The best gravel rides in Otway Forest Park
4.5
(4)
133
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking in Otway Forest Park offers a diverse landscape characterized by dense eucalypt forests, rolling hills, and varied terrain suitable for off-road cycling. The park features a network of trails that traverse through natural bushland, providing a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents. Elevations within the park range, with some routes featuring significant vertical gain. The region's composition includes areas around trailheads like Yaugher and Forrest, indicating established access points for gravel bike routes.
Best gravel bike trails…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
33
riders
97.3km
08:55
1,960m
1,970m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
37
riders
47.0km
04:21
950m
950m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Kennet River, commonly spelled Kennett River, originates in the forested Otway Ranges and flows about 7 kilometres south through Great Otway National Park to Bass Strait, draining a small, high-rainfall catchment. Near the coast, it slows into still, tea-coloured pools fringed by eucalypts and dense undergrowth, like this quiet bend. At the mouth, it forms a small estuary behind the beach, sometimes closed by a sandbar and reopening to the sea after higher flows.
0
0
Great little caravan park. Cabins and "Pods" are available to rent and camping is available. The camping spot gets very water-logged in bad weather, so it may be worth just taking a hit and booking a cabin if terrible weather is expected.... And this is the Otways, so this is always a possibility.
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Great gravel climb/descent that is either the beginning or end of many local gravel grinds. Watch out for logging trucks as this road straddles a pine plantation. The road can also have some traffic in the busier months as it leads to Dando's campsite, but usually it is quiet.
1
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Trails "Barre Warre", "Foxtail" and "J2" can be accessed directly from the trailhead, whereas the rest can be accessed by taking the superloop which takes the rider on a lap of the entire trail network. The trailhead has a tiny picnic area and a basic drop toilet. There is usually plenty of parking, but it can be a bit hectic on busy weekends. There is also a defibrillator. The holy trinity of Yaugher trails (in my opinion, obviously) is to do "Grasstrees" into "Marriners Run" into "Foxtail". Once you take the super loop to Grasstrees, they just flow one into the other.
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Trailhead for the Southern MTB Trails. From this trailhead, you can access trails 1-6 - The rest can be accessed by taking the rail trail to the Northern trailhead. There is a skills park and pumptrack, with a picnic area and some public toilets.
1
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MTB hire company offering competitive rates and great service. Forrest Hire Bikes also do basic repairs, servicing and carry a small inventory of spares.
0
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A peaceful spot to stop with a picnic area, toilet facilities and scenic views all round.
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Great micro-brewery offering a great range of beers; With a core 4 beers and a range of seasonal and limited edition brews.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Otway Forest Park?
Otway Forest Park offers a diverse network of over 10 gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, providing a variety of experiences for off-road cyclists.
What are the difficulty levels of gravel bike trails in Otway Forest Park?
The trails in Otway Forest Park primarily feature moderate to difficult ratings. While there are a couple of moderate paths, the majority of the routes, such as the Forrest MTB South Trailhead – Forrest Brewing Company loop from Yaugher Trailhead, involve significant elevation gain and longer distances, making them challenging rides.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Otway Forest Park?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Otway Forest Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Forrest Brewing Company – Forrest MTB South Trailhead loop from Yaugher Trailhead and the Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop from Aireys Inlet Bushland Reserve.
Where can I park when visiting Otway Forest Park for gravel biking?
Established access points and trailheads like Yaugher Trailhead and areas around Forrest are common starting points for gravel bike routes, suggesting parking facilities are available there. The Yaugher Mountain Bike Trailhead is a key location.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Otway Forest Park?
For families or those seeking a less strenuous ride, the Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop from Aireys Inlet Bushland Reserve is a moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) path. It offers scenic views and diverse natural features without the extensive climbs of longer routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Otway Forest Park?
You can expect varied terrain characterized by dense eucalypt forests, rolling hills, and natural bushland. The routes often feature a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, typical of off-road cycling in a forest environment.
What viewpoints or natural attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Along the trails, you can encounter natural highlights such as the Stevensons Falls. The Currawong Falls Lookout – Melaleuca Swamp loop specifically offers views of Currawong Falls and passes through Melaleuca Swamp, showcasing diverse natural features.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the gravel trails?
Yes, several routes, such as the Forrest MTB South Trailhead – Forrest Brewing Company loop, are named after or pass by the Forrest Brewing Company, indicating a convenient spot for refreshments after your ride.
What should I know about gravel biking in Otway Forest Park during winter?
During winter, trails in forest parks can become muddy and slippery, especially after rain. It's advisable to check local weather conditions, wear appropriate waterproof gear, and ensure your bike is equipped for potentially wet and challenging surfaces. Some trails might also be less accessible.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Otway Forest Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the immersive experience of riding through dense eucalypt forests, and the well-established trail networks that cater to different ability levels.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Otway Forest Park?
While gravel biking is possible year-round, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and less extreme weather. Summer can be hot and dry, while winter may bring rain and cooler temperatures, making some trails muddy.
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