The Mawson Trail

Route Summary

Distance: Approximately 900 km (one way)

Start Point: Adelaide

End Point: Blinman

Trail Type: Long-distance off-road cycling trail

Surface: Mix of quiet rural roads, forestry tracks, fire trails, and unused road reserves

Terrain: Varied – rolling farmland, eucalypt forests, open plains, and rugged ranges with occasional steep climbs

View the full Mawson Trail route here

Introduction

The Mawson Trail is one of Australia’s long distance cycling journeys. Spanning almost 900 kilometres from the outskirts of Adelaide to the historic outback town of Blinman, the trail has highlights in forests, farmland, vineyards, pastoral country and the rugged heart of the Flinders Ranges. It is a ride defined by scale, variety and a deep connection to South Australia’s landscape and history.

Purpose built for cyclists, the Mawson Trail follows quiet back roads, forestry tracks, fire trails and unused road reserves to combine for an unforgettable riding experience whilst avoiding traffic wherever possible. The result is a remote yet adventurous experience that remains connected to regional towns and services making it extremely accessible and therefore the most popular South Australian cycling trail.

History

Established in 1990, the trail was created by South Australian cycling advocates who shared a vision of a continuous off-road route to link the city of Adelaide to the outback. The route connects existing tracks and corridors that were carefully mapped to provide riders and bikepackers with a challenging but achievable journey through the state’s most renown regions.

The Mawson Trail is named after Sir Douglas Mawson, one of the country’s most respected explorers and scientists. The trail embodies endurance, resilience and discovery. It is a journey that echoes South Australia’s pioneering past and rewards long distance cyclists with a strong sense of achievement.

Significance

Few cycling routes in Australia offer the diversity and continuity of the Mawson Trail. Over the course of the ride, landscapes shift dramatically, from cool eucalypt forests and rolling hills to open plains and ancient mountain ranges.

What sets the Mawson Trail apart is its balance of remoteness and accessibility. Riders experience long stretches of country riding, yet pass through many towns along the way to rest and enjoy some of what regional South Australia has to offer. This makes the trail suitable for experienced bike packers and riders that are tackling their first real challenge on two wheels.

To a lot of cyclists around the world, the Mawson Trail has become a bucket list item for those seeking the ultimate Australian adventure.

Explore the Trail in Three Sections

Bike SA offers official Mawson Trail maps for sale, divided into three clear and practical sections. These maps are an essential tool for planning, navigation and understanding terrain, distances and services along the route making riding and bikepacking in South Australia much simpler.

Section 1

Adelaide Hills to Burra

The southern section of the Mawson Trail provides an inviting introduction to long-distance off-road cycling in South Australia. Starting near Adelaide, the trail quickly enters the cool forests and rolling farmland of the Adelaide Hills, following quiet forestry tracks and rural roads through some of South Australia’s earliest settled regions.

Riders pass close to towns including Birdwood, Lobethal, Kapunda and Clare, offering regular access to food, accommodation and supplies. Highlights include Birdwood’s National Motor Museum, Kapunda’s copper mining heritage and the cafes, bakeries and wineries of the Clare region, which is easily accessed from the route.

With generally forgiving terrain and a mix of shaded forest and open farmland, this section is well suited to riders new to bikepacking in South Australia or those looking to experience the Mawson Trail in shorter stages.

Section 2

Burra to Melrose

This central section marks a noticeable transition as the trail leaves settled farmland and moves into broader pastoral landscapes with fewer towns and longer distances between services. Departing historic Burra, the route heads north through open country that delivers a growing sense of remoteness.

Bundaleer Forest is a highlight and popular overnight stop, offering shaded riding and established camping facilities. Towns such as Laura and Jamestown provide classic country hospitality and essential resupply points along the way.

Approaching Melrose, the landscape begins to rise toward Mount Remarkable and the southern Flinders Ranges. Melrose is a recognised cycling destination with bike friendly accommodation and access to Mount Remarkable National Park, making it an ideal place to rest and prepare for the final section.

Section 3

Melrose to Blinman

The northern section of the Mawson Trail delivers the full outback South Australia cycling experience and is often regarded as the most rewarding part of the journey. Leaving Melrose, the trail climbs into the Flinders Ranges, where rugged terrain, ancient geology and expansive views dominate.

Quorn is a key stop along this section, offering accommodation, food and attractions such as the Pichi Richi Railway. Beyond Quorn, the trail becomes increasingly remote, with longer stretches between services and more demanding riding conditions.

The journey concludes in Blinman, the highest town in the state, where historic buildings, mining heritage and dramatic landscapes provide a memorable finish to one of the most significant cycling trails in South Australia. Careful planning is essential for this section, particularly around water, weather and resupply.

Food and Accommodation

Cycling the Mawson Trail is as much about discovering South Australia’s regional communities as it is about covering kilometres. From Adelaide Hills to the Flinders Ranges, the trail passes through towns that support cycling tourism in South Australia with good food, local hospitality, and a range of accommodation options. Planning where to eat and rest is essential, especially in the more remote sections, and allows riders to enjoy the trail at a relaxed pace.

https://www.visitadelaidehills.com.au

https://www.clarevalley.com.au

https://flindersandoutback.com.au/