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Ride the Red Centre: Upgraded Mountain Bike Trails Open in Alice Springs

Office of the Chief Minister

Alice Springs is solidifying its reputation as a mecca for mountain bike tourism and outdoor recreation with the opening of nearly 100km of upgraded mountain bike and shared-use trails last weekend.

The Territory Labor Government’s $800,000 investment into the trail network in Alice Springs is part of the Mountain Bike Master Plan positioning the Red Centre as a world-class destination for cycling and adventure tourism.

The trail network on the west side of Alice Springs now meets International Mountain Biking Association standards and connects up to existing trails in the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Reserve with 22 distinct trails of varying difficulty ratings, whether on foot or on two wheels.

Enhancements include two bike repair stations, full directional signage and supporting trail network map, and some shelters and seating.

Local contractors Tricky Tracks, the first dedicated trail construction business in the NT, delivered the upgrades with planning and design work carried out in partnership with the Alice Springs community including the CARR Mountain Biking Club.

Trail maps are available to download at northernterritory.com with hardcopy foldout maps available from the Alice Springs Visitor Centre, the Trail Station Café at Alice Springs Telegraph Station and numerous bike shops and other retail outlets in Alice Springs.

Quotes from Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss:

“Mountain biking in the Territory creates a great sense of community and we saw a huge spike in trail usage as locals sought new ways to stay active when organised sport was suspended during the COVID-19 restrictions.

“Globally, mountain biking and adventure tourism are growing in popularity, and improvements to trails in Alice Springs is one of the ways we are investing in attracting visitors to the Red Centre.

“The trail network is improving liveability for Alice Springs residents and will attract tourists when they are able to safely visit again.”

Quotes from President of Central Australian Rough Riders Mountain Biking Club, Ted Thompson:

“This formalised network will encourage more locals to access mountain biking, promoting an active lifestyle and the health benefits to follow.  

“We are proud to show off the new network for locals and tourists who come visit our spectacular region of Central Australia.”

Media contact: Lisa Sennett 0436 929 858

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