The best traffic-free bike rides in Molonglo River Reserve

The Molonglo River Reserve offers a good selection of traffic-free gravel biking experiences. This guide features 17 routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a diverse range of options for cyclists looking to explore the area without vehicle interference.

The reserve is highly regarded for its extensive network of management trails and vehicular tracks, providing diverse landscapes for gravel biking. You'll find everything from well-maintained paths to some rougher sections, all while enjoying the natural beauty of the Molonglo River and its surrounding ecosystems, largely free from vehicle traffic.

While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the Molonglo River Reserve does offer areas suitable for less experienced riders or families. Look for trails around the National Arboretum, which are generally considered moderate and offer a good introduction to gravel biking in the area. The 'Pipe Flat Road' is also a popular choice along the Molonglo River, though some riverside sections can be sandy.

You can expect a variety of scenic views. Locations like Barrer Hill offer expansive panoramic views of the Molonglo River Reserve, the Molonglo Valley's new suburbs, and the pine plantation. The Molonglo Gorge itself provides a dramatic backdrop with towering cliffs and the sound of rushing water. Routes like the View from Dairy Farmers Hill – Forest Singletrack Trail loop from Canberra offer specific viewpoints.

Yes, the Molonglo River Reserve acts as a vital wildlife corridor. It's common to spot kangaroos and other native wildlife, especially along the gravel tracks. The reserve also protects threatened plant and animal species, and birdwatchers can identify at least 92 species of native birds, including the threatened Superb Parrot.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the Molonglo River Reserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the National Arboretum Singletrack – Forest Singletrack Trail loop from Coombs is a moderate 18.5 km circular route, and the more challenging Boulders on Cooleman Ridge – Mountain Views loop from Curtin covers 21.3 km.

The Molonglo River Reserve is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, so early morning rides are recommended. After heavy rain, some riverside trails can become rutted and sandy, so checking conditions beforehand is advisable.

The Molonglo River Reserve is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting. The sense of escape into nature, even close to urban areas, is a frequently highlighted positive.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the reserve offers several difficult routes. The View of Black Mountain Tower – Creek Through Forest loop from Casuarina Sands is a demanding 53.2 km ride with significant elevation gain, while the View of Cotter Dam – Cotter Dam Spillway loop from Casuarina Sands provides another difficult option at 30.5 km.

Parking is available at various access points around the Molonglo River Reserve. Depending on your chosen route, you can find parking near areas like Coombs, Casuarina Sands, or Curtin. The Molonglo Gorge Recreation Area also offers facilities including picnic tables and toilets, making it a convenient starting point for some trails.

Yes, the Molonglo Gorge Recreation Area is a notable spot offering picnic tables, barbecues, and toilets, making it an ideal place for a break or to start your ride. While not every trail will have direct facilities, this central area provides a great amenity for visitors to the reserve.