodbrook Loop and 19 km Ken’s Loop. Baco is generally regarded as the most approachable, while the other main loops move into intermediate territory. Numerous linking tracks also make it easy to shorten a ride or combine loops into a much bigger outing. Walmer has a strong connection with the local Castlemaine Rocky Riders, who use the forest for social riding and events including their summer Dirt Crits and Interwinter Cloverleaf. The club describes Walmer as one of Castlemaine’s best-known riding locations, with plenty of fast-flowing singletrack and occasional technical features. A formal Walmer State Forest Recreation Area has now been established on Daltons Road, providing a much better base for riders. Facilities include parking, toilets, picnic tables, shelter and barbecue facilities, along with interpretive signage developed by Djaara Traditional Owners. Access is free and no booking is required. RTS Tip: Walmer is a network where having a current trail map is essential — there are plenty of intersecting singletracks and forest roads. Start with the Baco Loop if you’re unfamiliar with the area, then progress onto Switch, Woodbrook or Ken’s for more distance and technical riding. The loose rock can make corners surprisingly slippery, so control your speed and expect conditions to become muddy after prolonged rain. Stronger riders can also use Walmer as part of a much bigger Castlemaine MTB adventure, with an enormous amount of riding available throughout the surrounding Goldfields.

Warburton Bike Park, around 70 km east of Melbourne in Victoria’s Yarra Ranges, is rapidly developing into one of Australia’s major mountain bike destinations. As of August 2026, more than 70 km of purpose-built trails are open, spread across the forested mountains surrounding Warburton and Wesburn, with up to 650 m of elevation available. The long-term vision is for as much as 160 km of trail, creating a huge destination combining adventure/XC, flow and gravity riding. The network caters for beginners through to advanced riders, with green, blue and black trails built by World Trail. Easier options include Hop Scotch, Settle Down, Warburtron and 3 Owls, while intermediate riders can progress onto trails such as Gnarnia, Hey Hey My My, Mad Max and The Riddler. Advanced riders have technical gravity options including Barefoot Wizard, Shred Galah and Acka Dacka, where steeper terrain, rocks, roots, jumps and more demanding features come into play. One of the big attractions is the amount of top-to-bottom descending available. The green-rated Dropping into Warburton route, for example, runs around 11.2 km from Mt Tugwell Summit to Dolly Grey Reserve, providing a genuine mountain descent that's still designed to be accessible to developing riders. Stronger riders can mix climbing trails with faster blue and black descents or use the park's commercial shuttle uplift service to maximise gravity laps. Wesburn Park is the main trailhead and is exceptionally well equipped, with free parking, shuttle pickup, pump track, toilets, showers, bike wash, picnic areas and a playground. Trails also connect into Warburton itself, putting riders close to the town's cafés, accommodation and other services. The wider network connects with the Lilydale–Warburton Rail Trail and O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail, opening up even more possibilities for longer rides. And Warburton isn't finished yet. The first 30 km opened in July 2025, followed by more than 40 km in the next phase in 2026. Further trails are due to open from September 2026, with the fully funded 125 km Southern Network expected to be completed in 2027. RTS Tip: If it's your first visit, don't underestimate Warburton's trail gradings — the park specifically warns that its green trails may feel harder than green trails at some other networks. Start with trails such as Hop Scotch or Warburtron, then progress once you've got a feel for the terrain. For gravity riders, book the shuttle in advance as sessions can sell out. Always check the live trail status before leaving home: the entire park closes on Total Fire Ban days, and individual trails can close for weather, maintenance or construction.

