Whether you’re an avid mountain biker or just someone who likes to explore on two wheels, Alice Springs has a huge network of trails for every type of rider. The rugged desert landscape sets the scene for an unparalleled riding adventure, offering a mix of technical single tracks and scenic cross-country paths. 

What to know before you go
Safety tips

• Check the weather conditions before you go
• Make sure someone knows where you’re planning to ride
• Take plenty of water and first aid supplies
• Make sure you understand safety ratings - take a look at the right side of this trail map
  
  

Where to hire a mountain bike
If you’re not bringing your own bike to Alice Springs, you can hire your own once you arrive. Bike hire locations include: 

• Outback Cycling
• Red Centre Adventures
• My Ride Alice Springs
  

Easy trails

Atetherre [a-TUT-tha-da]
Get a taste of the Westside trails with this beginner friendly ride, starting at the Lovegrove Trailhead. As the primary entry point to the Westside network, if you’re comfortable on this 4km route you can continue exploring the intermediate trails in the area. Once you reach Westside Junction, you can connect with the Nturrerte (n-DOR-uh-da) and Locomotive trails. 

Simpsons Gap Mountain Bike Trail

This 17km cross country path is great for people of all fitness levels. From the starting point at Flynn’s Grave (about 7km from the edge of Alice Springs), ride 1-2 hours to your end point of Simpsons Gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges. The path meanders past creeks, River Red Gum woodlands and Mulga and Witchetty Bush groves. Stop along the way at the rest areas to take a break and appreciate the surrounding bushland.

Intermediate trails

Larapinta Trail (shared)

If you’re not hiking Larapinta but still want to experience this iconic trail, you can enjoy riding along a section as a part of the Westside trails. Running from the Alice Springs Telegraph Station to the Railway Line, this 3km trail is a great opportunity to get a glimpse of Larapinta. Don’t forget this is a shared trail, so always give way to walkers and take care while you’re riding. 

Apwelantye  [aPULLundge]

Apwelantye (Black Kite) is one of the longest intermediate trails in the network at 11km. You’ll need to ride along the beginner trail Arrwe to reach the Apwelantye trailhead. The length of this trail means you’ll have the chance to see a huge amount of spectacular Alice Springs landscapes. Don’t forget to stock up on water before you go!

Advanced Trails 

Bob Gnarly

True to its name, this 1km one-way trail is designed for experienced riders only. Don’t be fooled by its short distance - Bob Gnarly delivers a challenging technical descent that demands skill, precision and a bit of nerve. Soak up the views at the top before making your way down. 

Bus 

This one-way trail features a challenging climb to a spectacular lookout, followed by a technical rocky ascent - it's not for the faint heater. Bus runs between Nturrerte and Locomotive, so warm up on these intermediate trails before taking on this advanced route.