The best gravel rides in Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes. There are over 25 trails available, catering to various skill levels and preferences, from moderate loops to more challenging rides.

You can expect incredibly diverse terrain, ranging from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to dense eucalypt forests and lush fern gullies. Many routes feature extensive networks of unpaved roads and gravel tracks, with some sections including rolling hills, sustained climbs, and even some sandy or corrugated surfaces. The park is known for its traffic-free dirt roads winding through tall timber forests and past massive tree ferns.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Great Otway National Park, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 7 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the escape from asphalt onto quiet gravel roads, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, passing by waterfalls, beaches, and temperate rainforests.

Yes, there are options for less experienced riders. For instance, the Bark Hut Reserve – Split Point Lighthouse loop from Fairhaven is a moderate 18.2-mile (29.2 km) trail offering coastal views. Another moderate option is the Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop from Aireys Inlet Bushland Reserve, which is 7.1 miles (11.4 km) and leads through bushland to a lookout.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Campsite on Anglesea Heath loop from Eumeralla Education Area offer a difficult 22.5-mile (36.3 km) path traversing heathlands. Another demanding option is the Hammond Road North Campsite – Hammond Road Campsite loop from Point Roadknight/Great Ocean Road, a difficult 30.8-mile (49.5 km) ride with significant elevation gain. The Forrest Caravan Park – Forrest Brewing Company loop from Lorne is also a difficult 48.8-mile (78.6 km) ride showcasing the extensive network.

Gravel biking is accessible all year round. Summer generally offers the best conditions for long days and swimming opportunities. However, late winter and spring are ideal for experiencing the park's numerous stunning waterfalls, which are particularly impressive after abundant rainfall. Be prepared for potentially wetter conditions during these seasons, which might benefit from larger tire sizes.

Yes, the park is renowned for its natural beauty. You can find stunning waterfalls like Phantom Falls, Erskine Falls, and Straw Falls. The Redwoods (Otways), towering Californian redwoods planted in 1936, also offer an awe-inspiring experience. Many routes wind through lush fern gullies and past diverse forests.

Beyond the trails, the park offers several attractions. You can visit the historic Cape Otway Lightstation for breathtaking views, or explore the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. The iconic Great Ocean Road itself traverses parts of the park, offering spectacular coastal vistas. For more ideas, you can explore the 11 Things to Do in the Great Otway National Park.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly detailed for gravel biking, the park offers a range of routes with varying difficulty levels. Shorter, moderate loops like the Bark Hut Reserve – Split Point Lighthouse loop from Fairhaven or the Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop from Aireys Inlet Bushland Reserve could be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with moderate distances and some elevation.

Generally, dogs are not permitted on most trails within Great Otway National Park to protect wildlife and natural habitats. It's always best to check the latest regulations with Parks Victoria before planning your ride. For detailed information on park regulations, please refer to the official Parks Victoria website.

Parking is typically available at the starting points or designated access areas for many routes. For example, routes like the Bark Hut Reserve – Split Point Lighthouse loop starts from Fairhaven, and the Campsite on Anglesea Heath loop begins from the Eumeralla Education Area. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local park information.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes in Great Otway National Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Bark Hut Reserve – Split Point Lighthouse loop from Fairhaven, the Campsite on Anglesea Heath loop from Eumeralla Education Area, and the Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop from Aireys Inlet Bushland Reserve.