Stromlo Forest Park
A premier destination for mountain biking and outdoor recreation, featuring diverse trails, a jump park, and excellent facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more trail time
Stromlo Forest Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more trail time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier destination for mountain biking and outdoor recreation, featuring diverse trails, a jump park, and excellent facilities.
"Amazing MTB riding tracks! This place has a few runs ranked from beginner to advanced level with huge jumps."
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Factor in parking fees, as they are now being implemented for park maintenance. :moneybag:
🗺️ Easy Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked with suggested loops, making it simple to find your way around. :compass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
MTB Jumps
Big Jump Park
Experience some of the best jumps in the ACT, catering to various skill levels for thrilling mountain biking adventures.
Diverse MTB Trails
Various trailheads
Explore a wide array of mountain bike tracks, from beginner to advanced, with excellent maintenance and clear markings.
Pump Track
Near the main facilities
Perfect for honing your bike handling skills, this pump track offers fun for all ages and abilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access Fees
Trail Variety and Skill Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Factor in parking fees, as they are now being implemented for park maintenance. :moneybag:
🗺️ Easy Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked with suggested loops, making it simple to find your way around. :compass:
🌧️ Post-Rain Riding
Trails become super grippy with dirt/mud after rain, offering a nice change and easy cleanup. :sweat_drops:
☕ Refreshments Available
Grab a burger, beer, or coffee at The Handle Bar after your ride. :burger::beer::coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Factor in parking fees, as they are now being implemented for park maintenance. :moneybag:
🗺️ Easy Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked with suggested loops, making it simple to find your way around. :compass:
🌧️ Post-Rain Riding
Trails become super grippy with dirt/mud after rain, offering a nice change and easy cleanup. :sweat_drops:
☕ Refreshments Available
Grab a burger, beer, or coffee at The Handle Bar after your ride. :burger::beer::coffee:
🚲 Bike Shop Onsite
A bike shop is available for any gear needs or quick fixes. :wrench:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Stromlo Forest Park's exceptional mountain bike trails, praising the diversity from beginner to advanced levels and the thrilling jumps. The park's well-maintained tracks, clear signage, and welcoming atmosphere are frequently highlighted. While the introduction of paid parking has been a point of discussion, the overall experience remains highly positive, with many appreciating the onsite facilities like the cafe and bike shop.
"Probably the best jumps in act with a great diversity. The tracks are becoming better maintained and more diverse. Good for all skill levels"
George
"Amazing MTB (mountain bike) riding tracks! This place has a few runs ranked from beginner to advanced level with huge jumps.
Ideally, 5 of you take a vehicle up with 4 MTB. Then 4 of you ride down the mountain. Fun + excitement + huge reward to improve your skills & bravery.
Thank you Canberra!"
Jason Oh
"Great first experience at Stromlo. Everyone was extremely welcoming, both riders on the trails and staff at the facilities. The trails are better marked than a lot of parks and the addition of suggested loops (1-6) with corresponding numbers at the trail head made it super easy to get around without getting lost.
With a bit of rain the trails get super grippy as it's dirt/mud rather than clay, which is a nice change and super easy to wash off"
T B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stromlo Forest Park is accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's located in the ACT, a short drive from Canberra's city center. Consider carpooling if visiting with a group to share parking costs and reduce congestion.
Public transport options to Stromlo Forest Park are limited. It's best to drive or arrange a ride-share service. If you're planning a longer stay, look into accommodation near Stromlo Forest Park for easier access.
From Canberra city, head west towards Stromlo. The park is well-signposted. Use GPS navigation for precise directions to the main entrance and parking areas.
Yes, cycling to Stromlo Forest Park is possible, especially if you are coming from nearby areas. There are dedicated cycling paths in some sections of Canberra that can lead you towards the park. :bike:
Absolutely! Stromlo Forest Park is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering a variety of activities for different interests. Pack a picnic or enjoy the cafe facilities. :picnic_sun:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While entry to the park itself is generally free, paid parking is being introduced. Ensure you check the latest parking rates before your visit.
