With a few notable exceptions, Melbourne is a very flat city, making it an ideal destination for cyclists. You don't have to be Lycra-clad, Tour de France superfan to enjoy your bike ride in Melbourne; the city is home to numerous pathways that attract cyclists of all skill levels.
The best part is that the routes you may take on your bike range from flat, open fields to winding river paths, so you can be sure to have a wonderful day outdoors regardless of the weather. Get in the saddle and buckle up!
FAQs About Melbourne
All trails are officially off-limits to bikes. Vista Del Valle Drive hugs the sides of Mount Hollywood, and the ride swoops back south.
The Tan has a relatively flat gradient, except a small hill known as Heart Break Hill which starts at Anderson Street if travelling clockwise around the course. You are permitted to walk your dog along with the Tan as well as a cycle on your bike.
Djerring Trail is a 22.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, which offers scenic views and is rated moderate.
Cyclists in Victoria are permitted to ride on the roads, on bike paths and shared footpaths. However, cyclists are generally not allowed to ride on pedestrian footpaths.
In general, it is not an offence to cycle on these, except where individual paths are subject to local bye-laws or traffic regulation orders. There do not appear to be any decided cases to suggest that cycling along a footpath is a public nuisance and hence a criminal offence.
Lilydale To Warburton Rail Trail
Total Distance: 40 km one way
Level Of Difficulty: Medium
People from the city who want to experience the great outdoors should take a hike on this historic path. The trail begins behind Lilydale Railway Station and winds through the Yarra Valley next to magnificent woodland, wineries, and farmland, following the route of the old railway line. It's nicely maintained, too, so watch out for the hordes of people out walking and riding horses when the weather's nice. If you're intimidated by the distance, consider making a night of it by staying in Warburton and returning on the second day.
Main Yarra Trail
Total Distance: 22 km one way
Level Of Difficulty: Easy-Medium
This track, which begins in Eltham and continues along the Yarra to Fairfield, is a lovely ride. The terrain is very flat, and there are many lush vegetation corridors along the way. The walk close to the city is paved, and along the way you must visit the Heide Museum of Modern Art and the Fairfield Boathouse, a colonial-era establishment famous for its scones.
Main Yarra Trail is another name for the Capital City Trail, which travels from the Yarra River in the city's northeastern suburbs to the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail.
Abbotsford Convent, the Collingwood Children's Farm, and Dights Falls can be found along the most travelled route from the Central Business District to South Yarra. The Farm Cafe in Abbotsford is our favourite rest break.
St Kilda Beach To Half Moon Bay
Total Distance: 13 km one way
Level Of Difficulty: Easy
When we're in the Central Business District, it's easy to lose sight of how closest we are to Bass Strait. Start your journey at St. Kilda Beach and follow the coastline as you make your way south-east around the bay on this picturesque trip. There are no significant hills to contend with, and the scenery is perfect for posting on Instagram as you go.
Merri Creek Trail
Total Distance: 21km one way
Level Of Difficulty: Medium
This trail is easy to miss, yet it starts at Dights Falls and travels all the way across the country to the Western Ring Road. There are only a number of challenging spots along the path's Merri Creek corridor, so weekend cyclists in Lycra and thin jeans alike won't be discouraged.
The Merri Creek Trail is a section of the Capital City Trail that runs parallel to Merri Creek. From its starting point at Dights Falls, the 21-kilometer (13-mile) trail travels through the northern Melbourne suburbs.
You will go by the Brunswick Velodrome, the Coburg Lake Reserve, and its fantastic playgrounds / playground, CERES, hidden horse paddocks, and picnic areas. Coburg marks the finish of the Merri Creek trail.
Capital City Trail
Total Distance: 29 km loop
Level Of Difficulty: Easy-Medium
For a long time, cyclists in Melbourne have favoured the option of completing this loop through the city. The loop takes in Southbank, the Melbourne Zoo, and the Royal Botanic Gardens along sections of other routes, such as the Merri Creek Trail, Yarra Trail, Moonee Ponds Creek Trail, and the Inner Circle Rail Trail. You can jump from any point you like.
The Capital City Trail in Melbourne is a large loop that goes all the way around the city and through its beautiful inner suburbs. With youngsters in tow, it's best to stick to a shorter section of Melbourne's bike route rather than tackling the full 29 kilometres.
