The best road cycling routes in South East Forest National Park

There are 7 road cycling routes available in and around South East Forest National Park, offering diverse experiences for cyclists.

The routes in South East Forest National Park range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 4 moderate routes and 3 difficult routes, often featuring significant elevation changes and varied terrain.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, routes like the Myrtle Mountain Lookout – Panboola Waterbird Sanctuary loop from Merimbula offer substantial elevation gain, with over 1200 meters of climbing over 83 kilometers. Another difficult option is the Panboola Waterbird Sanctuary loop from Merimbula, which includes over 950 meters of ascent.

Road cycling in South East Forest National Park offers a journey through diverse landscapes. You'll encounter soaring old-growth forests, rugged granite formations like those at Pheasants Peak, picturesque valleys, and over 100 kilometers of spectacular coastal escarpment. The park also features streams, waterfalls, and various lookouts providing panoramic views.

Many routes offer access to stunning viewpoints and natural attractions. Lookouts such as Pipers Lookout, Myrtle Mountain Lookout, Myanba Gorge Lookout, and Fred Piper Memorial Lookout provide magnificent vistas. You might also pass by unique features like the Goodenia Rainforest or the impressive granite tors of Pheasants Peak.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in South East Forest National Park are loops. Popular options include the Smith Lookout – Spencer Park Beach loop from Magic Mountain Recreation Park, the Panboola Waterbird Sanctuary loop from Magic Mountain Recreation Park, and the Historic Fishermens Lookout loop from Magic Mountain Recreation Park.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, from well-paved segments to unpaved sections, and the stunning natural beauty, including old-growth forests, valleys, and coastal escarpment.

While there are no routes specifically rated as 'easy' in the guide, some moderate loops, such as the Smith Lookout – Spencer Park Beach loop (26.5 km), could be suitable for families with older, experienced children, depending on their fitness levels and comfort with varied terrain and some elevation.

The park offers cycling opportunities throughout the year. However, checking for current alerts is advisable, as some areas may have closures, particularly after fire seasons. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling.

Many routes originate from areas like Magic Mountain Recreation Park or nearby towns such as Merimbula, which typically offer parking facilities. It's recommended to check specific starting points for parking availability.

The park itself offers scenic picnic areas like White Rock River, Goodenia Rainforest, and Waalimma for breaks. For cafes and other refreshments, you would typically find options in nearby towns such as Bega, Merimbula, or Bombala, which are close to the park's access points.

The park features an extensive network of roads and vehicle trails. While many routes include mostly well-paved surfaces, some segments may be unpaved. It's good to be prepared for varied road conditions and potential elevation changes.