Australia, Victoria, Dandenong RangesRide at a glance
Overview
This ride is a shortened version of The Gembrook Explorer that came into existence because my derailleur battery timed out and I had to find a shorter way home.
Luckily for me, The Dandenong Ranges is an absolute playground for cyclists and no matter which way you head, you are sure to find some brilliant roads and some brilliant gravel.
While there is highlights-a-plenty on this dream ride through “The Nongs”, the main shoutout goes to The Emerald Bakery which is an institution in these parts and not to be missed.
On top of that, you’ll experience the gravel 1 in 20 climb, Mathais walking track which is an absolute pearler, R.J. Hamer Arboretum, The Puffing Billy and much more.
Saddle up and enjoy the lush temperate forests and tall mountain ash trees that are amongst some of the tallest in the world and unique to the area.
Before you rideArchive guide: check current conditions, access and event dates.Terms & details
BikeRoutes is preserved as a read-only archive. Check current conditions, access and event dates before you ride.
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.
- The Basin is around a 45min drive east of Melbourne’s CBD (where the ride starts)
- You’ll find parking in the park over the road from the shops or there’s alternate parking opposite the temple just behind the roundabout on The Mountain Hwy
- The closest train station is Boronia train station which is about a 4km ride to the start of the route
- You’ll find shops and toilets in Emerald (41km)
- The majority of the gravel roads are in residential areas and are extremely smooth and well maintained (some corrugations have settled on some of the descents, so descend with care)
- The route begins at the gravel 1 in 20 which is an absolute highlight.
- Mathias walking track & The Puffing Billy are also major highlights!
