Cycling Routes in the Macedon Ranges
The Macedon Ranges is the perfect location for a cycling adventure, with a plethora of quiet road, cross-country and casual jaunts to challenge and satisfy the senses. With easy access to our region by car or V/Line train, you can escape your everyday world and be pedalling in no time.
If mountain biking gets your adrenalin pumping, then this is the place for you, not just once but again and again. Chuckle and hoot as you ride the single track in the Wombat State Forest, which has more than 100km of trails and terrains to suit all skill levels, including the popular Wombat Loop.
If you're a road cyclist, you're just as spoiled for choice. Ride through rolling farmland and seasonally changing landscapes, and on roads where you hardly encounter a car. Find refreshment in the villages, wineries and cafes that are never far away. Join Macedon Ranges Cycling Club on one of its regular rides - they are only too happy to take visitors along with them.
There are cycling experiences to savour at a slower pace. Enjoy the country scenery while you ride and discover quality fruit, vegetables and artisan produce or shop at boutiques in our town centres.
Grab your besties and journey the cycling pathways that take in creeks, lakes and botanical gardens through quaint towns like Kyneton or Woodend.
Ride Guide
For the full rundown on where to ride in our region, check out the Macedon Ranges Ride Guide, which features 16 road and off-road bike trails that are suitable for a range of abilities and is the perfect preparation for exploring the region on two wheels. Download the individual ride guides below (click on the links)
Romsey to Lancefield Return
Rating: Family Ride
Distance: 15.9 km
Elevation: 151 m
Ride Time: 1h 05min
Start: Lions Park Reserve Romsey
Finish: Lions Park Reserve Romsey
Description: Running parallel to Melbourne - Lancefield Rd on the Federation Trail, this ride mostly travels along a dedicated shared path for cyclists and pedestrians. As you leave Romsey's main street, the trail becomes a well formed granitic sand surface and the surroundings transform from classic Australian architecture to expanses of rolling farmland. Enjoy a meal in Lancefield or treat yourself post ride with lunch at one of Romsey's cafes or restaurants.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Take in the picturesque rural vistas as you make your way between Romsey and Lancefield (B) Fill your hamper at the Lancefield Farmers' Market on the fourth Saturday of the month then ride back to Lions Park Reserve in Romsey for a picnic.
Kyneton Twin Reservoirs
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 29.3 km
Elevation: 356 m
Ride Time: 1h 20min
Start: Kyneton Train Station, 1 Mollison Street, Kyneton
Finish: Kyneton Train Station, 1 Mollison Street, Kyneton
Description: Take in the scenery through the flat open farmland along Lauriston Rd as you head out of Kyneton. Test the legs up the tree sheltered Shepherds Hill Road and be rewarded as you take in the stunning views as you descend toward the twin reservoirs. Perfect place to stop for a rest and take in the scenery surrounding this beautiful part of the region. Finish with a nice easy flat ride back into Kyneton.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Fill your bottle up at the Mineral Springs Reserve (B) Be rewarded with the view and the descent to the Upper Coliban and Lauriston reservoirs (C) Catch water cascading over the spillway.
Woodend Carlsruhe Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 40.1 km
Elevation: 385 m
Ride Time: 1h 45min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: Starting in Woodend, this ride takes you through two distinctly contrasting landscapes. Immerse yourself in the tree lined Ashbourne Road which winds its way toward the equally bushy and protected rolling hills of Chanters Rd. As you approach Tylden, the landscape opens to wide expanses of farmland and views of the horizon in all directions. Have a bite to eat in Tylden, then with most of the climbing behind you, roll your way back for a coffee in Woodend.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Enjoy the leafy, scenic rolling hills of Ashbourne Rd (B) A noted area for horse breeders, admire the impressive studs.
Mount Macedon, Newham to Carlsruhe Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 40.3 km
Elevation: 433 m
Ride Time: 1h 50min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: This ride takes you part way up the Woodend side of Mount Macedon through tall eucalypts and a beautiful forest setting. Your efforts are rewarded with a satisfying descent down Straws Lane towards the iconic Hanging Rock. A challenging climb, wildlife and beautiful scenery is what you can expect, finishing off with the picturesque vistas along the Avenue of Honour.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Breathe in that mountain air as you take the scenic, tree lined climb up Mount Macedon (B) Great views of Hanging Rock, from an angle many visitors don't see (C) Take in the atmosphere as you ride along the Woodend Avenue of Honour.
Gisborne, South Gisborne, Barringo Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 48.1 km
Elevation: 536 m
Ride Time: 2h 15min
Start: Gisborne Train Station, Cnr Station Rd & Early St, New Gisborne
Finish: Start: Gisborne Train Station, Cnr Station Rd & Early St, New Gisborne
Description: This ride takes you around the outskirts of Gisborne on quiet, remote roads. Travelling along some of the locals favourite routes, this ride delivers stunning views of Mount Macedon from many aspects, in particular as you wind up towards the township of Macedon. Ride along the tranquil Glen Drouin Rd and down the popular Barringo Rd to finish.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Stop in the township of Gisborne for refuelling. Take your coffee and cake to the Gardiner Reserve, or Gisborne Botanic Gardens (B) If riding in autumn, take in the beautiful autumn colours of the exotic plantings in local gardens (C) Follow the locals favourite Barringo circuit, tree lined with remote and stunning scenic views.
Mount Macedon, Woodend Climb
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 42 km
Elevation: 827 m
Ride Time: 1h 55min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: Mount Macedon is naturally one of the highlights of the region. The northern side is considered the 'easier' of the two ascents but still a real challenge, even for the well rounded rider. As you make your way up the climb, you are transported to another world as you navigate the winding roads through this lush forest. The views from the Memorial Cross are spectacular and tree lined roads take you back through the quaint township and outskirts of Macedon back to Woodend.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) The climb was worth it as you pay your respects and take in the view from the Memorial Cross (B) You're riding past some of the country's finest garden estates, some open to the public (C) You're following the path taken by bushrangers and hopeful prospectors to Woodend - the town at the end of the wood.
Kyneton, Springhill, Woodend, Carlsruhe Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 71.7 km
Elevation: 848 m
Ride Time: 3h 15min
Start: Cnr Piper St and Mollison St, Kyneton
Finish: Cnr Piper St and Mollison St, Kyneton
Description: This ride is a gradual ascent to Trentham East, with a few climbs to test the legs. As with many rides in the region, the roads are spectacular and landscapes vary from turn to turn. You're transported along thick tree lined roads to long, open stretches such as James Lane. By the 30 km mark most of the climbing is done and it's a gradual downhill run to Woodend. Take a break at a cafe or browse some shops before the final 20 km to Kyneton.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Feel the legs burn as you climb Springhill Road and go over the Coliban River (B) Take a break in Woodend, with plenty of great places to have something to eat and drink (C) Kyneton is renowned for great cafes and restaurants, a great way to end the ride.
Three Town Scenic Route
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 74 km
Elevation: 808 m
Ride Time: 3h 20min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: Great from either direction, start this ride in Woodend. Enjoy the open farmland, tree lined country lanes and undulating leafy roads. This ride is relatively low gradient apart from one climb at Shepherds Hill Road. A great opportunity to explore a large portion of the region in a single loop.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) A Learn some history of the region, take a look at the historical markers in the hamlet of Carlsruhe (B) Take a short detour and check out the Trentham Falls. Said to be the longest single drop falls in the country.
Kyneton Lancefield Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 82.2 km
Elevation: 924 m
Ride Time: 3h 45min
Start: Kyneton Train Station, 1 Mollison Street, Kyneton
Finish: Kyneton Train Station, 1 Mollison Street, Kyneton
Description: If you're up for a challenging ride through some of the lesser travelled parts of the region, this is for you. Exiting Kyneton you'll wind your way up Sidonia Rd. This narrow tree-lined
road has a few challenging climbs but the granite rocks and views make it all worthwhile. Turn onto the famous Burke and Wills track and ascend the largest climb of the ride. Enjoy the views from the top before this stunning ride winds back down to Lancefield and home to Kyneton.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Take in ever changing scenery, from rolling farmland, natural bushland and hills peppered with dramatic rock formations (B) If riding on the fourth Saturday of the month, fill your jersey pockets or panniers with delicious local produce from the Lancefield farmers' market.
