Is Warburton MTB Park Australia’s Next Must-Ride Destination?

Warburton Bike Park is preparing for a major milestone in Australian mountain biking, with the park set to more than double its trail network and launch shuttle uplift services from 4 April 2026.

The expansion will push the park’s trail offering beyond 70km of riding, building on the initial 30km of purpose-built trails that opened earlier and quickly drew riders to the Upper Yarra Valley. With 650m of vertical descending from the summit of Mt Tugwell, the new stage of development is expected to cement Warburton as one of Australia’s most exciting riding destinations.

Shuttle bookings are already open via the Warburton Bike Park website, with strong demand from riders keen to explore the next stage of the network.

A Major Step for the Yarra Valley

The project represents a significant step for the region, both for mountain biking and tourism more broadly.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Richard Higgins said the response to the first trail openings has been strong, but the next release is set to elevate the park even further.

“World Trail have crafted some truly exceptional riding experiences, and this next release really shows what Warburton Bike Park can deliver,” Higgins said.

“Now is the perfect time to start planning a visit to the beautiful Upper Yarra Valley region. Alongside world-class riding, the surrounding townships offer fantastic hospitality, retail and wellness experiences that make a stay here truly memorable.”

Trail builders World Trail have been responsible for shaping the network, bringing their signature focus on sustainability and innovative trail design to the varied terrain surrounding Mt Tugwell. The result is a diverse network aimed at riders of all abilities, from newcomers to experienced gravity riders.

New Trails to Add Serious Variety

The April opening introduces several new trails that are already generating excitement among riders.

Shred Gallah (Advanced) promises a raw gravity experience, combining flowing berms with rocky outcrops and technical rock gardens. It’s the kind of trail designed to reward strong riders while keeping the old-school character that gravity fans love.

Mad Max (Intermediate/Advanced) brings a more sculpted approach, delivering a long descent filled with progressive jumps, flowing berms and fast sections through bushland.

For newer riders, Warburtron (Easy Airflow Beginner) will offer a welcoming entry point. Stretching roughly 5km, the trail features smooth berms and rollable jumps, creating a confidence-building experience for riders developing their skills.

With these additions, the park moves past the halfway point of its planned 125km Southern Network, putting Warburton firmly in the conversation as one of Australia’s most ambitious mountain bike projects.

Shuttle Access Unlocks the Vertical

Alongside the new trails, the launch of shuttle uplift services marks a major step forward for the riding experience.

From 4 April 2026, riders will be able to access the 650m descent from Mt Tugwell without tackling the 14km-plus climb to the summit.

Shuttles will run daily during school holidays and operate on weekends outside of peak periods. Riders will be able to choose between full-day or half-day uplift tickets, with pick-up locations at Warburton and Wesburn Park Trailhead.

Warburton’s Moment

Warburton Bike Park ambassador and cross-country World Champion Paul van der Ploeg believes the park is about to become a major drawcard for riders nationwide.

“It’s super exciting to be part of the Warburton Bike Park team,” van der Ploeg said.

“The area has an incredibly diverse landscape, all on Melbourne’s doorstep. It’s one of the most anticipated trail networks in Australia, and April’s openings are going to make it a massive year for Warburton.”

With shuttle bookings now open and new trails ready to roll, riders planning autumn trips would be wise to start locking in their plans.

For bookings and more information visit warburtonbikepark.com.au