Australia is a cyclist’s dream, offering everything from rolling countryside to pristine coastlines and lush rainforests. Whether you’re after a leisurely rail trail or a more adrenaline-fuelled descent, there’s a route for every rider. Here are five of the most unforgettable cycling trails to tackle in Australia - each offering a unique experience, local charm, and plenty of photo-worthy pitstops.
1. Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (Queensland)
At 161km, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (BVRT) is Australia’s longest continuous rail trail and one of its most scenic. It follows the old Brisbane Valley railway line from Wulkuraka (near Ipswich) to Yarraman, meandering through historic country towns like Fernvale, Esk, and Linville. The ride blends gentle gradients, packed gravel paths, and iconic rail infrastructure - ideal for a multi-day bikepacking adventure or a series of relaxing day trips.
What sets the BVRT apart is its strong community support: you’ll find plenty of rider-friendly cafés, rest stops, and even BVRT shuttle services to help with logistics. Make time for a pie in Fernvale or a craft beer at Toogoolawah, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of country Queensland rolling past. It’s a ride that rewards those who take it slow.
Taking on the BVRT? Ride it in comfort and precision with a Cilo Rivertour eBike with our partner The Bike Hire Company!
2. Murray to Mountains Rail Trail (Victoria)
This rail trail is a gift to riders chasing alpine views, vineyard breezes, and a taste of Victoria’s high country charm. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail offers over 200 km of sealed, off-road cycling, linking historic towns, gourmet regions, and breathtaking valleys across northeast Victoria.
The trail winds through lush farmland, heritage townships, and mountain-fringed landscapes. Depending on the season, you’ll pass rows of autumn-coloured poplars, fields of summer berries, or spring wildflowers lining the verge. With its gentle gradient and smooth surface, it’s perfect for eBike explorers, families, or anyone looking for a cruisy day out.
From the alpine beauty of Bright to the gold rush history of Beechworth, the rail trail connects to offshoots that now reach Yackandandah, Milawa, Rutherglen and Wahgunyah, making it one of Australia’s most extensive and scenic cycle routes.
Finish your ride with a long lunch, a wine tasting, or a river swim—there’s no shortage of reasons to stop and savour the journey. With local bike hire and shuttle services available, all you need to do is enjoy the ride.
The Bike Hire Company runs shuttles and bike hire on the trail. Get 10% off your bike hire with the code "SWISS".
3. Mary to Bay Rail Trail (Fraser Coast, Queensland)
The Mary to Bay Rail Trail - or Mary2Bay - is one of Queensland’s most exciting works in progress. When complete, it will link the heritage town of Maryborough with the beaches of Hervey Bay via roughly 32km of riding paths. Several sections are already open to the public, including a beautiful 11km stretch between Takura and Colton, where rural scenery, sugar cane fields, and gentle grades make for a relaxing pedal.
In Hervey Bay itself, you can follow the shoreline on dedicated cycling paths from Urangan Pier all the way to Point Vernon, passing cafés, parks, and beach lookouts along the way. It’s a fantastic family ride or a scenic cruise to unwind by the coast. As the full rail trail takes shape, Mary2Bay promises to become a premier riding destination for locals and tourists alike.
Ride a Cilo eBike on the Mary2Bay with local experts Adrenalin Cycling. Get 10% off your bike hire with code "SWISS".
4. Northern Rivers Rail Trail (New South Wales)
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a lush, green corridor through some of NSW’s most spectacular hinterland. Currently, two key sections are open: a 24km sealed trail from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek in the Tweed Shire, and a newly opened 15.5km section between Bentley and Casino. Both offer gentle riding through rolling hills, restored heritage bridges, and tunnel cuttings lined with rainforest.
This trail isn’t just beautiful - it’s a community-driven success story. Locals and visitors alike are embracing it for leisure, commuting, and eco-tourism. With future expansions planned to connect Byron Bay, Lismore, and Richmond Valley, the full 132km route is shaping up to be one of Australia’s iconic multi-day cycling experiences. It’s ideal for hybrid bikes or e-bikes and perfectly suited to those looking to combine nature, wellness, and regional charm.
5. Blue Derby Trails & The Tasmanian Trail (Tasmania)
No list of Australian cycling adventures would be complete without a nod to Tasmania, especially the renowned Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails in the northeast. Over 125km of trail network weaves through mossy rainforest, wild rivers, and lush mountain terrain, with routes suited to beginners and experts alike. There’s a reason Derby has become an international riding destination: flow, thrills, and scenery all in one.
For those seeking solitude and challenge, the Tasmanian Trail is an epic 480km point-to-point ride from Devonport to Dover. It traverses forests, farms, high country, and tiny hamlets across Tasmania’s spine. It’s best suited to bikepackers, gravel riders, or e-bike explorers looking for a long-haul challenge filled with wild beauty and quiet nights under the stars.
Trip Tips for a Smooth Ride
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Choose the right bike for the trail. It’s essential to come prepared, and don’t underestimate how much more enjoyable the experience can be on an eBike.The Cilo Rivertour is an excellent all-rounder, designed for comfort, long-range exploration, and smooth off-road control.
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Check weather and trail conditions. Queensland trails can be impacted by rain and flooding in the summer months. Always check local council updates and plan accordingly.
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Pack snacks, water, and a repair kit. While many trails have town stops, some stretches are remote. Be prepared and self-sufficient.
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Use shuttle or bike hire services. Many regional towns now support cyclists with logistics services, which makes point-to-point riding much more accessible. Always go with a reputable and reliable partner like The Bike Hire Company.
Australia’s cycling trails are a fantastic way to connect with nature, discover small towns, and slow down the pace. Whether you’re chasing coastlines or carving through mountain bushland, there’s never been a better time to hop on a bike and explore.