While we don’t like to brag it’s probably not surprising that we’ll be hosting the 2032 Olympic Games road and mountain bike competition. But you don’t have to be an Olympian to enjoy a two-wheel adventure here.
From the hinterland to lush parklands, there’s a track to suit everyone (beginners included), plus there’s a plethora of beautiful boutique stays to recharge at after a day of adventuring with award-winning breweries and eateries on their doorstep.
Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails, Caloundra
Here we've put together the ultimate guide to make the most of your mountain biking adventure on the Sunshine Coast, from where to bike, to places to eat and stay.
The Best Places For Mountain Biking
In Tewantin National Park, buckle up for the Wooroi Introduction Loop - an 11.5km circuit that weaves through eucalypt pine and pockets of subtropical rainforest. You’ll get your calf burn on with an uphill climb - but the views of Noosa along the way are worth it. The perfect introduction to the Woori tracks, reward yourself post-ride with a picnic amongst the bloodwood trees and she-oaks.
Nestled in Landsborough you’ll find the picturesque Ewen Maddock Dam. Perfect for the whole family, this easy 10km track follows the banks of the dam along blackbutt forests, lush fern gullies and wetlands - you’ll even get the chance to soak up views of Mount Beerwah along the way.
No matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Sunshine Coast’s mountain bike trail offering is as vast as it is beautiful. With rocky outcrops, shrubby woodland, vine forest and clusters of waterfalls, Mapleton National Park is perfect for soaking up nature. With a diverse range of tracks available it's hard to pick a favourite, but if you only have time for one - make it the Cooloolabin Dam trail. This 13km loop combines fire trails, single tracks and quiet dirt roads, plus a few climbs that allow you to pick up some decent speed on your return journey. Be sure to tack on the road climb to Point Glorious lookout - as the name suggests, the view is seriously stunning. For something extra challenging try the 7.6km Picabeen Circuit.
Closer to the coast, the seaside suburb of Caloundra offers one of Queensland’s best mountain biking spots at Sugar Bag Road. A hub for seasoned mountain bikers to practice their skills as well as beginners, here you’ll find 11 trails (from green all the way to double black diamond), plus over 60 timber features like ramps, bridges and log rollovers for you to get your adrenaline pumping.
Sugar Bag Road Mountain Bike Trails, Caloundra
Round out your adventure with a trip to Parklands, home to more than 30kms of twisty single tracks that will see you venturing deep into the belly of the forest. Expect rocky climbs, steep switchbacks, and tracks awash with logs, rocks and dips – this one is best suited to more experienced riders.
Where To Eat
With all that exploring you’ll want to stop along the way to refuel. Fortunately, the tracks are all within an easy pedal of some truly tasty spots. If you tackle Mapleton National Park, recharge with a wagyu beef burger and zesty sour beer at Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny, nestled on the edge of Obi Obi Creek. After a coffee hit and tasty brunch instead? Park your bike at Monica’s Cafe and settle in for a bacon and egg roll. Before you roll on out, be sure to load up on cheese and pastries at Maleny Food Co. - perfect for a mid-ride picnic by a waterfall.
Brouhaha Brewery
Near Tewantin National Park you’re spoilt for choice with nearby Noosaville offering a gateway to foodie heaven. Our top picks are Asian fusion eatery Sum Yung Guys (the barra larb is a must do) or the Noosa Boathouse for stunning views of the river with your freshly caught fish. For a well-deserved drink, discover the region's incredible craft beer scene with a visit to Land & Sea Brewery, Heads Of Noosa Brewing Co. and Boiling Pot Brewing Co.
Boiling Pot, Noosa
Continue your cycling adventure from Ewen Maddock Dam for plates of delicate pasta at Da Marino Italian Restaurant, or for something lighter check out The Steaming Cup Cafe that is country charm personified.
While over in Caloundra, post Sugar Bag Road adrenaline rush, grab a tasting paddle with a side of beach views at Moffat Beach Brewing. And you can’t go wrong with fish tacos and a crisp vino at Kings Beach Bar.
Where To Stay
With so many tranquil retreats on offer, why not extend your mountain biking adventure with a night or two on the Sunshine Coast? In the hinterland, fall asleep in the middle of the rainforest at Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat where you can soak your weary muscles in your private villa’s spa. For stunning views of the Glass House Mountains and a crackling fireplace perfect for curling up next to, Scandi At Maleny is a must. Or check out the new kid on the block - Maleny Lodge, nestled on native gardens, these luxury digs are calling your name.
Scandi at Maleny
If you prefer to wake up to the sound of the ocean, sink your toes into the sand before the rest of the world wakes up with a night at Rumba Beach Resort or ULTIQA Shearwater Resort.
