Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Destination: A Tropical North Queensland Gem!

Blog written by Danielle Scott, Aerial Skier and Adventure Enthusiast

Just when you thought you’d ridden everywhere in Australia, there's a hidden gem with world-class trails waiting to be explored!

I never imagined myself mountain biking in tropical North Queensland, but that's exactly what I heard was on offer at Australia's newest mountain biking destination. My riding gear was packed before I even finished hearing about it, and I set off for what I knew would be an epic adventure.

Arrival in Mackay: The Gateway to Adventure

My short flight from Brisbane to Mackay was filled with anticipation. The next morning, as the sun began to peek over the horizon, the air was cool and crisp, with a gentle dew on the ground – perfect for a day of riding ahead.

Gearing Up and Hitting the Trails

My first stop was Corry Cycles to pick up a Giant Reign. Caitlin was incredibly helpful, giving us a quick rundown of what to expect on the trails. It's great to know they have plenty of gear available for hire if you forget something or need an extra piece of kit.

Soon after, Rob from Off Camber Shuttles arrived to whisk us away. The steep climb into the treetops felt effortless thanks to the shuttle, saving our legs for maximum laps. With a 200-meter elevation gain, this service is a game-changer! Chatting with Rob was an added bonus; he’s a wealth of knowledge about riding and local adventures. If you’re keen for a workout or have an e-bike, the cruisy uphill track, G'Day G'Day, also gets you to the same junction as the shuttle drop-off.

World-Class Trails for Every Rider

With 17 trails currently open and more on the way, Finch Hatton truly offers a world-class riding experience. The trails are meticulously built with exceptional flow and incredible variety for all skill levels. Whether you're into fast descending singletracks, big berms, optional drops, step-ups, technical rock gardens, or exhilarating jumps, there’s endless fun to be had. What’s awesome is the flexibility: you can push your limits on challenging features or simply roll past anything you're not comfortable with. This makes Finch Hatton the perfect place to have fun with anyone, regardless of their experience level.

For those looking to catch some air, the Cane Fields Jump Park offers jump progression lines with plenty of airtime to tweak your style. At the base of the park, you’ll find all the facilities you need, plus a pump track – perfect for honing your skills or letting the little ones build confidence.

Immersive Scenery and Sustainable Trails

The surrounding countryside is spectacular, with the outlines of distant mountain tops painting the horizon. The trails themselves weave through sub-tropical bush, offering glimpses of the iconic sugar mill that once operated on the land. It's a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

The best part? These well-maintained trails are free to ride all year round! I'm already planning my next trip back, especially with more exciting developments soon to be finished.

Beyond the Bike: Exploring Finch Hatton Gorge

After an epic morning of riding, we spent the afternoon exploring the breathtaking Finch Hatton Gorge. The scenery was incredible, and walking through the lush rainforest was a serene experience. Just a short walk led us to Araluen Falls, where the crystal-clear water was perfectly refreshing for our tired bodies. We could have spent hours there, but a well-earned beer at The Chalet in Eungella was calling! This lookout was the perfect end to a perfect day, as we watched the blue sky transform into a canvas of pink hues, a cold drink in hand and a wide grin on our faces.

Ready to Ride?

So, what are you waiting for? Choose your adventure: race down with flow, tackle every feature, or let your creativity guide you through each turn. Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Park is an unforgettable experience!

Watch Danielle’s recap video here!