Preparing for a race or simply looking for a challenging ride around Brisbane? Check out this popular The Gap to Mount Glorious bike ride.
This 31.7-kilometre bike trail is one of Brisbane City Council’s recommended training rides and includes 1,167-metre climb. Traversing mainly through the Mount Nebo Road, this bike ride includes picturesque views, several long and challenging climbs, and sweeping descents.
The Gap to Mount Glorious Bike Ride
One of the most common routes for The Gap to Mount Glorious bike ride is outbound from The Gap via Mount Nebo Road.
Following Cycling Brisbane’s bike route, riders can start from the Waterworks Road, turn right to the Hilder Road, then take a left at the Alutha Road. The end of this road leads to the beginning of the long stretch through the Mount Nebo Road.
Alternatively, riders may continue to the end of Waterworks Road which is already connected to the Mount Nebo Road. This path passes by the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre which also offers plenty of activities for families to enjoy.
Bike riders may also try mountain-bike riding around the reservoir through different bike trails around the D’Aguilar National Park. Just make sure to get the South D’Aguilar section topographic map since there are hundreds of kilometres of trails in the park. The map can be purchased from the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre.
Mount Nebo Road
Also part of the D’Aguilar National Park, Mount Nebo Road involves a scenic drive winding through eucalypt forest. The road runs through the park past Mount Nebo township leading to Mount Glorious.
The path passes by several lookouts along the way. These include the McAfee’s Lookout, Jolly’s Lookout, and the Westridge Outlook.
Mount Glorious
Continuing with the long bike ride, the end of Mount Nebo Road connects to the Park View Road which is also connected to the Mount Glorious Road. From here, it will take less than a kilometre before you reach your destination.
You’ll know that you’ve already reached your destination once you see the Maiala park. This park is also a great and peaceful place to visit. Interestingly, the Maiala was the first national park declared on the D’Aguilar Range.
You can choose to explore the park or you can celebrate finishing the journey by grabbing a bite to eat at the nearby Mount Glorious Café. The cafe, formerly Maiala Rainforest Teahouse and Restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and great coffee along with a good selection of teas and house-made cakes.
Riders coming from Samford Valley or those who want an even more challenging route can ride up to Mount Glorious via Samford and Mount Glorious Road.
Friendly reminder: Make sure to bring lots of water to keep you hydrated during the entire trip. Also, as much as possible, ride with a fellow cyclist. It’s always better (and safer) to have a long bike ride with a family or a friend to keep you company.
Access the map for The Gap to Mount Glorious bike route here. For more bike rides around Brisbane, visit Cycling Brisbane’s official website.