6 scenic cycling trails you must complete
From city circuits to classic regional trails, there is a plethora of superb Australian cycling paths to plant the wheels along.
Here, we’ve found some favourite ‘leisurely’ cycling trails – those that can be tackled within a day – as well as a couple of bigger paths for riders who like a challenge.
Prepare to encounter a bounty of beautiful sights.
1. Capital City Trail, Melbourne, VIC
Distance: 29km (loop).
When it comes to the best cycling paths in Australia, Melbourne’s Capital City Trail quickly comes to mind. Easily accessible and flat, this trail offers ample variety. Weave along the banks of the Yarra River, stop for a picnic in a park, unearth the Docklands precinct, and much more.
The trail showcases some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the MCG, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, and Melbourne Zoo.
As it’s a looping trail you can hop on and hop off at your leisure, but Southbank is regarded as the official start-end point of the path.
Book now: BIG4 Dandenong Tourist Park, BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park or Crystal Brook Tourist Park.
2. Port Fairy-Warrnambool Rail Trail, Great Ocean Road, VIC
Distance: 37km (one way).
The Great Ocean Road region is loaded with scenic cycling paths and this track is among the highlights. Connecting the alluring town of Port Fairy with the vibrant regional city of Warrnambool, this engaging trail is a moderate path with minimal incline.
Pass lush countryside, wetlands, and the wondrous Tower Hill Reserve, stop by the heritage-rich township of Koroit, and enjoy a host of memorable coastal views along a very scenic cycling path.
Book now: BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Warrnambool, NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park or BIG4 Port Fairy Holiday Park.
3. Coast to Vines Rail Trail, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA
Distance: 37km (one way).
This leading Australian cycling path extends from the cute Fleurieu Peninsula township of Willunga to the southern Adelaide suburb of Marino. It mostly follows an old rail line, and there’s plenty to see along the way, from historical sites to glittering coastline.
However, one of the most tempting stops is likely to be the famous vineyards of the McLaren Vale wine region. This largely flat path suits all ages.
Book now: BIG4 Port Willunga Tourist Park, BIG4 Mount Compass Caravan Park or parks in the Fleurieu Peninsula.
4. Ride the Sunset Coast pathway, Perth, WA
Distance: 14km (one way).
Providing a wealth of scenery, this cycling trail is a must for visitors heading to the Western Australian capital. The easy path links the western Perth suburb of Marmion with Burns Beach and lives up to its name by gifting sparkling coastal views. A series of interpretive signs details information about natural and historical attractions in the area, and alluring beaches and lookout points make for welcoming rest stops.
Book now: BIG4 Perth Midland Tourist Park or Perth Central Caravan Park.
5. Simpsons Gap Bicycle Path, Alice Springs, NT
Distance: 17km (one way).
Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Central Australia along an inspiring, sealed trail that is a comfortable pedal for most riders. Witness memorable views of the MacDonnell Ranges and other natural surrounds and keep a look out for abundant wildlife and bird life. The path begins at Flynn’s Grave and leads to the entrance point of one of the region’s most popular natural attractions, Simpsons Gap.
Take a breather at the various information signs along the journey, which detail the area’s prominent features.
Book now: G'day Mate Tourist Park or Gemtree Roadhouse and Caravan Park.
6. Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail, Atherton, QLD
Distance: 7km (one way).
When it comes to finding the best cycling trails in Australia, the Atherton Tablelands region is worth paying serious attention. One of many exceptional paths in this area is the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail. While only short in comparison to others on this list, it has an array of attractions throughout the journey that ensures ample time should be dedicated to the track. Various historical sites, including Atherton Chinatown and Hou Wang Temple, combine with the area’s renowned natural scenery.
This region is also highly regarded for its off-road trails: Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park teems with first-rate tracks. Conveniently, BIG4 Atherton Woodlands Tourist Park caters to two-wheel enthusiasts with a dedicated mountain bike wash down and service bay.
Book now: NRMA Atherton Tablelands Holiday Park.
And if you’re looking for a bigger challenge…
Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, Wangaratta to Bright, VIC
Distance: 100km (one way).
The scenery doesn’t come much more spectacular than along one of Australia’s leading rail trails. Throughout this sealed path witness incredible mountain ranges, rolling hills, deep valleys, and a host of towns and villages that ooze charm. A feast of delicious produce, wineries, and breweries will provide tempting diversions.
The route can be tackled in various sections.
Book now: BIG4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park, BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Bright, NRMA Bright or BIG4 Porepunkah Holiday Park.
Experience the Goldfields Track, Ballarat to Bendigo, VIC
Distance: 210km (one way).
Strike gold along this sparkling Central Victoria trail, which gifts a wealth of diverse landscapes and historical attractions. Linking the Goldfields region’s two biggest cities – Ballarat and Bendigo – the track passes through several inviting towns, such as Castlemaine, Daylesford, and Creswick.
Book now: BIG4 parks in the Goldfields region.
