Flinders Ranges Bike Riding Heaven

Last Updated: 5th Jun 2013

In SA there are some great riding areas which are known to only a few riders who decide to venture a bit further away from Adelaide to get their riding rocks off. There are national parks open to us as well as private areas in places like the Flinders Ranges. Unlike many areas we ride in, we find in  the Flinders Ranges we are made welcome by station owners with some even supplying maps of the tracks.

The Northern Flinders has two such places that have come to our attention, we have their websites linked so you can enquire about the riding available.

Waraweena is a former conservation park set in a beautiful area with some fantastic riding opportunities available. Riders who have recently gone to Warraweena inform us that though the person running the station has changed it is still a great experience and in some areas on the station there is greater access than before.  Should you decide to venture up there the rates are very reasonable for both accommodation and track access. The accommodation is fairly basic, based on old shearers quarters and is generally a room with a bed or two and these are attached to a kitchen area which is very practical. The kitchen is attached to a dining room with a large table easily seating 10 people for a bang up meal and some serious bench riding. Outside the building has verandahs with tables for a great breakfast with the local wildlife and it's all surrounded by stunning views of the magnificent Flinders. A fire circle completes the picture, providing a great place to chew the fat whilst downing some cleansing ales and riding a decky. 

The Tracks are excellent riding and cover areas which take you to incredible views from high lookouts, to riding creeks set in native pine treed valleys. A great attraction is visiting some of the old gold and copper mining efforts from days gone by which are dispersed throughout the trails and are clearly marked on the maps provided. When I went there we did four great rides over 3 days and I felt it was good value for money and hard to believe it was legal after the hassle we get locally. Well recommended great place great riding!

There are some great riding areas close to Hawker with stations like Willow Springs which has the SKYTREK track on it and that is pay to use but by all accounts agreat experience. Normal tourist drives like Brachina Gorge which has the Bunyeroo Valley and Razorback Track are great riding and spectacular views as well. Another good ride is the Moralana Tourist drive above Hawker near Arkaba Station, best done at a quick pace whilst being wary of the roos especially heading East early morning and sun in your face. Better heading West early morning from the Wilpena side of the ranges and reverse towards evening. Another experience is the Mt. Samuel track which starts at Apana Station at the Glass Gorge off Parachilna Gorge. Pay by vehicle. 

 I am sure there are many other property owners who want to attract our riding business, with this in mind we will be contacting any we feel are interested in having bikes on their land and passing on the information to you guys. In the meantime the few above can kick start your quest for great  riding areas.

Gerry Jongebloed