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With an extensive network of bikeways and some of the best cycling trails in the nation, Canberra is a fantastic city to explore on two wheels. From casual, family-friendly rides to more advanced off-road mountain bike tracks, this cycling city has a plethora of bicycle paths suitable for all skill levels.
Not only is cycling a great way to soak up some sun and get some exercise, but it’s also a fantastic way to experience Canberra’s great outdoors. So strap on your helmet, round up your cycling crew, and read on to discover some of Canberra’s most scenic bike rides.
Image: Visit Canberra | Canberra Urban Adventures
This iconic cycling circuit meanders along Lake Burley Griffin. Suitable for a range of bike types and riding abilities, Lake Burley Griffin offers scenic waterside cycling routes dotted with cafes, local gems and national landmarks. If you're up for a longer ride, the full lap of Lake Burley Griffin covers approximately 40km of shoreline and is mostly flat, predominantly following bike paths.
The Western Loop winds through Yarralumla, past landmarks and attractions including the Governor-General’s residence, Scrivener Dam and the National Museum of Australia. This section offers a scenic option for riders who don't want to tackle the entire lake.
If you’re looking for a shorter ride, take the Central Loop from Kings Avenue Bridge to Commonwealth Avenue Bridge to ride through the Parliamentary Triangle. This trail is a great choice for families with younger children or those short on time.
The Eastern Loop, trailing from the Kingston Foreshore towards Fyshwick and Jerrabomberra Wetlands Nature Reserve, has plenty of cafes for pit stops along the way. If you’re riding on a Sunday, be sure to visit the Old Bus Depot Markets at Kingston Foreshore.
Image: CycleHQ
For a ride that has it all, take on the Canberra Centenary Trail created to celebrate Canberra’s Centenary birthday. The 138km shared-use loop travels through urban and rural Canberra, taking riders past iconic sites, forest parks and beautiful bushland.
A full loop of this winding trail takes about three days, averaging just over 45km per day. For mountain bikers, most of the trail is maintained as Green (Easy), combining sealed cycle paths, gravel management trails and single track. However, the northern section between Little Mulligans Flat and Hall and the southern section between Kambah Pool and Pine Island are rated Blue (Intermediate).
Don’t forget to take plenty of stopovers and enjoy the sweeping views of the stunning region, and be sure to keep an eye out for native fauna along the way such as wallabies and black shingleback lizards.
The Centenary Trail is suitable for electric mountain bikes, regular mountain bikes and gravel bikes, although some steep sections may require less experienced riders to dismount.
Image: Stromlo Forest Park
Boasting over 50km of professionally built and maintained trails, Stromlo Forest Park is one of Canberra's major mountain biking destinations, with trails catering for riders from beginners through to experienced mountain bikers. It's hosted elite local and international competitions such as the Shimano MTB Grand Prix and UCI World Mountain Bike Championship.
Whether you’re a road cyclist, BMX rider, mountain biker, or just looking for a leisurely bike ride under the sun, the park has a diverse range of facilities to suit riders of differing abilities. Mountain bikers can choose from six suggested loops, ranging from a beginner-friendly 20 - 40 minute ride around the lower slopes to longer intermediate and advanced routes featuring climbs, technical terrain and flowing descents.
Road cyclists can also use the 1.2km Stephen Hodge Criterium Cycling Circuit, which is open to the public free of charge when it isn't booked for exclusive use. The park also features a pump track, coaching trails and downhill riding options.
Image: ABC | Majura Pines
Home to some of the oldest and most famous mountain bike trails in Canberra, Majura Pines offers around 15km of single track and opportunities for riders to progress from beginner trails to intermediate and advanced cross-country and downhill riding.
More experienced riders can challenge their mountain biking skills on Majura Pines' advanced cross-country and downhill trails. However, there are also beginner and intermediate options for riders developing their skills. Cross-country trails are two-way and shared with walkers and runners, while downhill trails are one-way and reserved for mountain bikes.
