Pedal to Podium

Matt and I set off early this morning, brimming with excitement as we made our way to the stunning northeast of Tasmania for my belated birthday weekend in Derby. This trip had been planned for a while, and I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in one of my favourite mountain biking destinations. What made it even more special was the chance to finally put my new Canyon Al Torque mullet enduro bike to the test.

Nestled in Tasmania’s northeast, Derby has become a world-class mountain biking destination, attracting riders from across the globe. Once a bustling tin mining town in the late 1800s, Derby has undergone a major transformation over the last decade. The Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails, developed in collaboration with local councils and expert trail builders, have breathed new life into this small town, making it a hub for outdoor adventure.

The trail network offers something for everyone—whether you’re a beginner looking for smooth flow trails or an advanced rider seeking adrenaline-pumping technical descents. With over 120 kilometres of trails, there’s no shortage of options to explore, and the stunning Tasmanian wilderness makes every ride unforgettable.

The drive to Derby was a treat in itself, winding through lush forests, rolling hills, and charming Tasmanian towns that reminded me why I love this part of the world. We arrived just before lunch and jumped straight into action. Derby was buzzing with the usual energy of mountain bikers gearing up, and the atmosphere was infectious.

Booking the Shuttles

If you’re visiting Derby and want to maximise your riding, booking a shuttle is a must. The Vertigo MTB Shuttles are incredibly popular and make accessing the trails a breeze. They operate daily and take you up to key trailheads, including Black Stump, where many of the most popular runs begin.

Booking is simple—you can do it online through their website or pop into their shop in town if you prefer a more personal touch. I had pre-booked my afternoon session (highly recommended, as spots fill quickly), so I was all set to go. The cost is reasonable, and the convenience of being whisked up the hill without the slog of climbing is absolutely worth it (especially if your bike weighs 16kg).

Hitting the Trails

The day began with one of Derby’s iconic trails—Flickety Sticks, a ride I hadn’t tackled in over three years. I was a bit disappointed to see that the trail had been made easier. I used to love its blue tech features, but some of those challenging elements seemed to have been toned down, making it a quicker, simpler ride. A few berms were quite dug out, which brought a touch of technicality back into the flowy sections, but overall, it didn’t have the same spark I remembered.

From there, I headed into Howler, which was an absolute delight—fast, smooth, and endlessly fun. However, I managed to get a little lost afterward and found myself on Berms and Ferns, an extremely overgrown trail with wild ferns brushing against me as I navigated through its barely-there berms. Eventually, I made my way onto Rusty Crusty, which provided a satisfying mix of flow and tech as I worked my way back.

The next two runs were on the brand-new Hazy Days. This green flow trail is pure joy—you can build up a lot of speed, and the faster you ride, the more challenging it becomes. I had to be especially mindful on the rollercoaster-like uphills, as hitting them hard enough made them quite poppy. It was easily one of the highlights of the day.

To finish, I took the long way back into town via Return to Sender, a fantastic blue tech trail with just the right mix of tricky features and smooth flow to cap off the afternoon.

Where to Stay in Derby

After the shuttles, we checked into our Airbnb, located right in the heart of town. Derby has no shortage of great accommodation options, ranging from cosy cottages to mountain biker-specific lodges. Our spot was perfect—warm, welcoming, and equipped with everything we needed to recover and recharge for the next day. Plus, the views from the windows were a bonus!

Dinner at the Dorset Hotel

No day in Derby is complete without a meal at the Dorset Hotel, a classic Tasmanian pub with hearty meals and a friendly vibe. After hours on the trails, the pub’s generous servings were just what we needed to refuel. Sitting there with Matt, reflecting on the day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful—for the amazing trails, the stunning scenery, and the joy of sharing these moments together.

Planning Your Own Derby Adventure

If you’re thinking of visiting Derby, here are some quick tips to make your trip unforgettable:

1. Getting There: Derby is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Launceston. The roads are scenic but winding, so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey.
2. Accessing the Trails: You can ride directly from town to most trails, but to maximise your experience, book shuttles through Vertigo MTB or Mad MTB. The shuttles run regularly and get you straight to the action.
3. Trail Recommendations: For beginners, try Hazy Days and Return to Sender. Intermediate riders will love Flickity Sticks and Big Chook, while advanced riders can tackle Detonate and 23 Stitches.
4. Accommodation: Derby offers a range of options, from bike-friendly lodges to Airbnbs with trail access. Book early, especially during peak periods like holidays or race weekends.
5. Dining: The Dorset Hotel and Two Doors Down Cafe are local favourites for post-ride meals and coffee.

Looking Ahead to Tomorrow

Today was everything I hoped for and more. Getting back to the Derby trails after so long was a dream come true, and my new bike exceeded all expectations. Tomorrow promises another day of adventure, and I can’t wait to explore even more of this mountain biking paradise. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or a seasoned rider, Derby is an experience like no other—one that keeps calling you back.