Mountain bike trails near me
Despite being one of Australia’s largest cities, Sydney has plenty of surrounding natural landscape that is suitable for mountain biking. From the rugged bushland bike trails to the coastal tracks with gorgeous ocean views, there are plenty of routes to choose from for your next adventure. Check out this list of Sydney’s best mountain bike trails for all the information you need to plan a great day out on the bike.
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Manly Dam Mountain Bike Trail
The most popular mountain bike route in Sydney. This 11km loop takes in views of Manly Dam and Middle Harbour, weaving through areas of bushland, and rolling through a range of terrain. The best way to access the trail is via Gibbs Street, Manly Vale. For more guidance, you can explore the Manly Dam Trail map.
Gahnia and Serrata Trails
Close by, in the Garigal National Park, there are 6.5km of purpose built trails for mountain biking. They are open from sunrise to sunset, but are more suitable for experienced mountain bikers looking for a hard challenge, where riders can navigate unique sandstone formations before a 1.5km descent through tall eucalyptus. The Cascades Trail is another option that traverses Middle Harbour Creek.
Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail
Only a few minutes walk from Hornsby station, the trail winds through 3.2 kilometres of the picturesque Old Man’s Valley. The single track has gentle gradients, with options that are suitable for beginners and more intermediate riders. Sections in the southwest part of the trail are more suited for advanced riders. Hornsby Shire Council has more details on their website.
Wylde MTB Trail
In Western Sydney Parklands, Wydle Trails has around 15km of purpose-built trails, a BMX racetrack, and the largest pumptrack in the southern hemisphere.
The trails are split into three areas, so the ride can be cut short at 3km, 6km, and 9km, if the full 12km circuit is too far. The trails are easy to access by car, with the entrance to the trail located on Range Road, off of Elizabeth Drive, in Cecil Park.
Loftus Loop, Royal National Park
A 10km loop in one of the NSW’s best national parks, located just outside Sydney. It includes 8km of trail, along with 2km of designated bike track. The terrain is a mixture of flat, wide trails and more technical single-track, including some steep sections around Temptation Creek. More information from NSW National Parks.
Mill Creek Mountain Bike Trail
Mill Creek Mountain Bike Trails are located in Sydney's south, within the Lucas Heights Conservation Area. Restoration of the trail network has been undertaken by a team of volunteers, with ongoing support from Mill Creek Trail Association Inc. The area provides experiences for beginners to advanced riders, with flow trails, jumps, and technical sandstone features.
Trails just out of Sydney
If you’re up for a day trip then why not try the numerous trails in Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands. There are trail rides to suit all levels of riders from fire trails for beginners to lengthier and more difficult terrain for experienced riders. Many can be reached using public transport. For example, the Woodford-Oaks trail is a fantastic one-way, mostly downhill, 27km route in the Lower Blue Mountains that has train access at each end.
Check out the local visitor information centres and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for all the details and latest track conditions.
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FAQs
Mountain bike trails offer adventure, exercise, a connection to nature and they are great fun - all while challenging riders with varied terrain and scenic landscapes.
Mountain biking is physically demanding and can be very intense, with steep climbs, fast descents, and rough terrain, making it a great full-body workout. Mountain bike riders need to be experienced and well-prepared to tackle difficult terrain. New riders are encouraged to try easier trails first.
Mountain biking builds leg strength, improves cardiovascular fitness, enhances balance and coordination, and strengthens your core and upper body - especially from handling rough terrain. It’s a full-body workout that boosts endurance and overall fitness.
It depends on your goals! Mountain biking is easier on the joints, offers a full-body workout, and is great for building strength and endurance, plus you can cover more distance and it’s more adrenaline-packed and scenic.
For most people, 2–3 days a week is ideal for mountain biking if you’re balancing it with other workouts, or 4+ days if you’re training seriously or building endurance.