Hanmer offers many attractions for the outdoor enthusiast, but one of the most accessible is mountain biking. With over 30 kilometres of purpose built cross country trails catering to all levels of ability, its variety of terrain, from steep gravel hillsides make Hanmer a destination for mountain bikers.
Whether you want a relaxing sightseeing ride or something more strenuous, you won’t be short of options. What's more, many of these rides are just a short pedal from the centre of the township, so you can leave your vehicle back at the holiday park and head for the hills!
Here’s six great rides to check out in and around Hanmer.
1. Easy Rider
Level: Beginner
This loop track through the Heritage Forest is a gentle ride over mostly flat ground. A non-technical track of approximately 4 Kms, there are many offshoots within the forest that can be interlinked, offering the chance to spend many hours in the shade of the woods.
There are several entry points into the Forest, but a close one to the park is off Bath Street, just round the corner from TOP10 Hanmer Springs. Alternatively you can find several entrances into the forest along Jollies Pass Road.
2. Conical Hill Tracks
Level: Intermediate
The three tracks around Flax Gulley, the Swoop track and Majuba track all skirt around the edge of Conical Hill (Intermediate) – Link these three classic tracks for a great trip around the back of Conical Hill.
3. Tank Track and Yankee Zephyr
Level: Intermediate-Expert
The Tank track offers a climb through the forest off Clarence River Road. It’s steep in place but mostly undulating, giving you plenty of opportunity to weave amongst the tree roots.
Carrying on from the Tank Track and down Pawsons Rd you’ll come to the Yankee Zephyr. After another steady climb, you’ll then have a fast descent through the trees on the windy, single track.
4. Red Rock
Level: Expert
If you’re keen for something a bit more technical and challenging, Red Rock routes offer switchbacks and rocky terrain. You’ll also get some amazing views - if you dare to raise your glare from the track that is!
5. Chatterton Road and Chatterton River Track
Level: Intermediate,
If you're after a bike ride and a walk, you can always ride up to the Chatterton River Track. Leave the township via Jack's Pass Road and continue through the gates onto Chatterton Road. This track leads up to the DOC trail (2-3 hours return). Alternatively carry on up Chatterton Road (keep an eye out for logging trucks) and then make your way back down to Jack's Pass Road via Clarence Valley Rd.
6. Jacks and Jollies Passes
Level: Intermediate, 2- 4 hour loop
Jacks and Jollies Passes ride is a 25km loop that’s suitable for those with a good level of fitness. The breathtaking (literally!) climb up Jacks pass takes you up 620m but at the top you’re rewarded with superb views over the basin. Once you’ve achieved the climb to the pass, the ride continues through the tussocks, pass Mt Isobel and then follows the Clarence River, before returning to Hanmer Springs Village.
One note of caution however - keep an eye out for logging trucks, particularly on the descent on Jollies Pass Rd!!
Don't Forget to Check Ahead
Whilst Hanmer Springs offers year round riding, some trails may be closed due to weather conditions, so it pays to check before heading out. For more information, contact the iSite on +64 3 315 0020