Off the Bike: 5 ways to spend your time out of the saddle

Waterfalls, swimming holes, rainforest walks and a whole lot of tropical adventure. Here’s how to make the most of your downtime between rides at Finch Hatton MTB.

We get it. You’ve come to Finch Hatton for the mountain biking. And with world-class trails winding through lush tropical rainforest, it’s pretty tempting to spend every waking hour on two wheels.

But trust us, there’s plenty more adventure waiting beyond the trails.

So if you’re staying a few nights at Finch Hatton MTB, don’t rush off after your last run. Stick around, slow down and discover five ways to make your rest day just as memorable as your time on the trails.

1. Head for the Hills: Eungella Dam

Distance from Finch Hatton MTB: 44km.

Swap the singletrack for wide open spaces with a trip to Eungella Dam. Surrounded by rolling hills and rugged mountain scenery, it’s a great spot to slow things down and enjoy a different side of the Pioneer Valley.

This is a favourite for local fisherman. Pack the fishing rods and try your luck catching a barramundi or sooty grunter, take a refreshing dip or simply kick back by the water and soak up the serenity.

If you’re keen to extend your stay, there’s camping right by the dam, with plenty of room to set up and enjoy a night under the stars.

2. Chase Waterfalls: A Day at Finch Hatton Gorge

Distance from Finch Hatton MTB: 11km.

Lace up your walking shoes and get ready to chase some waterfalls. Just a short drive from Finch Hatton MTB, Finch Hatton Gorge is home to lush tropical rainforest, crystal-clear swimming holes and some seriously spectacular scenery.

Take on the full 4.2km return walk through Eungella National Park, stopping for a dip at Araluen Cascades before continuing on to the Wheel of Fire, a stunning natural rock pool surrounded by rainforest.

There are a few stairs to tackle along the way, as well as a river crossing to get to the Wheel of Fire. Trust us when we say reward is worth it. Pack your swimmers, a towel and a bite to eat, and make a day of it.

A word of warning – never jump into either Auraluen Cascades or Wheel of Fire. Submerged objects can be hard to see and conditions change frequently.

3. Sunrise with the Locals: Cape Hillsborough

Distance from Finch Hatton MTB: 72km

An early start is worth it for this one. Head to Cape Hillsborough National Park, where kangaroos and wallabies make their way onto the beach at sunrise. It’s one of the region’s most iconic wildlife experiences and a pretty special way to kick off your rest day.

Once the sun’s up, head to the southern end of Casuarina Beach and tackle the Andrews Point Track. This scenic coastal walk winds through bushland and rewards you with spectacular views of the rugged coastline and surrounding islands.

You can take on the whole 5.2km return walk or head straight up to Twin Beach Lookout (2.8km) for the iconic view of the coast.

4. Slow Down and Switch Off: Finch Falls Retreat

Distance from Finch Hatton MTB: 8.2km

Not every rest day needs to be packed with adventure. Sometimes the best thing you can do is absolutely nothing.

Tucked away in the lush tropical surrounds of Finch Hatton, just minutes from the MTB trails, Finch Falls Retreat is the perfect spot to slow down and recharge.

Swap the riding gear for a comfy chair, soak up the sounds of the rainforest and enjoy a little peace and quiet. With glamping accommodation surrounded by nature, it’s an easy place to forget about the outside world for a while.

No alarms, no plans, no rush. Just good old-fashioned downtime before you’re back on the bike.

5. Trade the Trails for the Coast: A Day in Mackay

Flying in or out of Mackay? Why not make a day of it? Just over an hour’s drive from Finch Hatton, Mackay is the perfect spot to squeeze in a little coastal exploring before heading home.

Start with a good coffee and breakfast at one of the city’s local cafés, then swap the rainforest for some ocean air. Take a stroll along Harbour Beach or head north to explore the beautiful beaches at Bucasia and Eimeo.

Got the bikes in tow? Take a leisurely cruise along the waterfront at Mackay Harbour or explore the shared pathways around Bluewater Quay and the Pioneer River. It’s a great way to stretch the legs without tackling another mountain bike trail.

If a swim is on the cards, the Bluewater Lagoon in the heart of Mackay is a great place to cool off, with free entry and plenty of space to relax.

Good coffee, sandy feet and one last taste of Queensland sunshine. Not a bad way to wrap up your mountain biking getaway.