No, you do not need to book tickets for the mountain bike trails. The park is open for public use, with the main considerations being parking fees. :ticket:
Stromlo Forest Park is typically open from dawn till dusk. However, specific facility hours, like the cafe or bike shop, may vary. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. :clock1:
Information on discounts for frequent visitors is not widely available. However, the introduction of paid parking might lead to the development of season passes or membership options in the future.
You are welcome to bring your own bike to enjoy the trails. Rental options may be available at the onsite bike shop or through local Canberra bike hire services. :mountain_bicyclist:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stromlo Forest Park boasts a diverse range of trails, including dedicated mountain bike tracks (from beginner to advanced), a pump track, a big jump park, and also features equestrian and grass running tracks.
Yes, reviews and social media content indicate that the trails are well-maintained and constantly being improved by a dedicated trail team.
Absolutely! The park offers beginner-friendly runs and is well-marked, making it easy for newcomers to navigate and enjoy the experience.
Facilities include showers, toilets, a cafe serving food and drinks, and an onsite bike shop.
Yes, there is a dedicated road cycle area in addition to the mountain bike trails. :road_cyclist:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Handle Bar cafe is located at the park and serves burgers, beer, coffee, and other refreshments. It's a popular spot for riders to refuel after hitting the trails.
You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy at Stromlo Forest Park. There are also designated areas where you can set up for a meal. :picnic_sun:
The Handle Bar offers classic cafe fare, including burgers, snacks, and beverages like coffee and beer, catering to hungry visitors.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but it's always a good idea to ask the staff at The Handle Bar about vegetarian or vegan choices. :leafy_green:
While not explicitly mentioned, many parks have designated BBQ areas. It's advisable to check the park's official website or inquire onsite about BBQ facilities. :barbecue:
📸 📸 Photography
The big jump park offers dynamic action shots, while the winding mountain bike trails provide scenic backdrops. The general park landscape also offers picturesque views. :camerawithflash:
Yes, as long as you are respectful of their space and privacy. Capturing the action on the trails can make for exciting content. :iphone:
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with the park authorities or relevant aviation bodies regarding drone operation policies before flying. :aerial_drone:
Action photography of mountain biking, landscape shots of the park, and candid moments of visitors enjoying the facilities are popular. :mountain_bicyclist::camera:
Morning and late afternoon light often provide the best conditions for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. The open nature of the park allows for good natural light. :sunrise::city_sunset:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond cycling, families can enjoy the open spaces for picnics and general recreation. The onsite cafe, The Handle Bar, offers kid-friendly options, and the availability of toilets and showers adds to the convenience for families with young children. Remember to check the latest on paid parking when planning your family outing.
🚵 Mountain Bikers
Don't miss the big jump park for some adrenaline-pumping action. The park's unique dirt and mud conditions after rain offer a different riding challenge. With amenities like showers, toilets, and an onsite bike shop, you can spend a full day immersed in your passion. Consider weekday mornings for fewer crowds and more trail time.
🏃 Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Combine your run with a visit to the cafe for a post-workout refreshment. The park's accessibility and facilities make it a convenient spot for a comprehensive fitness session. Remember to check for any paid parking requirements before your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking at Stromlo
For those looking to improve their skills, the pump track is an excellent resource. The park's terrain, often described as dirt and mud after rain, provides a unique and grippy riding surface that's also easy to clean off. This makes it a fantastic spot for both casual riders and serious enthusiasts looking to push their limits. The combination of challenging terrain and well-designed features makes Stromlo bike park a must-visit for MTB fans.
When planning your MTB adventure, consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds and maximize your time on the trails. The park also offers amenities like showers, toilets, and an onsite bike shop, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a full day of riding.
Park Facilities and Amenities
Practical facilities such as showers and toilets are available, which are particularly appreciated by those engaging in active pursuits like cycling or running. An onsite bike shop further adds to the park's convenience, catering to any immediate gear needs or minor repairs.
While the park is primarily known for its cycling and running tracks, it also includes equestrian facilities, indicating a broader scope for outdoor recreation. The introduction of paid parking is a recent development, with funds earmarked for ongoing park maintenance and improvements, a point of discussion among regular visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit