5 Awesome Mountain Bike Tracks Near Geelong

Geelong and its surrounding regions boast some of Victoria’s most thrilling mountain bike trails, catering to riders of all skill levels. From technical descents to scenic forest paths, the area offers diverse terrain that keeps riders coming back for more. Here are five standout mountain bike tracks within easy reach of Geelong that deserve a place on every rider’s bucket list.

1. You Yangs Mountain Bike Park

Just 20 minutes north of Geelong, the You Yangs Regional Park is the region’s premier mountain biking destination. With over 50km of dedicated trails, it features:

• Stockyards: The park’s main trail network offers options for all skill levels, with the famous “Stockyards Downhill” delivering an exhilarating descent for experienced riders
• Kurrajong Plantation: Perfect for beginners and families, featuring gentler terrain and easier trails
• Difficulty Range: Green (beginner) to double black diamond (expert)

The granite peaks provide stunning views across the plains, while purpose-built features like berms, jumps, and rock gardens keep the technical challenge high. The You Yangs MTB Club regularly maintains these trails, ensuring quality riding conditions year-round.

2. Forrest Mountain Bike Park

Located about an hour and a half from Geelong in the Otway Ranges, Forrest is worth the drive for its world-class trails. This mountain biking mecca offers:

• Northern Trails: Including the popular “Red Carpet” flow trail and technical “Roller Coaster”
• Southern Trails: Featuring the challenging “Follow the Dog” and scenic “Barre Warre”
• Difficulty Range: Easy to difficult, with most trails intermediate level

What makes Forrest special is the variety of environments you’ll ride through—from dense rainforest to open eucalypt woodland. The township of Forrest has embraced bike culture, with bike-friendly cafes and accommodation making it perfect for a weekend trip.

3. Barwon Valley Park Trails

For Geelong locals looking for a quick ride without leaving town, the Barwon Valley Park offers several unofficial but well-used mountain bike trails:

• River Loop: A mostly flat trail following the Barwon River, perfect for beginners or as a warm-up
• Valley Slopes: Short but sweet descents on the valley’s eastern bank
• Difficulty Range: Mostly beginner to intermediate

These urban trails may lack the technical features of dedicated parks, but they’re perfect for after-work rides and developing skills before tackling bigger challenges.

4. Anglesea Bike Park

About 30 minutes from Geelong on the Surf Coast, Anglesea Bike Park offers:

• Skills Area: A purpose-built zone for practicing jumps and technical skills
• Jump Lines: Multiple lines of varying difficulty for air-hungry riders
• Pump Track: A flowy circuit that can be ridden without pedaling
• Difficulty Range: Suitable for beginners (with caution) to advanced riders

This compact park packs a lot of fun into a small area and is perfect for riders looking to develop their jumping and technical skills.

5. Brisbane Ranges National Park

Located about 40 minutes north of Geelong, the Brisbane Ranges offers a more natural mountain biking experience:

• Steiglitz Historic Area: Features multiple fire roads and single tracks through historic gold mining areas
• Ted Wilson Trail: A longer cross-country route with moderate technical challenges
• Difficulty Range: Intermediate, with some technical sections

What these trails lack in purpose-built features, they make up for in natural beauty and the chance to spot native wildlife while riding through less-traveled terrain.

When to Ride

The Geelong region enjoys relatively mild weather year-round, making mountain biking a four-season activity. However:

• Summer: Ride early or late to avoid the heat, especially at exposed locations like the You Yangs
• Winter: The Forrest trails hold up well in wet conditions due to excellent drainage
• Spring/Autumn: Perfect conditions with mild temperatures and typically dry trails

Before heading out, always check trail status online as some parks close during extreme fire danger days or after heavy rainfall.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for technical challenges or a beginner seeking friendly trails to develop your skills, the Geelong region offers mountain biking experiences to satisfy your off-road adventures.

Nearby Deals and Services

Looking to save some money while enjoying these fantastic mountain bike trails? Here are some deals and services to enhance your biking adventure:

Accommodation Deals

• Rydges Geelong: Groupon occasionally offers deals for this centrally located hotel, perfect as a base for exploring all five trail areas. Check their latest offers.
• Forrest Guesthouse: While not on Groupon, this bike-friendly accommodation in Forrest often has midweek specials that are perfect for mountain bikers looking to spend more time on the Otway trails.
• Forrest Holiday Park: Budget-friendly cabin and camping options close to the trails, with occasional seasonal discounts.

Bike Rental and Services

• You Yangs MTB Hire: Located in nearby Lara, they offer bike rentals and sometimes have weekday discount packages.
• Trailhead Bike Co: Based on the Great Ocean Road, they provide rental services for the Anglesea and Forrest areas with multi-day rental discounts.
• Geelong Adventure Specialists: Offers private guided MTB tours at You Yangs and Anglesea. Look for their seasonal promotional rates.

Post-Ride Refreshments

• Forrest Brewing Company: This mountain biker’s favorite spot in Forrest offers a “Trail Rider’s Special” with beer and burger combos after 3 PM on weekdays.
• Geelong CBD Restaurants: Check Groupon’s Geelong deals section for regularly updated dining offers that are perfect after riding the Barwon Valley or You Yangs trails.
• Forrest General Store: While not on Groupon, they offer great value packed lunches ideal for a full day on the trails.

Package Deals

• Geelong Adventure Packages: Occasionally listed on Groupon, these can include guided rides, equipment rental, and even accommodation for You Yangs and Anglesea areas.
• Melbourne Deals: If you’re coming from Melbourne, check Melbourne’s Groupon page for transportation package deals that could include drop-offs at popular biking spots.

Pro tip: Groupon deals change regularly, so it’s worth checking the Geelong section before planning your trip. Also consider visiting midweek when both trails are less crowded and many venues offer their best deals.

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