Alice Springs has a vibrant Mountain Bike Scene, locals have been enjoying it since the early history of Mountain Biking in Australia and today it is a highly regarded cross country mountain biking destination in Australia.
What makes it so special? Three key things; the terrain, the accessibility, and the climate.
The rolling hills around the township are made for mountain biking; low friction hard pack surfaces for fast riding, short sharp climbs and descents, the open nature of the vegetation which provides excellent visibility of the track as it unwinds in front of you, and then of course there’s rocks – where there are rocks there is challenge, and fun. To cap it all off there are the expansive vistas at every turn and that superb winter weather.
The trails literally surround the township of Alice Springs; a short 5 minute ride from the CBD (and most accommodation houses) will have you in the bush on a sweet bit of single track heading north, east or west on a quick squirt or a several hour epic. Logistics for the visitor and local alike is simple, grab your bike and go – no vehicle support required.
There are two very good bike stores in the town, Ultimate Ride Bicycle Centre runs weekly ‘shop’ rides so be sure to get in touch if you are interested in joining in.
You can check out a map of the Alice Mountain Bike Trail network established by Parks and Wildlife Commission of the NT here; don’t worry, there’s way more trails than those on the map, but the map will get you started.
For MTB happenings around Alice Springs go to the Alice Springs Mountain Bike Trails Facebook page. Keep in touch with the mountain bike community and get involved in the numerous casual and social rides that go on every week as well as competitive events held by the Rough Riders Mountain Bike Club.
Central Australian Rough Riders (CARR)
There’s a very active MTB club as well; the Central Australian Rough Riders (CARR). Rough Riders have a busy events schedule, there’s always something going on, competitive and social.
Alice Springs Mountain Bike Trails Facebook page.
