Are you looking for a fun, fast, flat mixed terrain loop close to Melbourne?
Our monthly social ride for March 2022 had a group of riders exploring the gravel tracks between Moonee Ponds and Brimbank Park. This ride is tamer than our regular social rides, with less climbing and nothing technical. This is an excellent loop for the gravel curious or those new to gravel riding. Despite being firmly in Melbourne's suburbs, this 50-kilometre loop is mostly gravel/dirt. There are also a few very short sections of non-technical singletrack.
The outbound course follows the Maribyrnong River out to Brimbank Park and returns via the dirt tracks alongside the Moonee Ponds Creek. Most of the route is shared with walkers, runners, and kids, so please be aware of your surroundings and use a bell to alert others of your location. There are a couple of main roads sections, so be careful with traffic and use the designated bike lanes on the road.
The ride concludes with a small climb up Melbourne’s ‘Koppenberg’, a cobbled laneway that will challenge some riders but is a lot of fun.
There is a convenience store around 33 kilometres where riders can get cold drinks and snacks if needed. In addition, there are endless options for water along the route.
START AND FINISH: Moonee Ponds Boathouse
DISTANCE: 50.5 kilometres
CLIMBING: 360 vertical metres
WHAT TO RIDE: Gravel or CX bike
RIDE DIFFICULTY: Beginner
RIDE FILE: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38682093
