Path Through The Forest
Off-road riding (aka gravel riding*) is the fastest growing segments of mountain biking. Requiring relatively low skill levels, gravel riding opens opportunities for a broader range of people to challenge themselves, connect to nature, and improve their health. Gravel trails are typically cheaper to develop than traditional cycle paths. The Department of Transport now supports the development of unsealed surfaces and trails that have a specific transport component.
The Munda Biddi Trail is recognised worldwide as Australia's premier long distance off-road trail, a draw card for local, national and international visitors. Munda Biddi means Path Through The Forest in the language of the Traditional Owners for the area, the Noongar people. There are sections of the Munda Biddi that pass-through Jarrahdale town:
- Mundaring to Jarrahdale: a section with relatively difficult ascents and descents over pea gravel
- Jarrahdale to Balmoral Prisoner of War Camp: an easy and scenic section among the unique Jarrah forest
- Jarrahdale to Nanga Trail: a picturesque section around Lane Pool Reserve, with its swimming, camping and canoeing opportunities
For "End 2 End" riders (Mundaring to Albany), Jarrahdale is an important supply point for food and/or bike parts. For most, the town is the perfect starting point for a day ride, or an overnight stay in one of the huts on the way to Dwellingup and Collie. Since the re-opening of our borders, the Jarrahdale RV Park have seen an increase of international and interstate visitors, many well equipped with gravel and mountain bikes. This short movie (here) has recently received global recognition in the bikepacking industry, contributing to promote WA as a worthy destination for off-road trails.
The Shire is working closely with the Munda Biddi Trail Foundation to ensure that the town remains a Munda Biddi Town, offering the best trail experience, including with the provision of quality services to riders.
*Gravel or off-road riding is typically done on gravel or unsealed roads or paths, combining the higher speed and efficiency of road cycling with the capability to ride on rough and loose terrain. Gravel trails can typically be ridden on a gravel or cross (CX) style bike which is closer in design to a road bike, but has wider tyres and different geometry to provide a more comfortable ride over long distances. The Race to the Rock — finishing at Uluru (NT) — is known to be the toughest off-road race in the world, which for many years was never finished by any rider.
