Mountain biking

Introduction

There are many bike trails across the Northern Territory (NT), with several located in parks and reserves.

These range from the family-friendly sealed Simpsons Gap bicycle path to the challenging mountain bike trails of Charles Darwin National Park.


Safety and environmental care

Bike paths in the Northern Territory (NT) parks are professionally prepared and maintained, but there are always risks. 

Cyclists need to be responsible for their own safety. 

Cycling is a great way to enjoy the beautiful NT parks, but you need to take care of the environment to preserve it for others.

Safety

All of the following guidelines will help you cycle safely:

  • be aware of what's around you and remember conditions can change
  • other cyclists and pedestrians could be coming from the other direction - look ahead and take it easy around corners
  • wear a helmet and sturdy shoes
  • wear sunscreen, cover your skin and do not cycle in the heat of the day
  • take and drink plenty of water
  • take snacks to eat along the way
  • take a spare inner tube, a repair kit and a bike pump
  • tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back.

Care for the environment

Help protect the environment by using all of the following guidelines:

  • stay on the path
  • take your rubbish with you
  • fires are not allowed
  • respect all the plants, wildlife and cultural and historical sites
  • pets are not allowed on the bike trails
  • if you see any trail bikes or vehicles left on the path, write down their registration number and contact a ranger.

Mountain biking in Alice Springs

There are a large number of mountain bike trails in the Alice Springs network. Each of the trails are rated for level of difficulty and there are trails for all riding levels.

Many of the trails are named after local Arrernte animals or significant people.

The trails allow riders to visit places normally inaccessible and provide many vantage points for viewing the surrounding landscape.

To plan your ride, get the Alice Springs mountain bike trails PDF (8.7 MB).

Trailheads

Trails for beginners are marked on the map in green.

The beginner trails can be accessed from the below trailheads:

  • Lovegrove
  • Gosse
  • Telegraph Station
  • Kurrajong.

The Eastside Trail connects the Telegraph Station with the eastside suburbs of Alice Springs. This is a good place for beginners to start.

Most of the mountain bike trails are rated more difficult with some extremely difficult sections. These are marked on the map in blue and black.

You can ride along a section of the Larapinta Trail as part of the Road Train Trail.

Shelters and signs mark each trailhead and rust-coloured totems will help guide you through the trails.

Alice Springs bike and equipment hire

Go to the visitor centre in Todd Mall for trail information and to find out where to hire bikes and equipment.

You can find more information about bike hire outlets on the Tourism NT website.


Mountain biking in Araluen

Araluen mountain bike trails include more than 15km of dedicated mountain bike track.

There is also a large network of fire trails in the West MacDonnell Ranges.

For more information, go to the Tourism NT website.


Mountain biking in Simpsons Gap

On the Simpsons Gap bicycle path you can experience the arid Central Australian desert.

This sealed path runs 17km through bushland between Flynn's Grave and Simpsons Gap. It is a relaxing and scenic ride for visitors of all ages.

Along the trail there are views of the hills and ranges around Alice Springs. Cycling slowly and quietly may help you see wildlife.

There are signs along the path that explain the area's natural and scenic features. They are a great place to rest and discover the surroundings.

If you want a break, the Cassia Hill Walk PDF (1.2 MB), near the path's western end, will let you stretch your legs and learn about native plants.

For disabled or child bike trailer access to the path, contact the Simpsons Gap ranger office during business hours.

When to ride

It is best to ride during the cooler months from April to September.

During warmer months, especially on days when the forecast temperature is 36 Celsius or above, plan your ride for the cooler parts of the day.

How to get there

Opposite Flynn's Grave, the path connects to the town bicycle path network, which is a 7km ride from the centre of Alice Springs.

You can also drive up to the car parks at either end of the path.

Where to rest

There are four small rest areas along the path with minimal facilities that are pleasant picnic areas or places to rest and appreciate the landscape.

Travelling west from Flynn's Grave, rest stops are at the following points on the path:

  • The Knoll at 4km
  • Wallaby Creek at 4.5km
  • Tea Tree Creek at 8.5km
  • Mulga Valley at 12km.

What to take

There is drinking water at 2 points along the track, 3.5km and 14km from the start of the path.

You should carry drinking water with you. If you are riding long distances you should carry snacks.

Read safety and environmental care to help plan your ride.

Map

Before you set out on your ride, get the Simpsons Gap bicycle path map PDF (1.2 MB).


Mountain biking in Nitmiluk National Park

There are several mountain bike trails in Nitmiluk National Park.

All the trails are physically demanding, particularly in the warmer months. You should be aware of your limitations before starting the trail network.

The trails are also shared by walkers. You should give way to them at all times, and take care when there is limited vision.

Drinking water is available at some trailheads.

Mobile phone coverage is very limited and should not be relied upon for emergency communication.

It is recommended to ride in pairs for your safety.

Trailhead

The main shelter is on the front lawn of the Nitmiluk Centre. A second large shelter is located on the plateau near Pat's Lookout.

Trail information and bike repair stations can be found in these shelters.

Take a photo of the trail map on your phone to help stay on track.

Totem post markers and intersection signs along the trails also show the way.

Trail map

Before you leave home, get the Nitmiluk mountain bike trail map PDF (3.9 MB).


Mountain biking in Casuarina Coastal Reserve

There are several trails for mountain bike riders to enjoy in the woodlands of Lee Point.

Perhaps start out with the easier runs along the Lee and Enfield trails.

You could also try the more challenging intermediate graded Bren, World Cup and Vickers trails. The Vickers trail has an advanced section.

Trailhead

There are shelters and signs as you approach the trails with all the information you will need.

Take a photo of the trail map on your phone to help stay on track.

Totem post markers along the trails also show the way.

There are other unmarked and unmaintained trails within the reserve. You should only use the trails shown on the map.

Trail map

Before you leave home get the Darwin mountain bike trail map on the Tourism NT website.


Mountain biking in Charles Darwin National Park

There are several trails in Charles Darwin National Park that are for mountain bike riders only.

You can test your skills on the Wirraway Trail, which winds through the centre of the park.

Or you can try the more challenging Spitfire Trail, which is graded as 'difficult'. This trail is closed for the Wet Season.

Trailhead

There are shelters near the park entry and next to the main picnic area with trail information. Take a photo of the trail map on your phone to help stay on track.

Totem post markers along the trails also show the way.

The Pump Track

A pump track is a loop you can ride with little pedalling. They help you to get the feel of your bike before taking on a trail.

The Pump Track in Charles Darwin National Park is along the park access road, just behind one of the World War 2 storage shelters.

Trail map

Before you leave home get the Darwin mountain bike trail map on the Tourism NT website.