Introducing Tasmania…or MTB Mecca

Source: Stu Gibson

Introducing Tasmania…or MTB Mecca

 

What’s out there

Known as Australia’s mountain biking capital, Tasmania is threaded with purpose-built, award-winning tracks through spectacular landscapes – from sky to sea, rainforest to beach, granite to hero dirt.  Since 2015 more than 300 kilometres of trails have opened and entire towns are now dedicated to serving mountain bikers. The presence of high-profile international events such as the Enduro World Series (EWS) has thrust Tasmania onto the world stage and mountain biking is booming on the island, with scores of new trails, shuttle businesses, accommodation and eateries popping up to cater for riders. Whether you a purpose-built flowy single track, a gnarly gravity ride or something to suit the whole family, this is the place of mountain bike dreams.

What makes mountain biking in Tasmania special

World-renowned trail design

Tasmania’s major trail networks have been custom-built by two leading trail builders, World Trail and Dirt Art, and are maintained by full-time teams. Among best-practice examples, two Blue Derby trails were named EWS trails of the year.

Trail diversity

Whether you’re a gravity racer seeking a downhill thrill, a rider chasing the flow on a purpose-built single track, an advanced jump-seeking shredder, or an absolute beginner feeling dirt under tyres for the first time, there’s something for everyone in Tasmania.  Purpose-built single tracks, gentle loops, pump tracks and wilderness trails cater for enduro, gravity and climbing riders of all abilities.

Quality of the environment

Trails are built within Tasmanian wilderness, with stunning scenery as part of the experience. The elevation, topography and terrain of the natural environment have been incorporated into trails to enhance the ride.

Accessible remoteness

Tasmania’s best-known bike parks are located near the island’s gateways, only an hour’s drive from the major airports and the ferry terminal.

Mountain biking towns

Many trails are located near quintessential Tasmanian country villages and towns, offering riders a deep connection with the landscape and the people, as well as services tailored for mountain bikers, such as shuttle services, tours, good food, entertainment and bike-friendly accommodation.  Click here to learn more about our bike-friendly accommodation partners.

The Low Down on Derby

Threading through forests of giant ferns and myrtle in north-east Tasmania, the trails at Blue Derby cater to all skill and fitness levels. With 125 kilometres of purpose-built trails, expect loads of berms, booters, jumps and flow. The earth here, known as “hero dirt”, sticks like glue to bike tyres and retains moisture extremely well, creating a safe and enjoyable riding experience unrivalled in Australia.

The trail network is built in the enduro-style, with uphill and downhill sections. If fast and flowy is your thing, check out Krushka’s or Flickity Sticks. Those seeking full-fledged EWS gnar should ride Kumma-Gutza or Detonate, named EWS trails of the year in 2019 and 2017 respectively. Detonate is spectacular, squeezing through a handlebar-wide gap in a giant granite boulder. Other popular rides from the trailhead include Kingswall, Trouty, Dam Busters and Derby Tunnel. While there are plenty of trails and loops easily accessible from the trailhead, consider taking a shuttle to maximise riding time and enjoyment. Shuttles are available from the trailhead to popular trails such as Blue Tier, white knuckle gravity trail Atlas and the high-speed flow descent Black Stump. Shuttle operators include Vertigo MTB, Mad MTB, Up Down and Around, and Evolution Biking.

The trail network is based in the former tin-mining town of Derby, about 90 minutes’ drive north-east of Launceston. This little town has a great atmosphere and caters specifically for mountain bikers, its main street lined with bike shops, bike hire, shuttle services and workshops for repairs and services. And the trailhead itself is located conveniently in the middle of town.

There are several accommodation options located in Derby including Derby Lodge, Derby Forest Cabins, Tin Mountain and Blue Derby River Cabins. Many of these lodgings feature facilities such as bike-wash stations, work stands and secure bike storage.

Hungry (and thirsty) riders are spoilt for choice in Derby, from breakfast burritos at Two Doors Down Café and pizza at The Hub, to good old-fashioned country hospitality at the Dorset Hotel and craft beer at Side Tracked, a pop-up bar by local brewery Little Rivers Brewing Co.

Thanks to Tourism Tasmania.  Find out more here