The beginner’s guide to mountain biking Finch Hatton

Warning: Mountain biking is addictive and Finch Hatton MTB is the gateway

Surrounded by one of the world’s oldest rainforests, Finch Hatton is fast emerging as a hotspot for mountain biking enthusiasts and those keen to give the sport a crack. With trails that cater to all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced, and the natural beauty of an ancient rainforest as your backdrop, Finch Hatton offers an unrivalled biking adventure.

Can anyone mountain bike at Finch Hatton?

Short answer – YES.

There are 7 Easy, 6 Intermediate and 3 Difficult trails at Finch Hatton MTB catering to all experience levels from first-timers to gravity enduro specialists.

Hit the trails without a worry—no fees, no bookings, just ride. We recommend dedicating a day or two to truly master the flow of each trail.

Download a printable trail map or view all of our trails descriptions here.

Need a bike?

If you’re unable to BYO bike, Corry Cycles Finch Hatton offers bike hire, including eBikes. They also offer some decent mid-week specials, so keep an eye on their socials.

Encountered a hiccup with your own bike? Corry Cycles are your go-to for swift maintenance and repairs in Finch Hatton, ensuring you’re back on the trails in no time at all.

Mackay Cycles will soon offer bike hire including equipment to help transport your bike from Mackay to Finch Hatton.

Before you ride – learn the lingo

Before you hit the trails, it’s crucial to understand the grading system used to classify them. While there’s no forced risk with any of our trails, it is best to select trails based on your ability.

• Green – Easy: Suitable for mountain bikers with mountain bikes. Single-track with gentle gradients, smooth to variable surfaces, and some avoidable obstacles such as rocks, roots and logs on the primary line.
• Blue – Intermediate: Suitable for skilled mountain bikers with mountain bikes. Single-track with moderate gradients, some steep sections, and obstacles such as rocks, roots and logs on the primary line.
• Black – Difficult: Suitable to experienced mountain bikers, use to physically demanding and challenging routes. Single-track, with steep climbs/descents, and dangerous unavoidable obstacles on variable and loose surfaces. Some sections will be easier to walk.

Remember, riders under 15 years must be accompanied by an adult when tackling the trails.

While there’s no forced risk with any of our trails, it is best to select trails based on your ability.

Where do we start?

Start your adventure at the Trailhead in the town centre. The Trailhead features all amenities, hydration stations and a bike wash. The Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track is a great place to warm up the legs and build some confidence. The track spans more than 400 metres in length and offers a huge range of hump styles and sizes for riders of all ages and skill level to enjoy.

When it’s time to hit the dirt, G’day G’day is where to start. G’day G’day is used to climb up the forested slopes to reach the breathtaking views of the valley. Not keen on the climb? Jump on an Off Camber Mountain Biking shuttle departing the Trailhead (pre-book online).

Now it’s time for the downhill thrill on Green Whistle. Don’t let the name scare you off, this is beginner-friendly trail that takes you through dense forest and open ridges.

Feeling confident? Then it’s time to step it up. Your Shout is a 750m intermediate trail designed for progressive fun. Traversing the shuttle road this trail delivers multiple options for riders to test themselves on jumps and obstacles – or keep your tyres on the dirt. There’s no forced risk with these trails, meaning take it as fast or as slow as you want. The end of Your Shout moves quickly through open fields before reconnecting with Green Whistle.

Like the flow of a trail? Hit it again. You’ll be surprised how much fun it is when you know what’s around the next bend.

Time to re-fuel?

Mountain biking is hungry work. Replenish your energy at the Criterion Hotel with a delicious homemade pie or indulge in scrumptious delights at The Gift Shed Café.

Getting Around

You’ll need your own transport to get to Finch Hatton which is about a 50 minute drive from Mackay.

For those looking for a lift up the trails, you can book a shuttle with Off Camber Mountain Biking. They offer designated times for you to book in via their website. They also offer private shuttles for group bookings. Enjoy the exhilarating downhill ride without the uphill struggle.

Where to Stay

The majority of accommodation in the region is in Mackay, a 50-minute drive from the trails in Finch Hatton. You can view a range of options on the Visit Mackay Isaac website.

For those looking to stay a bit closer:

• Enjoy the simplicity of camping at the Showground.
• Experience comfort at the Criterion Hotel, a convenient and cosy option.
• Have the place to yourself at Flame Trees Stays Finch Hatton.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to explore the world of mountain biking, Finch Hatton MTB’s breathtaking trails offer an unforgettable adventure.