Since the 1860s when bicycles first arrived in Australia, cycling has been embraced by people of all ages as a method of keeping fit and healthy while also helping the environment.
Its popularity began long before the introduction of the automobile with the first major long-distance event, the Melbourne to Warrnambool Classic, taking place in 1895. Cycling has proven to be a popular activity for many GemLife residents. The following guide identifies some of the top cycling spots in your area.
SUNSHINE COAST
Cycling enthusiasts on the Sunshine Coast can explore the region and enjoy the freedom and safety of over 35 dedicated roadside bicycle lanes and shared pedestrian pathways. The many cycle paths range from 30 minutes to three hours and cater for fun family outings through an old tunnel to some strenuous hill climbs with expansive views to the coast. There are also more than 60 dynamic mountain bike trails.
Popular trail destinations featured on the www.adventure.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au website include Mt Coolum National Park, Noosa National Park, Maleny Trail to Reynolds crossing, Ewen Maddock Dam, and Glass House Mountains National Park.
Information on bike rides to suit all riding levels is available at www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Experience-Sunshine-Coast/Pathways-tracks-and-trails/Cycling/Routes
These include easy rides such as Caloundra Coastal Pathway (14km return) and Mooloolaba to Picnic Point (14km return); more serious rides such as the Surf Beaches Trail which runs from Peregian Beach to Noosa Junction (23km return) and Sunshine Beach to Coolum Beach (24km return); lycra zone such as Nambour to Eumundi Markets (48km return) and David Low Way from Noosa to Maroochydore (70km return), and for ultra-serious and experienced riders, the Maleny Circuit (90+km return).
GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast has more than 2400km of bikeways and pathways. Riding a bike not only improves health and fitness but is also beneficial to the environment and motorists by reducing greenhouse gases, noise, and traffic congestion. Mountain biking involves riding on unsealed surfaces such as gravel roads, fire trails, single track, or open and rocky ground, and can involve manoeuvring through or around obstacles such as fallen or narrowly spaced trees, creeks, mud, rocks, built structures and other technical trail features.
Find out more including information about free cycling workshops and events, the benefits of cycling and cycling safety by going to www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/cycling-bikeways-312.html
A list of suitable local parks plus an interactive nature trail map are available at www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/parks-for-mountain-biking-cycling-31119.html
TWEED WATERS
Walking and cycling are great for your health and wellbeing, and a fun and environmentally-friendly way to get around.
Chinderah to Fingal (7.6km return)
North Kingscliff to Cabarita (24km return)
BIKE ROUTE PLANNERS
Bikemap:
www.bikemap.net/en/l/10114292
Walking/Cycling map:
www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/walkingcycling
HIGHFIELDS
For the recreational cyclist, Toowoomba has over 70km of pathways, several designated mountain bike trails and a network of roads that can be used by the more experienced cyclist.
The Council also runs bike ride events each year with assistance from local cycling clubs and groups. These include the annual Toowoomba Ride the Range event which attracts hundreds of riders from around Australia.
Whether you are planning a leisurely ride or want something a little more challenging, there are plenty of great cycling options available for those keen on exploring Highfields and surrounding areas via bike.
Some useful resources include:
www.tr.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/sport-recreation/walks-trails
BIKE ROUTE PLANNERS
Bikemap:
www.bikemap.net/en/l/2146268
Mapmyride:
www.mapmyride.com/au/Toowoombaqueensland
Trailforks (mountain bike trails):
www.trailforks.com/region/Toowoomba
CYCLING CLUBS AND PUBLIC EVENTS
Toowoomba Mountain Bike Club:
www.tmbc.org.au
WOODEND
The Macedon Ranges is made for cycling and offers adventures for all skill levels, whether you are a keen road cyclist, gravel rider or fan of mountain biking.
The region offers easy rides for those just starting out or looking for a leisurely activity, and plenty of challenging rides to excite even the fittest cyclist.
Cycling routes and maps are available on the Macedon Ranges Shire Council website at www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/see-do/swimming-sport-fitness/sport-fitness/walking-running-cycling/cycling-routes-maps
RIDE GUIDE & CYCLING CLUB
Macedon Ranges Ride Guide:
The Macedon Ranges Ride Guide was updated and relaunched in January 2021 and offers 18 road, gravel, and mountain bike routes to explore. It is available for electronic download as well as print format. Go to www.visitmacedonranges.com/ride-guide/
Cycling club:
www.macedonrangescycling.org.au
RAINBOW BEACH
Port Macquarie and Rainbow Beach areas have an estimated 30 cycle routes to explore.
These include the foreshore walking/cycling track – 4km from Bike Hire to Town Beach Kiosk taking in the picturesque foreshore, break-wall, Town Beach Park with children’s play equipment and skate park, finishing at popular Town Beach. Other cycling trails are located at:
Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park
Port Macquarie Urban Mountain Bike Park
Lake Innes Nature Reserve (includes Googik Heritage walking/cycling track. See www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/lake-innes-nature-reserve)
BIKE ROUTE PLANNER
Bikemap:
www.bikemap.net/en/l/2152659