For decades, it’s been a favourite amongst local cycling aficionados for its varied terrain, lush flora, and carefully maintained tracks by the Majura Pines Trail Alliance volunteer group. The recreation area also features a pump track and dirt-jump park.
Check current Parks ACT alerts and trail signage before riding, particularly during periods of high fire danger, flooding or forestry activity.
Image: Visit Canberra | CycleHQ
No list of Canberra rides would be complete without the Cotter - Uriarra Loop, a popular training loop and the venue for major cycling competitions such as the Canberra Tour and the Australian Junior Road Championships.
Best suited to experienced road cyclists, the route combines demanding climbs, fast descents and river crossings around the Cotter and Uriarra areas. Riders should be comfortable cycling on public roads and tackling significant elevation changes.
Though challenging, the Cotter - Uriarra Loop rewards riders with serene, stunning countryside surrounds, and a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Unlike Canberra's dedicated bike paths and mountain-bike parks, this is an on-road cycling route, so riders should plan accordingly and follow normal road-cycling safety precautions.
Image: Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary
There aren’t many places on earth where you can spot a striped legless lizard, hooded robin and other endangered species all in one place.
The Canberra Centenary Trail passes through the Mulligans Flat area, offering a peaceful ride through native woodland where you may encounter species such as the Eastern Bettong, Bush Stone-curlew and Eastern Quoll.
Cycling is permitted within Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve, but only on management trails. Because it's a protected nature reserve, follow trail signage and remain on designated cycling routes throughout your ride.
Image: Visit Canberra | Canberra Urban Adventures
Tucked away in Molonglo Valley, the National Arboretum Canberra is a great spot for a fun day out with the whole family. With plenty of places to stop, packing a picnic to enjoy along the way would be a great way to spend time amongst the picturesque scenery.
On this bike ride, you’ll encounter an amazing collection of rare, endangered and symbolic trees from Australia and across the globe. Don’t forget to visit the Pod Playground - a sure-fire hit for both the kids and the kids at heart.
The National Arboretum has more than 20km of multi-purpose walking and cycling tracks, with routes winding through its forests and offering impressive views across Canberra. The Canberra Centenary Trail also passes through the Arboretum, providing connections towards Stromlo Forest Park and Black Mountain.
Cyclists can use designated roads, unsealed tracks and trails throughout the Arboretum. Remember that many routes are shared with pedestrians, so ride to the conditions and observe posted signs and speed limits.
For another dedicated mountain biking option, head south to Isaacs Pines, adjoining Isaacs Ridge Nature Reserve. The recreation area features dedicated mountain bike trails and provides another option for riders to explore Canberra's off-road cycling network.
It's important to distinguish the mountain-bike area from the neighbouring nature reserve. Within Isaacs Ridge Nature Reserve, cycling is only permitted on roads and management trails, including the Canberra Centenary Trail. Cycling on walking tracks or unauthorised single tracks within the nature reserve is prohibited.
Stick to the dedicated mountain-bike trails at Isaacs Pines and permitted management trails through the reserve, and check current Parks ACT information before setting out.
Don’t have your own bike? Canberra has multiple bike hire facilities across the city. It’s a great option for visitors or casual cyclists.
After exploring Canberra's cycling trails, Avenue Hotel offers a centrally located and comfortable place to rest and recharge. From the city, you can easily set out to Lake Burley Griffin or drive to mountain-biking destinations such as Stromlo Forest Park and Majura Pines.
Book direct with Avenue Hotel to enjoy 10% off our best available rate and complimentary secure undercover parking, giving you a convenient place to leave your vehicle between cycling adventures.
Whether you've spent the day cruising around Lake Burley Griffin, tackling the trails at Stromlo or exploring Canberra's countryside on two wheels, return to Avenue Hotel to recharge in premium comfort.
Explore our accommodation options and discover which room best suits your stay.
