Crazy eight: the best mountain biking destinations across Australia
It isn’t just the heat that’s pumping at this time of year – adrenaline seekers are collectively dusting off their mountain bikes and gearing up for another season tackling the steep trails and cross-country loops.
Australia’s diverse landscape makes it something of a mecca for mountain biking, and with increasingly progressive policies embracing the movement and helping facilitate track construction, the network of trails is only growing.
Whether you're after gravity-fed thrills, endless cross-country trails, or family-friendly flow, there’s a trail waiting for you in every corner of the country.
Here's our definitive list of the top eight mountain biking destinations in Australia – one from each state and territory – guaranteed to get your heart racing.
1. Derby, Tasmania
Many now consider the once sleepy tin-mining town of Derby the spiritual home of mountain biking in Australia, with more than 125km of hand-crafted single-track weaving through dense rainforest, alpine terrain, and beside crystal-clear lakes. The Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails include must-ride icons such as Atlas and Blue Tier, but for many it’s the aptly-named Flickity Sticks and Detonate descents that keep them coming back.
So good is this network of trails, it is host to the annual Enduro World Series round that draws the best, most talented MTB riders on earth, not to mention thousands of fans across the country.
2. Bright, Victoria
While most think of Bright as an alpine destination, this postcard town in the heart of the Victorian Alps is becoming increasingly affiliated with mountain biking.
The undulating landscape plays host to some of the best gravity trails in the state, with the Mystic Mountain Bike Park offering steep, technical descents, massive flow trails, and Australia’s first slopestyle course. After a day shredding dirt, cool off in the Ovens River or sip a local craft beer.
Stay at the NRMA Bright Holiday Park.
3. Stromlo Forest Park, ACT
Our nation’s capital wouldn’t be complete with some kind of mountain biking action, and the Stromlo Forest Park provides the perfect solution.
Just 15 minutes from Canberra’s city centre, this purpose-built MTB haven has something for everyone, with more than 50km of single-track, offering an excellent mix of flow and jumps sections.
Stromlo has hosted multiple World Cups and national championships, with regulars often citing The Downhill and Pine Line trails as their favourites. Happily, beginners will also find somewhere enjoyable thanks to a considered Green Loop.
The park is complete with vast views of Canberra from the summit – and a convenient café and bar at the base.
Stay at the Hotel Kurrajong.
4. Thredbo, New South Wales
When the snow has melted from Thredbo’s spectacular peaks, the town doesn’t simply go into hibernation. Rather, it springs to life.
Kosciuszko National Park becomes something of a gravity rider’s dream, with Australia’s only network of chairlift-accessed trails. Icons on the mountain include the challenging Cannonball Run or the seemingly never-ending Flow Trail.
Add in guided tours, skills parks, and e-bike rentals, and you’ve got an alpine MTB paradise.
For the full carnival atmosphere, plan your trip around the annual Cannonball MTB Festival – it’s a party on two wheels.
Stay at the NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park.
5. Smithfield, Queensland
If you like the idea of planning a mountain bike trip around the tropics, Smithfield may be the answer.
Located just north of Cairns, Smithfield MTB Park offers dense rainforest, with roots, rocks, and humidity keeping things spicy. This World Cup trail network is home to challenging descents, flowing cross-country loops, and a thriving local MTB community.
Stay at nearby NRMA Cairns Holiday Park.
6. Fox Creek, South Australia
Tucked into the Adelaide Hills, Fox Creek Bike Park is considered the crown jewel of South Australian mountain biking – and it’s home to a growing community of enthusiasts.
After recovering from bushfire damage in 2019-2020, the trails are back and better than ever, with a rebuilt network offering fast, flowy descents and epic jumps through pine and native forests.
7. Litchfield National Park
While the Northern Territory isn’t synonymous with mountain bike parks, the Tabletop Track in Litchfield National Park offers a solid wilderness MTB adventure option.
This remote 39km loop (best for seasoned riders) takes you past waterfalls, billabongs, and termite mounds. It’s a wonderful way to explore the outback – but always be prepared for the hot weather and wildlife by carrying lots of water (including a Camelbak) and a first-aid kit.
8. Kalamunda Trails, Western Australia
West Oz doesn’t go without an MTB trail network – and happily there are options close to Perth.
Just 30 minutes from the state’s capital, the Kalamunda Trail Network in the Perth Hills is WA’s most established MTB destination. With over 40km of well-maintained single-track, it’s a mix of fun berms, punchy climbs, and techy rock gardens – Luvin’ Shovels is a particular favourite among visitors.
Kalamunda is ideal for a mix of skill levels and a great destination for families.