Since I currently reside in Footscray, the closest bike paths to me connect with the Capital City Trail at Moonee Ponds Creek, from which I can ride to Docklands, South Bank, and the Central Business District. The local bike paths can be much quicker than driving or taking the bus at times
There are only a few little inclines to the north-east and north-west of the trail's level central section. Don't bring your cargo bike to Abbotsford because you'll have to carry it down several stairs at Gipps Street. It's important to exercise caution in tighter spots because the path is also used by pedestrians.
There are many of checkpoints along the way, and you can reach many sections of the track by taking public transportation if you want to ride your bike. Check out Canteen on Park Street North in Carlton or in South Yarra.
Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail
Total Distance: 23km one way
Level Of Difficulty: Easy
Biking along the beach is an option not limited to the southern suburbs of Melbourne. Some of the best of what the western suburbs of Melbourne have to offer can be seen on the 23-kilometer-long Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail, perfect for a leisurely bike ride along the water. A good place to begin is near Scienceworks, just below the Westgate Bridge, and then make your way to Williamstown through Altona and Skeleton Creek. Moreover, there are several worthwhile detours and pit stops; a circuit of Cherry Lake is an excellent example, as is the Williamstown Botanic Gardens.
The Mighty Maribyrnong
The Maribyrnong River Trail begins in Brimbank Park, Keilor East, and extends all the way to Footscray, from whence it can be continued onwards into the city proper via bicycle.
The track is suitable for riders of varying abilities and offers breathtaking skyline and a scenic ride along the river.
Merri Creek Trail
Another well-traveled route is the Merri Creek Trail, which travels from Coburg North to Dight Falls in Clifton Hill, as Merri Creek flows into the Yarra.
Along the trip, you'll see the Coburg Lake Reserve and the Brunswick Velodrome.
Darebin Creek Trail
The Darebin Creek Trail, just a few suburbs away, is another verdant creek-side path that may be accessed from up in Epping and followed for about 30 kilometres to Kew, where this joins the Yarra River.
Childs Road and the South Morang Rail Route form a T-junction with the creekside trail, and from there you can continue on to Hendersons Creek Trail. Once the Capital City Trail reaches the Yarra, it, like many other city-bound paths, becomes a direct route to the Central Business District.
Northern Pipe Trail
Following the underground path of the main pipe bringing water to the city, "the old pipeline" route connects Thomastown Station with Rushall Station. Also included is the well-traveled 7-kilometer St. Georges Road trail that runs along the middle of St. Georges Road from Preston to Brunswick.
Another more urban alternative compared to the other stream paths, this path features several tram and train stops serving the northern suburbs.
The Bay Trail (East)
The Bay Trail is a common option for commuter cyclists and those out for a leisurely ride on the weekend, as it winds its way down the shore.
The trail is primarily unpaved. Unfortunately, there are a handful of spots along the track where cyclists have to dismount and cross streets to get back on the trail. The Bicycle Network has long advocated for the completion of the Bay Trail, an off-road cycling route that would extend from the Mornington Peninsula to Port Melbourne.
Djerring Trail
If you're looking for a route across the south-east that doesn't include hugging the bay, try the Djerring Trail, also known as the Caulfield-Dandenong Rail Trail. It's 41.7 kilometres long.
In the recent few years, the Level Crossing Removal Project has elevated the rail line in three sections, removing nine hazardous and crowded level crossings between Caulfield and Dandenong, and completing 17 kilometres of verdant open space for walking and cycling between the Caulfield Campus of Monash University and the East Link Trail.
Gardiners Creek Trail
The Main Yarra Trail in Burnley is connected to Canterbury Road in Box Hill by the 17-kilometer long Gardiners Creek Trail, which parallels Gardiners Creek through Melbourne's leafy eastern suburbs.
The Gardiners Creek Trail is a shared path that spans 17 kilometres and traces Gardiners Creek as it winds through the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. In Burnley, at the corner of Main Yarra Trail and Canterbury Road, it heads up to Box Hill.
The path is mostly even, with a few mild inclines, and it passes through some beautiful, verdant foliage. You should go play some soccer at Markham Reserve in Ashburton.
Koonung Creek Trail
About 18 kilometres long, the Koonung Creek Trail stretches from Blackburn to Kew, where it joins the Yarra River after following a section of the Koonung Creek besides the Eastern Freeway.
Once the Capital City Trail reaches the Yarra, it, like many other city-bound paths, becomes a direct route to the Central Business District.
The Bay Trail
Similar to many of Melbourne's paths, the Bay Trail West merges with others and adopts new titles as it winds its way from Altona to Williamstown Beach and beyond. It begins as the Foreshore Trail and ends as the Hobson Bay Coastal Trail.
