Dirty Brisbane Loop

Urban Gravel Ride

Type: Road & Gravel
Difficulty: Medium – Advance
Distance: 59.84km
Elevation Gained: 1,660m
Estimated Moving Time: 3-5 hours

Summary

Epic Urban Gravel Ride in Brisbane: A Technical Adventure Through the City’s Wild Side

Looking for a gravel cycling adventure that blends city views, bushland trails, and lung-busting climbs? This urban gravel ride around Brisbane is an unforgettable challenge—but be warned, it’s not for beginners.

Whether you’re training for a bigger ride or seeking a unique off-road cycling experience in Brisbane, this route throws in some of the best (and toughest) gravel climbs and descents the city has to offer.

Note: If you’re new to gravel riding, we do not recommend this route. Some sections are highly technical and steep. If you’re still keen, we strongly suggest riding with an experienced friend.

Ride Overview

Gravel Segment 1: Powerful Owl Track (Mt Coot-tha)

Your first taste of gravel starts at Mt Coot-tha, climbing up the Powerful Owl Trail. This trail maxes out at a brutal 22% gradient in places. It’s a mix of steep, punchy climbs and rolling terrain. Some sections are technical, so don’t be afraid to walk your bike—it’s normal in gravel riding.

Gravel Segment 2: Highwood Road Trail

After the climb, you’re rewarded with a descent on Highwood Road Trail. But it’s not an easy one—expect loose gravel and rolling dips rather than a straight drop. It can be sketchy if you’re not used to technical descents. Take it slow.

Watch Out: Moggill Road Descent

You’ll briefly join Moggill Road near The Gap, then descend down a steep 25% gradient on what’s essentially a private driveway. This part is slippery and technical, so use extreme caution.

Gravel Segment 3: Keperra Bushland Trails

Before hitting dirt again, you’ll grind up a shared path with a 22% incline—followed by a dirt wall at 26%. From there, it’s a mix of trail rollers and fun descents heading into Upper Kedron.

Road Transition: Upper Kedron to Bellbird Grove

This stretch features rolling hills, short descents, and punchy climbs up to 15%, leading to the start of the next gravel segment. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the ride.

Gravel Segment 4: Link Road Trail

A highlight of the route, Link Road Trail is a 3km+ stretch of winding gravel with scenic views and gentle gradients. You’ll make your way toward Bellbird Grove via a beautiful series of switchbacks.

Climb: Bellbird Grove to Mt Nebo Road

Once on tarmac again, climb toward Mt Nebo. The road is quiet and shady with a gradient between 8–14%, giving your legs another solid test.

Gravel Segment 5: Centre Road (Mt Nebo)

Now you’re deep in Mt Nebo territory. Centre Road varies from rocky surfaces to loose gravel. The climbs are short but steep in places. Look out for Enoggera Creek—a stunning bushland highlight.

Gravel Segment 6: Gold Creek Road

This is a descending segment, but don’t relax too much—the surface is rocky and rough, and bike handling skills are key. This will bring you down to Gold Creek Reservoir, a great spot to rest.

Gravel Segment 7: Jones Road Trail & Gold Creek Trail

This is the hardest part of the ride. Nearly everyone ends up pushing their bikes here. The climb hits a gut-wrenching 25%+, and it feels even steeper. Eventually, you’ll connect to Boscombe Road, which leads to Brookfield Road.

Final Stretch: Return to Brisbane

From Brookfield, ride through Kenmore and link up with the Centenary Bikeway to return to Brisbane City. After all the gravel and climbing, this final stretch of tarmac will feel like a dream.

Final Thoughts: Is This Brisbane Gravel Ride For You?

This is not your average gravel ride. It’s physically demanding, technically challenging, and ideal for riders looking to push their limits on Brisbane’s best urban gravel trails. The views, climbs, and bushland make it an unforgettable experience.