From the new Great Southern Trails network in NSW to e-mountain biking on Hamilton Island, MTB culture continues to gain traction among adventurous Aussies, encouraging people to get outdoors and explore the country.

Now, it’s the turn of a scenic Western Australian town turn to step into the spotlight.

Located in WA’s scenic South West, about three hours south of Perth, the former timber-logging town of Nannup is carving out an identity as an adventure destination, with biking, hiking and cycling trails at its core.

Joining Collie and Dwellingup, Nannup has earned its status as WA’S third official Trail Town following the opening of the new Pine Ridge MTB Park in September. The accreditation has been years in the making, starting off as a bold community vision in 2017 and realised through the determination of volunteers, council members and businesses committed to transforming the town’s reputation.

Today, visitors can explore more than 100 kilometres of trails, from technical mountain bike descents at Tank 7 – the original MTB park that put Nannup on the map – to family-friendly walking tracks winding through verdant native forest.

“Nannup has a particularly strong cycling identity, from gravel and endurance riding through to mountain biking and downhill experiences,” Trails WA chairperson Suzanne Hillier said.

Whether you’re chasing challenging single track, a scenic ride or an easy walk beneath trees, Nannup offers plenty of ways to get outdoors. And trails are only the start of the story.

Nannup is WA’s third official Trail Town. Photo: Destination WA

What is a Trail Town?

A Trail Town is a community accredited by Trails WA, in partnership with state government departments, as a premier destination for high-quality hiking, cycling or MTB trails.

The stamp of approval recognises regional hubs with strong local businesses and outdoor experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer and connect with the community.

Hillier hopes travellers will be inspired to build an itinerary around WA’s three Trail Towns, which each offer something different.

“Spend a weekend discovering one, or link two or three Trail Towns together for a trail road trip. The trails might bring you there, but it’s often the town, the people and everything you discover along the way that makes you want to come back,” she said.

The trails have something that appeals to all skill levels. Photo: Destination WA

Trails to explore in Nannup

More than 100 kilometres of multi-use trails await in Nannup, making the town a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Designed to complement the town’s existing trail networks, the new Pine Ridge MTB Park has transformed the old Nannup Golf Course into a family-friendly riding destination. Here you’ll find a network of flowing trails for all ages and skill levels, with a strong focus on progression, building confidence and simply having a good time.

The park was built by the renowned Sam Hill Signature Trails team, which led the construction of New Zealand’s Coronet Alpine Trail Network along with other projects in WA.

Suitable for beginner to experienced riders, Tank 7 MTB Park is known for its raw terrain, flowing descents, technical features and scenic lookouts amid tall forests. It’s easily accessible from Nannup’s main street via the sealed, 1.8-kilometre Town to Tank trail.

Nearby Ngoolark MTB Jump Park is great if you’re looking for a playground to level up your skills, with everything from sweeping berms, table tops and hip jumps.

Republished from Australian Traveller