Top 5 Parks for Mountain Bike Trails in Adelaide

Adelaide is known for its vibrant city life, but venture out of the hustle and bustle and you will find stunning conservation parks with plenty to keep you busy. Mountain bike trails in Adelaide and its surroundings are the perfect way to immerse in the beautiful rolling hills and explore the region’s natural beauty. Would you like to get outdoors, enjoy nature and be active? Then an adventurous weekend in Adelaide should be on the cards.

Mountain Bike Trails in Adelaide

Whether you are a mountain biking expert or simply a beginner, many of Adelaide’s parks offer trails to suit all levels of fitness and ability. Keep reading to discover our top 5 spots for mountain bike trails in Adelaide.

1. Cleland National Park

Cleland National Park is a great place to spend the day exploring the various intertwining tracks and trails. The conservation area is home to the Cleland Wildlife Park which can be accessed from the trails. This is the ideal place to take a break for a leisurely stroll around the park and to meet the local wildlife. There is also a café where you can refresh and refuel before you continue your ride. One of the highlights of the Cleland trails is the popular Wine Shanty track. This 5km route will take you deep into the park surrounded by the towering rainforest. The path is relatively easy throughout with nothing too technical, therefore it is great for beginners or just a relaxed Sunday afternoon ride.

2. Fox Creek Bike Park

The Fox Creek Bike Park reopened after the forest was severely damaged in the bushfires of 2019. Since the tracks have been gradually reopening, visitors and locals have been able to get out and once again enjoy these fantastic mountain bike trails in Adelaide. You can find trail maps here detailing the routes which are open, the current conditions, and the level of difficulty of each trail. There are trails for every level of ability making this a great park whether you are an avid rider or not. For those who are experienced riders, check out the Fox Long Trail. Rated Black Diamond you can expect a challenging trail that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

3. O’Halloran Hill Recreation Park

O’Halloran Hill Recreation Park (part of Glenthorne National Park) is located 16km south of Adelaide’s city centre. The park is an ideal day out for a ride and a picnic amongst the river gum trees. There are 18kms of mountain bike trails to explore ranging from easy to moderate and advanced. If you are looking for an easy route the Fire Track Loop is a great option for a relaxing ride taking only 1hr 20 minutes to complete. Or if you prefer more of a challenge the Blue Luge Trail is popular with mountain bike enthusiasts and features fun corners and rock features.

4. Sturt Gorge Recreation Park

Sturt Gorge is located 13km south of Adelaide and is internationally recognised as an area of conservation and geological significance. It is home to a rock formation that is believed to be formed from glacial material 800 million years ago. The park offers an abundance of mountain bike trails in Adelaide all of which offer a unique experience of the grassy woodlands. Take the Surf and Turf Trail for a mix of old pastures and coastal views or the Little River trail all the way down to the lake for beautiful views of Spring Creek.

5. Belair National Park

When it comes to mountain bike trails in Adelaide, Belair is one not to be missed, it is South Australia’s oldest national park and is just a 25-minute drive from Adelaide City. It is an ideal place to get active and explore the woodlands and lakes. There are multiple trails to choose from including the popular Adventure Loop, which is one of the longer trails featuring technical single tracks suitable for intermediate riders.  The park is an important refuge for many native plants and animals of Australia. You may even spot a wild Koala or two along the way!

SA Escapes Top Hotel Pick

The Royal Coach Hotel is located on the fringes of Adelaide’s CBD making it the ideal base for your adventurous weekend in Adelaide. The accommodation offers comfortable and contemporary rooms with all the amenities required for your a relaxing stay. The hotel facilities include an indoor swimming pool and on-site Angus & Co restaurant, perfect to come back to after a long day exploring.

More things to do in Adelaide

If you are looking for more inspiration for things to do in Adelaide, check out our ultimate guide.