Looking for a new weekend adventure? Put the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails on your list. Less than an hour from Mackay, Finch Hatton has become one of Queensland’s premier mountain biking destinations, offering much more than just world-class trails.
We based ourselves at the Finch Hatton Showgrounds, camping behind the historic Criterion Hotel. Powered sites are $30 per night, while unpowered sites are $25 per night. There’s no need to book ahead, simply check in with the caretaker when you arrive.
Best of all, you can ride your bike straight from your campsite to the trailhead. Just remember to take care crossing the cane railway line that runs between the campground and the trails, particularly during the crushing season when cane trains are operating.
Don’t own a mountain bike? No problem. Corry Cycles Finch Hatton has a range of mountain bikes available to hire, with prices starting from $60 per day, making it easy for riders of all ages and experience levels to hit the trails.
During the school holidays we were lucky enough to take advantage of a free shuttle bus that transported riders to the top of the network. Outside the school holidays, riders can either tackle the dedicated G’Day G’Day climbing trail to access the downhill runs or, when available, book a commercial shuttle to the top.
Whether you’re new to mountain biking or an experienced rider, there’s a trail to suit. Beginners can build confidence on the easy green trails, while intermediate riders will love the flowing blue trails with sweeping berms, rollers and plenty of opportunities to pick up some speed. More experienced riders can test themselves on the technical black trails, complete with bigger features, steeper descents and more challenging terrain.
No matter which trail you choose, they’re all set amongst stunning rainforest scenery that makes the ride just as enjoyable as the destination.
The trailhead is exceptionally well equipped with toilets, drinking water, a bike wash, free barbecues, picnic shelters and a pump track where riders can warm up or build confidence before heading onto the trails.
Even if mountain biking isn’t your thing, the trailhead is worth a visit. Wander around the beautifully restored Historic Bin Shed precinct, one of the last remaining reminders of the old Cattle Creek Sugar Mill that once operated on the site. The shed was originally used to unload harvested cane before later becoming a workshop for repairing cane bins, giving it the name it still carries today.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, pack a picnic or fire up one of the free barbecues, cool off in nearby Cattle Creek, explore one of the rainforest walking tracks or head to the Criterion Hotel for a hearty meal and a cold beer. Whether you’re planning a day trip or making a weekend of it, Finch Hatton has plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