Westerfolds Park, in Templestowe around 20 km north-east of Melbourne, is a large riverside park with plenty of easy recreational cycling and access to some informal off-road riding. Covering more than 120 hectares along the Yarra River, it combines sealed shared paths, gravel tracks and bushland trails through open grasslands, River Red Gums and native woodland. The park is particularly good for families, beginner riders, gravel bikes and relaxed XC exploring. Around 6 km of sealed trails wind through Westerfolds, including a section of the Main Yarra Trail, which provides a continuous cycling connection towards Melbourne’s CBD and links with other major paths throughout the north-eastern suburbs. Away from the main paths, riders also use a network of dirt and gravel tracks and narrow singletrack through the bushland. Trailforks currently maps around nine MTB trails covering roughly 10 km, including popular short sections such as Root Problem and Inspection Pit. These are mostly flatter, natural trails rather than purpose-built gravity riding, making the area better suited to XC-style exploring and skills development than riders chasing big descents. It’s important to note that Westerfolds is not currently a formal purpose-built MTB park. Parks Victoria officially promotes cycling on the Main Yarra Trail and other formed shared-use paths, while historical management planning acknowledges informal MTB trails within the wider Yarra Valley Parklands. Riders should therefore stick to permitted tracks and avoid creating or extending informal trails. The surrounding area is set to become more interesting for MTB riders, with neighbouring Fitzsimons Reserve earmarked for a professionally designed regional flow-trail facility. Current planning proposes dirt trails with features using timber, rock and other materials, connecting directly with existing singletrack around Candlebark Park and providing access from the Main Yarra and Diamond Creek trails. Westerfolds itself is extremely well equipped for a riding day, with parking, toilets, drinking water, picnic shelters, barbecues and a playground. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife too — Eastern Grey Kangaroos are common, with wombats, echidnas, possums and plenty of birdlife also found throughout the park. RTS Tip: Westerfolds is best thought of as a family, gravel and easy XC riding area rather than a dedicated MTB trail centre. Use the park paths for an easy spin, explore the permitted dirt trails for a little more adventure, or incorporate Westerfolds into a much bigger ride along the Main Yarra Trail. Shared paths can be busy with walkers, runners and families, so keep your speed under control and give way appropriately.

The Wombat MTB Trails, just outside Woodend in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges, are a classic old-school cross-country network winding through the beautiful Wombat State Forest. The official Wombat Forest Trail is around 17–18 km, combining hand-built singletrack with short sections of forest trail through native bushland. Expect flowing corners, roots, rocks, log rollovers, small jumps, berms and constant short changes in elevation rather than big gravity-style descents. The official network is arranged as two interconnected loops, allowing riders to shorten the experience or complete the entire circuit. Current Victorian Government information lists a 9 km easy loop suitable for beginners and children and an 18 km intermediate option for riders with a moderate level of fitness and MTB skill. The Wombat MTB Club describes the configuration slightly differently, with approximately 11 km and 6 km loops, so riders should follow the current trailhead signage when choosing their route. Wombat has a distinctly natural XC character. Much of the riding is smooth and flowing, but sections dip through creek valleys and introduce rock outcrops, roots, log obstacles and tighter technical corners. There’s only around 60 m of overall elevation variation, but the repeated rises and dips mean there’s rarely much time to simply cruise. The trails have been part of Victoria’s MTB scene since the 1990s and have been developed and maintained with substantial volunteer involvement from the Wombat MTB Club. They remain popular for social riding, XC training and racing; in 2026 the network again featured in the Shifty Fifty, with the event incorporating the Wombat trails and surrounding forest roads. The main trailhead is at the intersection of Fingerpost, Boldiston and Taylor Roads, where there is parking, an information board and trail signage. There are no toilets, drinking water or other facilities at the trailhead, so riders need to arrive self-sufficient. Woodend is nearby for food, coffee, bike supplies and everything else you need before or after the ride. RTS Tip: Wombat is a brilliant place for riders wanting proper XC singletrack without extreme technical features. Newer riders can tackle the shorter loop before committing to the full circuit, while experienced riders will find that the same trails become seriously fun when ridden at speed. The forest is notorious for becoming greasy and muddy after rain, so check conditions before heading out and avoid riding when the trail surface is soft. And keep an eye beside the trail — the forest really does contain plenty of wombat burrows.

