General News
6 March, 2024
National recognition for iconic bike trail
THE unique forest backdrop of the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park has earned the local hotspot a place in National Geographic’s “top three bike rides in each state and territory” list.
The iconic track has become a top destination for mountain biking enthusiasts over the past few years, with the 54.4km trail suited to bikers of all ages and abilities.
The article by National Geographic described the trail as a smart layout that’s ideal for groups of mixed abilities; in short, everyone has an awesome time riding, regardless of mismatched skill levels.
“Atherton meets all the ‘successful mountain bike town’ criteria: a great climate, awesome terrain, and the chance to ride to the trail network directly from town,” the article stated.
“Indeed, the trailhead (with change rooms and bike-wash facilities) is right on the main street, with the link trail out to the network, for easy trail access/return.
“Most of the riding is ‘flow’ trail, best suited to cross-country or trail bikes. There’s nothing too technical, although the ease with which you garner speed should be enough to keep you focused.”
Being listed in the top three for Queensland was a complete shock for Tableland Cycle Sports Inc president Bret Piccone, who said they had no idea they had made the list.
After being forwarded the article by a local, Mr Piccone said he was most pleasantly surprised.
“We were not informed by (National Geographic) about the acknowledgment, it was someone who saw the article and informed us, so to say we were pleasantly surprised was an understatement,” he said.
“We are extremely proud to say the least, especially when it’s a small band of volunteers who not only look after the trails in the Mountain Bike Park, but also run the club, Tableland Cycle Sports Inc.
“It’s a small group of volunteers (six to eight) who average between 600-800 hours per year of trail maintenance. The trails have been built by a professional trail-building company, and it’s up to us and QParks to keep them in good condition.”
A Tablelands Regional Council spokesperson said having a local asset recognised on a national scale was important to ensuring growth in the region.
The spokesperson thanked Tablelands Cycle Sports and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service for continuing to maintain the trails to ensure it is a hotspot destination for cycling enthusiasts across Australia and beyond.
“It's great to see our region recognised and it is well-deserved and fair recognition for the passionate volunteers, Tablelands Cycle Sports and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service staff who maintain the trails,” the spokesperson said.
“This further supports our ongoing commitment and advocacy to state and federal governments for expanding cycling in our region.
“We are finalising our 10-year Cycling Strategy for our region, which will guide our long-term planning and support community groups’ applications for funding.”
Last year, a concept was commissioned for Stage 2 of the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park, which includes the expansion of the trails.
Currently, the trails are closed due to wet weather, but cyclists are encouraged to follow the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park Facebook page for updates.
