Melbourne has a labyrinth of bike trails to explore. And if you’re new to cycling, there are also plenty of community organisations that run supported group rides.
We’ve put together our top 5 rides to try if you’re new to cycling.
Capital City Trail
The 30-odd kilometre trail skirts the trendy inner-city suburbs of Melbourne and takes in all that makes Melbourne unique – coffee, wildlife and immaculate gardens.
Stop off at Yarra Bend Park and admire the resident flying foxes hanging about, grab some grub at the Studley Park Boathouse or get your caffeine fix from the endless supply of quirky cafes. And don’t forget to take a break at one of the many scenic spots nestled along the trail.
Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail
Hop off at Lilydale Train Station and wind your way along the Yarra River Valley and with the Yarra Ranges as your backdrop.
The 40-kilometre trail follows the historic railway through lush fern gullies, rich farmland, past world-class wineries, quaint cafes and towering forests, all the way to Warburton.
The gentle gradient makes the trail idea dor
You Yangs Mountain Bike Trails
A mecca for adventure lovers and experience seekers alike, the You Yangs has all the adrenaline-pumping trails you want and need.
Split into two sections, choose between the Kurrajong Plantation or Stockyards Area.
The trails of Kurrajong Plantation are perfect for first-time mountain bikers, but still tricky enough for experienced riders looking to improve their speed and skills. Weave through Sugar Gum plantation on narrow single tracks, over bone-shaking rock gardens, flowing earth berms and dirt jumps.
Hobson Bay Coastal Trail
Head west towards the maritime historical precinct of Williamstown. The 23 kilometre trail weaves under the West Gate Bridge, past sandy beaches, wetlands and significant coastal reserves.
Stop for some ice-cream in Williamstown, take a stroll around the historic Cheetham Wetlands and don’t forget to look back towards the city for some of the best panoramic views of the city skyline.
Moonee Ponds Creek Trail
The Moonee Ponds Creek Trail is a nature-lovers delight. Starting from Travencore, the dedicated walking and cycling trail weaves alongside the Moonee Ponds Creek before finishing up near the Tullamarine Airport.
The creek is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It also has an interesting history – providing surveyors and pioneers with the water necessary for their settlement’s survival.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make a loop of it. Link up with the M80 trail and then head back towards Melbourne along the Merri Creek Trail.
Supported rides
If you’re nervous about cycling alone you can also join one of the many cycling advocacy organisations for a supported riding experience.
These include Westside Cycle Club which holds regular rides in and around the western suburbs. The all-inclusive rides don’t require any experience, just the drive to ride.
