The best MTB trails in Great Otway National Park

There are over 25 mountain bike routes available in Great Otway National Park, catering to various skill levels. This includes 2 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring options for every rider.

The terrain in Great Otway National Park is incredibly diverse, ranging from rugged coastlines and coastal bushland to lush, ancient rainforests and tall eucalypt forests. You'll encounter dry heathy scrub, dense fern gullies, and areas with moderate elevations, including some significant climbs.

Yes, there are family-friendly options available. For a more relaxed ride suitable for beginners or families, consider routes like the WP 22 – Painkalac Reservoir loop from Fairhaven, which is an easy 15.1 km trail.

Great Otway National Park is rich in natural beauty. You can find stunning waterfalls like Phantom Falls and Erskine Falls, often nestled within fern-laden valleys. The Maits Rest Rainforest Walk offers a chance to experience cool temperate rainforests with towering myrtle beech trees.

The primary mountain biking hub is around the town of Forrest, which offers extensive networks like the Forrest Mountain Bike Trails. Other significant areas include Anglesea Bike Park and the Eumeralla Mountain Bike Trails, which feature cross-country trails through heathland.

The park offers year-round riding, but spring and autumn generally provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and less extreme weather. Winter can be wet, making some trails muddy, while summer can be hot, especially in exposed areas.

Absolutely. Experienced riders looking for a challenge can tackle routes like the Forrest MTB South Trailhead loop from Goat Track Camping. This difficult route spans 84.3 km and winds through tall eucalypt forests and fern gullies, taking over 8 hours to complete.

The mountain bike trails in Great Otway National Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to deep forest tracks, and the variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.

Yes, many routes in the park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the WP 1 – Dam loop from Bells Beach, a moderate 26.8 km trail, and the WP 20 – Dam loop from Eumeralla Education Area, a moderate 52.8 km option.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and key access points, particularly around Forrest and other popular riding areas. For detailed information on specific parking locations and any public transport options, it's advisable to check the official Parks Victoria website: parks.vic.gov.au.

The town of Forrest, a central hub for mountain biking, offers cafes and pubs where you can refuel before or after your ride. Other towns along the Great Ocean Road, such as Anglesea, also provide dining options.

The park is home to diverse wildlife. While riding, you might spot kangaroos, wallabies, and various bird species. Keep an eye out, especially in quieter sections of the trails, but always maintain a respectful distance from animals.