164km
1790m
70% Unpaved
The Goldfields track is really tricky but it's smooth sailing after that
85km
Redesdale
114km
Heathcote
40mm+
Credit for this ride goes to Adventure Cycling Australia which is a great resource for a wide range of bike packing rides.
I’ve got to say, this ride wasn’t really what I expected initially, the first 30km or so on the Goldfield Track I found extremely tough! I think I averaged about 10km per hour for the first 30km and it involved plenty of hike-a-bike.
If I’m really honest, I did see a guy cycle straight past me and up a rocky climb with tyres thinner than mine so perhaps I’m just technically not that gifted.
Having said that, this ride is fun! There’s single track, there’s gravel, there’s a very photogenic concrete aqueduct that seems to flow for ever. There’s great scenery and there’s not a lot of traffic. Would more could you want!?
Once you are off the Goldfields Track, you will hit Mount Alexander which is a fun and challenging climb. Asphalt thankfully. You’ll encounter a little bit of traffic and some road cyclists.
From then on, the route mellows somewhat and you get to take in some beautiful gravel roads that meander through the country side past Redesdale, through to Heathcote and eventually back to Bendigo via the O’Keefe Rail Trail.
This would also be a really fun overnighter if you were to stay in Heathcote.
Terms of use: Cycle this route at your own risk. Check local weather, conditions and closures before departure. Adhere to land use rules, carry provisions, safety gear and respect the trail. This information is intended to be used as a planning resource; accuracy is not guaranteed. BIKEROUTES.com.au are not liable for any incidents during or following this route.
Melbourne > Bendigo approx. 1hr 50min
Melbourne (Southern Cross) > Bendigo Station approx. 2hr 5min (3 mins from Starting Point)
V-Line (Bendigo Bound) *Trains operate daily within 15 – 45min The ride conveniently starts right next to the train station on the bridge overpass.
Handy links: