The first time I rode the Wombat tracks and the greater Woodend mtb trails, was way back in 2006. Covered head to toe in mud, but thinking these trails were awesome and different than what was on offer, for Melbourne based riders.
At the time, the Wombat Track was one of the more challenging mountain bike trail loops, both from a distance and technical skill level view.
While there have been a number of changes to Melbourne and Victorian mountain bike trails since 2006, this trail is still one of my favourites.
Located about an 1hr North West of central Melbourne, the Woodend trails, also know as the Wombat mtb track, is located just outside of the town of Woodend.
Relatively easy to get to from Melbourne, via car along the Calder Freeway, towards Bendigo.
Set in the Wombat State Forest, the Woodend mtb trails network is approximately 17Km in length. With a two-loop design, you can shorten it or go for the full ride.
Overview of Mountain Biking in Woodend
Increasing in popularity over the years as a tree-change destination for urban weary residents, Woodend is la short drive from Melbourne and is well connected via train.
The town is nestled at the base of Mt Macedon and the Woodend mountain biking trails on offer are a combination of the work of the local bike shop and the wombat mountain bike club, in advocating sustainable trails and highlighting the benefits of increased visitor numbers to the town.
This small town is also popular day trip location given the short journey with various food and wine options to experience. And other local towns to explore.
As with many trail networks, these trails were built by passionate riders, many years ago and have grown and extended into what we see today.
In recent years, this advocacy has resulted in a new trailhead location, car parking, maintained trails and clear wayfinding & signage.
Whilst located in the same Wombat State Park, the terrain and vegetation seems to change quite a lot. From open, wide singletrack, technical granite boulders, eucalypt forest and even rainforest like ferns. Not bad for a 17km loop.
Woodend MTB Wombat Trail: A Must-Ride Experience
As noted above, the terrain and vegetation is quite unique. The riding isn’t particularly difficult and would be classed as Green and Blue for the most part. Expect some tight, technical riding, log rolls, rocks, roots and a few sharp pinches, but rideable for most riders,
This is different from other trail networks like, You Yangs, Lysterfield or Plenty Gorge, where the riding at Woodend is accessible and easy to navigate, but also challenging enough to make it interesting. It is definitely worth the trip up the highway to experience the trails. Perfect for a half day adventure. Particularly if you like quality singletrack.
The trails are XC style, hand cut singletrack and while there are some faster downhill sections, they are not flow trails with manicured berms. Plenty of roots, rocks and log roll overs, with some fast sections to keep it interesting, with little kickers to launch off.
The trails have also been used over the years for a number of MTB events. More distance style XC events (50km, 100km etc), rather than the All-Mountain enduro style races.
Planning Your Ride at Woodend: What to Know Before You Go
In years gone past, the main difficulty was actually finding the trailhead. With the upgrade to the mapping and carpark facilities, and the location flagged on mapping apps (like Google Maps or Trailforks), it is now pretty straightforward to find.
The trailhead is located on Finger Post road, a forestry dirt road approx. 5km from the freeway exit, off Black Forest Drive, on your way towards the town. In Google Maps, it is listed as a location under ‘Wombat MTB Track’.
Please note that over the years the trails have been closed for extended periods due to storm damage. This was the case in 2021, when significant storms caused extensive tree damage and flooding.
The trail is best avoided after rain, as even the smallest amount rain can turn this track into a mud pit and have you and your bike covered.
Check the local clubs site or Facebook page to get the latest info on trail closures.
From a bike perspective, you can ride this on an AM trail bike, XC hard tail or even an eMTB.
Post-Ride Activities in Woodend
After the ride there are some very good options to get your food and drink fix in Woodend. From breweries, wineries, cafes, restaurants and bakery’s, Woodend is well set up for visitors and day trippers.
For post-ride beers, head to the Holgate Brewhouse for elevated pub food and craft brewery beers.
For quality coffee and café classics try Il Caffe, Fox in the Chamber or the Swiss inspired menu at Café Paysanne.
And if space allows, or for an afternoon snack, head to Bourkies bakery for an exceptional vanilla slice.
Bike Shop and Repairs
The centre of all things bikes and trails in Woodend and surrounds. The original owner Russell was one of the original drivers of the mountain bike trails. His early advocacy work has resulted in what we experience today with the Wombat MTB trail. Whilst he has moved on from the shop ownership, the trail advocacy continues with the new owner.
Final Thoughts on the Woodend MTB Trails
Woodend has been delivering the trail goods for mtb riders, over many years. This is evident with the recent work on trail improvement and the trails are running as good as ever.
Extending this trail network would be a great next step forward, as the town is well set up to become a thriving trail town. The location is also a viable option for Melbourne based riders and victors, to ride something that is a great alternative to the Melbourne mtb trails.
It is definitely worth the day or half-day trip to Woodend and get on board some of the at 90’s vibe twisty, tight singletrack, with some modern-day trail building upgrades.
