There’s so much to explore in and around Atherton.

Enjoy a gentle ride along the Rail Trail, wander the winding farm roads to Tinaroo Dam, or challenge yourself on the singletrack at Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park.

Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail

The Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail follows the old Cairns–Herberton railway line and stretches around 35 km between Atherton and Mareeba, with plans to extend toward Herberton.

  • With gentle gradients and a mix of gravel surfaces, it’s perfect for riders of all ages and experience levels — ideal for a relaxed day out on the bike.
  • The trail passes through farmland, rainforest pockets, and historic sites like the Rocky Creek military hospital, with stops in small towns offering cafés, parks, and markets.
  • It’s a great choice for mountain bikes, hybrids, or gravel bikes — anything with wider tyres will handle the gravel sections comfortably.
  • Shared with walkers and horse riders, the trail includes rest stops and shaded areas, making it suitable for families, solo riders, or anyone looking to cruise through scenic countryside.

Why Riders Love It

  • A peaceful, easy-paced way to explore the Atherton Tablelands

  • Easily accessible from town, with options for short or long rides

  • Perfect for families, beginners, or riders looking for a low-intensity option

  • Packed with scenery, wildlife, and a touch of local history along the way

In Summary

The Rail Trail is a low-effort, high-reward ride — smooth, scenic, and suited to just about everyone. Whether you’re exploring with kids, going solo, or easing into your Atherton adventure, it’s a local favourite worth pedalling.

Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park

Just a short ride from town via a dedicated link track, the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park offers over 60 km of purpose-built singletrack designed for all levels of riders:

  • Set within the Herberton Range State Forest, the trails weave through open forest, historic forestry plots, and seasonal creeks

  • Choose from a wide range of trails — green (easy), blue (intermediate), and black (advanced) — all clearly marked and single-direction for smooth, safe riding

  • Ride iconic tracks like Ridgey Didge, Stairway to Heaven, Dropzone, Ricochet, and Beady Eye, each with their own unique flow and features

  • Expect a mix of fast berms, rocky sections, scenic ridgelines, and forest views — with plenty of spots to stop, rest, and soak it all in

  • E-bikes are welcome, and experienced riders can shuttle up the ridges or string together a full-day ride

Why Riders Keep Coming Back

  • Just minutes from town but packed with variety and stunning terrain

  • A balanced mix of cruisy, scenic rides and technical downhill fun

  • Trails are well maintained, clearly signed, and built for progression

  • A local favourite for mountain bikers of all levels, from first-timers to seasoned shredders

In Summary

The Atherton Forest MTB Park is a must-ride destination — whether you’re chasing adrenaline, building confidence, or simply out to enjoy the views. It’s trail riding at its best, right here in the heart of the Tablelands.

Tinaroo Dam

The ride out to Tinaroo Dam offers a peaceful mix of sealed roads, wide gravel stretches, and scenic farm country — perfect for riders looking to explore beyond town.

  • Head out from Atherton and follow quiet backroads through farmland and open countryside

  • Ride past rolling green paddocks, pockets of forest, and roadside orchards as you make your way toward the lake

  • Choose a direct return ride or make a loop around Lake Tinaroo for a full-day adventure

  • The terrain includes a mix of sealed roads and farm gravel, so bikes with wider tyres are ideal

  • Great for hybrid, gravel, or mountain bikes — suitable for riders comfortable with distance and changing surfaces

Why Riders Love It

  • A relaxed escape with open views, fresh air, and hardly any traffic

  • Rolling hills and smooth straights let you set your own pace

  • Scenic stops along the way include dam lookouts, picnic spots, and optional café detours

  • Rich in natural beauty — with lake views, rural charm, and local wildlife around every bend

In Summary

The Tinaroo ride is a great way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the Tablelands. With a mix of gentle climbing, quiet farm roads, and lake scenery, it’s a rewarding ride for anyone who wants to explore a little further from town.