The Cross and The Rock
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 63.1 km
Elevation: 1,038 m
Ride Time: 2h 45min
Start: Cnr Aitken St and Melbourne Rd, Gisborne
Finish: Cnr Aitken St and Melbourne Rd, Gisborne
Description: Many riders travel to the region specifically to conquer Mount Macedon. If that sounds like your cup of tea, then this is the loop for you. Starting in Gisborne, you'll climb the renowned south face of Mount Macedon, winding through the lush forest. Once on top, take in the views from the Memorial Cross before descending down to the iconic Hanging Rock. Stop in Woodend for a coffee break before the final leg back into Gisborne. For an easier climb complete this ride in reverse.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Barringo Road is a favourite, scenic road for local riders (B) Follow Cameron Drive to the Memorial Cross, keep an eye out for kangaroos that call this area home.
Macedon Ranges Grand Tour
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 103.8 km
Elevation: 1,437 m
Ride Time: 4h 30min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: If you're up for a challenge or a serious training ride, this loop will allow you to explore a number of the of key areas including Hanging Rock and the towns of Macedon, Woodend, Tylden and Trentham on your travels. Known as one of the harder climbs in the region, this ride takes in the south face of Mount Macedon early on and winds up to the Memorial Cross through lush forest, then down to the open roads below.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Take a rest after the climb, and soak in the view from Memorial Cross (B) Stop for the great view, then take care on your way down the steep descent of Straws Lane.
Figure 8 Grand Loop
Rating: Road Ride
Distance: 117.1 km
Elevation: 1,496 m
Ride Time: 5h 20min
Description: Consider this a serious training ride or set aside a full day out. This ride touches the boundaries of the Macedon Ranges on both sides of the Calder. Expect lots of interesting variations in landscape and you will truly get a sense of the whole region. Encounter wide open farmland, rolling granite rock hills, and some less travelled winding gum tree lined roads on your journey. Celebrate with a big meal in Kyneton as you return from this highly rewarding loop.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Enjoy the climb up Shepherds Hill Road (B) A quiet, scenic road, to keep your spirits up as you near the end of your ride.
Wombat Forest Loop
Rating: Mountain Bike Ride
Distance: 17 km
Elevation: 62 m
Ride Time: 1h 20min
Start: Fingerpost Road, Woodend
Finish: Fingerpost Road, Woodend
Description: There's over 100 km of single track in the forest surrounding Woodend, and this particular area in Wombat Forest ticks all the boxes. The 'New Wombat Loop' is the latest addition to the network. Weave and flow through this fully maintained trail which has been armoured for year round riding by the local Wombat Mountain Bike Club. Once you're here explore the vast expanse of trails within the forest or nearby trails in the foothills of Macedon Regional Park.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Check out the trailhead Information board to learn more about the experience that lies ahead (B) Keep an eye out for the wombat burrows on either side of the track
(C) Choose your own adventure at 'The Junction' where track one and two meet.
Woodend, Firth Park Return
Rating: Mountain Bike Ride
Distance: 36.5 km
Elevation: 490 m
Ride Time: 1h 55min
Start: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Finish: Woodend Train Station, Corinella Rd, Woodend
Description: Clock up some distance through thick bushland, remote dirt tracks and great undulating 4WD tracks. At the 5 km mark, turn off Ashbourne Rd into Boldiston Rd, veer right into Jocks Gully Rd, cross over Campaspe River and look out for the single trail to take you from Fleming Rd to Taylor Rd. Then further along, look out for the single trail connection between Anderson Mill Track and Firth Rd cut over to Firth Park. On the return leg, Fingerpost Rd and Slatey Creek Rd are spectacular dirt roads.
Places of Interest on the ride: (A) Firth Park is your turn around point (B) Experience some of the remote dirt roads around Fingerpost and Slatey Creek Roads (C) If you've got time, add in a loop of the New Wombat Loop single trail.
To get your own copy call the Macedon Ranges Visitor Information Centres on 1800 244 711 and they'll send you one.
