A continent-sized playground. Here's where to start.

Australia doesn't do things by halves. From the red dirt of the outback to the alpine runs of the Snowy Mountains and the forests of Tasmania, the riding here is as varied as the landscape itself. Whether you're chasing technical descents or trails with a view that stops you mid-ride, Australia delivers.

This is the first stop in our six-part MTB Atlas series, where we map out the best trails across every continent, with a little help from Steadyrack ambassador, Caroline Buchanan.

Where to Ride

Dwellingup, Western Australia

Closer to home for us at Steadyrack, Dwellingup is one of WA's true MTB heartlands, and a place we've been proudly connected to for years through our sponsorship of the Dwellingup 100. Located just over an hour south of Perth, this small forest town transforms into a hub of mountain biking energy every time the event rolls around.

Since 2009, the Dwellingup 100 has grown into Perth's largest one-day mountain bike race, drawing everyone from first-timers to world champions. It's even hosted the UCI Mountain Bike Marathon Masters World Championship, with riders from across the globe racing for a rainbow jersey.

What makes Dwellingup special isn't just the racing though. The surrounding trail network winds through tall timber forest and red dirt singletrack that's become some of the best riding WA has to offer. It's a destination that rewards both the racer chasing a personal best and the weekend rider just looking for a good day on the bike.

We've sponsored the Dwellingup 100 since 2017, and it remains one of the events closest to our heart as a WA-owned and operated business.

Photo credits: Daniela Tommins Photography

Thredbo, New South Wales

If you only ride one trail in Australia, make it Thredbo. The Upper All-Mountain into All-Mountain descent is the kind of run that earns a permanent place in your memory.

We asked ambassador and BMX and MTB legend Caroline Buchanan for her Australian highlight, and she didn't hesitate:

"This is one of my favourite descents in Australia. It combines high-country alpine scenery with fast flow. It can be technical if you ride some sections fast, or a chill ride with the family, flow and a fun vertical descent. It's a trail that never gets old and I love taking people on it."

The beauty of this trail is its range. Blast it top to bottom and it'll push your limits. Cruise it with a friend who's still finding their feet and it's equally rewarding. That rare combination of accessibility and depth is what makes Thredbo a destination that keeps drawing riders back.

Derby, Tasmania

Tasmania's Blue Derby trail network has put Australia firmly on the global MTB map. Built across thousands of hectares of Tasmanian wilderness, the trails here are world-class by any measure. Signature runs like Detonate and the Flickety Sticks loop offer ridged, machine-built flow riding through dense rainforest, while the more technical Blue Tier trails reward those willing to earn the descent.

Derby is also a great basecamp. The town has grown entirely around cycling culture, with bike washes, gear shops, and post-ride pints all within easy reach of the trailhead.

Stromlo Forest Park, Australian Capital Territory

For riders who want variety without the road trip, Stromlo is hard to beat. Located just outside Canberra, it punches well above its weight with a network of trails spanning beginner-friendly flow tracks through to gnarly tech lines. It regularly hosts national and international events, which tells you everything you need to know about trail quality.

Bright, Victoria

Nestled in the Victorian Alps, Bright offers a mix of cross-country and enduro-style riding set against one of the most scenic backdrops in the country. The High Country Rail Trail connects the region for big-distance adventures, while local favourites like Mystic and Huggins cater to riders chasing elevation.

Cairns, Queensland

Cairns is Australia's gravity capital. Home to the Smithfield MTB Park and a regular stop on the UCI Downhill World Cup circuit, the trails here are fast, rooty, and relentless. The tropical climate means lush, jungle-like riding conditions, but it also means heat and humidity, so time your visit well.

When to Go

One of the advantages of riding at home is that there's always somewhere in the country that's in perfect condition. Caroline puts it well: "Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable seasons across the country, while destinations like Thredbo and Tasmania shine through summer."

A rough seasonal guide:

• Thredbo and the alpine regions shine in summer (December to February) when the ski lifts run for mountain bikers and the snowmelt keeps trails firm and fast.
• Tasmania rides beautifully through summer and into autumn, before winter rains soften the trails.
• Cairns and Queensland are best tackled in the dry season (May to October) to avoid the tropical wet.
• Victoria and the ACT are most comfortable in spring and autumn, with long daylight hours and mild temps.

 

Planning Your Trip

Wherever you're riding in Australia, sun protection is non-negotiable. Even on overcast days, UV exposure at altitude and in open terrain adds up fast. Carry more water than you think you need, know that mobile coverage in remote areas is limited, and always tell someone where you're headed.

First-time MTB traveller? Caroline's advice cuts through the noise:

"Grab yourself a Thule bike bag for the airline. Pack extra clothes around your bike for padding, and spend less time researching online and more time connecting with the local riding community when you get there to find the best trails and the local MTB experience."

It's the kind of advice that applies wherever you're headed.

The trails are out there. Now you just need to ride them.

Next month in The MTB Atlas: Europe.