Mountain Biking

Mountain biking has a dedicated fan base that has been rapidly growing; one of the reasons for the popularity is that mountain biking, unlike other adrenaline pumping sports, is not exclusionary. Any rider with any level of experience can go for a mountain bike ride - the trail and speed you take is entirely dependent on your level of fitness and experience.

Alice Springs and the greater region is an amazing hot spot for cyclists looking for that adrenaline pumping, rock jumping experience or simply a casual ride through the spectacular, historic and unique desert landscape. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there is a trail and a bike for everyone, from easy nature paths that are suitable for families to off-road rocky trails that will delight experienced riders. If you are visiting Alice Springs and would like to head out on a ride, Outback Cycling can take you on a guided riding tour, blending in historical sightseeing with a pleasant ride. If you prefer to go solo, simply hire a bike, discover the region and make your own way.

However you choose to see Alice Springs and surrounds, jumping on a mountain bike will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. 

 

Popular Mountain Biking Trails around Alice Springs

Alice Springs Telegraph Station
The bike trail from the centre of town to this historic precinct is a beautiful ride. Some of the highlights include riding alongside the sandy riverbed, uphill and downhill rides through Spencer Hill and keep an eye out for a kangaroo or two.

Simpsons Gap
This beautiful nature spot in the West MacDonnell Ranges is a favourite for many Centralians (Central Australians). The trail ride from town is 17km one-way. If you take this trail, be sure to take plenty of water. When you arrive at Simpsons Gap, there are BBQ facilities if you choose to have a lunch or dinner cook-up. If you time your visit with the lunar cycle, biking with a full moon in the sky will make the ride from Simpsons Gap back to Alice Springs one of the most magical experiences you will ever have.

 

Maps

Need to figure out how to get from your accommodation to the Telegraph Station? Just looking for a casual, easy ride around town? Use the Alice Springs Cycling and Walking Map to plan your trip. Places of interest are marked on the map, so you can even do some sightseeing during your ride!

So you've decided you want to give mountain biking a go? Start by riding to the Telegraph Station, and from there you can use the Alice Springs Mountain Bike Trails Map to choose a trail that suits your skill level. Don't forget to take lots of water!

 

MTB Events in Alice Springs

Alice Springs has become a haven for mountain bike lovers around the world, and there are plenty of mountain biking events on our calendar. The Redback MTB Stage Race is an award-winning event that allows you to race the trails with an awesome four day event designed for everyone. The single track around Alice Springs really has to be ridden to be believed and if you have not been to Alice Springs before, you will be blown away by the quantity and quality of riding, along with the jaw dropping Red Centre landscape. The race has been designed so that it allows you to ride as much single track as possible whilst keeping the race logistics super simple – stay in the one location all week, no car or support crew needed and they’ll even pick you up at the airport! For more details about the Redback MTB Stage Race please visit our events page.

Easter in the Alice Mountain Bike Race 2019 was a multi-day mountain bike event based in Alice Springs. The event had both riding and racing components along with festival activities over the 3 days. The event included: showcasing the unique mountain biking environment and trail network of Alice Springs; exposing visitors to the natural bushland that surrounds the outback town; and celebrating the local people and riding community of Alice Springs. The MTB event was a festival style event with the aim of bringing people to centralised areas around town, including the town centre of Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical attraction. Stay posted for next year's Easter in the Alice Mountain Bike Race!