The scenic path passes by parks, wetlands, and beaches while providing stunning vistas of the city and sea.
The Bay Trail is a flat route through Melbourne's south-east suburbs that traces the coastline of Port Phillip Bay from Seaford to Port Melbourne. The MAMILs who ride at high speeds on the trail give it a poor name, but in reality, most of them take the road instead.
The cycling path connecting Brighton and Port Melbourne is extremely popular among Melbourne's families. Visit the Plum Garland Memorial Playground in Albert Park or the fantastic North Road Foreshore playground in Brighton, both of which are close to the North Point cafe. Alternatively, dine at one of the many excellent restaurants in nearby St. Kilda, such as Paper Fish or Piccolina Gelateria. You can also take a dip in the water and go for a swim at any time!
Keep an eye out for rollerbladers and inline skaters on the path between Elwood and St. Kilda.
The path ends in Port Melbourne just northwest of the West Gate Bridge. During weekday rush hour and on weekends, the Westgate Punt runs every 20 minutes, ferrying pedestrians and bicycles from the Bay Trail's Port Melbourne terminus across the Yarra River and under the East Gate Bridge to the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail in Spotswood.
The Federation Trail
Less scenic but more practical, the route follows Kororoit Creek to its southern intersection with the Sunshine-bound section of the Kororoit Creek Trail.
Lysterfield Park Trail
The large Lysterfield Park may be found in the south-east suburbs of Melbourne. Around Lysterfield Lake is a network of mountain bike paths perfect for cross-country and trail riding. A lot of people visit because it's such a good spot to see kangaroos.
Ruffey Trail
Located in Melbourne's beautiful Ruffey Lake Park, the short yet paved Ruffey Trail is perfect for novice cyclists. Visit visit one of the three fun playgrounds, use the restrooms, grill some food, fill up your water bottle, and relax in one of the picnic shelters after your ride.
If you'd like to make your journey longer, you can connect to the Main Yarra Trail from the Ruffey Trail.
Eastlink Trail
While a bike ride along a motorway may not sound like the most gorgeous thing to do in Melbourne, it actually provides a terrific opportunity to view the city's public artwork. As you pedal through the parks and reserves, keep an eye out for the sculptures, bridges, buildings, and colourful sound screens.
From the Croydon train station, hikers can access the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, where the Eastlink Trail begins.
Maroondah Aqueduct
Part of the Maroondah Aqueduct, which has historical significance, is no longer in use but is still a part of this loop trip. Except for where it crosses a brook or a road, the aqueduct's path is fairly broad, the scenery is pleasant, and the incline is continuous.
Currently, the trail spans a distance of 4 kilometres, from Allendale Road in Eltham to Main Road in Research. If you want to keep going, you can combine the Aqueduct Trail with the Research Trail to make a trail loop of 10.2 kilometres around Research and Eltham North. The trail passes by a number of playgrounds, picnic areas, and barbeque pits.
Wattleglen To Eltham
You can find a couple of fun gardens and Edendale Farm along the path that connects Wattleglen and Eltham. Edendale Farm has a fantastic cafe, plus there is a Tram Cafe close by at Diamond Creek Regional Playspace. Following the trail There is only one on-road crossing and the rest is off-road. Stations at Wattleglen, Diamond Creek, and Eltham provide access.
Banksia Park To Heide Museum Of Modern Art
A portion of the Main Yarra Trail, this short and level 5-kilometer path begins its journey to the east. The trail begins in Banksia Park Bulleen and winds through the park and the Yarra River before entering the Sculpture Park at the Heide Museum of Modern Art, a popular destination for families. Alternately, a 10 km trip might begin at Fairfield Park Drive, which is further away.
Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail – Spotswood To Williamstown
In search of a means of transportation to Scienceworks other than the conventional automobile or train? The Westgate Punt shuttles bikes out from Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail at Spotswood across the Yarra River under the West Gate Bridge to Fishermen's Bend in Port Melbourne approximately every 20 minutes during weekday commute hours and on demand during weekends.
From Spotswood, you can take a northern path towards Footscray; it's not the prettiest, but it's mostly off because safe. The section of the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail that follows Port Phillip Bay to Altona can be reached from Williamstown.
Conclusion
With its extensive network of bike lanes, Melbourne is a paradise for bikers of all experience levels. You may travel 40 kilometres through the Yarra Valley on the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, while you can go 22 kilometres from Eltham to Fairfield on the Main Yarra Trail. Along the main road from the CBD to South Yarra, you may visit Abbotsford Convent, Collingwood Children's Farm, and Dights Falls. In Abbotsford, many locals recommend stopping at The Farm Cafe for a snack. From St. Kilda Beach, a trip to Half Moon Bay is 13 kilometres; from there, you may access Bass Strait.