Woowookarung Regional Park, on the south-eastern edge of Ballarat, Victoria, offers a large network of shared-use forest roads and trails through more than 640 hectares of native bushland. Rather than a purpose-built MTB park, Woowookarung is best suited to cross-country mountain bikes and gravel bikes, with plenty of opportunities to create your own loops through rolling terrain, open forest and former gold-mining country. The park’s network of gravel roads, management tracks and narrower bush trails provides everything from relaxed family rides to longer, hillier adventures. Expect generally non-technical riding with some loose, rocky and uneven sections, short climbs and fast gravel descents. Routes can be linked in numerous combinations, making Woowookarung particularly good for riders who enjoy exploring rather than following a single marked MTB circuit. One of the park’s highlights is its setting. The trails pass through Messmate, Manna Gum and peppermint forest, with wildflowers particularly impressive during spring. The park also protects significant wildlife habitat and contains reminders of Ballarat’s gold-mining history scattered throughout the landscape. A popular destination within the park is the Woowookarung Lookout, which provides expansive views towards Ballarat and the surrounding countryside. The park also contains the Sensory Trail, a short accessible trail designed around experiencing the sights, sounds, smells and textures of the bush. While primarily designed for walkers, it adds to the range of recreational experiences available within the reserve. Woowookarung can also form part of a much bigger Ballarat riding day, with connections through surrounding roads and trails towards other cycling areas around the city. Its location only a few kilometres from central Ballarat makes it an easy option for a quick forest ride without travelling to a dedicated trail centre. RTS Tip: Think of Woowookarung as a gravel and XC exploration area rather than a signed MTB trail network. Download a map before you ride and use the network of forest roads and shared trails to build a loop that suits your distance and ability. Watch for walkers, runners and horse riders, and stick to tracks where cycling is permitted. Spring is a particularly good time to visit, when the wildflowers are out and the forest is at its best.

Yackandandah MTB Park, better known as Yack Tracks, is a classic cross-country mountain bike network in Stanley State Forest near Yackandandah in Victoria’s High Country. More than 70 km of predominantly hand-built singletrack winds through Box-Ironbark forest and historic gold-mining country, with natural terrain, creek gullies, rocky features and plenty of climbing. Most of the network is blue/intermediate, although easier and more advanced options allow riders to choose their level of challenge. The network is arranged around several well-signposted loops. The Green Loop is 4.2 km, while the intermediate options include Yakonda Loop (10.8 km), Ground Effect Loop (17.2 km), Kokoda Loop (17.8 km) and Diggers Loop (18.5 km). There’s also a 4 km all-abilities/adaptive MTB loop, making Yackandandah accessible to a broader range of riders. Yack’s character is distinctly raw and natural rather than heavily sculpted bike-park riding. Expect narrow singletrack, rocks, roots, creek crossings, short technical sections and plenty of punchy climbing followed by rewarding flowing descents. Remnants of the region’s historic gold-mining activity are scattered throughout the forest and have even influenced some of the trail features. For experienced riders looking for something harder, the network includes optional advanced sections such as Carcass Canyon, which drops into a historic gold-mining water race. The numerous linking trails also mean stronger riders can combine the marked loops into a much larger cross-country adventure. Yack Tracks now connects directly into the spectacular Indigo Epic, a 56 km blue/intermediate MTB trail linking Yackandandah and Beechworth. The Yackandandah portion can be ridden as an approximately 39 km loop back to town, or riders can tackle the entire Indigo Epic for a big all-day adventure between the two historic towns. RTS Tip: If it’s your first visit, start with the Green Loop or the shorter Yakonda Loop before committing to one of the bigger intermediate circuits. Yack Tracks are famous for their hand-built, natural XC character, so expect the blue trails to feel quite different from smooth modern flow trails. Download the current map before heading out and watch for numbered signposts at key intersections. For a huge day on the bike, combine Yack Tracks with the Indigo Epic — just allow plenty of time, food and water for the full 56 km adventure.

