Mountain Biking Tasmania: Sheffield & Derby Area

In this month’s blog, we’re going to provide a list of mountain biking Tasmania trails near Sheffield and beyond…given a few of these MTB trails are some of the best in the world!

Sheffield – Gateway to Adventure (and where Glencoe Country Guesthouse is located).

Known as the “Town of Murals,” Sheffield is more than just art — it’s a launchpad for epic rides through the stunning Kentish countryside and nearby trail networks.

Wild Mersey Mountain Bike Trails (Railton, Sheffield & Latrobe)

A world-class trail system with over 100km of purpose-built singletrack for all skill levels. Flow trails, forest loops, technical features, and scenic riverside rides make this one of Tasmania’s top mountain biking (MTB) destinations.

Kentish Backroads & Gravel Routes

Quiet country roads and forested trails wind through rolling hills, pastures, and streams — ideal for gravel and endurance riders wanting to soak in Tasmania’s untouched beauty.

Northwest Tasmania Wilderness Rides

Venture further afield to explore bush tracks near Mount Roland, Gunns Plains, or Leven Canyon. These routes offer raw, off-the-grid riding through diverse terrain with epic views.

Cradle Mountain Gravel & Adventure Rides

Ride the remote tracks towards Cradle Mountain for a challenging, scenic journey through alpine forests and glacial landscapes. Great for adventurous riders seeking solitude and elevation.

Local MTB Culture & Events

The region hosts regular MTB events and has a growing community of riders. Local bike shops in Devonport and Sheffield offer support, rentals, and repairs.

Why Glencoe Country Bed and Breakfast, Barrington is the Perfect MTB Base

Central, Strategic Location
Nestled in the heart of northwest Tasmania, Glencoe is just minutes from Sheffield, 20 minutes to Railton’s Wild Mersey trailhead, and less than an hour to Cradle Mountain — making it a perfect hub for daily rides in all directions.
Secure & Bike-Friendly Facilities
Offering dedicated bike storage, space for cleaning and tuning bikes, and flat parking for bike racks — everything a rider needs before and after the trail.
Comfort After the Climb
With spacious rooms, plush Western-style beds, and peaceful rural surrounds, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day on the trails.
Legendary Country Breakfasts
Hearty, home-cooked breakfasts made with fresh local produce — think farm eggs, sourdough, bacon, and preserves — to fuel big days of adventure.
Local Knowledge & Personalised Service
Your hosts are welcoming, knowledgeable, and can point you toward the best rides, hidden trails, or local eateries. Need a weather update or a short scenic ride idea? Just ask.
Tranquil, Authentic Tasmanian Experience
Surrounded by lush farmland, grazing cows, and native bushland, Glencoe offers a quiet, authentic escape — far from the crowds, yet close to the action.
More Than Just a Riding Base
Ideal for couples or small groups, you can mix trail days with visits to local vineyards, Lake Barrington, or wildlife parks — perfect for longer stays or rest days.

Planning a Full Tassie MTB Road Trip? Here’s Where to Ride Across the Island

If you’re looking to make your trip a true mountain biking Tasmania adventure, here’s a quick guide to the top MTB destinations across the state. Each location offers its own flavour of terrain, scenery, and trail style:

Northwest Tasmania (Base: Glencoe, Sheffield, Railton)
Wild Mersey Trails – 100+ km of flowing singletrack from Railton to Sheffield and Latrobe. Great mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced features.
Kentish Backcountry Rides – Ideal for gravel and adventure biking. Scenic climbs, forest roads, and rural escapes.
West Coast (Base: Queenstown)
Mt Owen MTB Trails – Wild, raw, and rugged trails carved into Tasmania’s remote west. Big climbs, rocky descents, and otherworldly landscapes.
Heemskirk & Zeehan Trails (coming soon) – A growing network of remote, technical rides through historical mining towns.
North Tasmania (Base: Derby)
Blue Derby Trails – Tasmania’s most famous MTB park. World-class singletrack, iconic flow trails like Flickety Sticks, and epic descents like Atlas.
Enduro World Series venue – Derby is a bucket-list stop for any serious rider.
Northeast Tasmania (Base: St Helens)
St Helens MTB Trails – Coastal MTB riding! Trails wind through forest to beaches. Ride the Bay of Fires Trail — a 42 km wilderness ride ending at the sea.
Gravity and flow trails with a relaxed seaside town vibe.
Central Highlands (Base: Maydena or Hobart)
Maydena Bike Park – Australia’s biggest gravity-focused MTB park. Chairlift access, epic downhill, and advanced terrain through lush forest.