North Bay Loop (shorncliffe, redcliffe, scarborough)
Bay Loop
Type: Road Riding
Difficulty: Beginners
Distance: 99.66km
Elevation Gained: 362m
Estimated Moving Time: 3-4 hours
Summary
Explore Brisbane’s North Bay Loop: A Scenic Ride Through Multiple Bays!
Just a short distance from the city, Brisbane’s North Bay Loop offers a fantastic route that takes you through several stunning bays in one exhilarating ride. You’ll visit Shorncliffe, Redcliffe, and Scarborough, all in a single trip!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Flat Terrain: Perfect for cyclists of all levels, this route is predominantly flat, making it ideal for time trials or a recovery ride in Zone 2.
- Scenic Views: From lush wetlands to picturesque bayside landscapes, you’ll enjoy beautiful water views and potential sunrise glimpses if you start early.
Your Journey:
City to Kedron Brook Bikeway: Begin your ride from the city, heading towards the Kedron Brook Bikeway. For a smoother weekday ride, take the bikeway via Roma Street.
Kedron Brook Bikeway: This dedicated bikeway stretches for at least 24 km. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic wetlands and the impressive Ted Smout Memorial Bridge—a 3 km bridge that spans across to Woody Point.
Woody Point: Your first bayside stop, Woody Point, offers a great spot for a coffee break. If you’re not stopping, continue towards Scarborough via Redcliffe. This section is under 20 km and features plenty of café options.
Redcliffe to Scarborough: Enjoy a delightful ride along the water with a mix of rolling and flat terrain. In the early morning, you might catch a beautiful sunrise.
Scarborough to Sandgate: From Jamieson Park in Scarborough, head south towards Sandgate. This inland section is slightly more rolling and busier with traffic.
Return via Ted Smout Bridge: At the end of your journey, you’ll cross the Ted Smout Bridge once more. Depending on the wind, you might find this bridge both challenging and rewarding.
Final Bays: After the bridge, continue through the remaining north bays, including Sandgate and Shorncliffe. There are plenty of café options along this stretch for a final coffee stop before heading back to the city.
Back to the City: We’ve designed the return route to minimize main road traffic. You’ll head through Wooloowin and make your way back towards Roma Street Parkland.
In Summary: This versatile route caters to all cyclists, whether you’re training hard or enjoying a leisurely ride around the bay. With numerous stop options, it’s a route that promises something for everyone!