Discover Bikepacking Events in Australia

Australia's vast and varied landscapes offer a bikepacking experience unlike any other. From the red earth of the outback to the lush rainforests of the coast, this is a continent that rewards self-supported adventure. Whether you're looking for a social spin or a true test of en

Why go bikepacking in Australia?

Bikepacking in Australia is an invitation to explore a continent of staggering scale and diversity. It’s about more than just the ride; it’s the immersion in ancient landscapes, the unique wildlife encounters, and the profound sense of solitude you can find just a few kilometres from a regional town. The country's strong tradition of self-reliance and adventure is reflected in its bikepacking culture. Events here often emphasise self-support and navigation, challenging riders to engage deeply with their environment. You might be tracing the lines of historic stock routes, traversing vast cattle stations, or winding through world-class wine regions. It's a place where you can ride for days under immense blue skies, camp under a canopy of brilliant stars, and share a campfire with fellow riders who share your passion for adventure.

The Terrain

The sheer variety of terrain is arguably Australia's greatest drawcard. Forget monotony; each state offers a distinct flavour of riding.

The Great Dividing Range: This mountain range, stretching from Queensland down through New South Wales and Victoria, is the backbone of east-coast bikepacking. Here you'll find a labyrinth of forestry service roads, old mining tracks, and quiet gravel lanes. Expect punchy climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking views. Events like the Thunderbolts Adventure Ride in Gloucester, NSW, showcase this varied landscape, taking riders through a mix of challenging and scenic gravel terrain.
The Outback and Red Centre: For the truly adventurous, the Australian outback offers an unparalleled experience. Think endless expanses of red earth, corrugated tracks that test your bike and your resolve, and the iconic scenery of places like the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. The riding is tough and demands meticulous planning, but the rewards are immense. The landscape is surprisingly alive, with hardy vegetation and resilient wildlife.
Coastal and Forest Tracks: Along the coastline, particularly in Tasmania, Victoria, and southern Western Australia, you can find incredible coastal routes that weave between pristine beaches and towering temperate forests. Imagine riding through the giant Karri and Tingle forests of WA or tracing the rugged coastline of Tasmania. Queensland also delivers with subtropical trails; events like Gravel and Flannel near Esk and the Jimna Escape social ride offer a taste of the state's scenic unpaved roads and lush landscapes.

Climate & Seasonality

Australia is a continent of two climates. The 'Top End' (including Darwin and the Kimberley) has a tropical climate with a distinct wet season (November - April) and dry season (May - October). The rest of the country has a temperate climate with four seasons.

This variety dictates the riding calendar. During the southern summer (December - February), the heat can be extreme, especially inland. Bushfire risk is also highest during this period, and many events take a hiatus. Conversely, the southern winter (June - August) can bring cold temperatures, rain, and even snow in alpine regions like the Victorian High Country.

The northern wet season is generally a no-go for bikepacking, with monsoonal rain, high humidity, and flooded roads making conditions impossible. The northern dry season, however, offers perfect riding conditions with warm, dry days and cool nights.

Best Time to Visit

For the majority of Australia's key bikepacking regions in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and southern Western Australia, the shoulder seasons are a rider's paradise.

Autumn (March - May): Widely considered the best time for bikepacking. The fierce heat of summer has subsided, landscapes are often still green, and the weather is typically stable and pleasant. It's the perfect time to tackle the mountains of the Great Dividing Range or explore the wine regions of South Australia.
Spring (September - November): Another prime season. Wildflowers are in bloom across many parts of the country, particularly in Western Australia, turning the landscape into a carpet of colour. The weather is warming up but hasn't yet reached the peak of summer heat.

If you're planning a trip to the tropical north, aim for the middle of the year, between June and August, to coincide with the dry season.

Event Highlights

Australia's bikepacking events calendar is filled with adventures that celebrate the landscape and camaraderie.

The Thunderbolts Adventure Ride in New South Wales is a classic example of an east-coast event, challenging riders with the hills and varied gravel roads of the Barrington Tops region. It’s a true adventure ride that requires self-reliance.

In Queensland, the vibe can be more relaxed. The Jimna Escape is a self-supported social event, giving riders the freedom to plan their own routes and adventure through the forests around the historic town of Jimna. It's less about racing and more about shared experience. Similarly, Gravel and Flannel in Esk offers a chance for reflective riding through the scenic landscapes of the Brisbane Valley, emphasising connection with the land and fellow cyclists.

These events are just a snapshot of what's on offer. From coastal explorations to outback odysseys, the Australian bikepacking scene is a vibrant and welcoming space for any rider looking for a self-supported challenge.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of bike is best for bikepacking in Australia?

A gravel bike with a wide gear range and clearance for 40-50mm tyres is a great all-rounder for most Australian conditions. For more rugged outback tracks, a rigid or hardtail mountain bike (often called a 'dirt tourer') with wider 2.2-2.6 inch tyres would provide more comfort and control.

Do I need to worry about wildlife?

While Australia has venomous snakes and spiders, they generally want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them. Make noise when walking through bushland, be careful where you put your hands and feet, and always check your shoes before putting them on. More common encounters will be with kangaroos, wallabies, and emus, which are amazing to see. In camping areas, be mindful of food as goannas and possums can be opportunistic!

How much water should I carry?

This is critical. Australia is a very dry continent. In remote areas, you can go hundreds of kilometres between reliable water sources. Your water-carrying capacity should be a primary consideration. For outback routes, carrying 10 litres or more can be necessary. Always check water availability on your planned route and treat water from natural sources like rivers or dams.

Is it safe to camp anywhere?

No, 'freedom camping' or wild camping rules vary by state and local council. It is generally not permitted in national parks or on private property without permission. The best approach is to plan your overnight stops using designated campgrounds in national parks, state forests, or commercial holiday parks. Many small towns also have low-cost camping at a local sports ground or showground.

All bikepacking events in Australia

Thunderbolts Adventure Ride — Gloucester, New South Wales, Australia — 2027-04-24
Clarkes Gambit 2027 — Nelligen, New South Wales, Australia — 2027-08-20

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