The best cycling routes in Mount Direction Conservation Area

There are over 35 touring cycling routes available in and around the Mount Direction Conservation Area, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes over 800 times.

The routes in Mount Direction Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 24 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of bushland views, reservoir circuits, and the accessibility of routes like the Risdon Brook Dam Circuit for a relaxing ride.

Yes, the area offers several easy touring cycling routes. A prime example is the 4.3 km circuit around Risdon Brook Dam, which is mostly flat with gentle climbs, making it ideal for families and casual cyclists. Overall, 11 easy routes are available in the region.

You can expect a mix of terrain. While the Risdon Brook Dam Circuit features mostly paved surfaces with some gravel sections, other routes in the broader Mount Direction area can include sealed roads and more challenging sections with significant elevation changes, especially on longer loops extending beyond the immediate conservation area.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. The Outdoor Supplies Intersection – Bury Me Standing (Closed) loop from Florence Heights is an easy 9.6 km option, while the Queen's Domain – Cascades Female Factory loop from Glenorchy offers a more challenging 63.3 km ride.

Yes, the conservation area is known for its native wildlife. While cycling, particularly on quieter sections or early in the morning, you might spot Bennett's Wallabies, especially along the Mount Direction Track area, offering a chance for nature observation.

While the Mount Direction Track itself offers spectacular panoramic views from its summit (more suited for hiking), many touring routes provide bush views around the perimeter of the Risdon Brook Dam. Longer routes extending towards Hobart may offer glimpses of the Derwent River and surrounding landscapes.

Yes, there are facilities for parking. For instance, at Risdon Brook Dam, there is a dedicated car park with amenities, making it a convenient starting point for the circuit ride. Access to the Mount Direction Conservation Area is generally good via the East Derwent Highway.

The Mount Direction Conservation Area is approximately 12 km from the center of Hobart, making it easily accessible by car. While direct public transport options to the immediate conservation area might be limited, you can check local bus services that operate in the broader Hobart area and plan your cycling route from a nearby stop.

The Mount Direction Conservation Area can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with mild temperatures and less extreme weather. Summer can be warm, and winter can be cooler, but the relatively sheltered nature of routes like the Risdon Brook Dam Circuit makes them enjoyable in most seasons.

While the immediate Mount Direction Conservation Area is primarily natural bushland, its proximity to Hobart means you're never far from amenities. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in nearby suburbs and in Hobart itself, making it easy to combine your ride with a meal or an overnight stay.

Generally, no specific permits are required for touring cycling on the established trails within the Mount Direction Conservation Area, such as the Risdon Brook Dam Circuit. However, for specific information regarding any potential changes or restrictions, it's always advisable to check the Clarence City Council's official website, for example, for the Risdon Brook Park Circuit.