The Kurrajong Mountain Bike Area, within You Yangs Regional Park between Melbourne and Geelong, is the easier and more family-friendly half of the You Yangs MTB network. While nearby Stockyards is known for steep, rocky and technical riding, Kurrajong offers around 20 km of flatter, flowing trails through established eucalypt and Sugar Gum plantations. It’s an excellent destination for beginners, families and developing riders, while still providing enough speed and features to entertain experienced XC riders. The core network includes Plantation Track (7.5 km), Lumberjack Track (5 km) and Axeman’s Track (2.5 km). Plantation is the longest, with fast, winding riding through the plantation, while Lumberjack delivers tight and flowing singletrack that’s particularly good for practising cornering and carrying speed. Axeman’s is a shorter twisting trail that provides another approachable introduction to mountain biking. Riders looking for a step up can add Chainsaw Track (3.5 km), which introduces four-cross-style singletrack, larger berms and dirt jumps. Junction Track (4.5 km) connects Kurrajong with the more technical Stockyards network and incorporates rock gardens, dirt jumps, berms and boardwalk sections. Riding it from Kurrajong towards Stockyards also provides a solid climbing challenge. The Eastern Epic (4.5 km) adds another option, linking the park entrances at Toynes Road and Branch Road with Kurrajong. Although officially easy-rated, it still packs in plenty of twists, boardwalks and banked corners and can be incorporated into longer adventures around the park. Kurrajong is part of the wider You Yangs MTB destination, which contains more than 50 km of purpose-built trails across Kurrajong and Stockyards. The two areas can be linked for riders wanting to progress from Kurrajong’s smoother XC terrain into Stockyards’ much rockier and more technical riding. RTS Tip: Kurrajong is the place to start if you’re new to the You Yangs. Try Lumberjack and Axeman’s first, then add Plantation for a longer XC ride. Once you’re comfortable, Chainsaw provides a great progression into jumps and bigger berms before making the move across to Stockyards. The trails can become vulnerable when wet, so avoid riding soft or muddy trails and always check current Parks Victoria conditions before heading out.

The Stockyards Mountain Bike Area, in You Yangs Regional Park between Melbourne and Geelong, is the more technical and gravity-focused half of the You Yangs MTB network. While nearby Kurrajong provides flatter beginner-friendly riding, Stockyards makes use of the park’s dramatic granite outcrops and former quarry landscape to deliver challenging cross-country, all-mountain and downhill trails. Expect rock gardens, natural rock ramps, steep drops, berms, jumps and fast technical descents. The Inner Loop provides a useful backbone through the network and can be used to access many of Stockyards’ individual trails. It’s best ridden anti-clockwise and connects with more technical options including Lactic Acid, Dam View and Turbulence. Rockwell Run provides a gentler climbing route back towards the upper network, making it useful for riders putting together pedal-powered laps. Intermediate riders can tackle trails such as Quarry Pit, a tight and twisting singletrack through gums, wattles and rocky outcrops. As confidence builds, Stockyards quickly steps things up: Travs Diamond features technical rock sections, boardwalks, berms, obstacles and challenging climbs, while other well-known trails include Cressy Descent and Lactic Acid. At the top end, Stockyards contains some seriously demanding gravity terrain. Turbulence and Bandages or Glory are double-black options aimed at highly experienced riders. Bandages or Glory combines rock gardens, logs, jumps, bridges, berms and steep drops, and is firmly in advanced downhill territory. Stockyards and Kurrajong can also be linked via the 4.5 km Junction Track, giving stronger riders the option of exploring both You Yangs MTB areas in one ride. Junction itself isn't simply a transfer trail — it includes rock gardens, flowing berms and jumps, with a solid climb when ridden from Kurrajong towards Stockyards. Across the two riding areas, You Yangs Regional Park contains more than 50 km of purpose-built MTB trails. The easiest direct access to Stockyards is from the Drysdale Road car park on the northern side of the park. There are limited facilities at Stockyards itself, with the nearest toilets and drinking water located elsewhere within the main park, so arrive prepared if you're planning a longer session. RTS Tip: If you're new to Stockyards, start with Inner Loop, Rockwell Run and Quarry Pit before progressing onto the harder technical descents. Stockyards is a substantial step up from Kurrajong, and the black and double-black trails contain serious rock features, drops and committing lines, so sight unfamiliar trails before riding them at speed. Stay off muddy trails after rain and check current Parks Victoria conditions before heading out.