In the northern suburbs of Melbourne is a segment of the Capital City Trail known as the Merri Creek Trail, which follows Merri Creek. It originates in Dights Falls and continues across the country to the Western Ring Road. Melbourne's Capital City Trail is a lengthy circuit that travels through the city's pristine inner neighbourhoods. The local bike paths are flat in the middle and have only a few mild slopes to the north and west. They can be faster than driving or using the bus. Due to the presence of pedestrians, more caution should be required in congested areas.
The Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail is a bike path along the coast of Melbourne's western suburbs that stretches for a total of 23 kilometres. Brimbank Park in Keilor East is the starting point for the Mighty Maribyrnong River Trail, which continues all the way to Footscray and beyond by bike. From its beginning in upper Epping, the Darebin Creek Trail winds its way down the creek's lush banks for almost 30 kilometres before it reaches Kew and the Yarra River. A lot of people use their bikes to work, and the Bay Trail is a popular route, as is the Northern Pipe Trail, which links Thomastown Station and Rushall Station. The 17-kilometer long Gardiners Creek Trail runs parallel to Gardiners Creek through Melbourne's verdant eastern suburbs, connecting the Main Yarra Trail in Burnley with Canterbury Road in Box Hill.
From Blackburn to Kew, where it meets the Yarra River, is the Koonung Creek Trail. From Altona to Williamstown Beach and beyond, the Bay Trail West combines with other trails and changes names while offering breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Following the shoreline of Port Phillip Bay from Seaford to Port Melbourne, the Bay Trail is an easy path through Melbourne's south-east districts. The Plum Garland Memorial Playground in Albert Park and the North Road Foreshore Playground in Brighton both provide easy access to this area, making it a popular destination for families. The Federation Trail is more utilitarian but lacks the aesthetic value of the Lysterfield Park Trail, which is a network of mountain bike pathways ideal for trail riding and long distance travel.
A small, paved trail may be found in Melbourne's picturesque Ruffey Lake Park, often known as the Ruffey Trail. The Eastlink Trail is a bike path that runs alongside a motorway, and it's a great way to see the city's public art. From the Croydon train station, hikers can access the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, Maroondah Aqueduct, Banksia Park to Heide Museum of Modern Art, and Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail. The Aqueduct Trail, though it is no longer in use, is nevertheless a part of this circuit. From Eltham's Allendale Road to Research's Main Road is a distance of 4 kilometres.
Playgrounds, picnic tables, and grills can all be found along the trail. Only one crossing is on a public road; the rest are detours. Bicycles can take the Westgate Punt from Spotswood to Fishermen's Bend in Port Melbourne across the Yarra River and under the West Gate Bridge.
Content Summary
- Melbourne, with a few notable exceptions, is a generally flat city and so a great place for bikers.
- To enjoy a bike ride in Melbourne, you need not be a Lycra-clad, Tour de France superfan; the city is home to several trails that draw riders of all skill levels.
- Merri Creek Trail is a segment of the Capital City Trail that follows along the creek.
- Melbourne's Capital City Trail is a lengthy circuit that travels through the city's pristine inner neighbourhoods.
- You don't have to live in Melbourne's southern suburbs to enjoy a beach ride on your bike.
- The Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail is a pleasant bike ride along the water that showcases the best of Melbourne's western suburbs. It is 23 kilometres long.
- The Merri Creek Trail is another well-traveled path that follows Merri Creek all the way from its source in Coburg North to its end at Dight Falls in Clifton Hill, where it empties into the Yarra.
- The Djerring Trail, or the Caulfield-Dandenong Rail Trail, is a good alternative to following the bay's shoreline if you need to get across the south-east.
- The 17-kilometer long Gardiners Creek Trail runs parallel to Gardiners Creek through Melbourne's verdant eastern suburbs, connecting the Main Yarra Trail in Burnley with Canterbury Road in Box Hill.
- Following the shoreline of Port Phillip Bay from Seaford to Port Melbourne, the Bay Trail is an easy path through Melbourne's south-east districts.
- Hikers can access the Eastlink Trail's starting point, the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, from the Croydon train station.
- To The Heide Museum Of Modern Art Via Banksia Park
- This short and flat 5 kilometre trail is an eastern extension of the Main Yarra Trail.
