The spectacular Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region is one of the best places in the world to go mountain biking. Bike through World Heritage-listed rainforests, tackle trails designed for world champions, or pedal leisurely along the edge of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Tropical North Queensland region has more than 550km of mountain biking trails. Recreational mountain bikers will love what the region has to offer. From purpose built mountain bike parks to forest trails and beach rides, there is something to suit all abilities.
The Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region has five unique mountain biking regions to explore. Next time you are in Cairns, be sure to bring or hire a bike, and experience great adventures in the region.
Cairns / Smithfield Trails
This iconic mountain bike park boasts the highest profile rainforest trail system in the world. It was Australia’s first world championship venue nearly 20 years ago. The park has 60km of trails, including UCI level technical short and long climbs, plus technical descents for advanced riders.
Visit Cairns Mountain Bike Club for more information.
Atherton Tablelands Trails
The Atherton Tablelands in the mountain hinterland above Cairns has magnificent flowing single tracks, family trails, epic mountain bike rides and scenic back country road rides. For more information about these trails, visit Tablelands Trails for more information
Mareeba Trails
Near Mareeba is the Davies Creek Trail Network. It is a Tropical North Queensland wilderness experience that is a short drive from Cairns, and a world away from the hustle and bustle. This natural trail has been tweaked slightly to make it mountain bike friendly. However, there are no manufactured obstacles as the aim is for riders to simply enjoy their surroundings.
For more information about mountain biking in Mareeba, visit Mareeba Mountain Goats.
Port Douglas / Daintree Trails
Home of the Rural, Rainforest and Reef (RRR). Australia’s first and oldest running point-to-point mountain bike race, the Port Douglas and Daintree region boasts exciting rides for serious riders. It is also where beginners can enjoy a leisurely ride along iconic Four Mile Beach. Wildlife, including cassowaries, can be seen on many of the trails that traverse World Heritage-listed rainforest.
Cassowary Coast
The World-Heritage listed rainforest of the Cassowary coast, south of Cairns, is where you will find a variety of mountain bike trails. From easy beach rides that the whole family can enjoy, to steep hill climbs for the most experienced. For more information about mountain biking this area,click here.
Cairns really is the world class mountain biking destination. In April 2016, the region hosted the second round of the 2016 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. This year’s event featured nearly 300 riders from 35 countries, competing in the Cross Country (XCO) and Downhill (DHI) disciplines.
The event was held at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park, which is steeped in history itself. It has a successful past in international level racing, having hosted the 1996 UCI world Championships.
So next time you visit Cairns, be sure to bring your bike with you, and explore the 550+ km of mountain bike trails throughout the region. Be sure to also check out the world class cycling events held throughout the year.