The Yarra Valley will soon be a world class mountain bike destination thanks to a major project that will see 160 kilometres of trails for keen riders when completed. But while that project is on the way, here are a couple spots in and around the Yarra Ranges that are great to bring your bike.
Lilydale – Warburton Rail Trail
While Lilydale is the end of the line for train travellers, it can be the beginning for walkers and cyclists who can still make their way along the 40 kilometre long former railway line with Lilydale station as a starting point.
The Lilydale – Warburton Rail Trail represents a great family ride as cyclists can choose where they wish to jump on and off as the trail cuts through many townships across the Yarra Valley.
Following the trail it’s worth taking time as you travel through vineyards, beautiful mountain scenery, farmlands and forests to imagine what was once a regular train route along the picturesque Yarra Valley.
The trail crosses a number of restored bridges and meanders past remnants of the former station platforms, including the original 1882 railway station at Yarra Junction which now houses the Upper Yarra Museum.
The rail trail’s gentle gradients make it ideal for all levels of fitness including families.
Silvan
Silvan features a variety of mountain bike trails for the more adventurous riders tucked away in the forests. Most of Silvan’s trails are described as intermediate and built on hard packed clay.
Access to the trail network is from either the Silvan Reservoir car park, or slightly further away from the Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve or the Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail. These trail heads take you into the reserve via fire roads, and with the help of Trailforks you will find a track that suits you best.
Healesville
Queen’s Park features a roll play space bike track for younger riders as this specially-made track allows children to learn traffic skills. The path criss-crosses the grassy areas near the Queens Park Kindergarten and the Healesville Tennis Club, featuring intersecting paths, safety signs and a roundabout for children to use.
Just along Don Road, there features a BMX dirt track for the older riders to ride the bumps and jumps in a controlled environment.
