Local Favourites

Alice Springs is a mountain biker’s paradise. The rugged desert landscape offers a unique environment for riders, from technical single tracks to scenic cross-country routes. The region is dotted with interconnected trails to suit everyone.

Before we tell you about some of our favourite trails in the region, it’s important to understand trail ratings. 

Trail difficulty ratings:

• Beginner / Easy - Suitable for beginner mountain bikers and o-road bikes. Usually a wide single trail with gentle gradients, mostly smooth and firm surfaces with a few obstacles. Short sections may exceed these criteria.
• Intermediate / More Difficult - Suitable for skilled mountain bikers and mountain bikes. Usually a single trail with moderate gradients, variable surfaces and some obstacles
• Advanced / Very Difficult - Suitable for skilled and experienced mountain bikers and better quality mountain bikes. Usually a challenging single trail with steep gradients, variable surfaces and many obstacles.
• Expert / Extremely Difficult - Suitable for highly skilled and experienced mountain bikers with high quality mountain bikes. Very challenging terrain with steep gradients, highly variable surfaces and severe obstacles.

Simpsons Gap Mountain Bike Trail - Easy

This easy 17 km bike path is the perfect way to experience the surrounding Alice Springs area. Suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, the trail takes approximately 1-2 hours one way from the starting point at Flynn’s Grave to Simpsons Gap.

Arrwe - Easy

On the east side of town, Arrwe (meaning wallaby) is an easy and fun mountain bike trail for all skill levels. This trail starts at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station and is a 5 km loop. Finish your ride with a stop at the Trail Station Cafe to refuel. 

Atetherre - Easy

This popular route is the only beginner trail on the west side, offering a cruisy introduction to mountain biking in the Red Centre. Atetherre is the gateway to the west side, so if you’re feeling confident after completing this 4 km trail, explore some of the more difficult trails in the area.

Hell Line - Intermediate

This extended outback cross-country trail is a huge 15 km in distance, making it one of the longest in the region. Hell Line has challenging terrain, and even experienced riders shouldn’t underestimate it. If you do brave this trail, come prepared with plenty of water and proper equipment. 

Larapinta Trail (shared) - Intermediate

A small section of the iconic Larapinta Trail is open to mountain bikers. This 3 km trail runs between the Alice Springs Telegraph Station and the Railway Line. Always take care when riding along the trail and give way to walkers. 

Bob Gnarly - Advanced

For highly experienced mountain bike riders, Bob Gnarly is a must-do. This 1km one-way trail has a challenging technical descent and is a part of the Eastside Trails in Alice Springs. Don’t forget to take in the incredible views at the top before making your way down!

Other tips before you get on the trail

• Stay safe by checking the trail and weather conditions before you head off, and if you’re on your own, make sure someone knows where you’re planning to ride
• Take plenty of water and first aid supplies.

Mountain biking events

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of mountain biking, Alice Springs is host to some incredible mountain biking events throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to get involved and test your skills.

The Redback MTB Stage Race

This six-stage mountain bike race is held over 4 days in August, and you can choose to compete in all 6 stages or a select few. The race has been designed by mountain bikers themselves, making it an epic trail. Riders of all abilities can take part in this race, with long and short course options and varying levels of difficulty.

Easter in the Alice 

This stage race runs across 4 days on the Easter long weekend, giving you the chance to traverse some of the most iconic trails around Alice Springs. Each day offers a longer course option for experienced mountain bikers, or a short course option for those who are wanting to get involved at a more social page.