Canberra is the cycling capital of Australia with dedicated facilities for cycling enthusiasts and athletes, world-class mountain biking trails, national competitions and the Centenary Trail. Canberra is so bike friendly, it was rated best city in Australia for bike riding in 2020. Stromlo Forest Park (SFP) connects with popular routes around Canberra and is a 15 minute drive of Canberra’s CBD, so is a popular destination for tourists who want to have a ride when they visit.
SFP is well-connected to Canberra’s unique integrated cycle path network, making it accessible to those who prefer to stay off the open roads as well.
It is also a gateway to many popular cycling routes around Canberra and the ACT for social rides, training and competitions.
Some of the most popular road cycling loops include:
- Cotter Uriarra
- Tidbinbilla
- Corin Dam
- 5 Peaks
- Yass and Wee Jasper
- Easy connection to Lake Burley Griffin, the city and beyond.
Canberra Centenary Trail
SFP is part of the famous self guided 145km Centenary Trail which is open to walkers and mountain bikers. The entire trail can be completed over a three day ride, averaging 45kms per day and takes riders past iconic locations including Mount Ainslie and Black Mountain, bike-friendly cafes and major tourist attractions such as Australian War Memorial, Parliament House and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).
The Centenary Trail Map and recommended loops and itineraries is available on the Department of Environment website.
Your guide to cycling in Canberra
Canberra has an excellent network of bike paths and routes that people can use without having to go on the road. Transport Canberra provide Your Guide to Cycling in Canberra and Town Centre Walking and Cycling Guides to share the best ideas for rides and to help visitors find the best cycling routes to connect major destinations without having to cycle on the road.
Booking accommodation
If you are visiting from interstate and would like to stay close to SFP, with the convenience of being able to leave your car behind and ride to the Park visit our Things To Do In Canberra page for accommodation providers and camping sites close to the Park.
Photo credit: (Tile and Slider) Damian Breach for VisitCanberra | (Slider) Nick Waygood Photography | (Silder) Kara Rosenlund for VisitCanberra