Townsville Bike Guide – Your Ultimate Riding Destination
Townsville Bike Guide GPT: Experience the very best of biking in Townsville. From picturesque coastal rides to thrilling mountain trails, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to plan your Townsville biking adventure.
Townsville offers over 300 days of sunshine and a variety of terrain, providing the ideal playground for mountain bikers, road cyclists, families, and anyone seeking adventure on two wheels. Get ready to discover spectacular landscapes, hidden gems, and the freedom of riding under sunny North Queensland skies.
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Top 5 Townsville Bike Trails
When it comes to riding, Townsville has no shortage of options. Here are 5 of the best trails to add to your must-ride list:
- Strand Promenade – This flat, 10km route follows the palm tree-lined waterfront, providing breathtaking views of Cleveland Bay. Perfect for a relaxing ride or walk.
- Mount Stuart Track – A 5km downhill run through open woodlands with some steep and technical sections. Thrilling for experienced mountain bikers.
- Upper Ross River Track – For cross country riding, this 20km loop winds through native bushland with scenic river crossings.
- Toolakea Beach Track – Ride 8km along the remote beachfront from Balgal Beach to Toolakea. A great coastal workout with sand and bushland.
- Sachs Point Track – A 2.5km moderate mountain bike loop with rocky terrain through open woodland. Delivers rewarding coastal views.
Road Cycling Routes
Townsville offers scenic routes along the coast and hinterland that will satisfy any road cyclist. Here are some of the best rides to tackle:
- Strand Loop – A 30km circuit following the Strand Esplanade with a mixture of flat terrain and short hills.
- Cungulla to Crystal Creek – A 60km out-and-back route that climbs into the hinterland for panoramic views. Stop for a dip at Crystal Creek at the end.
- Cleveland Bay Bayside Drive – A mostly flat 40km loop around the bay with tropical sea views.
- Dalrymple Road Hinterland – An 80km hilly route through rainforest and farmland west of the city. For experienced riders seeking a longer workout.
- Mount Low Loop – A hilly 70km circuit with rewarding scenery taking in Mount Low and Balgal Beach.
Where to Ride Mountain Bikes in Townsville
In addition to Mount Stuart, mountain bikers are spoilt for choice when it comes to trails around Townsville. Popular mountain biking locations include:
- Mount Stuart – Variety of downhill, cross country and scenic trails for all skill levels.
- Mount Spec – Technical single track and downhill runs including the heart-pumping Spec Drop.
- Bluewater Trail Park – Purpose built bike park with cross country loops, jumps and downhill tracks.
- Townsville Town Common – Mix of cross country trails and single track through conservation parkland.
- Hervey Range – Remote natural trails with rocky terrain and panoramic views.
Bike Laws & Safety Tips
To stay safe on your Townsville bike adventures, keep these laws and safety tips in mind:
- Helmets are required when riding in Queensland.
- Obey all road rules, traffic lights and signs when cycling on roads.
- Ride single file on roads and bike paths to allow others to pass safely.
- Use bike lights when riding at night or in low visibility.
- Carry spare tubes, tools, and supplies for longer rides.
- Check trail conditions, close gates, and avoid riding after heavy rain.
- Tell someone your route and expected return time if heading out alone.
- Respect the environment and stay on designated trails.
Family Friendly Bike Tracks
Townsville offers plenty of suitable tracks for family bike rides. Some top picks include:
- The Strand – Wide path perfect for leisurely riding, walking or scooting.
- Jezzine Barracks Boardwalk – Flat 5km route following the Ross River with playgrounds.
- Burdell Wetlands Track – 5km circuit on flat terrain through scenic wetlands.
- Mount Stuart Walking Track – Gentle uphill ride or walk through bushland with picnic areas.
- Bluewater Trail Park – Pump track and simple trails catering for all abilities.
Where to Rent Bikes in Townsville
If you need to rent bikes for your adventures, Townsville has several shops offering a range of quality bikes:
- On Yer Bike – Mountain, hybrid and kids bikes available. Can deliver.
- Extreme Centre Townsville – Great selection of mountain bikes and equipment.
- Bikes and Trikes – Electric, road, hybrid and cruiser bike hire.
- Lifecycles – High-end road and mountain bike rentals.
- 99 Bikes – Extensive range including electric bikes and tandems.
Bike Shops for Sales, Service & Repairs
Townsville’s bike shops can equip you with a new ride or keep your bike tuned:
Shop | Services |
---|---|
On Yer Bike | Bike sales & servicing |
Extreme Centre Townsville | MTB sales, servicing & gear |
Reid Cycles | Road, hybrid & kids bike sales |
Bicycle Superstore | Bike sales & repairs all types |
Bike Worx | Custom builds & repairs |
Townsville Bike Events & Clubs to Join
Townsville offers a thriving bike community. Get involved by joining events like:
- City of Townsville Grand Fondo – Cycle Up To 160km Around Townsville Every August
- Strand Night Rides – Social Paced Rides Along The Strand On Wednesday Nights
- TROC Kermesse – Criterium Races At East End Bike Track On Sundays
- Townsville Mountain Bike Club – Regular Trail Rides And Events For All Abilities
- Kokoda Cycling Club – Road Trainings And Races For Members
Townsville Bike Tour Operators
Guided bike tours are a great way to discover highlights with local expertise. Companies offering tours include:
- Sunrunner Cruises – Mountain bike tours of Mount Spec park.
- Two Wheel Tours – Custom private and group bike tours of Townsville.
- Adrenalin Dive – Mountain bike and snorkel tour to Orpheus Island.
- Mungalla Station – Guided bike rides exploring the cattle property.
- Cycling Adventures – Supported multi-day road cycling tours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best mountain bike trails in Townsville?
Some of the top mountain bike trails are Mount Stuart, Mount Spec, Bluewater Trail Park and Townsville Town Common. Each offers a mix of cross country, downhill and single track riding.
What bike shops rent electric bikes?
99 Bikes and Bikes and Trikes both offer electric bike rentals in Townsville. Great for cruising along The Strand without pedalling.
Are kids bikes available for hire?
Yes, many shops like On Yer Bike, Extreme Centre and Bikes and Trikes rent kids bikes with training wheels, tag-alongs etc. Perfect for family rides.
Is mountain biking allowed in the national parks?
Unfortunately mountain biking is restricted to designated trails and is not permitted within national parks around Townsville.
What bike club is best for casual social rides?
The Strand Night Rides organised by Townsville City Council are suitable for all levels. A great way to meet fellow cycling enthusiasts at a casual pace.