George Town Mountain Bike Trails
About 40 minutes north of Launceston, George Town has become one of the newest riding destinations in north-east Tasmania. With over 100 kilometres of purpose-built trails spread across two networks, it’s a spot that rewards families who ride together, and it works just as well as a first stop before heading on to Derby and St Helens.
Two Networks, One Riding Town
The riding is split between two distinct areas, each with its own character:
Mount George
Mount George is the more compact of the two, with around 16 kilometres of trail packed onto the hill close to town. The trails here range from gentle green runs through to blue and black options, and they’re built with progression in mind. That makes it a sensible place for a family with mixed abilities: newer or younger riders can build confidence on the easier descents while more experienced members of the group take on the steeper lines. The runs are short and quick, so there’s little standing around between laps.
Tippogoree Hills
A few kilometres away, the Tippogoree Hills network offers a longer, more varied 57 kilometres of riding with a more backcountry feel. It’s built around three shuttle drop-off points, with a mix of flowing trails, rock features and more technical terrain as you climb higher. This is where keen riders will want to spend a full day.
Easy Climbing with Uplift Options
One reason the trails suit families is the uplift service. Rather than pedalling all the way to the top, riders can catch a shuttle up and save their legs for the fun part coming down. Local operators run uplifts, with quick turnarounds on the shorter Mount George runs, so children and less enthusiastic climbers aren’t worn out before the descents begin. If you’d rather earn your turns, climbing trails and fire roads are there for those who want them.
A Pump Track for Everyone
Right in the centre of town sits a large sealed pump track, and it’s a genuine asset for families. It’s ideal for younger children who aren’t ready for the trails yet, and it’s not just for mountain bikes; kids on scooters and skateboards are welcome to have a go too. It gives the whole family somewhere to gather and burn off energy without committing to a full trail ride.
More than Mountain Biking
George Town is one of the oldest towns in Australia, and there’s plenty to fill the hours off the bike. The area has some excellent beaches, a strong maritime history and the nearby settlement of Low Head with its wide promenade. That mix means a riding day can easily turn into a beach afternoon, which suits families who don’t all want to spend the whole trip on two wheels.
The main trailhead is off Mount George Road, and with the town’s full range of services close by, it’s an easy place to base yourselves for a day or a long weekend.
