Gravel Grind around Forrest and Otways Ranges
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to riding gravel around Forrest and the Otway Ranges. Gravel roads head off in all directions from town giving you flatter options in the paddocks to the north or lungbusting climbs through the Otway ranges.
Don't have your own gravel bike? Hardtail mtbs are a great option for riding Otways gravel. The wider tyres provide you plenty of traction when the riding gets rougher, and you can lock out the front fork for the long slogs uphill but enjoy the benefit of some suspension on the way back down. Book your hardtail mtb today!
(free account required)
Click the table headings to sort by route name, distance, elevation and whether the route is a loop or point to point.
| Route | Distance | Elevation (M) | Loop/Point to Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thompsons Loop | 31 | 830 | Loop |
| Pipeline Track Loop | 25 | 646 | Loop |
| EC Loop | 39 | 870 | Loop |
| Kawarren Loop AC | 48 | 850 | Loop |
| Forrest to Apollo Bay - Sunnyside Down | 50 | 880 | Point to Point |
| Barramunga Loop | 20 | 430 | Loop |
| Dewings Bridge Loop | 26 | 320 | Loop |
Forrest to Lorne Return
Forrest to Lorne Return I first completed this ride on 2 Aug 2020. That morning we began to hear rumours we were going into another lockdown so instead of waiting for the doom and gloom to be announced, I got onto my bike and rode over to Lorne for my final long distance ride for … Read more
Pipeline Track Loop
Pipeline Track Loop The Pipeline Track loop is an easy introduction into gravel grinds in the Otways (when it’s dry). Stats Just shy of 25km, 646 elevation, this loop will take about 1.5 hr at an average speed of 17kmph. Most of the climbing is at the start on Roadknight Creek rd. Course Terrain You … Read more
The EC Loop
The EC Loop I’ve named the EC Loop after the local legend who rides this loop regularly for training. She can smash this out in under 2 hours… as of Sep 2020, my best time is 2:20 so still a way to go to catch her! Stats The course has 870 vert metres and my … Read more
Thompsons Loop
Thomson’s Loop Stats The route is 31km long and has 830 vert metres. At an average speed of 14kmph, it will take approximately 2.5 hours. Course Terrain This loop track will take you right up into the Otway ranges, through the tall gum forests, overlooking steep mountain valleys. The first 13km is a steady climb … Read more
Kawarren Loop AC
Kawarren Loop AC The Kawarren Loop AC takes in a variety of views as you wind out of town through paddocks. Following a section of the Old Beechy Rail Trail, you will find yourself rolling down green gullies and past points of historical interest. From Kawarren East, you head back up into the dry Eucalypt … Read more
Forrest to Apollo Bay Sunnyside Down
Forrest to Apollo Bay – Sunnyside Down This is one of my favourite ways to get to Apollo Bay…. if you haven’t ridden Sunnyside Rd, you need to pop it on the list. The section leaving the Forrest-Apollo Bay Rd is just stunning forest with tall slender gums and ferns everywhere. Once Sunnyside intersects with … Read more
Barramunga Loop
Barramunga Loop This loop takes you out up Roadknight Creek Rd, but from there you head South West on Barramunga-Roadknight Rd till you reach Upper Gellibrand Road. This road would take you to Stevensons Falls if you want, but for the 20km loop, turn left which takes you back to the Forrest-Apollo Bay Rd. From … Read more
Dewings Bridge Rd Loop
Dewings Bridge Rd Loop This loop heads north of Forrest to Barwon Downs and beyond. This loop takes you out into green rolling hills and is a great loop for those seeking less vert. There is one short section on bitumen between the end of the Tiger Rail Trail and Barwon Downs so be mindful … Read more