Cycling and mountain bike riding

Make your ride enjoyable by:

• wearing a helmet and staying in control
• respecting other users such as walkers, joggers and horse riders
• calling out or ringing a bell as you approach walkers (especially from behind) and slowing down as you pass, giving them right of way
• being especially careful when approaching horse riders, as some horses are easily frightened by bicycles – announce your approach, slow down or even stop and dismount, and give them a wide berth when passing
• avoiding riding in large groups
• observing all safety and closure notices
• only entering parks, reserves and plantations through entry points intended for bicycles (do not go off-track, lift bikes over fences or proceed past closure signs)
• taking your own drinking water
• wearing warm and waterproof clothing for high country weather (which can change unexpectedly)
• letting someone know your riding intentions and when you expect to return

Minimise your impact by:

• only riding on tracks where cycling is permitted
• never riding off-track or marking or building new tracks
• avoiding skidding, which can lead to erosion of the ground's surface layer
• cleaning your bike before and after rides in parks and reserves, to prevent the spread of weeds and plant diseases
• avoiding riding in wet conditions – the tracks you leave behind channel rainwater and lead to erosion
• riding straight through wet or muddy sections of track rather than widening the track by attempting to go around
• avoiding short cuts – you will damage the native vegetation and cause erosion
• leaving animals, plants, rocks and logs where you find them – each has its own place in the delicate balance of nature

If you notice any issues during your visit:

• report maintenance issues to Access Canberra
• report vandalism or other illegal activities to the police on 131 444
• in an emergency, call 000