Lucalia Photography
Sep 5, 2018
Updated: Apr 17, 2020
Maydena Bike Park has re-vitalised disused buildings, provides adventure, showcases nature and features local produce.
The bike park is located in Maydena a small town a 1 hour 20 minute drive west of Hobart, Tasmania, nestled in the Derwent Valley. Maydena means "shadow" in local Aboriginal dialect, as it is in the shade of the iconic Mount Field.
Maydena Bike Park comprises an extensive network of downhill mountain bike trails suitable for a variety of skill levels from beginners to families and professional riders. Services offered include shuttle uplift to the start of the trails, sightseeing tours, bike hire, retail bike shop, café, bar, skills coaching and more.
The surroundings are spectacular. Although I'm not a mountain biker (hopefully in the future!) the set up was very impressive. Bike Park Manager Rhys and his team welcomed us warmly and with awesome enthusiasm on a quiet winter's day. Local produce is featured across the entire menu; the Maydena community is honoured; and the environment respected.
The adventure begins in the former primary school in town. The classrooms have been cleverly utilised as a bike retail space, workshop and guest services office. The canteen now serves Moo Brew and Spreyton alcoholic ginger beer and Derwent Estate wines. A covered ash felted play area has been transformed into the bar; whilst the mini-oval is now the competition marshaling space. We wolfed down wallaby burgers, wedges and fluffy garlic bread all which satisfied our hunger after a cold trip to the summit.
The summit trail starts from the very top of Abbot's Peak, 1100m above sea level. Also on the summit is a cafe, housed in the former Forestry Tasmania building Eagles Eyrie. For those not so keen on descending the mountain on two wheels, the cafe can be accessed via return shuttle bus. The Summit promises sweeping views over the South West Wilderness including Mount Field National Park, Styx and Florentine Valleys.
I hope you enjoy my photos of the Maydena Bike Park. If you'd like to see more of my flora and fauna photos, please click here.
I hope you enjoy my photos of the Maydena Bike Park. If you'd like to see more of my flora and fauna photos, please click here.